In the 1800s, Nikola Tesla developed the first high frequency current. Today, it’s used in facial services around the world to treat skin. High frequency is an alternating electric current that, when applied to the skin, produces warming and anti-bacterial effects. There are different applications using different shaped electrodes, and how it’s used is also at the discretion of the technician. The current ignites a gas inside a glass tube electrode, and the gas will determine the effect that is produced on the skin. Two gasses are used: neon or argon, or a combination of both.

High frequency vibrates at a frequency of around 100 kHz - 250 kHz. This repetitive oscillation vibrates oxygen molecules surrounding the electrode, creating O3 or ozone. The ozone effect can be increased by layered gauze or using a benzyl-peroxide based serum to increase oxygenation. This creates a distinct smell and may be irritating to people with asthma. On the surface, it warms the skin, kills bacteria and coagulates any open lesions. On the underlying tissues high frequency will stimulate circulation and lymphatic fluid, and reduce inflammation. Beneficial effects also come from the light that is emitted from the gas inside the electrodes - neon gas glows orange/pink and is great for dry or aging skin, while argon gas glows blue/purple and is more ideal for oily or acne prone skin. This is all dependent on the visible light spectrum and the wavelengths that are associated with each color in the spectrum. Essentially, longer wavelengths penetrate deeper into tissues while shorter wavelengths act on a more superficial level.

There are multiple ways to apply high frequency currents, direct and indirect; Direct is more commonly used both in the treatment room and at home. In this application, the glass electrode is gently glided across the skin over gauze, or tapped gently on lesions to aid in healing. Indirect high frequency involves the client holding the electrode during the massage portion. This is very relaxing and softens muscle and skin tissue, while stimulating the secretion of sebum. Generally in a facial treatment, direct high frequency is used with oily/acne clients and indirect massage performed on more dry/aging clients and is referred to as Viennese massage. Additionally, the electrode you opt to use will determine what type of application you perform. A mushroom or sparker electrode is more suitable for direct high frequency and a saturator electrode (an electrode with metal inside) is used to perform the Viennese massage, as the metal coil or bar inside is meant to direct the current through the client. Something important to note with Viennese massage is the less pressure used, the more stimulating the massage will be. There is also a comb electrode attachment that is great to use in the client's scalp to stimulate the hair follicle and promote hair growth. Overall, there are many ways to use high frequency in a facial treatment to treat many different concerns and conditions for our client. If your client opts to use a high frequency device at home, be sure to educate them on how to use it properly to avoid injury.