My Honest NuFACE Trinity+ Review: Before & After Results And Expert Tips

Even the most recent recruits to the microcurrent game have probably heard of NuFACE. After all, the brand makes some of the most famous microcurrent facial tools on the market—ever seen someone glide a two-pronged device along their cheekbones and immediately reveal a lifted appearance? Yep, they’re likely using NuFACE. 

Countless beauty editors, estheticians, and derms swear by this non-invasive treatment for tighter, firmer skin, but one look at the steep price tag may leave you bug-eyed. Is this at-home tool really worth the hype (and the dollar sign?). 

Think of microcurrent as a strength training workout for your skin. "It stimulates the facial muscles underneath the skin, which will help to improve the facial contour, tone the skin, and reduce wrinkles," celebrity esthetician Shani Darden once told mbg about the technology. 

During a microcurrent facial, an esthetician will use a handheld electromagnetic device that sends gentle jolts of energy to stimulate your skin cells—this, in turn, can "exercise" the facial muscles and make them appear more toned and lifted. 

It all has to do with a molecule called adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which acts as your body's natural energy currency. "What we do with microcurrent is replenish and boost the ATP and therefore, the collagen and elastin," biomedical engineer and holistic skin care expert Pooja Johari, M.S., says in an episode of Clean Beauty School. You can read all about the science here, if you’d like a full deep dive.

Microcurrent facial devices are generally considered safe for most, but you should avoid them if you are pregnant, have a history of seizures, or have any electronic implanted devices. “Additionally, individuals with certain skin conditions or sensitivities may want to consult with a dermatologist before using a microcurrent device,” board-certified dermatologist Ife J. Rodney, M.D., founder of Eternal Dermatology, tells mbg.

Unfortunately, as at-home microcurrent tools become more popular, you can find a bunch of knock-offs. Again, we advise using reputable brands with FDA clearance—NuFACE does have those credentials, so you don’t have anything to worry about here, but it’s still important to note if you’re shopping for alternative tools. 

Now, many microcurrent companies—NuFACE included—recommend avoiding the thyroid and esophagus, which might make you immediately raise a brow. If the technology is generally safe, why should I avoid this sensitive area?  

I tested the NuFACE Trinity+, which is the brand’s most updated device. In addition to the three intensity settings (just like the other versions), it also includes a “boost button” that amps up 25% more microcurrent for areas you want some extra toning power. 

The device also has Bluetooth capability that pairs with the brand’s Smart App, which offers professional step-by-step tutorials, a selfie tracker to see your progress, and custom reminders. Finally, it has a magnetic head that easily pops off so you can interchange your treatments, like the Wrinkle Reducer and Effective Lip & Eye attachments. 

The Trinity+ starter kit retails for $395 (including a mini Aqua Gel Activator, mini Silk Crème Activator, and Clean Sweep Applicator Brush), but if you are going to make the microcurrent splurge, I highly suggest investing in this device so you get access to all of these updated features. 

Let’s be honest: Microcurrent tools can be…intimidating. When do you apply the gel? How do you hold the device? Where, oh where, are you supposed to glide? 

“I always lift in the morning,” Maue notes. It’s completely personal depending on your schedule, but many people prefer to use their NuFACE in the morning for an immediate lift and tone. “I like to lift and then apply my makeup, but some people don't have time in the morning, so they lift in the evening. It’s whatever is best for your routine.” 

Great news: Results are pretty immediate. “The very first time you use it, you will see a lift in your skin,” says Maue. But, alas, those results are only temporary—with microcurrent, consistency is key. “Microcurrent results are instant and accumulative,” Maue adds, meaning they get better and better with time. 

Think of it like going to the gym: If you want to see long-term muscle changes, you’ll want to make it a regular part of your routine. Your facial muscles also have memory, which is why NuFACE recommends using the tool once a day for five times a week during the first 60 days. 

I had used the NuFACE on and off before, but admittedly, I hadn’t committed to an everyday routine until now. Yet after just two weeks of consistent use, I definitely notice a more lifted, contoured appearance. See, I’m someone who typically wakes up with super puffy eyes and a swollen jawline—both woes went away immediately after a couple rounds of microcurrent. Better yet, I was waking up less puffy to begin with, I suspect as my facial muscles started toning up.  

I oscillated between the app’s Cheek Pop (a four-minute treatment focusing on the cheekbones and jawline) and the longer Pro-Toning Facial (an 11-minute treatment for the neck, cheeks, and forehead) when I had a bit more time to spare. Occasionally I could feel my muscles “jumping” under the microcurrent, but it wasn’t at all painful—more like a slight twitch on my jawline. 

Before my chat with Maue, I thought those little zaps and zings meant the treatment was, well, working. I wasn’t wrong, but “Technically that's the microcurrent scattering and bouncing,” she tells me. When that happens, it’s a sign that you need to either apply more activating gel or turn the device down a notch. 

“Microcurrent, when used correctly, is supposed to be virtually subsensory,” she explains. A tingle or two is A-OK—especially around the hairline, since baby hairs can act as a conductor, she says—but if it starts feeling strong, your skin likely needs more hydration. After a spritz of the Supercharged IonPlex Facial Mist, the zings instantly went away. 

Overall, my before-and-after results might not appear too dramatic to the naked eye, especially compared to the transformation side-by-sides on the brand’s website. But, hey, I’ve only been at it for a couple weeks! (I’ll report back in two months—don’t worry.) 

Short answer? Nope, sadly those chiseled cheekbones will eventually drop with time. But it’s not like your skin will sag after skipping a day or two. Again, it’s just like going to the gym: “If you stopped working out, those results don't just go away tomorrow,” Maue notes. Over time, though, you might notice a lack of gains. 

If you’re interested in non-invasive treatments for tighter skin, microcurrent is a stellar option to try—and NuFACE is one of the most reputable brands on the market. While my results are subtle after two weeks, I can certainly notice more definition in my cheekbones and less puffiness overall. My only callouts are that it is quite the investment of both time and money; you only need five minutes per day, but you do need to keep up with it to actually see results.