Instagram claims electric shock to your face can cure acne. Experts weigh in (2024)

New Delhi,UPDATED: May 17, 2024 11:18 IST

How far can you go to get clear skin? A 10-step skincare routine? An intensive invasive facial? Cutting out sugar, alcohol, dairy, processed food and any other junk food?

While these measures may appear excessive, they're merely a fraction of the lengths some go to, to achieve that coveted radiant, flawless complexion.

But one of the greatest adversaries to clearing skin is acne and its marks, and many will stop at nothing to eradicate them, with some resorting to extreme measures.

The latest—and perhaps most dangerous—trend involves giving shocks (quite literally) to their acne to get rid of it with the help of a device called "the magic wand".

Viral on social media

There is no doubt that this magic wand is getting the attention of influencers and people who love to follow trends, due to its high level of "effectiveness".

“Nobody knows you can zap your pimples away before bed and wake up to clear skin,” says Allison Hoeller's Instagram post, where she is seen ‘electrocuting’ her pimple, without even a single flinch on her face.

Why? To get rid of them, duh.

Her video went viral on Instagram and currently has more than 2 million views, and over 800 comments.

See the video here

• Now, Allison is not the only one.
• In the comment section of the now-viral video, many other women also agree and say that the device worked for them.

• Soon, similar videos started popping up, with more and more people trying this high-frequency shock method of removing their acne.

• The craze for these high-frequency wands started in the West. However, a quick Google search can help you find these similar products online.

And price? Some of these products retail for as high as Rs 30,000!

How does it work?

Now, you’re not alone if you’re wondering how on earth this device works. We asked experts, and here’s what they told us.

Dr Rupika Singh, a dermatologist and founder of Akiya Aesthetics, from Delhi, explains that high frequency is a technique that utilises targeted thermal energy to treat acne, fine lines, wrinkles, cellulite, and under-eye circles.

Dr Rinky Kapoor, a consultant dermatologist and a dermasurgeon at the Esthetic Clinics, Mumbai, agrees and explains that these devices use a ‘high-frequency electrical current’ to deliver a type of shock to your skin to reduce bacteria and inflammation which can potentially cause acne (shocking enough?).

What do these devices claim?

• This 'magical device', which is ‘painless to use’, claims to kill the acne-causing bacteria by disrupting their cell membranes through electrical impulses.
• It also claims that it reduces inflammation by improving blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, which decreases the swelling and redness associated with acne.
• It also heals your acne by simulating cellular activity and promoting collagen production, hence rejuvenating the skin.

Sounds like a one-stop answer for all your acne problems, right? But experts are not fans of this product.

Here’s why

“People often tend to go overboard to reduce acne and try various hacks that promise to give effective results. These hacks or trends, instead of being beneficial and reducing acne, often worsen it,” says Dr Kapoor.

Dr Shaurya Thakran, a dermatologist and founder of Rakshaa Aesthetics, Delhi, says that we should not be using this device on our own.

He says that this procedure is not suitable for all skin types, or for individuals with sensitive skin or other skin conditions like rosacea or eczema.

He further lists other side-effects of this device.

Here are some:

• If the procedure is done without the supervision of any expert or access to appropriate settings and techniques, then it increases the risk of ineffective treatment or adverse effects.
• If someone overuses the device or uses it for extended periods, it may damage the skin and can cause skin irritation, which will lead to sensitivity or other skin conditions.
• Without proper training to use the device or without the supervision of experts, it can lead to skin burns, skin irritation or any other injuries.
• Electrical currents can disrupt the natural skin moisture which may lead to dryness.

Sherin Bhan, a cosmetologist & Co-Founder of Studio 1915 Luxury Aesthetic Clinic in Faridabad, says that even though high-frequency shock therapy does work to clear acne, only if done correctly.

"There are different types of high-frequency electrodes available in the market, but using the right high-frequency is crucial to treat acne", says Sherin.

Dr Kapoor also says that it is important to note that there isn’t any scientific research or claims to support the effectiveness of this whole procedure.

“One should exercise caution while using these devices. It is essential to consult an expert first,” says Dr Kapoor.

What are other ways to deal with acne?

We asked experts about the other ways that they would recommend instead of high-frequency shock devices.

Dr Singh recommends a few procedures that are low-risk if you want glowing skin.

Chemical peels

• These are chemical solutions which exfoliate your face and eventually peel off.
• They unclog pores, reduce oiliness, and improve the appearance of acne.

Microdermabrasion

• This involves exfoliating the skin with tiny crystals to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.
• It also prevents new breakouts.

Microneedling

• Tiny needles are used to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen production and improving the appearance of acne scars.

Facials

• Dermatologically proven facials can cleanse the skin, remove impurities and hydrate your skin, according to Dr Singh.

Alternatives

However, if you feel that procedures are not for you, Dr Thakran says that instead of opting for these highly risk-associated treatments, we can explore other, more promising options and ensure safety while reducing acne.

“You can maintain a skincare routine and frequently use products that contain ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide, retinol, or benzoyl peroxide which are highly beneficial for your skin and reduce acne,” says Dr Thakran.

Takeaway

Trends might come and go, and we know that the urge to try products that look highly promising on social media is high.

However, remember to consult a dermatologist before experimenting with any hack or using any new products on the skin. Every skin type is unique and what may work for others, may not work for your skin type and texture.