Disclosure: This blog post is sponsored by ZIIP. I had a call with ZIIP’s creator and cofounder, Melanie Simon, where I was able to ask her some questions I had about the device and after that call I decided I would do to a 6-week trial of the Halo to track the results and I planned on writing this blog post to summarize what I have researched about the ZIIP since getting the ZIIP GX in PR from the brand a year ago and to also answer some questions my followers submitted in a question box on my IG. Before I finished the post, ZIIP asked if I wanted to do a sponsored post to talk about how the Halo differs from the GX. Having this post be sponsored didn’t change the tone or content of the post aside from me including additional information about the GX versus the Halo. Also, I was able to have some information verified by Melanie to ensure its accuracy, I believe in authenticity and transparency; the content was written by me and reflects my personal experience and understanding of the ZIIP device and its benefits (My ZIIP Gx and the latest ZIIP Halo were provided by the brand in PR).
At-home microcurrent devices, like the ZIIP Halo, are intended to tone, lift, and firm the skin by stimulating muscle activity and boosting collagen and elastin production. But what differentiates ZIIP from other devices? I’ll talk about that and more in this blog post.
If you want to skip to different parts of the blog, please use the Table of Contents below.
Table of Contents
Some Backstory
I was sent the ZIIP GX in PR from the brand a year ago and I almost passed it on to a friend because I wasn’t sure I wanted to use it. Why, you might wonder? Let’s take a quick trip down memory lane. Back in 2018, I gave the NuFace microcurrent device a solid 6-week try, using it religiously 5 days a week. Then I kept using it 2 days a week until I hit the 90-day mark. The results left me underwhelmed; the benefits I saw didn’t seem to justify the investment of my time. [here’s that NuFace review]
Consequently, I was less than enthusiastic about investing similar effort into another microcurrent device.
But my friend Jay (@honestlyskin) kept telling me that I had to try it—and eventually the reason I caved was because it has a routine that he said is great for pimples and he highlighted how he had much better results with ZIIP compared to NuFace (which he attributed to its unique dual wave technology). So for the past year I have used the ZIIP for managing unexpected breakouts or for that extra radiance boost before special events. Though I’ve had ample time with the device, I haven’t written a formal review, simply because my usage has been anything but consistent. But one thing I did notice was that my skin looked the best after I used ZIIP routines that involved nanocurrent—and that is something that NuFace doesn’t offer (more on this later)—so I already knew that I preferred ZIIP to NuFace, but I still didn’t see any immediate lifting results and I hadn’t taken before photos to really track any longer-term results.
When I stayed at my parent’s house for 3 months last year while our home had some renovations, my mom started to use my ZIIP and she was HOOKED. She immediately bought her own and continues to use it consistently and tells all her friends they need to buy one. (She shared a brief review here). Because of how much my mom loves her ZIIP, I accepted an invite to chat with ZIIP’s creator, Melanie Simon, so that my mom and I could chat with her and learn more about the different routines and just pick her brain a bit.
Since that call, I’ve spent more time understanding these devices, and particularly how the ZIIP sets itself apart from competitors like NuFace and Foreo, and my interest is piqued again.
In this blog post, I’ll talk about the nuances that set the new ZIIP Halo apart from other microcurrent devices and how the Halo differs from the GX. I’ll also answer some questions that my followers asked on my Instagram when I posted a question box leading up to this blog post.
Understanding Microcurrent and Nanocurrent
Microcurrent and nanocurrent refer to the levels of electrical current used in these skincare devices.
Microcurrent is a form of electrical therapy that delivers current in the microampere range and is thought to mimic the body’s own natural bioelectric currents. It is said to work on a muscular level to stimulate the muscles to contract. This is what can give some people the immediate lift effect. It can increase blood circulation and it said to lead to stimulation of collagen production (and subsequently a softening of wrinkles).
Nanocurrent is much smaller than microcurrent (1 nanoamp is equal to 0.001 microamps which means nanocurrent delivers a current that is 1,000 times smaller than that delivered by microcurrent. This smaller current is believed to communicate more subtly with the body’s cells, promoting healing and regeneration). Nanocurrent is actually what intrigued me the most and made me give ZIIP a try after being disappointed in the results that I saw (or really, didn’t see) with a NuFace device I tested a few years back. It is claimed that this low-intensity current improves skin more subtly, causing changes at the molecular level over a longer period but delivering gradual, sustainable skin improvements.
