Currentbody’s RF Device Is The Best Way To Experience At-Home Radio Frequency | British Vogue

Radio Frequency (RF) was once a non-invasive treatment you could only access in-clinic, but thanks to advancements in technology, it’s now available for at-home use. So how does it work exactly? RF uses low energy radiation to heat the deep layers of the skin, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. Unlike microcurrent devices, which lift and tone facial muscles, or LED treatments, which focus on skin health and collagen production to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, RF is primarily about tightening the skin and maintaining volume, while boosting collagen production. Though the end result of plumper, firmer skin may be similar, different technologies serve different purposes and suit different needs.

Read more: The Best Skincare Tools That Actually Work, From NuFace To Current Body

In-clinic RF treatments often require downtime due to redness and soreness, but at-home devices harness lower energy levels, making them safer and more convenient for personal use. Despite searches for radio frequency devices being up 103 per cent versus last year, according to our research, there aren’t many at-home RF tools on the market just yet. When I reached out to my trusted roster of dermatologists and aestheticians, one name kept popping up: Currentbody. While more developments in the at-home RF space are expected, Currentbody’s Radio Frequency Device is a standout option for now – and I tested it out below. Keep reading for my experience, along with some key insights on what you should know before investing in an RF device.

CurrentBody

RF Radio Frequency Skin Tightening Device

CURRENTBODY

Read more: The Best LED Face Masks For Clearer Skin, Tested By Team Vogue

The Currentbody Radio Frequency Skin Tightening Device works to lift and tighten the skin by delivering a consistent radio frequency voltage. It uses proprietary SkinSense Technology, which monitors the skin’s temperature every 0.004 seconds to maintain the optimal clinic-standard temperature of 42°C. It’s not too hot, but warm enough to deliver results without the need for manual adjustments. The process helps tighten the skin, reduce wrinkles, and improve overall texture and firmness. As with any skincare tool, RF devices are only effective when used consistently and correctly. They’re designed to offer similar benefits to professional treatments but at a lower intensity, meaning they require more frequent use to maintain results.

According to dermatologist Dr Brendan Camp, radio frequency refers to energy-based devices used to enhance the skin’s appearance. “Radio frequency devices heat the skin to trigger reparative processes that stimulate collagen production, tighten tissue, and improve skin quality,” he explains. These devices typically use safe levels of low-frequency electromagnetic waves to generate heat. Celebrity aesthetician Athena Hewett adds that non-invasive RF treatments involve applying an electrode device to the skin, allowing the RF energy to penetrate a few millimetres deep to reach the collagen layer by passing through the epidermis. This heat effectively tightens skin tissue, thickens it, and improves overall texture.

It’s not exactly intuitive to use at first, especially if you’re new to facial tools. The most important step is to patch test 24 hours before use, even though the brand claims it’s suitable for all skin types and tones. Once you’re ready, start with clean, dry skin and apply a generous layer of radio frequency gel to the treatment area. The brand advises placing the device on your skin, ensuring full contact with all four electrodes. Wait for the green light, then move the device in slow, circular motions across your target area or your full face. For best results, follow one of the pre-loaded five-minute regimens – but you can also do your full face for up to 70 minutes. The manual includes helpful graphics with time limits for each target area.

The brand doesn’t recommend using the device if you have highly sensitive or damaged skin, sunburn or over tattoos.

As someone in her late twenties, I’m on the cusp of slowly losing facial collagen. While I’m not ready for Botox just yet, I’ve been exploring facial devices and treatments to preserve my skin’s quality for as long as possible. Although I haven’t tried radiofrequency treatments yet, every expert I know swears by them. The challenge has always been that many at-home versions just don’t measure up – until this one was released earlier this year.

Thankfully, you don’t feel any buzzing or stinging with this device, which was my initial concern. Instead, it delivers a gentle heat as you glide it across your skin, and it never gets uncomfortably hot. The sensor maintains skin at 40°C, the ideal temperature for collagen production according to experts. I like to focus on my forehead, the 11 lines, crow’s feet, and around my laugh lines.

I’m pretty inconsistent with other skin-care tools like my NuFace and Dr. Dennis Gross Red Light Therapy mask, but once a week, I love to dedicate some time to self-care – I clean my room, bring out the beauty tools, and put on some bossa nova. While I’m strict about my skin-care routine (never skipping double cleansing or applying a thick moisturiser), if a tool can’t be used while watching TV, I can’t stick to it. Thankfully, this device is portable. While a mirror helps, you can use it mindlessly while lounging on the couch.

I haven’t noticed a dramatic difference yet, as my wrinkles aren’t deep-set, but I feel good knowing I’m one step ahead of future fine lines and wrinkles. It also gives me a nice glow, which is a welcome plus—especially the next morning when I wake up. And, it complements in-office treatments, so if you receive regular professional care, this device helps extend the life of those treatments.

It depends! Most at-home beauty devices require consistent use over time to see noticeable improvements in the skin. So, it’s important to be aware of the commitment you’re making when purchasing one of these devices, especially since they can be expensive. However, with regular use, they can absolutely be effective. “While non-invasive devices don’t heat the tissue as much as in-office RF machines, with consistency over several months, you could achieve similar results to medical RF treatments,” says Hewett.

Board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Nicole Ruth advises that when choosing an RF device, it’s important to consider its safety certifications, ease of use, and the specific skin concerns it targets. She also recommends looking for devices labeled as FDA-cleared or approved. Additionally, it’s wise to consider the cost. “Many at-home RF devices are expensive, so only invest if you’re confident you have the discipline to use it regularly,” says Camp.

Some devices may also offer additional treatments beyond radio frequency, such as LED therapy, microcurrents, or massage. Others are rechargeable and handheld, making them ideal for travel, while some require a cable connection to a power source.

As Hewett notes, always choose a device with an easy at-home regimen. This is key because if it’s not convenient, you’re less likely to stick to the recommended protocol. It’s also important to choose a device you can use at any time. Fortunately, many RF devices require little to no downtime, so you can use them right before a big event without any concerns.

The time required to notice improvement may depend on the device and the manufacturer’s guidelines. “Some devices may show results in a few weeks, while others could take a few months,” says Camp. You might start noticing improvements after a few weeks of consistent use, with more significant results becoming apparent after 2-3 months. The key is regular use and patience, as collagen production can take 12-16 weeks, or even longer with at-home devices, explains Ruth. Think of it like a workout routine that combines weightlifting with cycling classes or functional training – combining various technologies that work for you will yield the most effective outcome.