Facial Devices Overview

Aug 5, 2025

Overview

This lecture covers the theory and benefits of using devices in facial treatments, focusing on equipment, procedures, and effects on skin health.

Key Devices Used in Facial Treatments

  • Common devices: steamer, rotating brush, vacuum spray, high frequency, galvanic, Lucas spray pulverizer, hot/cold hammer.
  • Devices enhance results in corrective spa facials, also called European or machine facials.

Ultrasonic Spatula (Skin Scrubber)

  • Uses high-frequency alternating current to create oscillation and a thermal effect.
  • Applied for improving texture, dehydration, dull appearance, and congested or acne-prone skin.
  • Exfoliates by loosening and removing dead skin cells, increasing circulation, and enhancing product absorption.

Microcurrent Devices

  • Stimulate cellular response with multiple waveforms and frequencies.
  • Used for aging (wrinkles, sagging), poor texture, dehydration, and toning facial/body muscles.
  • Benefits include increased ATP, muscle stimulation, lymphatic drainage, and product absorption.

LED Light Therapy

  • Uses light-emitting diodes (red, blue, infrared) for skin improvement.
  • Light is absorbed by cells to trigger biological reactions, without generating heat.
  • Based on photobiology principles.

Microdermabrasion

  • Exfoliates the outer skin layer using a fine abrasive material or tip with vacuum.
  • Treats wrinkles, sagging, texture issues, mild acne, congestion, and hyperpigmentation.

Rotating Brushes

  • Multiple attachments for various skin types and areas.
  • Used for exfoliation and cleansing, with options for sensitive or body areas.

Effects of Various Device Types

  • Thermal: warms tissue, stimulates fibroblasts and collagen, has germicidal effect.
  • Mechanical/Magnetic: increases hydration, microcirculation, desquamation, and reduces bacteria.
  • Electrochemical: increases tissue permeability, tightens tissue, moves fluids, reduces redness, improves microcirculation.

High Frequency (Tesla) Device

  • Alternating current device with high voltage and low amperage (100,000-250,000 Hz).
  • Direct method: stimulates tissue, creates mild ozone, increases healing and circulation, delivers germicidal effect.
  • Indirect (Viennese Massage): client holds electrode, warms tissue, induces relaxation, increases product penetration.
  • Sparking: used directly on blemishes, produces ozone, reduces redness and inflammation, calms skin.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • Ultrasonic Spatula — Device using oscillation for exfoliation and product penetration.
  • Microcurrent — Device using electrical currents to stimulate skin and muscle activity.
  • LED Light Therapy — Use of light waves to trigger skin improvements.
  • Microdermabrasion — Mechanical exfoliation using abrasives and vacuum suction.
  • High Frequency Device — Electrical device for skin stimulation and germicidal effects.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Review the key devices and their benefits for facial treatments.
  • Answer "Check What You Know" questions to confirm understanding of major concepts.