Both micro and nano current are also said to work at the cellular level to activate the production of the chemical ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate). ATP declines as we age. It is responsible for giving energy to the cells that they need to repair and replenish. The result over time is skin rejuvenation (which translates to reduced signs of aging).
Unzipping the Evidence Behind Microcurrent Devices for Skin Rejuvenation
When considering the potential benefits of microcurrent devices, it’s important to acknowledge the existing gap in empirical evidence.
What this means is that while these devices may hold promise, we need more comprehensive, high-quality studies on human skin before we can confidently say what they can or can’t do. Until then, the longer-term effects remain a bit of a question mark.
There are some very limited clinical trial studies (primarily conducted on rat skin) to suggest that microcurrent devices like the ZIIP can increase ATP production (Chen et al., 1982) (ATP increase can lead to an increase of elastin and collagen), improve lymphatic drainage (Cook et al, 1994) (which leads to less puffiness resulting in a sculpted look), and one study on humans suggests it can assist tissue repair and restoration (Zizic et al, 1995).
Another study that was on human skin and that had at least some of the parameters similar to ZIIP was conducted by Saniee et al. (The device used square micro pulses between 70-80 Hertz with an amperage range of 0-640 microampere.) Participants had a 10 min session 5 days a week for 30 sessions. The study found that the use of microcurrents significantly reduced wrinkles in several areas of the face, with the greatest improvement observed in the forehead area (18.37% reduction in wrinkles after treatment, and 21.18% one month later). The least improvement was noted in the nasolabial area, with 7.61% improvement after treatment and 5.85% one month later. Improvement was also observed in the condition of scars, acne, and skin rashes. Despite these positive outcomes, the authors acknowledge limitations such as the lack of domestic studies for comparison.
Another important thing to note is that while the use of nanocurrent is what intrigues me the most about the ZIIP device, I wasn’t able to find empirical evidence for the long-term benefits of nanocurrent on skin rejuvenation. So this would be considered an area where there is a lack of evidence either in support or in opposition of its impact on the skin.
Because of that, I decided it was time to formally review the ZIIP Halo and to share my results. I’m curious to see if a more consistent use of ZIIP (e.g., three times a week) can make a noticeable difference in my skin, particularly in areas like my nasolabial folds and how my mouth has started to turn downward slightly at corners. I will be doing a 6-week test (I am 40), along with my mom (who is in her 60s) and two skincare-loving friends (@fionas50life who is in her 50s and @honestlyskin who is late 30s) to see what results we find. This test isn’t sponsored by ZIIP and I will write up that review in a separate post.
For those that want to dig into the research even more, this article by Piras et al (2021) is worth reading. Because microcurrent devices (and especially micro+nano current devices like ZIIP) vary greatly in their operational parameters, when looking at research studies it may help to keep in mind that the most relevant research are those that focus on studies that use low amperage uA (under ~500 uA) or above 900 nA. Other limitations in the empirical literature that limit some of the comparisons we can make to the technology used in ZIIP include things like: most often the authors don’t describe waveform measurement (the time the waveform spends in the positive, negative, or alternating realms of a waveform); and there is often a lack of notation regarding direct or alternating current “AC/DC” so it is unclear if a study used AC or DC (ZIIP utilizes BOTH AC and DC, but most commonly AC.)
Frequency, Amplitude, and Waveforms: The Details Matter
While all microcurrent and nanocurrent devices share the principle of using electrical stimulation, the impact they have on the skin can vary depending on several factors: the type and strength of the current, the frequency, and the waveform.
Frequency, measured in Hertz (Hz), refers to the number of times the current hits per second. High-frequency current can promote cellular stimulation and tissue relaxation, while low-frequency current can promote hydration and product absorption into the skin. The ZIIP device, for example, uses varying frequencies to target different skincare needs.
The amplitude or intensity of the current, measured in microamps (µA) or nanoamps (nA), also plays a crucial role. The idea is to use a level that’s biologically compatible with the body’s own electrical system. Too high an intensity can potentially cause unwanted muscle contractions, whereas the right intensity can theoretically lead to increased circulation and stimulated collagen production. ZIIP uses low frequency/low amperage (with uA amperage below 500uA and above 900nA).
