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The 9 Best High Frequency Skincare Wands to Add to Your Routine
A few (painless!) zaps can leave your skin clearer and firmer
Thanks to a new batch of professional-grade skincare devices, made for use at home, it's never been easier to fight acne and minimize fine lines without booking a series of spa sessions. What light therapy devices have done for stimulating collagen and repairing damaged skin, and microcurrent devices on the skin sculpting front, the best high-frequency wands have for acne-fighting and overall skin clearing.
These zit zappers were once exclusively reserved for dermatologists and aestheticians’ offices, but are now available in smaller, more portable, but equally as powerful at-home devices. Not to be confused with radio-frequency skincare devices, “High-frequency devices and methods are often used as an adjunct to topical and oral acne treatments,” Omer Ibrahim, a board-certified dermatologist at Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology tells Bazaar. These professional-level wands use current-delivering argon gas-filled electrodes that are only released upon interaction with the skin. “That argon gas releases oxygen which destroys bacteria, helps regulate sebum production, and unclogs pores,” Ibrahim explains. Newer versions of these tools have also tapped xenon gas as a potential method to deliver skincare ingredients deeper into the skin.
Shop the Best High Frequency Wands
Along with treating acne, there are other benefits to regularly using a high-frequency wand that can significantly improve the skin. These tools boost the skin's oxygen levels, increase its overall circulation, and help to calm inflammation. You'll also notice that many high-frequency wands have comb attachments. These can be used on the scalp to stimulate hair follicles in thinning areas.
If you're using a high-frequency wand to take down pimples, Ibrahim advises that these wands should not be your primary acne treatment. Instead, consider bonus spot treatments in your efforts towards clearer, healthier skin.
After consulting with experts about key features to look for in some of the top high-frequency tools, Bazaar editors sifted through five-star customer reviews, noted viral beauty hits, and considered our own testing insights to round up the following list of top selects from StackedSkincare, Skin Gym, and more.
StackedSkincare High Frequency Wand for Acne
Pros
- Strong current
Cons
- Instructions aren't easy to follow
Ibrahim recommends this popular device specifically for acne-prone skin which not only prevents new breakouts from forming but can also even reduce the appearance of scars.
Each included attachment—from the tool's pointy electrode to its mushroom electrode—makes it a breeze to target specific areas of the face. "The ‘pointy electrode’ is great for deeper cystic pimples; the ‘mushroom’ works for larger areas on your face, like your cheeks and forehead; and the ‘spoon’ is great for the under-eye area to help de-puff," Ibrahim notes.
Number of included attachments: Four
One satisfied customer writes: "This had been an absolute game changer for my chin acne. I’ve spent decades and $$$ on dermatologists, facials, topical treatments, and oral medications but it turns out all I needed was this machine. I did try an early version of a zit zapper- it did nothing compared to this." —Kristin Z.
Pure Daily Care NuDerma Professional Skin Therapy Wand
Pros
- Includes a range of attachments
Cons
- Some reviewers reported inconsistent voltage distribution
Board-certified dermatologist Debra Jaliman recommends this does-it-all wand for those dealing with acne- or age-related skin issues. She suggests using the tool once a week to help kill bacteria, limit inflammation, and suppress breakouts as a preventative approach to clear skin.
Number of included attachments: Six
One satisfied customer writes: "This is a must-have beauty tool! Your skin will be transformed as you use it, regularly! Troubled skin? This will aid in a quicker recovery…it’s a must-purchase/try beauty tool!" —Karen
Pros
- Easy to use
Cons
- Must use device over gauze or cotton
This Instagram-famous wand is said to work wonders to flatten stubborn pimples. “It is a great device that is especially effective on acne-prone skin and persistent blemishes,” board-certified dermatologist Dendy Engelman says. “High-frequency tools feel like a subtle tingling or zapping on the skin, but nothing painful or uncomfortable. Some people even say that this feeling is soothing and revitalizing.”
Number of included attachments: Three
One satisfied customer writes: "It may actually work stronger than at the spa, and it hits the spots very well. Love high-frequency machines to clean my skin of bacteria and acne. I say a very good buy and saves money by not having to go to the spa regularly." — ProductJunkie01
Pros
- Under $50
Cons
- Best used over gauze or cotton
With four different attachment heads included, Jaliman often recommends this wand to her clients as it's inexpensive and still gets the job done well. And as the no-frills tool is easy to use, it's great for those new to using skincare devices.
Number of included attachments: Four
One satisfied customer writes: "If you want a product that works get this. You must be willing to use it regularly for the best results. It has really changed my skin." —Emily
Pros
- Includes a one-year warranty
Cons
- Cannot be used on one part of the face for more than 10 seconds
Here's another option from Ibrahim's best high-frequency devices list. This device features four attachment heads with orange and violet light to treat acne and smooth fine lines. Ibrahim advises that this high-frequency wand should only be used for the occasional pimple or cyst, not chronic acne.
Number of included attachments: Four
One satisfied customer writes: "The wand and the attachments are easy to use, and the zapping sound makes you feel like the bacteria is getting eliminated from your pores. I’ve been using it for a full two weeks now and can tell a difference. My skin looks brighter and feels tightened on the areas I went in a circular motion." —Foodie Anonymous
Pros
- Cordless and rechargable
- Uses a new and more effective type of gas
Cons
- Doesn't have a steady on/off button
This option's cordless profile is uncommon for this type of device, but it is very helpful if you ever need to pack or travel with it. While most HF devices use a combo of neon and argon gases to illuminate the glass tubes, this one taps xenon gases, which produce a pure blue light for even deeper bacteria killing. It also easily charges via a USB-C port.
