Now I love the fresh, healthy skin results from my NuFACE Trinity and Trinity+. And their ionised skincare and activators are rather lovely, too. But boy are they expensive!
Iโm keen to try a cheaper gel substitute. But NuFACE says these tubes of lube are super important, so Iโm worried my results wonโt be as good.
Aarrghh!
Maybe you feel the same. Or maybe you want an alternative because you donโt like how they feel, or perhaps they leave your skin red and bumpy. You may simply want something simple to wash off, then apply your own skincare. If this is you, fret not. This article will help.
Weโll learn why you need a conductive gel, how they work, what all your options are, and how they compare to NuFACEโs gels.
Letโs get cracking then.
Why microcurrent conductivity gels are a must
First, gels feel better. A slippery gel helps the big-balls NuFACE Trainer attachment glide smoothly over your skin without dragging. A gel also sticks to your face and dries relatively slowly, giving you time to finish your treatment.
๐ But the key reason is, you must use a conductive gel because our skin is naturally resistant to electric current.
Our outer protective layer of skin (called the stratum corneum) has very little moisture in it and this gives it high resistance to electricity. So, without a conductive medium or gel, microcurrents simply bounce across the surface and canโt enter the skin where they do their work. It also zings and prickles uncomfortably.
But wet your skin with a conductive gel and the microcurrent will pass from the electrode spheres through your protective outer layer and into the lower skin layers. Once in these lower layers, the microcurrent flows freely through our moist tissues, and recharges our natural bioelectricity.
Ohm my wordโฆ
Did you know?โฆ We measure resistance to electric current in Ohms (ฮฉ).
A calloused, dry hand can have 100,000ฮฉ or more resistance. But the resistance inside your body (where itโs wet and salty) is much lower at about 300ฮฉ. So, over 99% of your resistance to electrical current is in your skin. But this resistance reduces significantly on damaged or wet skin.
How do conductivity gels work?
Microcurrent is a flow of electrically charged particles, or ions, through your skin. But to get into your skin, the current must pass through the dry outer layers, which are very good at keeping the current out. Therefore, conductivity gels create a low resistance connection with your skin that allows the microcurrents to flow.
They work in two ways…
#1 First (and most important), the gel wets your skin.
#2 Second, ions in the gel can boost the microcurrent flow into your skin.
Letโs look at these in more detailโฆ
Wet skin
Wet skin has much lower resistance to electric current than when dry.
Thatโs because water dissolves your sweat and salts in the outer layers. The many ions in this rich electrolyte moisture can then easily flow with the microcurrent through your skin.
Wetting your skin also creates a bigger contact area for the current. This creates several more parallel current circuits, so there are more pathways for the microcurrent to travel through. And this lowers the net resistance of your skin.
So, does this mean you could simply use water instead of a gel?
Technically, yes. Spritzing your face with water wets your skin and allows ions to move around with the current flow. It lowers your skinโs resistance to the current. But the disadvantage of just water with your microcurrent device is it drips and dries out fast. So, thick and viscous gels are a much better idea.
GELS MUST BE WATER BASED!
Oil-based liquids are non-conductive, which means they have no freely moving ions. Oils stop microcurrent flowing and are called inhibitors. So, itโs vital to use a water-based conductivity gel. Look for Water/โAqua/โEau at the start of the ingredients list (sometimes deionised water or reverse osmosis water, too).
Tap water, rainwater and seawater also have lots of impurities or particles in them which carry an electrical charge, such as sodium (Na+), calcium (Ca2+), and magnesium (Mg2+) ions. This makes them highly conductive liquids, with increased quantities of free ions, which lowers your skin resistance even further and allows more current to pass into your skin.
The NuFACE activators and some (but not all) conductive gels follow this principle, and have added electrolytes, dissolved salts, minerals and other charged ingredients which aim to enhance the microcurrent flow into your skin.
Letโs look at this nowโฆ
Ion boost
First, itโs important to note that the water in skincare and conductive gels is pure water, which has all impurities removed. Pure water is a poor conductor because the molecules are neutral, i.e. it has no electrical charge. Pure water also makes for a stable and much longer-lasting product.