Finally, the shape of the waveforms (how the current flows) can also impact the effect on the skin. Common waveforms include sine waves, square waves, or a customized blend of multiple waveforms. But there are also triangle and sawtooth waveforms. Unlike other microcurrent devices that just use a square waveform, ZIIP uses a mix of different waveforms across their different programed routines.
- A sine waveform is smooth and cyclical, mimicking the body’s natural waveform. This type of waveform can penetrate deeply into the skin, proving beneficial for stimulating muscles and deeper tissues.
- Square waveforms, conversely, deliver a more aggressive current with a rapid onset. Melanie explained how the square waves forms are better at really grabbing the muscle to cause it to contract. These can be effective for treating more surface-level skin issues, like fine lines and wrinkles.
The Uniqueness of ZIIP: Microcurrent and Nanocurrent Combined
The ZIIP device is particularly unique because it employs both microcurrent and nanocurrent technologies. This dual approach helps the device address both immediate skin concerns (like puffiness) and long-term skin health and rejuvenation. It does this by using a range of frequencies, intensities, and waveforms, making it versatile and adaptable to your unique skin concerns.
Waveform shapes
Both the GX and Halo incorporate different waveform shapes. I am not aware of any other device, professional or in-home, that offers multiple waveform shapes.
Multiphasic waveforms
In the realm of skincare devices, multiphasic and biphasic waveforms refer to how the electrical current is delivered to the skin. This topic starts to go over my head, so here’s a very brief summary.
Unlike NuFace (which just uses pulsed biphasic waveforms which typically involve a two-phase cycle where current flows in one direction, then the opposite direction), ZIIP uses multiphasic waveforms which involve complex patterns of electrical currents that can flow in multiple directions and can be tailored to achieve different results.
Multiphasic Waveforms have more than two phases in a cycle, which can allow for more complex stimulation patterns. They can be advantageous because they might stimulate a wider range of cellular responses due to the varying phases of current. However, there is no definitive conclusion on which type is superior.
In theory, the increased complexity of multiphasic waveforms might stimulate a broader range of physiological responses, possibly improving treatment outcomes. However, the effectiveness of these waveforms also depends on other factors like the frequency, amplitude, and duration of the pulses, as well as individual patient differences. ZIIP not only uses multiphasic and pulsed biphasic waveforms across different programs, but it also can vary all of the other aforementioned factors.
So really, the advantage of ZIIP’s multiphasic waveforms and various skincare programs available on their app, is its versatility and adaptability.
What *isn’t* different about the ZIIP Halo and ZIIP Gx?
- Both use dual waveform technology to bring both nanocurrent and microcurrent, but the Halo has a bigger range of currents that it can pull from (but the GX still has 20 million possible waveform combinations)
- If you have the Halo, you can access the older routines on your app, but if you have the GX you can’t access the new routines (which include The Lift; Electric Tone; and De-Puff)
In the photos below, that ZIIP Halo is on the Left and ZIIP GX on the right.
GX
- Relies on the app
- The routine you used last is what it defaults to
- Chrome-plated electrodes
- The button to sync with the app and turn the device on is on the top and in the Halo it is on the bottom.
- The GX is a little bulkier and heavier.
- Higher entry price at $495
Halo
- Easier to free form and you can be “app free”. Every time you turn your device on, it defaults to the “Lift” (which, in my opinion is a much better “default routine” compared to something like the routine from NuFace because it combines various strengths of microcurrent plus nanocurrent in a really quick routine)
- Surgical steel plated electrodes which Melanie notes dispenses the current in a slightly different way so sometimes it may feel less intense than the same routine on the GX, but you are still getting the same amount of current.
- The shape is slightly different, and Melanie noted that it seems to push the current out more evenly because the probes tend to get better contact with the skin
- Lower (!) entry price at $399 (Note: Originally it was priced at $349 but as of 2/12/24 there was a slight price increase)
Note on the reduced price.
- They were able to reduce the price because (based on feedback from customers) they are providing a more basic gel with the device instead of the $130 Golden gel. So you get a much more streamlined conductor gel and no travel bag and then you can decide whether to purchase the different gels that offer the additional skincare benefits. Melanie noted that the price of the device itself is the same as it was for the GX, but the price savings is all with the add ons.