Number of included attachments: Three
One satisfied customer writes: "So far so good but my subject line set at all. You have to hold down the on button the entire time you're using it, in addition to making sure the wand head does not pivot. I wish there was just an on switch." —Shyla Smith
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Fast results
- Adjustable intensities
Cons
- Some customers say it emits a gas smell while using
This one is a newer favorite among skin device enthusiasts. Its affordability makes it a solid entry-point choice if you're on the fence about the benefits of high frequency, but the lower cost doesn't mean it's any less powerful than other options. The device has two intensity levels and four attachment heads to cover the face and scalp.
Number of included attachments: Four
One satisfied customer writes: ""I cannot express how impressed I am with the high-frequency wand! My cosmetologist recommended it, and although I was initially skeptical, consistent use has left me absolutely blown away by the results. I've noticed significant hair growth, and my skin feels firmer and more radiant." — Amazon customer
Pros
- Easy to use with one hand
Cons
- Some customers say it's a bit too intense
You may have seen this one floating around TikTok. It's a favorite among creators on the platform and for good reason. The older version of this device had the intensity switch on the bottom, making it difficult to adjust while using it. This update puts the dial front and center for easier maneuvering between five levels.
Number of included attachments: Four
One satisfied customer writes: "I absolutely love using this all over my face and hair. The different wands are comforting on my skin. I noticed the texture of my skin and hair has improved. I’m really happy with this wand complete set. Rejuvenate away. Awesome pampering device." —Giselle
Pros
- Lots of attachments
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Some customers say it stopped working after a few months
PureYou's high-frequency device is not only one of the most affordable on this list but it also has a nice mix of attachments that add to its overall value. Along with the mushroom head for larger spots on the face, and the comb attachment for the scalp, there's a rod wand that's ideal for the body or treating broader sections of skin like your neck and chest.
Number of included attachments: Five
One satisfied customer writes: "I use it every day and my uneven skin became more even toned and healthy looking! I love it!"—Tatiana
Meet the Experts
- Dr. Omer Ibrahim is a board-certified dermatologist at Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology.
- Dr. Dendy Engelman is a board-certified celebrity dermatologist based in New York City.
- Dr. Debra Jaliman is a board-certified dermatologist and author of Skin Rules: Trade Secrets from a Top New York Dermatologist
- Renee Rouleau is a renowned celebrity esthetician with a namesake brand of cult-favorite products.
How do you use a high-frequency wand for skin?
The importance of using one of the best high-frequency wands correctly cannot be understated. Professionals recommend first lightly hovering your tool of choice over the skin for two to three minutes at a time once a day, and later increasing usage as needed. Afterward, Engelman recommends keeping the skin hydrated by applying moisturizer, avoiding over-drying it, and drinking plenty of water.
"If you can, bypass makeup or additional skin treatments since the skin can be red and sensitive." Even though high-frequency wands are safe, Jaliman cautions anyone with melasma or rosacea to avoid them. “They emit a small amount of ultraviolet light that stimulates melanocytes, which produce pigment and lead to hyperpigmentation,” she explains. “Rosacea is also triggered by UV light.”
What is high-frequency energy?
High-frequency wands deliver gentle, nonintrusive electrical currents, creating ozone, which kills acne-causing bacteria and firms the skin. "The main source of energy in high-frequency wands and devices is argon or neon gas electrodes that increase oxygen (an enriched form of oxygen), which increases blood circulation," Engelman adds.
Ozone is known as a powerful antibacterial and antiseptic. "This benefits the skin, as bacteria cannot survive in an oxygen-rich environment, and the high frequency helps to eliminate these bacteria-infested blemishes," notes celebrity esthetician Renee Rouleau.
What are the benefits of high-frequency wands for skin?
Fans of high-frequency wands praise them for their ability to shrink nasty pimples—fast. The oxygen emitted from argon gas reduces pesky pimples by killing acne-causing bacteria. Engelman says argon gas is also effective for preventing future breakouts. “It can have a drying effect to treat oily skin, too," she notes.
Orange-red neon gas is most beneficial for skin-smoothing purposes, like reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. “The increase in oxygen to the skin that high-frequency tools produce is due to the oscillating action of the tool, which increases blood circulation to produce an enriched form of oxygen, which has a multitude of benefits, including nourishing and renewing the skin and aiding in circulation and cell turnover, which helps to smooth and tighten the skin,” Engelman says.
How often can you use high-frequency wands at home?
At-home high-frequency wands are gentle enough to use daily (or as needed) for a few minutes. As long as the wand is used safely and the energy isn’t too high, there’s no need to worry about burning the skin. The device will create a buzzing sound (it’s nothing to worry about) that’s reminiscent of a bug zapper from summer camp.
Sometimes, after treating the skin, it can be red and sensitive. The key to getting the most out of a high-frequency tool at home is to hold it about one-quarter inch from the skin—the further away the device is, the longer the runway for the electrodes to travel, which allows them to penetrate more deeply.
Improvement in acne can be seen as quickly as a few hours after, while it can take a few months of consistent use to see changes to the quality of the skin.
Shop More of the Best Skincare Tools
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For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.
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