Several years ago, I underwent a cardiac ablation* procedure that changed my life for the better. Little did I know, that this amazing technology is a distant cousin of an at home beauty tool I use on a regular basis: Microcurrent technology! NuFACE, founded in 2005, by CEO Tera Peterson after prototyping the product in her garage in Encinitas, has created an amazing line of products to look younger at decidedly terrific prices, when compared to the thousands of dollars people pay for botox and fillers. These devices are quite sturdy items and, with a little time and dedication, can make an enormous impact on the appearance of aging skin. Plus, once you get the hang of them, you can use them without a mirror, watching t.v., sipping your morning coffee, or whenever you have some downtime. I’ve used the NuFACE Mini for years, but recently gave myself a Mother’s Day gift and purchased the sweet little mascara-sized device called the NuFACE FIX (click here for pricing).
Now, cosmetic Microcurrent technology is not new. In fact, it originated in the 1830’s, in the lab of Carlos Matteuci, a physicist and neurophysiologist. Matteuci is known for discovering the electrical conductivity of the heart and that electrical currents could regenerate injured tissues. The technology had various medical applications throughout the decades since, but it wasn’t until its use in the 1960’s to treat Bell’s Palsy, that it was also observed to diminish fine lines and provide a lift to sagging skin. The technology migrated to dermatology offices in the 80’s and, finally, into our homes in the 2000’s.
According to Tera Peterson, NuFACE products create:
“soft, gentle waves through the skin, tissues, and down to the facial muscles…” (which) energize(s) the facial muscles similar to how exercise energizes the muscles in the rest of our bodies…the result of energizing the muscle is often an improved, lifted appearance.”
NuFace has expanded its product line: The NuFace Trinity, the NuFace Mini (I own), the NuFace Fix (recently purchased) and the NuFACE Serum, a clean smelling, highly absorbable conductivity cream for use with the FIX, which also reports to be “supercharged with active beauty ingredients to awaken tired eyes, revive dull skin, & restore radiance.” It is also formulated without parabens, sulfates, alcohols, oils, fragrance, artificial color and gluten. These tiny tubes are priced at a whopping $49 per o.5 fl. oz, but you can save 15% if you subscribe and save. I WILL say the serum seems to work well and a little goes a very long way. If you factor in what fillers would cost, even a price this high can create a facsimile effect at a fraction of the price.
Now, if your desire is for an extreme plumping a la the Real Housewives franchise, this product is definitely not for you. But, this is an item most people can afford. You can even buy NuFACE products on QVC over time. The product will give you a great result, that has the benefit of looking natural, like you just had a great night’s rest. It’s fitness for your face and will, overtime, provide results that any anti-aging maven will adore.
How does it work?
Per the Derm Review (see TheDermReview.com):
“The Microcurrent from the NuFACE (Trinity device) sends soft, gentle waves through the skin, tissues, and down to the facial muscles. Microcurrent has been shown to stimulate ATP production (adenosine triphosphate), the primary carrier of energy in cells. ATP provides the energy to create key structural proteins, such as collagen and elastin. Collagen and elastin are both necessary for maintaining firm, youthful skin. Increased levels of ATP also energizes the facial muscles, similar to how exercise energizes the muscles of our bodies.”
How does it feel?
Buzzy. It is not painful at all. Unlike the NuFACE Mini (which feels a bit like being zapped with a rubber band, dependent on the strength level), the FIX feels gentler, less tingly. The Trinity and Mini are meant for longer treatments (approximately 20 minutes) of the whole face and used with a different conductive medium, while the FIX targets troubled areas (timed for 3 minute treatments) and is meant to be, as the name implies, to be a quick fix. Personally, I found the FIX more comfortable and easier to use and really liked the NuFACE Fix Serum. The Serum is not only the conductive medium for the current but, per NuFACE, it:
“is a brightening, and moisturizing facial serum supercharged with active beauty ingredients to awaken tired eyes, revive dull skin, & restore radiance.”
Here are my results:
Before Treatment results:
After 1st Treatment (3 minutes)
After 2nd Treatment (3 minutes)
I know when you are working with a 58 year old face like mine, dramatic results are hard to come by. But, I have to say, I’m pretty pleased with these results for 6 minutes of time and plan to continue working with the FIX to stimulate new collagen and elastin. This and taking supplemental collagen, bone broth, eating a healthy diet, staying out of the sun, may just beat back the hands of time….or at least trip it and slow it down a few years.
All the best friends. Here’s to loving yourself, at what ever age.
God bless, XOXOXO
Mrs. Sassy Pants
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- “Cardiac ablation uses heat or cold energy to create tiny scars in your heart to block abnormal electrical signals and restore a normal heartbeat. The procedure is used to correct heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias).”- https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cardiac-ablation