However, pure water wets your skin and reduces its resistance because it dissolves the salts and electrolytes in your skin. And you can increase the conductivity of the gel and your skin by adding ingredients with conductive ions into the mix.
A common example is salt (Sodium Chloride or Na-Cl) solution. Salt crystals dissociate into ions when dissolved in water.
Salts create very strong electrolytes. They make gels extra conductive, so as they wet and absorb into your skin, they share more ions for the microcurrent flow. This makes it even easier for the microcurrent to reach deep into the naturally ion-rich lower skin layers and tissues.
Other ingredients, as well as salts, can be weak or strong conductors in gels. They range from added minerals, acids and alkalines, to buffering and preservative ingredients, which provide ions through which the microcurrent can flow. As well as being conductive, some of them are good for your skin, too.
Although the ingredients list is a good place to start, itโs important to note the formula of your gel matters just as much. For example, a few weakly conductive additives in the right quantity can have the same effect as a small dose of one strong salt. Whereas oils, butters, and emollients in the mix can inhibit flow. However, manufacturers can overcome this within the whole formula (as NuFACE does with the Silk Creme activator. There’s more on that later).
And finally, you donโt want a gel thatโs too conductive. Excess conductivity means the microcurrent could follow the path of least resistance, and pass between the electrodes throughout the gel on top of your skin without ever flowing into the deeper skin layers.
TO RECAP…
How conductivity gels work…
- Microcurrent gels reduce the natural resistance of your skin by wetting it.
- Moist skin allows the free flow of ions with the microcurrent.
- Water-based gels are essential. Donโt use oil or butter-based liquids as these inhibit microcurrent flow.
- Gels should be thick, smooth & slow drying.
- Added conductive ingredients in the gel, such as salts, provide extra free flowing ions so more current can flow through your skin.
- Although not essential, a low to moderate concentration of ions and electrolytes for at-home microcurrent gels is appropriate.
- So, the ideal microcurrent gel is water-based, wets your skin thoroughly, and has conductive ingredients!
So, now we know how conductive gels work. Letโs look at the gels you can use as a microcurrent conductor.
Which gels to use with NuFACE?
Hereโs a quick overview of the 6 types of gel, with their typical price range, how each works, and key reasons why you may or may not choose it. Then, keep reading to the following sections to learn much, much more about each type.
| Name | Price range | How it works? | Why choose it? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ultrasound gels | $ | Wets skin Some weak conductive ingredients | โ๏ธ Cheap โ๏ธ Slow drying โ๏ธ Easy application โ๏ธ Excellent slip โ๏ธ Wash or wipe-off โ๏ธ Rare skin reactions |
| Conductivity gels | $ to $$ | Wets skin Hydrating ingredients Weak conductive ingredients A few have conductive salts (but not all) | โ๏ธ Cheap โ๏ธ Slow drying โ๏ธ Easy application โ๏ธ Excellent slip โ๏ธ For electrotherapies & ultrasound โ๏ธ Wash or wipe-off โ Some skin reactions |
| Cosmetic conductive gels | $ to $$ | Wets skin Hydrating ingredients Weak conductive ingredients | โ๏ธ Cheap โ๏ธ Absorb fast โ๏ธ Easy application โ๏ธ Skincare goodies โ๏ธ Excellent slip โ๏ธ Leave-on or wipe-off โ Common skin reactions |
| Aloe vera gels | $ to $$ | Wets skin Hydrating ingredients A weak electrolyte | โ๏ธ Cheap โ๏ธ Varied absorption rate โ๏ธ Natural moisturiser โ๏ธ Excellent slip โ๏ธ Leave-on or wipe-off โ Common skin reactions โ Thinner than others |
| NuFACE ionized activators | $$$ to $$$$$ | Wets skin Hydrating ingredients Conductive ingredients | โ๏ธ Slow absorbing โ๏ธ Easy application โ๏ธ Skincare goodies โ๏ธ Excellent slip โ๏ธ Leave-on โ๏ธ Tested with NuFACE devices โ Expensive โ Common skin reactions |
| Other Ionized gels | $ to $$$$$+ | Wets skin Hydrating ingredients Conductive ingredients | โ๏ธ Several affordable options โ๏ธ Slow drying โ๏ธ Easy application โ๏ธ Skincare goodies โ๏ธ Excellent slip โ๏ธ Leave-on โ๏ธ Designed for microcurrent devices โ Common skin reactions โ Some are super expensive! |
At the end of each gel’s section, there are recommneded gels you can try. Iโve tested some of them, and researched all of them, so you donโt have to.