Preorder with 15% off if you are in the UK
ZIIP will be available in the UK from this Thursday (July 20th) and ZIIP set up a preorder link with CurrentBody. So if you are in the UK you can preorder the device for 15% off with the code GOALSZIIP using this link
Routines that are available
Some brief comments on the different routines
With the Halo you have 26 different waveforms between all the treatment programs. And apparently there’s no overlapping. Some may feel similar, but you are getting a unique combination of waveforms. For example, Contour feels a little bit like the Lift, but they’re not at all the same waveforms, they just feel the same. So, it is best to read the description of what the routine is intended for and rely on that.
(I do wish that the app or the information booklet provided more information for people like me that want to know the nitty gritty details).
Click here to read my mom’s thoughts on 12 ZIIP programs based on using the ZIIP GX for a year.
The routines I will be using for my 6-week review
What I am going to stick with is I plan to do the Lift routine 3 times in a row (12 min total) on Monday and Wednesday. And then on Friday I am going to do Founders Favorite. I will use Problem Solver as needed.
Note: If you don’t have the Halo, the Energize routine would be most similar to Lift (x3) as it has both nano and micro current.
Melanie noted that she has noticed that three times a week is the magic number to see a really good result. And that after 21 days, people tend to see a substantial result, and then you should see even more dramatic results at 6 weeks.
Questions from You All
Does stimulating the muscles with microcurrent make Botox wear off faster?
I wasn’t able to find any clear evidence that using ZIIP will make Botox/Dysport wear off faster. I do get botox in my forehead and frown lines, so I guess while I am being consistent with ZIIP I can track if movement comes back to my forehead quicker than usual. But especially since I prefer treatments that emphasize nanocurrent, I don’t think it will as nanocurrent isn’t contracting muscles as microcurrent can.
One thing that I did find advice on is on the use of microcurrent devices like ZIIP for individuals who have recently received Botox injections. ZIIP recommends waiting 10 days after receiving an injectable or laser procedure before using ZIIP.
It’s worth noting that microcurrent treatments and Botox address different aspects of skin aging and can complement each other. While Botox works on the muscles to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles, microcurrent treatments aim to enhance overall skin health and appearance by boosting collagen and elastin production and enhancing circulation and lymphatic drainage.
Is there any truth to claims that you can lose facial fat as a result of microcurrent devices?
I am not aware of any scientific studies confirming the direct impact of microcurrent treatments on facial fat reduction. And I wasn’t able to find any empirical evidence that low amperage or low frequency microcurrent would “burn” facial fat in the way that body exercise does.
Instead I just found some reddit boards where people anecdotally commented that they felt like they lost some facial fat. Everyone’s face is unique, with different bone structures, fat distribution, and muscle tone. Consequently, the visible effects of microcurrent treatments can vary from person to person. I suppose it is possible that if microcurrent does indeed improve muscle tone and enhanced skin elasticity (resulting in a tighter, more lifted appearance) that might give the illusion of a more sculpted or slimmed face. But I personally am not concerned about this.
Can it trigger an ocular migraine?
This one is tricky… and I am certainly not an expert. But I think it is plausible that any stimulation of the facial area may potentially trigger an ocular migraine in sensitive individuals. The face contains numerous nerves, and some of these have connections that lead directly to areas of the brain involved in migraine attacks.
For example, it’s possible that the electrical stimulation of the microcurrent device could have inadvertently stimulated the trigeminal nerve or other sensory nerves in the face, leading to an ocular migraine.
Another consideration is that the microcurrent could increase blood circulation in the face and head area. While increased circulation is generally a good thing, in some people it could potentially contribute to a migraine.
How does a device like ZIIP help with acne?
ZIIP’s ‘Problem Solver’ program for acne treatment is a great example of the versatility of their dual waveform technology and it is one of the two main reasons I wanted to try ZIIP in the first place (The other reason was because they incorporated nanocurrent).
Acne is often caused or exacerbated by the overgrowth of certain bacteria, particularly Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes). P. acnes can cause inflammation and breakouts when it’s present in excessive amounts. The “Problem Solver” program uses a negatively-charged waveform, designed to suppress these bacteria and promote a healthier skin environment.
Negative ions or currents have been suggested to have antimicrobial properties. They may create an inhospitable environment for bacteria, reducing their growth and helping to prevent acne flare-ups. (But more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms involved).
