The Complete Guide to Direct High-Frequency Facials (& Essential Aftercare)

Reduced Acne: The gas emitted by the machine during treatment produces oxygen molecules that destroy the environment the acne-causing bacteria live in, thus reducing inflammation and minimizing active acne.

Improved Skin Texture: By stimulating blood flow and promoting collagen production, this facial can help improve skin texture, making it smoother and firmer.

Reduced Wrinkles and Fine Lines: The increased production of collagen and elastin can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, giving the skin a more youthful look.

Improved Dark Circles: The stimulation of blood circulation can also reduce the appearance of dark circles under the eyes, giving a more rested and refreshed look.

Reduced Puffiness: The heat from the electrical current can reduce puffiness by promoting lymphatic drainage, making the face appear less swollen.

Improved Product Absorption: By opening up pores and increasing blood flow, this facial can help products penetrate deeper into the skin, making them more effective.

Tingling Sensation: The high-frequency electrical current passing through the skin can cause a mild tingling sensation.

Metallic Taste: Some people may experience a metallic or salty taste in their mouth during treatment due to the ozone produced by the machine or factors such as wearing jewelry, dental implants, or braces. This is temporary and should go away after the treatment.

Redness: The skin in the treated area may appear slightly red or flushed after use, but this should subside within a few hours. If redness persists for more than a day, consult a skincare professional.

Sun Sensitivity: This side effect may depend on the medium used during treatment. If a gel or cream containing components such as enzymes or exfoliating acids is applied to the skin before treatment, it can increase sun sensitivity.

Headaches and Migraines: This is due to the loud buzzing sound the high-frequency machine produces, which can be uncomfortable for people experiencing frequent headaches or migraines.

Pregnancy: High-frequency machines put you in direct contact with an electrical current, which is not recommended for expectant mothers.

Metal Implants: If you have metal implants or devices in or on your body, such as a pacemaker, this may interfere with the electrical current and cause health concerns.

Dental Fillings and Braces: Metal dental work can cause a metallic taste during treatment, and the electrical current may affect orthodontic appliances such as braces.

Infectious Skin Conditions: Open wounds, cuts, or blisters in the treatment area can increase the risk of spreading the infection during a direct high-frequency facial.

Epilepsy: It is best to avoid using a high-frequency machine if you have epilepsy or other seizure disorders, as the electrical current may trigger a seizure.

Jewelry: All metal jewelry must be removed before the treatment due to the circulation of an electrical current. 

1. Cleanse the Skin: Start by removing any makeup, dirt, or excess oil from the skin using a gentle cleanser.

2. Apply a Conductive Gel: A conductive gel or cream can help the electrode glide smoothly over the skin.

3. Begin Treatment with the High-Frequency Machine: Choose an electrode that best suits your needs and run it over the skin in circular motions, starting with the forehead and moving on to the cheeks, nose, and chin. The duration of treatment depends on the intensity setting, but it is typically 3-5 minutes per area.

4. Focus on Problem Areas: Spend more time on areas of concern, such as acne or fine lines, to help target and improve these specific concerns. If you are dealing with acne, you can easily zap a pimple by lifting the electrode slightly and touching the tip of the zit with the electrode to neutralize the bacteria.

5. Remove Excess Gel: Once done, remove excess gel or cream with a dry cotton pad. Avoid washing the face immediately after treatment due to working with an electrical current.

7. Follow with a Moisturizer: Finish the treatment by applying a moisturizer to soothe and hydrate the skin.

8. Clean and Store Your Machine: Make sure to clean the electrodes with alcohol before storing your machine to ensure proper hygiene. 

Don’t Touch Your Face: For the first few hours after treatment, avoid touching your face to prevent spreading harmful bacteria and causing an infection.

Avoid Direct Sunlight: Direct and prolonged sun exposure increases heat and exacerbates post-treatment redness.

Apply Sunscreen: Always wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Limit Makeup: Avoid wearing makeup for the first eight hours to a day after getting a direct high-frequency facial, as this will ensure the maximum benefits of revitalizing oxygen and antibacterial ozone on your skin.

Avoid Other Facial Treatments: Similar to applying makeup, having other facial treatments will limit the time of beneficial ingredients on your skin and minimize the benefits of this treatment.

Avoid Saunas and Heat Treatments: Avoiding saunas is a general rule after getting a facial, as the skin may become inflamed and irritated due to the heat and sweat.

Avoid Extreme Weather Conditions: Cover and protect your face from extreme temperatures, such as high heat and strong winds, as this can irritate your skin.

Avoid AHAs and BHAs: Strong acids can be irritating after a direct high-frequency facial; therefore, make sure to avoid using products with AHAs and BHAs for the first 24 hours.

Avoid Retinoids: Avoid using topical retinoids for at least one day, as they can be irritating after a direct high-frequency facial.

Follow Your Skincare Routine: For best results, follow your skincare routine and use products that complement the effects of high-frequency treatments for long-lasting benefits.