For decades, high frequency has been used in professional aesthetic treatments. Appreciated for its versatility and ease of use, it integrates seamlessly into a variety of treatment protocols to help promote skin that looks fresher, brighter and more revitalized.
What Is High Frequency?
High frequency is a technology that uses a high-frequency alternating current transmitted through a glass electrode filled with an inert gas.
As the current passes through the gas, it becomes ionized and produces light, the color of which varies depending on the type of electrode used:
- Neon electrode: orange-red light
- Argon electrode: violet-blue light
Each electrode offers unique characteristics, allowing treatments to be tailored to specific aesthetic goals.
The Two Application Modes
Effluvation Mode
In effluvation mode, the electrode is applied directly to the skin. This technique produces a gentle warming sensation and is particularly appreciated for the comfort it provides during the treatment.
Sparking (Indirect) Mode
In sparking mode, the electrode is held slightly above the skin to create small, controlled sparks. This process promotes the formation of ozone on the skin’s surface, providing a pleasant cooling sensation. This technique is often incorporated into skin hygiene protocols.
Neon or Argon: What’s the Difference?
Neon Electrode
Recognizable by its orange-red glow, the neon electrode is particularly appreciated for:
- its gentle warming sensation;
- its revitalizing effect on the appearance of the skin;
- its integration into treatments for dull-, mature-, or sensitive-looking skin.
- its lower ozone production
Argon Electrode
Producing a violet-blue glow, the argon electrode is primarily used in effluvation mode and is appreciated for:
- its refreshing sensation;
- its surface-purifying effect;
- its use in treatments for oily or blemish-prone skin;
- its higher ozone production
- its use as a complement to certain aesthetic treatments, particularly after blackhead extraction or electroepilation.
Key Benefits Sought in Aesthetics
High frequency is used to complement professional aesthetic treatments by providing several desirable effects:
- Superficial thermal effect: Provides a gentle warming sensation and enhances treatment comfort.
- Skin revitalization: Helps promote skin that appears brighter, more uniform and revitalized.
- Surface-purifying effect: In effluvation mode, ozone formation complements certain skin hygiene protocols.
- Professional treatment enhancement: Enriches the overall treatment experience and complements the use of appropriate skincare products.
Electrode Shapes and Their Uses
Different electrode shapes are available depending on the treatment area and protocol.
|
Electrode |
Typical Use |
|
Mushroom (small and large) |
Face, body and general treatments |
|
Roller |
Facial contours and body areas |
|
Comb |
Scalp |
|
Fulgurator |
Targeted application in effluvation mode |
The choice of electrode always depends on the treatment area, the technique being used and the desired aesthetic outcome.
Precautions for Use
Like any technology that uses electrical current, high frequency should always be used according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and established professional best practices.
Its use should be avoided or adapted in certain situations, including:
- in the presence of an implanted electronic device;
- on areas with open lesions or significant irritation;
- in any situation that falls outside the scope of an aesthetic treatment.
A thorough understanding of the technology and its operating parameters helps ensure a safe, comfortable, and personalized experience for every client.
A Technology That Remains as Relevant as Ever
Versatile, easy to use and as relevant today as ever, high frequency remains an essential addition to professional aesthetic treatment protocols. With its variety of electrodes and two application modes, it enhances the treatment experience while helping promote skin that looks fresher, brighter and more revitalized.
When used in accordance with professional best practices, high frequency continues to demonstrate why it has maintained its place in beauty clinics and spas throughout the years.
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