Electrical and Mechanical Devices in Esthetics
Electrical and Mechanical Devices in Esthetics tests the current type behind each machine, what it does at the skin surface, and the contraindications and safety habits that keep clients safe.
Galvanic current
Direct current with a positive and negative pole; the client holds the return electrode. Desincrustation uses the negative pole to create an alkaline reaction that softens and saponifies sebum before extractions. Iontophoresis uses the same charge to repel an ionic product into the skin. Never use either on clients with a pacemaker, metal implants, pregnancy, epilepsy, heart conditions or broken skin.
High frequency
Alternating current delivered through a glass electrode filled with argon (violet ray, produces ozone) or neon. Used for a mild antibacterial, drying effect on oily blemish-prone skin and to aid product penetration. Not for clients with a pacemaker, metal pins or photosensitivity.
Other devices
- Microcurrent: low-level current for muscle tone and circulation; contraindicated in pregnancy, epilepsy and with pacemakers.
- Ultrasound: high-frequency sound waves with conductive gel; contraindicated over the thyroid, in pregnancy, over cancer or implants.
- LED: blue (about 415 nm) for acne bacteria, red (about 633 nm) for healing and collagen; requires eye protection.
- Vacuum and rotary brushes: exfoliation and stimulation; avoid varicose veins, couperose and inflamed acne.
- Steamer: 8–10 minutes at a comfortable distance, distilled water, ozone-free preferred.
Safety habits
Remove client jewelry and metal, keep water away from equipment, inspect cords, never leave a client attached to a device unattended, and stop at any report of discomfort, tingling or heat.
Worked example
A client with a pacemaker requests galvanic desincrustation. Reasoning: current near an implanted cardiac device is an absolute contraindication - omit the galvanic step and use manual cleansing plus steam instead.
Traps that cost marks
- Confusing desincrustation (negative pole) with iontophoresis.
- Leaving metal jewelry on during high frequency.
- Running ultrasound without conductive gel.
- Leaving a client alone with equipment running.