But before that, we should address how manufacturers and scientists measure the electroconductivity of gels. Because this article would be much shorter IF we knew the measure of each. So…
Can we compare gel conductivity?
With specialist equipment and set up, you can measure the electro conductivity of liquids and gels. The unit of measurement is Siemens per meter (S/m) or, for these gels, milliSiemens per centimeter (mS/cm) is more appropriate.
However, gel manufacturers and brands donโt provide this conductivity measurement with their products. So, no, you canโt compare them to see which are similar, higher, or lower, to NuFACEโs own activators. During my research, I found reference to the NuFACE primer gel conductivity at 3.38 mS/cm-1 and ultrasound gels up to 2.05 mS/cm-1. But without this measurement for each available microcurrent gel it’s not much help. However, you’d assume alternative gels of the same type, both with and without conductive ingredients, are in a similar range to these! ๐ค
The best you can do is review the ingredients, the manufacturerโs information, and look at ways to boost skin hydration and conductivity if you use an alternative gel type without strong ions or electrolytes.
YOUR OWN ION BOOST
So, if you opt for ultrasound gel, aloe vera gel, or a cosmetic or conductive gel without a strong conductive medium, you can boost it yourself. Before you start, spritz your skin with an ion-rich spray mist, then apply the gel. This hydrates your skin, adds more free ions, and lowers your skinโs resistance. Make your own simple Epsom salt spray or invest in NuFACEโs IonPlexโข spray mist.
Right. Let’s learn a bit more about these gels starting with ultrasound gels firstโฆ
1. Ultrasound gels
Price range: $
Works by wetting your skin.
Wipe-off.
UK ๐ฌ๐ง
Sizes: 100ml, 500ml
Cost per 100ml: ยฃ1 to ยฃ3
USA ๐บ๐ธ
Sizes: 8.5oz, 17oz, 1.3 gallon
Cost per 1oz: $0.16 to $0.80
Ultrasound gels stay wet on your skin surface, for use with ultrasound equipment, such as in a pregnancy scan. They couple the hand-piece to your skin, removing any air for a clear reading from the equipment.
Professionals use them in electrotherapies too. With this in mind, the way ultrasound gels primarily work with microcurrent is by wetting your skin, so your ions can flow more freely. Some also contain weak conductive ingredients (although thatโs not their primary purpose).
Although theyโre often recommended for microcurrent (especially for sensitive skin) and they do work, their formulas arenโt electro conductive by design. Therefore, other conductive gels and the NuFACE activators may be more effective.
What NuFACE says about ultrasound gel…
NuFACE doesnโt recommend ultrasound gels as an alternative to their activators because, they say, they may contain ingredients which block the microcurrent. However, most contain just a few ingredients with no oils or butters, so itโs unlikely.
Water-based, alcohol free, thick, tinted or colourless, odourless, very slow drying, excellent slip. No drips, stinging, or yucky taste.
Just a few ingredients, so skin reactions are rare. Most are salt-free (because salt can dry and irritate your skin).
Triethanolamine is a common weak conductive in ultrasound gels. It’s also the conductive medium in several FDA-cleared conductive gels.
Apply a 1p / 1 cent size blob into a thin layer per section. Itโs cheap, so doesnโt matter if you need more.
After each section, wipe off, then wash when done. Or apply your serums underneath, wipe off each section, then apply your favourite skincare products.
Pros
- The cheapest alternatives
- Various sizes & last for ages
- Stays wet
- Continue with your own skincare
- Simple ingredients & less common skin reactions
- Wonโt overload your skin
- Get an extra boost of conductivity with a mist spray
Cons
- No added skincare goodies
- Doesnโt feel as nice as others
- Some may be animal tested
- No strong conductive ions
- Although unscented, some batches may have a medicinal smell
Try these ultrasound gels:
I’ve tried & tested them! Start with a small bottle to see if tyou like them, then you can invest in a bigger pack.
