Every once in a while, a new beauty gadget is released that earns a tidal wave of favorable reviews. NuFace's microcurrent device is one of those devices, and after hearing so many Instagram influencers, beauty editors, and skin care enthusiasts rave about their experience using one, I decided I should give it a try myself.

The box arrived on my doorstep in early February, and after working up the courage to use it, I began the religious 5-minute daily regimen. In addition to relaying my personal experience with NuFace to see if it works, I asked a dermatologist and esthetician to weigh in as well.

Image via @mynuface

In short, NuFace utilizes low-level electric currents — AKA microcurrents — in an effort to help stimulate collagen production in the skin, bolster circulation, reduce puffiness by draining the lymphatic system, and contouring facial muscles to lift and tone, explains celebrity esthetician Alexandra Wagner.

There are in-office treatments that offer a similar treatment but on a much larger energy scale, namely Thermage (which I've had done) and Ultherapy. NuFace is essentially the at-home, less painful, but also less effective version of those.

The device itself is petite (it fits easily in the palm of your hand) and has two metal bulbs that you press against your skin. It's meant to be used five minutes every day, pressed against the skin and moved in an upward movement.

Image courtesy of Wendy Gould

This is the million-dollar question, and the answer is yes, generally, it does work. There are some stipulations to keep in mind, though. First, you have to be diligent about using the device at least five minutes every day. Second, even with consistent usage results are going to be subtle. Some people do report seeing an immediate difference in the skin, which is likely due to a temporary tightening and lifting of the facial muscles. Again, this is very subtle, but it's admittedly nice to see a little improvement.

The straight truth is that you're much more likely to see a noticeable improvement — the kind others would comment kindly on — with an in-office treatment. In that sense, NuFace is more a supplemental tool in your skincare regimen versus a primary method of keeping skin youthful. Both Wagner and Dr. Caren Campbell, a board-certified dermatologist based in San Francisco, agree.

"In my opinion, there are many better ways to help lift and tighten the skin. This is because it can take a long time [to see notable results] compared to stronger electrical current treatments, such as Thermage and Ultherapy," says Dr. Campbell.

Image courtesy of Wendy Gould

I mentioned above that I had to work up the courage to use the NuFace device, and this is because it can be slightly uncomfortable to use. It produces electro-current energy that's transferred to your skin, so it definitely feels tingly and prickly as it makes contact with your skin. Dr. Campbell says, "It's like a tiny electrical shock."

The product is meant to be used with a thick gel or serum, which NuFace sells, that allows the device to more easily glide over your skin while relieving most of the discomfort. I personally disliked the gel, so I apply my own serums when using the device. The only issue is that my serums are absorbed more quickly than the gel would, so I have to reapply throughout use.

Image courtesy of Wendy Gould

I have to admit I was somewhat skeptical of the NuFace device — and a bit aghast at the $200 price tag — but I am officially a believer. I personally can see a very slight immediate difference in my skin right after using it, and I'd like to see what results it can bring over the course of months and not just weeks.

With that said, I absolutely plan to continue using the device daily as a supplemental part of my skin care regimen. Though it can be a little uncomfortable to use sometimes (especially on the forehead), I personally find it therapeutic — like a little five-minute treat yourself moment.

Wagner is of the same mindset. "I do think it is worth the spend if you know that you are willing to take the time to use the device. This is the important question to ask yourself," she says. Consistency is key.

The bottom line is that the device does work, but it's not a miracle quick fix. It will give you mild results and should be supplemental to your skin care regimen and in-office treatments. If you're OK with that, then go forth spend the $200!

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