There are many types of electrical skin care devices that nowadays got incorporated in everyday skin care routine as well as in salon procedures. When professional devices are more powerful, the portable versions can be used as a supportive treatment without compromising the quality of the skin care.

Electrotherapy is not a myth. It was first used in best European beauty clinics. It was expensive and luxury treatment: the machines were big and awkward - like fist computers.

But technology develops and miniaturization reached beauty equipment as well. Nowadays we have small, portable devices on hand that can be used at home.

When you purchase the portable device you should understand that the results may not be visible after a first or even second application. They also will not be the same as you see leaving a salon, because average salon procedure takes at least 40 min. A cosmetician more than likely will follow a full protocol, starting with professional skin cleansing, exfoliation, stimulation, nutrient masque and as a finishing touch - a hydrating cream.

The common mistake that is made by beginners is lack of consistency and improper use. You can ask yourself - how often do I follow all directions and skin care steps doing your home facials? Probably once in a while when you get enthusiastic after reading a guide or skin care article.

The main rule is - follow the steps. Of course it would require some patience and strong will. I know this all - I have few fitness machines I bought promising myself that I will do my best to maintain a perfect shape. And guess what? They do not work. I just can't make myself to do it every day. I am too busy, too tired, doesn't feel like doing anything - you name the excuse!

Some of you probably will feel the same way about your facial devices. I encourage you do not give up before you manage to perform at least 8 consecutive treatments. The best way to encourage yourself is to take picture of those zones that bother you the most (close and without make up - I know it would look horrible, but remember it is only for your own "scientific" use). Make yourself a treatment plan, using a calendar - this way it would be easy to track the progress. When you will be halfway through, you should take another picture right after the treatment. The reason of doing that is very simple - you see yourself every day and 20-30% improvement is not noticeable. Did you ever had a situation meeting a person you haven't seen for a while and noticing how much the person changed? Guess what - for that person oneself still look the same.

Improving your face is the same as improving your body - it will not happen at once, especially when it comes to rejuvenation. It is not a make-up application that gives you instant beautification, it is more like a process that needs constant attention.

The main question is, however, does it really work? Are those fancy gadgets worth money to spend?

First of all you should be honest with yourself. Look in the mirror and examine your face - there is no way to turn time back. You will not become younger and look like your 16-years old daughter or even 25 years old co-worker. You will definitely look better, having smooth glowing skin, but some changes are irreversible if occurred. Luckily many undesirable conditions may be prevented. But there is definitely should be a plan and understanding what to do.

As for the effectiveness of electrotherapy devices - there is no magic, just simple physic that was incorporated in medical practice by 19th century pioneers. Our body is extremely sensitive when it comes to physical influence of any kind. Nobody will doubt that such physics phenomenon as radiation would make the body sick when lower doses used in X ray. Why there should be doubts that other physic phenomenon works as well?

Even if the amounts of energy portable devices emit is very low there are some concerns that should be addressed. First of all people have a tendency to overdo. We are too impatient to see the results as soon as possible. The same thing happened with Tretinoin when its ant wrinkling effect was discovered. People were applying this medication so often on their faces that it caused a chemical burn. When you visit a salon, skin care professional will monitor your skin conditions, using conservative approach, based on her\his experience and skills. You, buying a new device, do not have those skills - maybe using it in a first time will be awkward.

The other important issue you should consider - your medical history. There are some general contraindications for electrotherapy devices that should be considered.

• - cancer
• - acute infectious disease and fever
• - nausea
• - dysfunction or disorders of the nervous system
• - drink or drugs
• - inflammatory disease
• - pregnancy
• - epilepsy
• - extreme high or low blood pressure\heart disease
• - pacemakers
• - hemophilia
• - phlebitis and thrombosis

• - cardiac pacemaker
• - epilepsy
• - avoid passing the current through the eyeball or cardiac area
• - malignant tumors or any undiagnosed growths or lumps
• - areas with recent bruising or bleeding
• - metal pins or plates
• - pustule acne
• - new scar tissue (up to 12 months)
• - pregnancy
• - sunburn
• - if you have any other health conditions you are under the doctor supervision - consult your physician

Now, when you ready to make a purchase you are kind of lost - what would be the best choice.

In next articles I will lead you step by step, explaining how different devices work and what would be the best choice for different skin conditions.