Complementing your in-office treatments with an at-home skin care regimen is one of the most beneficial things you can do for your skin. Your at-home routine should start with medical-grade skin care products, but did you know that some at-home skin care gadgets are not just fun to use, but can also enhance your at-home skincare routine?
Not all skin care gadgets are created equally, and some can be quite dangerous if not used by a professional, but a great skincare tool that is safe to use at home, and that we recommend is the High-Frequency Wand. It is great for treating acne and has wonderful anti-aging effects. While it may seem like a futuristic tool, high-frequency technology has been around for quite some time. The first High-Frequency appliance was developed in the late 1800s by Nikola Tesla himself. High-Frequency technology kills bacteria, and at the time modern-day antibiotics had not yet been discovered, so High-Frequency devices were most frequently used for the treatment of strep throat and other bacterial infections, and to speed the healing of wounds.
It wasn’t until the 1970s that European salons discovered that High-Frequency technology could be used cosmetically, and by the 1980s High-Frequency tools had gained popularity and spread through the North American skincare industry.
How do High-Frequency Wands work?
High-Frequency Wands use small currents of targeted thermal energy to create ozone that oxygenates the skin and increases circulation. The oscillations also encourage lymphatic drainage and help disperse fluid buildup. By using two different kinds of high-frequency electrodes, Argon gas (violet light) and Neon gas (red/orange light), the High-Frequency Wand treats a variety of different skin concerns. Argon gas is great for treating acne and oily skin, while Neon gas is preferred for treating signs of aging in the skin.
What do High-Frequency Wands do for the skin?
High-Frequency Wands do several things. First, high-frequency treatments are a great (and gentle!) remedy for acne. Because oxygen is bacteria’s worst nightmare, the oxygenation that high-frequency wands provide safely kills acne-causing bacteria. This reduces inflammation and redness in active breakouts and prevents future acne from developing. High-Frequency Wands also increase circulation, causing blood vessels to contract, further minimizing redness and inflammation, and shrinking enlarged pores. High-Frequency Wands stimulate collagen production too which helps fade undereye circles and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Because it promotes lymphatic drainage, it can help shrink any puffiness around the eyes. High-Frequency treatments can even help rejuvenate the condition of your scalp and promote healthier hair growth!
What can I expect when using a High-Frequency Wand?
First, start with clean, dry skin. Then, put on a gauze mask to create a small gap between your skin and the electrode. Move the wand in circular motions over your face. When the small electrical current connects with your skin, you will hear a buzzing/zapping sound and feel a slight tingling sensation. It should not hurt! An oxygenating ozone forms around the gas electrode. The gap caused by the gauze mask creates a larger space for the ozone to form, making it more effective. You may experience slight redness in your skin for about 30 minutes after use.
At MedSkinEssentials, the High-Frequency Wand we carry has four different electrodes filled with either Argon or Neon gas, making it a useful tool for both its antiaging benefits, and for the treatment of acne and oily skin. It comes with a gauze mask and is safe to use for up to 20 minutes a day. We recommend using it for up to ten minutes per session.
You should not use High-Frequency Wands during pregnancy or if you have a pacemaker or and history of heart disease. It is important not to use near water, outside, or near combustible substances.