Anecdotally, I personally have seen that the Problem Solver routine has helped to clear up pimples. I find it works best when I first feel a zinger growing under my skin (the kind you can feel before you can really see them). If I use Problem Solver at the first sign of a growing monster, it has helped to flatten it. I have also used it on whiteheads. It will often end up bursting the whitehead but in a gentler way than if I were to pop it myself.
Do you have to avoid the front of your neck/thyroid?
Yes, when using microcurrent or nanocurrent devices, it is typically recommended to avoid the front of the neck where the thyroid gland is located. This is because the thyroid is a sensitive gland that regulates many important functions in the body, and it might be affected by the electrical current produced by these devices.
Although the exact impact of microcurrent or nanocurrent devices on the thyroid gland isn’t fully known, the precautionary principle is generally followed to avoid unnecessary risk.
But what Melanie suggested, and what my mom always does, is to do upward strokes on each side of the neck and then to go from chin to ear along jawline and this would all help to lift the skin on the front of the neck.
Which Gel should I use?
This was actually a big eye opener for me because on the call Melanie noted that she thought that perhaps the reason my skin got so red after many of the routines was because I was using the Golden gel, which is packed with growth factors and petite complexes (which made me happy) but it is also much more active overall.
When I asked Melanie about the gels on our call she gave some background on why she developed the various gels. She said that when she is doing a professional treatment, she is applying different serums and really layering the skin with beneficial ingredients and then she uses a device to really pump all those ingredients into the skin. With the gels she wanted to find a way to get that threshold of actives into the skin at home when people aren’t really accustomed to layering things like that. The new gel doesn’t have any active ingredients, but it’s the same base so you do you can get a good treatment.
Based on Melanie’s advice, I will be using the Silver moving forward and my mom will stick to using the Golden. Below is a general overview of each of the gels along with their complete ingredient list.
Golden Gel:
Based for Mature Skin with Anti-Aging Focus.
- This is packed with peptides and growth factors that promote skin repair and regeneration, niacinamide, caffeine, humectants, antioxidants and minerals that contribute to overall skin health and vitality.
- INCI: Glycerin, Aqua, Propanediol, Niacinamide, Hematite Extract, Dimethyl Isosorbide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Acetyl Glutamine, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Powder, Bacillus/Folic Acid Ferment Filtrate Extract, Butylene Glycol, Caffeine, Caprylyl Glycol, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Copper Gluconate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Gluconolactone, Glycine Soja Extract, Gold, Jasminum Officinale Oil, Lecithin, Magnesium Aspartate, Menthoxypropanediol, sh-Oligopeptide-1, sh-Oligopeptide-2, sh-Polypeptide-1, sh-Polypeptide-11, sh-Polypeptide-9, s-Mu-conotoxin CnIIIC, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol, Xanthan Gum, Zinc Gluconate, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Sorbic Acid, Benzyl Benzoate.
Silver Gel **This is what I am now using**
Best for sensitive or more reactive skin
- Has hydrating/Moisturizing, soothing & anti-Inflammatory ingredients as well as antioxidant & Protective ingredients plus minerals that contribute to overall skin health and vitality.
- INCI: Glycerin, Aqua, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Propanediol, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Powder, Aspalathus Linearis (Rooibos) Extract, Boswellia Serrata (Frankincense) Extract, Butylene Glycol, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Citric Acid, Copper Gluconate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Gluconolactone (PHA), Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Magnesium Aspartate, Honey Extract, Pearl Powder, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tetrapeptide-14, Tocopherol, Xanthan Gum, Zinc Gluconate, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate
Crystal Gel
Best for people looking for a vegan, organic option and that also have sensitive skin.
- INCI: Organic Glycerin, Water, Propanediol, Veronica Officinalis Extract, Picea Mariana Bark Extract, Glutathione, Magnesium Aspartate, Zinc Gluconate, Copper Gluconate, Xanthan Gum, Caprylhydroxamic Acid,1,2-Hexanediol
Electric Complex Gel
Best for Highly Sensitive or Problem-prone Skin (or if you want to just have a basic gel and then rely on other skincare products for those beneficial ingredients)
- INCI: Aqua, Glycerin, Propanediol, Caprylyl Methicone, 1,2- Hexanediol, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate.
