High frequency facial wand might not be as popular as other at-home face tools, but it surely delivers great results, and has been used by estheticians for ages. Overall, high frequency wand can treat different skin conditions, however the benefits depend mainly on the type of gas (neon or argon) that powers the device. For example, neon-filled wand offers anti aging properties, while argon-filled wand is best for acne-prone and oily skin. That being said, let’s take a look at different benefits of each wand, discuss how exactly they work, and review the best high frequency facial wand with neon and argon gases.
At a glance:
- Overall best wand: NuDerma Clinical Fusion Wand
- Best affordable anti-aging (neon) wand: NuDerma Skin Therapy Wand
- Best anti-acne (argon) wand: NewWay High Frequency Wand
What Is High Frequency Wand?
High frequency facial machine is non-invasive and safe skincare tool that falls under the category of electrotherapy. Sometimes it can be referred to as “Tesla current” or “d’Arsonval high frequency” since the scientist Nikola Tesla and biophysicist Jacques-Arsene d’Arsonval both contributed to the development of this technology. Overall, this beauty device provides skin rejuvenation, oxygenates skin, and is used for treatment of different skin conditions like acne, blemishes, wrinkles, fine lines, and uneven skin tone.
How does it work? The machine is made of two main components: machine base that produces high frequency electric current, and detachable clear tampered glass electrodes that are filled with gas. When the high frequency machine is “on”, it produces alternating electrical current, which passes through the electrode tube and activates the gas inside. Once the electrode is in touch with the skin, it infuses the skin with rejuvenating ozone molecules. In addition, the electric current provides instant stimulation and generates heat in the tissue, which accelerates blood circulation and cell renewal.
However, keep in mind that there are three types of high frequency face wands – neon powered, argon powered, and fusion (powered by neon and argon). Moreover, neon gas and argon gas determine high frequency facial wand benefits.
Neon Wand Vs Argon Wand
High frequency electrodes can be filled with argon gas, neon gas or both. And it is important to know the properties of each gas, as it will help you choose the right facial wand for your skin needs.
- Argon gas emits violet color, which has clearing and antibacterial properties and often used for treatment of acne. It eliminates acne causing bacteria, treats acne (including cystic), reduces healing time of your blemishes, prevents future breakouts, reduces redness and inflammation, and balances oil production.
- Neon gas emits orange color, which is used for targeting signs of aging. It promotes blood circulation, skin tightening, stimulates cell turnover and collagen production, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, firms sagging skin, diminishes dark circles under eyes, improves skin elasticity and texture, and product absorption.
- Fusion (neon + argon). Some brands also offer so-called “fusion electrodes” that combine argon and neon gas in one tube (indigo color). This type of electrodes is best for those with adult acne, who want to combat signs of acne and signs of aging in one treatment.
Electrode Shapes
Some of the best high frequency devices come with several detachable high frequency electrode attachments. These glass attachments (aka wands, probe, applicator, electrode) come in different shapes and sizes, which allow for more effective targeting and convenience. But you will receive the same benefits regardless the shape of the electrode. Some of the most common applicator shapes include:
- Mushroom (cheeks, forehead, jawline or broad areas)
- Spoon or tongue tube (spot treatment, under eyes)
- Point or bent (zit zapping, spot treatment, crevices)
- Comb (hair growth/scalp treatment)
- Rod (forehead, body and large areas)
- Y-shape (neck, arms, legs)
High Frequency Facial Wand Benefits
Even though most high frequency wands are branded as “face wands”, they can be used on all body parts. Overall, they have a wide range of benefits and work well for aging and mature skin, those with congested, oily or acne prone skin, enlarged pores, uneven skin texture, puffy eyes, light scarring, and skin lesions. Also, technology is effective in stimulating , and addressing . Here’s a full list of face wand benefits:
- Oxygenates skin
- Stimulates cell renewal
- Amplifies ATP production
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Firms and tones skin
- Addresses puffy eyes
- Diminishes dark eye circles
- Reduces pore size
- Improves skin color and texture
- Provides antibacterial properties
- Treats acne and prevents breakouts
- Promotes healing
- Balances oil production
- Improves product absorption
- Stimulates hair growth
Best High Frequency Facial Wand
In order to choose the best high frequency facial wand and get the most out of it, you need to understand the difference between neon wand and argon wand. If you want to address fine lines and wrinkles – go with neon powered wand. But if your main concern is acne, blemishes and excessive oil production, then choose argon powered face wand.
On average, high frequency facial device costs between $50-$80, while clinical grade machines can run $150 and up. Also, brand name is important when it comes to facial tools, since more reputable manufactures offer better quality and product warranty.
NuDerma Clinical Fusion Wand
One of the most powerful clinical-grade face wands. Even though this device is at a higher price point, it delivers clinical results at home and significantly boosts cell turnover. In addition to targeting signs of aging, it also reduces redness, inflammation and targets acne-causing bacteria.
