The Difference Between Our Top 5 Microcurrent Devices That Promise to Lift Your Face...
Amy Clark is Adore Beauty's former Senior Editor and co-host of Skincare School the podcast (and self-appointed beauty road-tester!). Amy's worked as a journalist, beauty editor and podcaster for several years, previously writing and talking about all things beauty at Mamamia and You Beauty. When she's not writing honest, no BS product reviews and taking selfies 'for work', you'll find Amy eating halloumi in a hair towel turban and... taking more selfies.
So, you typed 'best at home facial toning device' or 'best facial toning devices 2026' into Google and landed on this article.
Or maybe, like many of us, your interest in at-home skin tools has grown after spending significantly more time staring at your own face while on work video calls.
Regardless of how you got here, welcome! Let's have a chat about microcurrent tools, also known as facial toning devices.
Keep scrolling for a full recap of exactly what a facial toning device does, how to use one and how/if they actually work.
Plus, we'll break down the difference between our top microcurrent toning devices to help you decide which one might be best for you.
What Is a Facial Toning Device?
A facial toning device, also known as a microcurrent device or ultrasonic device, is a type of skincare tool.
They emit a low-voltage electrical current into the skin (which mirrors your own body's electrical currents) to promote a more lifted, refined and contoured appearance.
These at-home skin tools are designed to semi-replicate the results of a professional microcurrent treatment with a dermal therapist, in the same way an at home facial machine like an at-home LED light therapy and at-home microdermabrasion devices provide modified versions of in-clinic skin treatments.
You can use a facial lifting and toning device on the face, but also on the neck (you don't really need a separate toning device for neck use FYI).
How Does a Microcurrent or Facial Toning Device Work?
According to Elle, this technology has been approved by the FDA as a muscle stimulator since the 1980s.
More recently, microcurrent facials were made famous by celebrity facialists like Joanna Vargas, who looks after the likes of Mindy Kaling, Jenna Dewan and Julianne Moore.
In clinic, a microcurrent facial "uses two handheld prongs that deliver precise dosages of energy to the skin and work simultaneously to repair and produce collagen in the dermis, which is the deepest layer of the skin, while gently erasing signs of aging in the epidermis, which is the top layer of skin," Vargas told Byrdie.
Listen to our interview with a celebrity facialist who specialises in facial massage in this episode of the Beauty IQ Uncensored podcast below.
Benefits of Microcurrent Devices.
There isn't a heap of clinical evidence to support the benefits or results of using microcurrent devices, but the benefits are said to include:
- The appearance of firmer, tauter skin.
- More lifted, contoured, defined appearance.
- Reduced appearance of signs of ageing.
- Increased production of collagen.
- At-home devices are painless and can be used daily.
This combined with the physical aspect of facial massage (which may increase blood circulation and aid lymphatic drainage) means short-term facial toning device results are visible in minutes.
However, you may need consistent use over an extended period of time to see any longer-term results.
The best facial toning device reviews will also mention the importance managing expectations.
Because you aren't going to get comparable results using an at-home device to, say, having something more invasive like dermal filler or cosmetic injectables.
In other words, take any claims relating to an at home microcurrent facial toning device on with a healthy level of scepticism, yeah?
At-Home Facial Toning Devices vs Professional Microcurrent Facial.
Do at-home facial devices really work?
Will any at-home skincare device or tool deliver the same kinds of results you'd get in-clinic and administered by a trained professional? No.
That's not to say at-home facial toning devices are bullsh*t, but it does mean they won't be as strong or as effective as professional grade machines.
At-home facial toning devices or microcurrent tools will likely provide a lower strength electrical current, but as an upside, you can use them every day.
Best At Home Facial Toning Device.
OK cool, but which toning device should I choose?
The best facial toning device for you will depend on your budget, how you want to use it, and the kind of results you're after.
So, let's break down the differences between four of our different microcurrent skin tools.
1. FOREO BEAR.
What: Foreo BEAR
Price: $449.
Main features:
- This device uses both microcurrents and T-sonic pulsations.