How important is it to use conductive gel with the device? I have seen some people just spray their face with water or use aloe gel.
The primary function of a conductive gel is to enhance the transmission of the electrical currents from the device into your skin. This helps the device work effectively and can enhance the overall results of the treatment.
Conductive gels typically contain ingredients like ions that aid in conducting electricity, and they’re formulated to have an appropriate viscosity and consistency that allows the device to glide smoothly over the skin without pulling or tugging.
While water or aloe gel may provide some degree of conductivity, they may not be as effective as a specially designed conductive gel. Water evaporates quickly and may not provide the same level of conductivity or consistent coverage as a gel. Aloe gel, while more hydrating and longer-lasting than water, may still not deliver the same level of electrical conductivity. Additionally, these alternatives might not offer the same ease of use, as the device may not glide as smoothly over the skin.
Using a conductive gel also helps protect your skin. When you use a microcurrent device without an adequate conductive medium, it could potentially lead to a slight stinging sensation or even minor skin irritation, as the electrical current might not be evenly distributed over the skin.
Can you overuse the ZIIP? How many treatments can I do in 1 session?
I asked Melanie to weigh in on this because I couldn’t find any evidence about negative effects of overuse. Here is what Melanie said:
“There is no evidence to suggest that low amperage microcurrent can be over-used, but there is no evidence that it cannot. Best rule of thumb from my lens, as a professional with over 20 years in the field, seeing clients weekly and regularly (whom all incorporated the ZIIP for the last 8 years): Every other day is ideal. I like to stimulate the skin/muscle (day on) and allow recovery/repair the following day (day off). As far as time doing a treatment, the 4 min Lift treatment will provide results. If you want better results, ZIIP longer (My favorite thing to do right now is The Lift x 3 in a row =12 min). Some weeks I will do 1 long session to get professional grade results (the best way to= Get all treatments done IE The Lift + Instant Grat. and then do all nano Founders Fav @10 min repeated as much as you want, you can free-form entirely)”
For professional grade results, Melanie suggested this combo for a long session:
- The Lift (or Energize if you don’t have the Halo); Then Instant Grat; Then Founders Favorite (repeated as many times as you want)
For most people, using the ZIIP 2-3 times per week is sufficient.
What happens if you stop using ZIIP? how long does it take for results to "reverse" to pre-ZIIP?
Microcurrent and nanocurrent treatments, like those provided by ZIIP, are not permanent. They work by stimulating the muscles and skin cells to improve skin tone, texture, and appearance. But like exercise, if you stop, the benefits will slowly reduce over time.
The duration before you see a “reversal” of results can vary depending on things like your age, skin type, lifestyle, and the condition of your skin before starting treatments. So I really can’t say when you start to see changes after discontinuing the use of the device.
However, stopping ZIIP or any other microcurrent treatments won’t make your skin worse than it was before you started. It will likely just return to its normal state over time.
Any risks we should be aware of?
ZIIP and similar microcurrent devices are generally considered safe for most people. However, like any skincare device or treatment, here are some of the risks that have been mentioned:
- Skin irritation: Some people may experience redness, dryness, or sensitivity from the electrical currents or the conductive gel used with the device.
- Underlying health conditions: Microcurrent devices are not recommended for individuals with pacemakers, epilepsy, or who are pregnant, as the electrical currents could potentially interfere with these conditions.
- Thyroid issues: As mentioned earlier, it’s usually recommended to avoid the front of the neck where the thyroid gland is located when using a microcurrent device. The thyroid is a sensitive gland that can be affected by electrical currents.
- Interactions with other treatments: If you’ve recently had Botox or fillers, it’s advised to wait at least 10 days before using a microcurrent device.
As with any skincare treatment or device, you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and to listen to your skin. If you notice any discomfort, irritation, or adverse effects, stop using the device and consult with a healthcare provider or dermatologist.
Is ZIIP as effective as in-clinic microcurrent devices?
In general, professional in-clinic microcurrent treatments tend to be more powerful than at-home devices. Professionals also have the benefit of added training and experience, which allows them to customize treatments based on a person’s unique skin needs and to target specific areas more effectively.
However, Melanie mentioned that there isn’t a professional-strength device that offers nanocurrent. So, in that respect, the ZIIP would be the only option in-clinic or at home if you want both microcurrent and nanocurrent.
