Glowy and plump skin is the goal for most of us. While a regimented skin-care routine with quality ingredients and products is the cornerstone of great skin, certain tools, like high-frequency wands, can help. With a gentle jolt of electrical current these wands can target several signs of aging. Given that, it’s no surprise that the devices are trending on social media. According to a report by Spate, interest in high-frequency wands is increasing at lightning speed on several platforms. Search has increased on Google, growing from 22 percent in the last year, while increasing by almost 12 percent on TikTok.
It’s clear that consumers are interested in the devices, but the conversation is still a little fuzzy. On TikTok, the trend connects to adjacent conversations through hashtags like #postpartumhairloss, #collagenproduction and #finelines. But what are the real benefits of high-frequency wands? We tapped experts to get to the bottom of things. Ahead, they share what to know about the trendy device, including its advantages and how to use it properly.
Featured Experts
- Joel Schlessinger, MD and Daniel Schlessinger, MD, are board-certified dermatologists in Omaha, NE
- Jody A. Levine, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in New York
What are high-frequency wands?
“A high-frequency facial wand is a skin-care device that uses gentle electrical currents to help address common skin concerns such as acne, enlarged pores, fine lines and under-eye circles,” says New York dermatologist Jody A. Levine, MD. They stimulate collagen, calm inflammation and rid the skin of bacteria. “Think of it as a gentle electrical stimulation device that creates a buzzing sensation on your skin,” says Omaha, NE dermatologist Joel Schlessinger, MD. Despite their compact size, he explains that the handheld devices are much more technologically advanced than they appear. “The wands have glass attachments or tips that are filled with either argon or neon gas, and when they’re activated, they create that distinctive crackling sound and gentle glow.” Diving deeper, Omaha, NE dermatologist Daniel Schlessinger, MD explains that the wands work by sending hundreds of thousands of rapid electrical pulses per second through those glass electrodes, creating a lively current.
How do high-frequency wands work?
Electrical currents provide a unique benefit for aging skin, creating pulses that instantly stimulate blood flow. According to Dr. Levine, this aids in oxygenating the skin and boosting circulation. The experts also note that the current from the wand produces heat, which helps stimulate collagen production and creates a warming sensation on the skin. “The electrical activity also generates small amounts of ozone, which is a natural antimicrobial agent,” says Dr. Daniel Schlessinger. Device designs vary and can be tailored to address different concerns. “For example, violet-colored electrodes are ideal for oily, acne-prone skin, while orange is gentler and better for mature or sensitive skin types,” says Dr. Daniel Schlessinger. Similarly, Dr. Levine adds that argon gas can be beneficial for oily or acne-prone skin, while neon gas is commonly used for its anti-aging benefits.
What are the benefits?
The beauty of these devices is that they are true multitaskers with a plethora of benefits to prove it. According to Dr. Daniel Schlessinger, the gentle stimulation from the wand can give your skin a healthy glow and can encourage collagen production over time. “Improved circulation helps give you that healthy glow we’re all after, while increased collagen means firmer, more youthful-looking skin,” he says. Of course, consistency is key when it comes to skin-care devices. With regular use, Dr. Levine adds that high-frequency wands can also help reduce breakouts, soothe redness and diminish hyperpigmentation while minimizing the appearance of pores.
How to use high-frequency wands
Despite trending on TikTok, many people are confused about how to use a high-frequency wand. As with any device, there are several factors to consider before incorporating the device into your skin-care routine. Clearing up the misconceptions and addressing the concerns about side effects is just as buzzy online. While the wands are generally safe for use, Dr. Joel Schlessinger says that anyone with a pacemaker or who is expecting should avoid using them entirely. Dr. Levine also says that it’s best to put retinoid use on pause for at least five days before using a high-frequency wand to avoid irritation. If you don’t fall into those categories, the experts recommend starting with freshly cleansed skin and a clean device. “Begin on the lowest setting and increase gradually as tolerated,” says Dr. Levine. Dr. Joel Schlessinger adds that ten to fifteen minutes is plenty, and every other day is a good starting frequency. If irritation or inflammation occurs, talk to your dermatologist before continuing to use the device.
High-frequency wands to try