This kit includes 6 probes (applicators) with 2-in-1 neon + argon gas fusion, and device has 5 intensity levels. Overall, it’s a great option for advanced users who seek maximum effect, or for those who want both anti-acne and anti-aging benefits.
Best high frequency facial wand for adult acne (acne + anti aging).
Key features: neon + argon, 6 probes, 5 modes, clinical grade.
NuDerma Skin Therapy Wand (Neon)
This professional grade high frequency facial wand is neon powered, and increases cell turnover and addresses signs of aging. Not only it’s budget-friendly (under $50), but the set also includes 4 neon applicators (mushroom, tongue, point and comb). So in addition to treating sagging skin, wrinkles or dark spots, you can use comb applicator for scalp to stimulate hair growth.
The wand has 5 modes, which allow you to control the intensity of the treatment. Also, the base of the device is designed with the grooves, which allows a comfortable grip. You’ll be happy to know that Nuderma portable wand is FDA cleared, and an extended 1 year warranty is included.
Best high frequency facial wand for aging skin (budget-friendly).
Key features: anti aging, neon gas, affordable, 4 probes, 5 modes.
StackedSkincare High Frequency Acne Device
Made by a reputable brand, this high frequency facial machine is powered by argon gas. It is designed specifically for reducing stubborn acne, and is intended for those with blemishes, blackheads, acne-prone and oily skin. In addition to eliminating acne-causing bacteria, this tools also speeds up healing of breakouts, prevents new pimples from forming, detoxifies pores, and reduces redness and inflammation.
The device comes with 4 applicator shapes – mushroom, spoon, pointy and comb. And individual glass electrode replacements can be purchased for extra cost. There is also a customizable dial, which allows controlling the strength of electrical current. Con: high price.
Best high frequency facial wand for acne and oily skin.
Key features: anti-acne, argon gas, 4 probes, higher priced.
NewWay High Frequency Wand (Argon)
Powered by argon gas, this high frequency facial machine for acne comes with 4 probes (mushroom, spoon, bent and comb). Similar to other argon facial wands, it does a great job in targeting acne-causing bacteria, treating acne and blemishes, clearing skin, speeding up healing time, balancing sebum production and preventing future breakouts.
In comparison to StackedSkincare High Frequency Acne Device, NewWay facial machine is much cheaper since it’s manufactured by a generic brand. Even though the price reflects lower quality of the device, overall, it’s a good starter face wand.
Best high frequency facial wand on budget for acne and oily skin.
Key features: anti-acne, argon gas, 4 probes, under $50.
Jellen Portable High Frequency Machine
This professional grade facial machine is ideal for experienced users. Not only it’s high quality and more expensive, but also it’s much stronger than other high frequency facial wands and should be used only by licensed professionals or advanced skincare users.
It comes in padded storage case and includes 3 wands – comb, point and mushroom. Other individual or replacement electrodes are available for purchase. And the intensity level is adjustable with oscillation rate up to 250,000 Hz. To point out, this high frequency machine is available as either neon (orange) or argon (violet) set, which you can choose upon checkout (not both).
Best high frequency facial wand for professional users.
Key features: professional grade, more powerful, 3 probes, expensive.
Important Things To Know
Sound. High frequency facial wand makes mild buzzing noise when it’s “on”. The higher the setting (intensity level) – the louder the buzzing.
Smell. All high frequency devices produce ozone, which has a distinct smell to it. Some people describe it is refreshing scent you smell after the rain, while others find it unpleasant.
Grounding. To protect your skin from unwanted zapping, you need to ground the device. This can be done in two different ways. 1) Place your index finger on the electrode (this will make buzzing noise but won’t hurt). 2) Place the tip of the electrode on the skin before turning the device “on”.
Lubricant. Ideally, the electrode should glide smoothly over the skin, almost hovering. Moreover, the lighter the contact electrode makes with the skin – the more stimulating the treatment. For this reason, it is helpful to use hydrating serum or moisturizer as a lubricant.
Sensory feeling. Depending on your skin’s sensitivity and intensity of the treatment slight tingling, warming sensation and discomfort is possible. It can also feel as light burning sensation or some describe it as similar to the warmth you feel from rubber band zapping.
Treatment boost. For faster and more vivid results, high frequency facial machine can be used in conjunction with other facial tools. For example you can do treatments like microneedling, face steaming, and microcuurents BEFORE using high frequency wand. Or you can opt for LED skin treatment AFTER you are done with your high frequency treatment.
Restrictions. Don’t use high frequency if you have metal implants, have teeth braces, prone to headaches or migraines, sunburn, skin infection, pregnant, epilepsy, asthma or overly sensitive skin type.
Sources:
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Howard, D. “Structural changes associated with skin aging.” The International Dermal Institute, Apr. 2019.
Kavanagh S, Newell J, Hennessy M, Sadick, N. “Use of a neuromuscular electrical stimulation device for facial muscle toning: a randomized, controlled trial.” Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, Nov. 2012, Vol. 11, Issue 4.
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