Will skin of any age see benefits? Or who do you think might benefit the most?
I have a theory that different people will experience the immediate lift based on their underlying bone structure and skin laxity and maybe skin fullness? For example, I have really never see an immediate lift (despite taking tons of before and after photos after all of the various routines). But my mom and other people I know do. Anecdotally, people over 45 seem to be more likely to see an immediate lift which I think helps to incentivize consistent use which would result in better effects overall.
But setting aside immediate results and instead focusing on the longer-term results, I think for younger people the use of ZIIP would be more preventative (in terms of signs of aging) but it might provide more immediate results if you are using it for blemishes.
For people that are experiencing some skin sagging or loss of elasticity or firmness, this would potentially help to lift the skin over time and prevent further sagging/laxity (that’s what I am hoping for at least).
Why does it sometimes feel zingy or stings when I use the ZIIP over a pimple?
I had to ask Melanie to answer this one for me. Here is her response: This occurs because the blemish is positively charged, and the ZIIP HALO is programmed with negative electrical currents to seek out and combat blemishes, effectively seeking out the bacteria in the pimple. You’ll feel a stronger tingling at the start of the treatment but this will reduce as the bacteria is reduced. If you reach a point of feeling nothing by the end of the treatment, then it means the zit no longer has any bacteria for the HALO to zap.
Would the ZIIP replace something like an LED mask?
While both the ZIIP device and an LED mask have their own unique benefits for skincare, they are not necessarily replacements for each other. Instead, they can be thought of as complementary tools in your skincare routine.
The ZIIP device and LED masks both have unique capabilities in promoting skin health, with some overlapping benefits like promoting collagen and elastin production. However, they have different strengths.
LED masks can tackle common signs of aging and do a bit more. They are particularly good at reducing inflammation and redness, and they can speed up the skin healing process (like reducing fresh bruises or scars or post-procedure skin). Those are the more immediate results I see–improved skin tone and reduced inflammation/redness. LED has also helped my rosacea not have a flare up in a long time. LED masks are also backed by more (although still limited) research. Over time, I think that my consistent use of an LED mask has helped to soften fine lines (especially my nasolabial folds which still bug me but they have gotten much less pronounced). (For a blog post on LED devices I recommend, click here).
On the flip side, the ZIIP device, a microcurrent technology, shines when it comes to lifting and toning the skin. Some people report seeing an immediate lift (sadly, I am not one of them, but my mom does!). If targeting wrinkles and sagging skin is your main concern, then ZIIP might be a better fit for you.
If I could only have one, I would pick LED, but that’s because I have rosacea and my skin is easily irritated and my LED helps dramatically with keeping signs of inflammation at bay and reducing the appearance of any rosacea.
My mom however would pick the ZIIP over LED because her main concern is lifting sagging skin and the ZIIP gives her both immediate results and she thinks it has reduced some fine lines over time as well.
If you’re looking for skin toning and firming, the ZIIP could be an excellent choice. If you want to focus on skin toning over time AND reducing inflammation or promoting skin healing (with an emphasis on the latter) an LED mask might be more suitable. To get the best of both worlds, you could incorporate both into your skincare regimen.
References
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- Cook, H. A., Morales, M., La Rosa, E. M., Dean, J., Donnelly, M. K., McHugh, P., … Tepper, S. H. (1994). Effects of Electrical Stimulation on Lymphatic Flow and Limb Volume in the Rat. Physical Therapy, 74(11), 1040–1046. doi:10.1093/ptj/74.11.1040
- Piras, A., Zini, L., Trofè, A., Campa, F., & Raffi, M. (2021). Effects of acute microcurrent electrical stimulation on muscle function and subsequent recovery strategy. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(9), 4597.
- Saniee, F., Khademi Kalantari, K., Yazdanpanah, P., Rezasoltani, A. R., Dabiri, N., & Ghafarian Shirazi, H. R. (2022). The effect of microcurrents on facial wrinkles. Pars Journal of Medical Sciences, 10(2), 9-16. doi: 10.29252/jmj.10.2.9
- Zizic, T. M., Hoffman, K. C., Holt, P. A., Hungerford, D. S., O’Dell, J. R., Jacobs, M. A., … & Free, S. M. (1995). The treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee with pulsed electrical stimulation. J Rheumatol, 22(9), 1757-61.