You could fill a Best Buy with the number of new skincare devices on the market–between LED masks, microcurrent devices, and depuffing tools. But as the tool category grows, so does the technology, which means advanced in-office tech can now be brought into our homes—including radio frequency (also called RF). “A radio frequency device uses electromagnetic energy to generate heat within the deep layers of the skin, specifically the dermis,” says New York-based dermatologist Marisa Garshick. “This heat stimulates collagen production, essential for maintaining the skin’s firmness and elasticity.”
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You may have radio frequency offered at your dermatologist’s office, but you can now use the same technology at home. ”These devices use the same technology as in-office ones, but with lower energy levels,” says Los Angeles-based dermatologist Ava Shamban, noting that consistency is even more crucial with at-home devices. “Think of them as a maintenance tool to help extend results of intensive in-office treatments.” Today's devices combine radio frequency with a slew of other skin technologies, such as LED, electronic muscle stimulation (EMS), and lymphatic drainage. So, look at each tool's modalities when picking amongst the many radio frequency devices on the market.
Ahead are the best (and easiest-to-use) at-home radio frequency devices for getting professional results from the comfort of your bathroom.
Pros
Good for sensitive skin- Works on acne-prone skin
Cons
- Over $300
Shamban created the Althaea Skin C.A.R.A. Multi-Modal Tool to complement her in-office treatments. The device combines radio frequency with EMS (electronic muscle stimulation) and blue and red LED light to lift and contour, reduce inflammation, and promote cellular repair. Shamban says you can expect immediate plumping and lifting effects but a firmer and smoother complexion when used over time. Best for:
Technologies: Radio frequency, EMS, LED
Customer review: "I can not say enough great things! I was postpartum and having terrible skin issues, especially after weaning from breastfeeding. I had acne scarring and ever since starting this routine, I have a NOTICEABLE difference and most scarring is GONE only after a few weeks. The mask feels amazing and I love how it’s fragrance free and non toxic. I will be recommending this to everyone!"
Pros
- Best for Novices
- Users say warming sensation is nice
Cons
- Over $350
At-home tools can be daunting, especially when using advanced (and convoluted) technology without the help of an expert. Dermatologists recommend the Current Body RF Radio Frequency Skin Tightening Device because it safely lifts and tightens the skin. The FDA-cleared device uses Skin Sense Technology, which allows the device to control the temperature according to your skin's resistance–rather than you manually changing the temperature–so it's both safe and effective.
Best for: Beginner users; Those who want to spot treat and treat the full face
Technologies: Radio frequency
Customer review: "I was really hopeful that this device would help tighten my skin at home, as I have a baby and can’t do regular clinic treatments. After 8 weeks I can feel a noticeable improvement in skin firmness and elasticity. My smile lines don’t look significantly different in photos, but I can feel the difference in the surrounding tissue. Some fine lines around my eyes and mouth have visibly improved. It’s definitely not as effective as clinic treatments, nor should we really expect it to be, but for me it’s provided convenient, moderate improvement that I’m very happy with for the price and the effort." – Clare M.
Pros
- Nice warming sensation
Cons
- Over $500
Bazaar editors love Medicube products and the Korean skin tech brand's newest radio frequency device lives up to the hype. The device combines RF technology with microcurrent for both lifting and tightening–all without the need for a conductive gel.
Pros
- Cordless
- Small enough to use around the eye
Cons
This compact device targets smaller target areas–like the crow's feet, eleven lines, and smile lines–by using bipolar radio frequency to go deep into the dermis and tighten and low-level laser therapy to restore collagen production for a smoother complexion. Similar to Current Body's device, the tool has a thermal sensor that won't go above a certain temperature that could potentially damage the skin. Plus, it's perfect for on-the-go, cordless, and has 30 minutes of battery life per charge.
Best for: Working on problem areas; travel
Technologies: Bi-polar radio frequency, Low level laser therapy, infrared energy
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Pros
- Sculpts jawline
- Heats up fast
Cons
- Pricey
While the gold coloring on this TriPollar device–the brand with a bevy of radio frequency devices–looks pretty on your vanity, the 24-carat gold on the electrodes actually helps conductivity. The device also uses a bunch of different types of radio frequency for a more effective treatment and even acts as a lymphatic drainage tool.
Technologies: Six types of radio frequency, DMA (dynamic muscle activation)
Best for: Deep-set lines and wrinkles; inflammation
Customer Review: "Got this after thinking that retinol was not gonna cut it in my 40s, and I am pleased with the results for now. I saw some fine lines and skin texture getting smoother." – Sharon K.
