Facial devices are the future of skincare. These helpful tools can take your skincare routine to the next level, elongate the effects of professional treatments, and eliminate the need for injectables and surgery. If you’re new to the world of beauty gadgets, with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know which is right for you. In a previous post, I broke down my favorite devices into categories so you could easily find tools that address your specific skin concerns, from treating acne to minimizing wrinkles.

What is Microcurrent?

One of my favorite technologies to use at home is microcurrent. Microcurrent is a low-level electrical current that mimics the body’s own, to stimulate facial muscles and increase cellular energy. For home use, there are a selection of hand-held microcurrent devices on the market and I’m constantly asked which one is best. Today, in partnership with FOREO, I’ll be honing in on two popular at-home microcurrent options, the NuFace Trinity and the FOREO Bear, explaining their similarities and differences.

A quick side note:

Not included in this comparison is the MyoLift QT, another at-home handheld microcurrent device. Unlike the Trinity and the Bear, the QT offers multiple microcurrent waveform programs, where the others offer only one: lifting and toning. For more on the MyoLift QT, make sure to watch this video.

Microcurrent Benefits & Fun Facts

Before we start talking about these devices there are a few things you need to know. The first is intensity. Intensity refers to the device’s power, with Microcurrent, that is usually measured in microamperes (uA). To achieve the best results, you’ll want to work within a range of 175-1000 uA. Most devices created for home use top out at 400 uA. Not only does microcurrent stimulate facial muscles, to lift and contour the face, but it can also increase a chemical called adenosine triphosphate (ATP) which your cells use for energy and is crucial for all cellular functions. Clinical studies have shown, an intensity of 500uA can increase ATP by 500%.

Pretty amazing, right? So the higher the intensity, the greater the benefit? Unfortunately not. After 500uA, ATP production plateaus. After 1000uA, also know as 1 milliampere (mA), ATP production declines. An example of how bigger is not always better.

Bsides stimulating cellular energy, microcurrent can also increase waste product removal, in addition to increasing amino acid transport to the cells by 30-40%, which plays a crucial role in protein synthesis, the process in which cells make proteins, such as collagen and elastin. This is why microcurrent treatments are incredibly beneficial for keeping skin healthy and functioning optimally. During a microcurrent treatment you’ll get an immediate lift but, with continued use, you’ll improve the overall health of your skin.

Both the Nuface Trinity and the FOREO Bear harness the power of Microcurrent in an easy to use handheld device that can be incorporated into any skincare routine. Let’s take a closer look to see how these devices compare to each other.

NuFace Trinity

Intensity - Trinity 335 uA

Recommended Treatment Time - 5 mins

Results from a single treatment typically lasts 1-3 days, but results are cumulative with consistent use.

What Makes It Unique:

Multi-use device. The Nuface Trinity has detachable treatment heads that can be swapped out with various attachments. Most notably, the Nuface Wrinkle Eraser, an LED light that blends amber, red, and infrared lights, FDA cleared for full face use. If you’re going to purchase the Trinity, make sure you check out their Complete Facial Toning Kit, which includes all the attachments to make your device as multitasking as possible.

Backed by consumer-based clinical studies. After 60 days of use, 85% of users experienced improved facial contour, 77% of users reported their face looked more toned, and 80% of users reported their skin felt smoother.

Downsides:

Sensation. It is common to occasionally feel a zippy prickly sensation in certain areas of the face while using the Trinity.

Not built to last. This device can be finicky and after a few years of use, is known to act up or break down. I highly recommend registering your device in case you need to utilize the warranty.

FOREO Bear

Intensity -Bear 330mA

Recommended Treatment Time - 90 seconds and can be used once daily.

Results from a single treatment typically lasts 1-3 days, but results are cumulative with consistent use.

What Makes It Unique:

T Sonic Pulsations. Patented T-Sonic™ pulsations extend deep into your pores to increase circulation, eliminate toxins & ease facial tension, resulting in smoother, softer, glowier skin. This is one of my favorite features of the Bear.

Anti-shock system. BEAR features the patented Anti-Shock System™. Advanced sensors scan and measure your skin’s resistance to electricity then automatically adjust the intensity to maintain a steady quality of treatment, eliminating any chance of shock.

App connected. Once you’ve registered your device, it automatically syncs preferences with FOREO For You App which offers guided treatments, amazing for anyone new to microcurrent, and increased intensities. As of now, there is only one “work out” available, Total Face Knockout, but more will be coming in the future (HIIT Facial, Gentle V Shape Yoga, Contour Cardio, and Eye Exercise).

Downsides:

App-based. Because the Bear, and all FOREO devices, are App-based, this can be challenging for those who find technology in general challenging or for those who do not have a smartphone (I’m sure there are a few of you out there). Conveniently, once your Bear is synced with the app, you are able to use your device app free if you choose. This is my preferred method since it allows me to create a bespoke facial treatment to address my specific needs.

All in all, each of these devices will offer amazing benefits to the skin and promote anti-aging. The intensities are almost the same which translates to similar end results in terms of lift and contour. Hopefully, this comparison has narrowed down which device might be right for you.

Do you want one device that combines modalities? Opt for the Trinity and add the Wrinkle Easer Attachment.

Are you unsure of how to use Microcurrent and want a guided experience? Opt for the Bear. Also, keep in mind Nuface does have some helpful video guides and I’ve created quite a few myself.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post and was made in collaboration with FOREO Sweden.  This post does contain some affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Thank you in advance for your support.

For a complete list of OE approved products, head over to my Favorites Page.