- FOREO BEAR anti-shock system measures skin’s resistance to electricity and automatically adjusts microcurrent intensity.
- Sphere-shaped conductors easily contour to the face and neck.
- To use FOREO BEAR, you download and connect your device to a FOREO app via Bluetooth.
- You can choose from different routines and microcurrent intensities in the app, or use manually by holding down the universal button.
- The device comes with a rechargeable USB cord, instruction manual and storage bag.
- Small shape is easy to hold and travel-friendly.
- Comes in the Foreo BEAR Mint too if pink isn't for you.
2. FOREO BEAR Mini.
What: Foreo BEAR Mini
Price: $329.
Main features:
- Uses the same adjustable microcurrent and T-sonic technology as the FOREO BEAR, but in a smaller size.
- This mini facial toning device features smaller spheres to focus on the contours of facial features around the eyes, cheekbones and smile lines.
- The device comes with a rechargeable USB cord, instruction manual and storage bag.
- Like the original BEAR, the BEAR Mini also connects to the app via Bluetooth.
- You can choose from different routines and microcurrent intensities in the app.
- Device automatically shuts off when the routine is finished.
3. LONVITALITE PRO LED 5-in-1 Facial Wand - Dual Red and Blue Light Therapy
Price: $249
Main features:
- A dual at-home facial tool that is designed to deliver professional-level skincare benefits.
- Offers red and blue LED light therapy as well as warming, microcurrent technology and massage functions for visibly improved, radiant skin.
- This led light therapy wand combines five targeted treatments to rejuvenate, smooth, and tone your skin.
- Is compact making it a travel-friendly LED wand for face that’s perfect for achieving glowing, youthful skin at home or on the go.
- Key benefits of this at home LED wand include:
- Improves fine lines and boosts skin brightness.
- Targets blemishes, puffiness, and dark circles.
- Boosts product absorption and radiance.
- Reduces puffiness and enhances circulation.
- Is TGA registered for quality assurance.
4. Hunter Lab AURA Facial Sculpting Tool.
Price: $298.
Main features:
- A luxury skincare tool that combines facial massage techniques and microcurrent technology.
- Works using a gentle microcurrent powered by an in-built solar panel on the end of the tool that works in natural and artificial light.
- 24k gold plated material feels cooling on the skin (and looks very luxe, too).
- Design replicates a facial massage tool, with contoured edges for around the cheekbones and jawline, and a ball-shaped end for massage around the eyes, brows and temple.
- You won't get a zapping sensation - using it doesn't really feel like anything.
- No charging or batteries required, comes with a storage sleeve.
- Must use in a well-lit space by holding with your hand on one end and maintaining contact with your skin.
5. Therabody TheraFace PRO - Black
Price: $499
Main features:
- An all-in-one, multi-treatment device combining percussive massage, microcurrent therapy, LED light therapy and cleansing.
- Uses microcurrent therapy to stimulate and tone facial muscles for a lifted appearance.
- Customisable, targeted treatments with interchangeable attachments so you can tailor your routine to concerns like acne, ageing or tension.
- Clinically-backed skin benefits designed to lift and firm, soften fine lines and wrinkles, smooth texture and boost overall radiance with consistent use.
- Facial tension relief meets skincare powered by Theragun-inspired percussive therapy to relax facial muscles, reduce jaw/face tension and support overall facial wellbeing.
How to Use Microcurrent Devices.
Whichever device you choose, it'll come with a manual with specific instructions for best use.
Generally speaking, facial toning devices should be used after cleansing on dry skin (don't use when your face is damp), and after you've applied a water-based serum.
This will help the tool glide over the skin, and reduce friction or any risk of shocking.
Some microcurrent tools come with serums or sell specialty serums separately, but realistically, any silky water-based serum will give a similar effect.
Final Verdict...
Are any at-home skin tools, including microcurrent devices, necessary?
No, not at all.
Are they a 'nice-to-have' addition to your skincare routine if you have the cash, or are looking to address skin concerns like skin elasticity and signs of ageing?
Sure are.
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