Introduction
High frequency facials have become an increasingly popular skin treatment over the last few years. But what exactly is a high frequency facial and how does it work? In this comprehensive guide, we will demystify high frequency facials and explain what they are, how they work, their benefits, and who can benefit from this innovative skin treatment.
What is a High Frequency Facial?
A high frequency facial, also known as high frequency skin therapy, is a safe, non-invasive cosmetic procedure that uses an oscillating, oxygenating machine to deliver gentle electrical currents to the skin. The machine emits a high frequency alternating current that creates a germicidal UV light to deeply cleanse and disinfect the skin while stimulating cell renewal.
The treatment uses either direct current (DC) or tesla high frequency alternating current (AC) to achieve its skin benefits. The tesla high frequency alternates positive and negative charges up to 3 million times per second, generating an oscillating current that has a germicidal effect on acne-causing bacteria.
How Does High Frequency Facial Work?
During a high frequency facial, a small handheld electrode device is used to apply the high frequency current to targeted areas of the skin. The electrode does not actually touch the skin but instead remains 1-2 inches above the skin. This creates a painless, vibration-like sensation on the surface of the skin.
As the current alternates back and forth, it generates heat and a fluorescent ultraviolet light that has natural disinfecting and stimulating properties. The oscillation between positive and negative creates an “ozone” effect that helps kill acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface while penetrating deep into pores to eliminate bacteria.
The properties of the high frequency also have a germicidal effect that sterilizes the skin and improves product penetration. This allows serums, masks, moisturizers and other topical products to better absorb into cleansed, disinfected pores.
In addition to eliminating bacteria, the oscillation increases blood circulation and cell metabolism. This boosts collagen production, elastin and tissue repair to help firm, smooth and regenerate the skin.
The alternating current also generates a natural oxidation effect, releasing millions of oxygen ions from within the air. When applied to the skin’s surface, this blast of oxygen acts to stimulate and nourish fatigued skin cells. This oxygenation leads to clearer, calmer and more vibrant skin.
Benefits of High Frequency Facials
When performed correctly, high frequency facials provide numerous benefits for the skin:
- Deeply cleanses, disinfects and decongests pores
- Controls acne-causing bacteria
- Regulates oil and sebum production
- Increases blood circulation and oxygenation
- Boosts collagen and elastin
- Hydrates, brightens and tones skin
- Reduces appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Speeds healing of breakouts and blemishes
- Improves product penetration
The oscillating current also helps to firm and tighten lax, aging skin by stimulating muscle fibers. This can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, especially around the eyes, lips, cheeks and neck.
Because it activates cell renewal and epidermal regeneration, high frequency treatment can help minimize pores, refine skin texture, improve tone and brighten complexion. The skin is left looking and feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.
Who Benefits From High Frequency Facials?
High frequency skin therapy is safe and beneficial for all skin types. It provides cleansing and therapeutic benefits for both men and women of any age or skin type. It is particularly effective for:
- Oily, acne-prone skin with chronic breakouts
- Skin with clogged, enlarged pores
- Dull, congested complexions
- Mature skin lacking firmness and vibrancy
- Skin exposed to harsh environmental elements
The treatment is also safe for sensitive skin when performed properly by an esthetician. The oscillating current eliminates bacteria and assists product penetration without abrasion or irritation.
High frequency facials are commonly used to help treat and prevent acne breakouts. The oscillation effect helps kill p-acnes bacteria deep within follicles while controlling sebum production.
Regular high frequency facials can reduce the frequency and intensity of breakouts while quickly helping to heal existing blemishes without dryness or peeling. This makes it an ideal treatment prior to weddings, photoshoots or big events when you want clear, glowing skin.
It’s also frequently used pre and post-operatively to optimize surgical results and accelerate healing. The oxygenation and circulation benefits assist with reducing bruising and swelling.
What to Expect During Treatment
Prior to treatment, your skin will be cleansed to remove any makeup, oil or residue on the surface. The esthetician performs a skin analysis to identify areas of concern for customized treatment.
During the facial, the handheld electrode will be gently glided over the face, neck and décolleté, hovering 1-2 inches above the skin. The current oscillator will not directly contact your skin.
As the current alternates back and forth, you may feel a slight vibrating sensation. Some areas may feel more sensitve than others. The esthetician tailors the current based on your comfort level.
You’ll also see a purple fluorescent glow on the skin’s surface during treatment. This is the UV sterilizing effect in action working to eliminate bacteria.
The whole facial takes around 30 minutes depending on the size of the area treated. Your eyes will be protected with safety goggles.
Treatment is painless and relaxing with no downtime. After the facial, your skin may appear slightly flushed from the increased circulation but this quickly subsides.
Over the next 48 hours, you may notice additional glowing, smoothing results as your skin continues to renew itself from the treatment.
It’s generally recommended to receive 1-2 high frequency facials per month to maintain the benefits, especially if you are treating active acne. The treatment can be combined with other rejuvenating facials and procedures.
Are High Frequency Facials Safe?
When performed properly by a licensed esthetician, high frequency facials are perfectly safe for all skin types. There are no painful heat sensations and no risk of burns.
The treatment is not suitable for those who are pregnant, have pacemakers, metal implants, heart disease or cancer. Your esthetician will provide a thorough consultation before proceeding with treatment.
It’s also important to receive high frequency facials only by licensed professionals using proper protocols. Unprofessional procedures can risk electrical injury or burning the skin.
The Takeaway
High frequency facials offer a safe, effective treatment for cleansing, disinfecting and rejuvenating the skin. The oscillating currents eliminate acne-causing bacteria while boosting circulation and oxygenation.
Regular high frequency facials will leave your skin clear and vibrant with minimized pores, balanced oil production and a renewed glow. Combined with proper skincare products, it can restore your complexion to a healthier, more youthful state.