Great for All Skin Types
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Pros
- Round device is easy to hold
- Comes in three colors
Cons
- Over $300
Garshick touts this device for its versatility and ability to firm and tighten all skin types–plus it reduces wrinkles by improving the skin's production of collagen and elastin. The round device easily fits in your hand and comes in multiple colors, such as light pink, white, and red.
Best for: Looking to smooth skin and reduce pore size quickly
Technologies: Six electrodes to emit radio frequency
Customer review: "I have used this for one month and the lines around my mouth have disappeared. I went to my doctor to get Botox on my forehead. I did not need any fillers around my mouth so I am positive newa works. You may think it is expensive but it’s less expensive than Juvederm and more convenient with no pain." – Doll
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Best for Acne-Prone Skin
Foreo FAQ™ 101 Amethyst Professional Radio Frequency & LED Facial Rejuvenation
Pros
- Made of silicone to prevent bacteria build-up
- BPA-free
- Waterproof
Cons
- Over $300
This device combines radio frequency with LED therapy–doubling down on promoting the production of collagen and elastin–and sonic massage, which increases blood flow and product absorption for a sculpted face in minutes.
Best for: Those wanting to combine LED and radio frequency to consolidate steps.
Technologies: Power radio frequency, LED, T-Sonic pulsations
Customer reviews: "Perfect combo of LED and RF for achieving anybody's skincare goals. Practically in no time I started seeing smoother, toned skin and a brighter complexion. FAQ is easy to use, doesn't take up too much time. I dropped the microcurrent treatment because this one is sufficient. Instead, I continue to thoroughly cleanse and hydrate my skin. Added face yoga and I am sure that this is a worthy investment!" – Vickster
Pros
- Has a nice warming sensation
Cons
There's a reason "glow" is in the name of this radio frequency tool, which does more lift and firm. This Skin Gym wand uses two types of electronic pulses to stimulate below the skin's surface, three types of LED light to target acne, redness, and pigmentation, and heats up for a warming massage sensation.
Best for: Everyday use
Technologies: Radio frequency, MFIP, LED therapy, Heat, Sonic vibration
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What Are The Benefits of Radio Frequency?
Radio frequency has gained popularity because of its ability to go deep into the dermis instead of other tools and topical products that work at the surface level. "An at-home RF device can result in tighter, firmer skin, with a reduction in fine lines and a more lifted appearance," Garshick says. While some results are immediate, such as plump skin and a slight glow. But after two to three weeks, you will start to notice subtle changes in fine lines and texture–and within four to six, the skin will become firmer and more lifted. The key to these results? Consistency, Garshick emphasizes.
How Often Should Radio Frequency Devices Be Used?
Again, consistency is key with these tools. While you should follow the specific tool's instructions, a good rule of thumb is to use it one to three times per week. "The sessions don't need to be long," Shamban says. "A three-minute treatment on high or 10 minutes on a low setting means this treatment can fit into anyone's schedule." If you have specific areas you want to lift and firm, such as the cheeks, jawline, and forehead, then spend a few minutes treating the area before moving to the full face.
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Who Can Benefit From Radio Frequency?
The beauty of radio frequency, mainly because the technology is non-invasive, is that everyone can use it. "If you have a busy lifestyle and don't have downtime for laser treatments, then at-home RF devices are a great option," Ruth says. However, suppose you are particularly interested in improving skin firmness, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and maintaining the results of professional treatments. In that case, at-home radio frequency is a good tool to add to your arsenal.
Meet the Experts
- Marisa Garshick is a board-certified dermatologist in New York and New Jersey and a Clinical Assistant Professor at Cornell—New York Presbyterian Medical Center.
- Nicole Ruth is a board-certified dermatologist in New York.
- Ava Shamban is a board-certified celebrity dermatologist and founder of Althaea Skin
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Katie Intner
Katie Intner is the associate beauty editor at Harper’s Bazaar across print and digital, where she covers (and tests) everything from the latest aesthetic treatment your dermatologist loves, to science-forward fragrances, to the biggest beauty tech innovations and at-home tools. When Katie is not working on a story or connecting with brands to delve into the latest and greatest formulas, she can be caught scouring a French pharmacy in Paris, or checking out a buzzy new spa or wellness haven. Before joining the Harper’s Bazaar team, Katie held fashion and beauty positions at Nylon, The Zoe Report, and People.