๐ฌ๐ง Anagel Ultrasound gel
ยฃ – Wipe-off
Electrolytes: Triethanolamine.
Humectants: None.
โ๏ธ No fragrance, dye or alcohol
๐บ๐ธ Parker Aquasonic 100
$ – Wipe-off
Electrolytes: Triethanolamine.
Humectants: None.
โ๏ธ No fragrance or alcohol
2. Conductive gels
Price range: $ to $$
Works by wetting your skin, some have salts.
Wipe-off.
UK ๐ฌ๐ง
Sizes: 150ml, 250ml, 500ml, 1 Litre
Cost per 100ml: ยฃ1.40 to ยฃ8
USA ๐บ๐ธ
Sizes: 8.5oz, 17oz, 1.3 gallon
Cost per 1oz: $0.20 to $1.50
Conductive / electroconductive gels are thick, slow drying, and with excellent slip. Theyโre designed to use with at-home and professional ultrasound and electro therapies such as TENS, microcurrent and some RF devices.
Just like ultrasound gels, most conductive gels rely on wetting your skin, often enhanced with humectant ingredients. This reduces your skinโs resistance to the microcurrent by holding onto water and allowing free flowing ions in the moist outer skin layers.
A few electroconductive gels also contain strong conductive ingredients (salts) dissolved in the gel. This reduces your skinโs resistance to the microcurrent by increasing the quantity of free flowing ions in your wet outer skin layers.
Several of the gels contain Sodium Hydroxide (also called lye). Sodium Hydroxide is a strong base and dissociates into ions in water. Itโs more conductive than sodium chloride (salt). However, in these gels its main purpose is a ph buffering ingredient, so it’s present in small concentrations only. Although we donโt know the exact conductivity of these gels, theyโre may not match the conductivity of a specially ion-rich formulas.
SPECTRA ELECTRODE GEL
One medical electrotherapy gel from Parker Laboratories USA relies solely on wetting your skin. To do this, it uses a humectant ingredient which, although not conductive itself, it moisturises your skin by attracting and helping it hang on to water. And more water in the skin better dissolves your natural salts allowing current to flow with the various ions.
Although the gelโs ingredients list is not public, common humectants include glycerin, hyaluronic acid, propanediol, propylene glycol, sorbitol, betaine, aloe vera, and seaweeds, plus several more.
WHAT NUFACE SAYS ABOUT CONDUCTIVE GELโฆ
NuFACE suggests you only use an FDA-cleared conductive gel. Hereโs the list of cleared gels since 2020.
Some of these gels list a conductive ingredient such as sodium chloride (salt), potassium chloride, magnesium sulphate and triethanolamine. However, not all these gels contain a strong conductive medium. Like the Spectra gel above, some (like this one) work by wetting and hydrating your skin to lower the electrical resistance. So, humectants and conductive salts and electrolytes can make an effective electroconductive gel.
In addition, some gels are exempt from 501K submission process, so there are many more effective microcurrent gels you wonโt find in the 501K database, plus UK and European gels, too.
Water-based, thick, varied colours & scents, or clear & fragrance-free. Slow drying, excellent slip. No drips, stinging, or yucky taste.
Many contain more ingredients, including humectants, and some have salts and/or minerals. Skin reactions are common because there are more ingredients.
Common conductive ingredients: sodium chloride (salt), potassium chloride, magnesium sulfate (Epsom Salt), sodium lactate, calcium gluconate, triethanolamine, sodium hydroxide, potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate.
Common humectants: Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, propanediol, propylene glycol, sorbitol, betaine, aloe vera, and seaweeds.
Apply a 1p / 1 cent size blob into a thin layer per section. Itโs cheap, so doesnโt matter if you need more.
After each section, wipe off, then wash when done. Or apply your serums underneath, wipe off, then apply your favourite skincare.
Pros
- A cheap alternative
- Some have humectant ingredients for better skin hydration
- Some have conductive ingredients for enhanced microcurrent flow
- Get an extra boost of conductivity with an electrolyte mist spray
- Wonโt overload your skin
- Continue with your own skincare
- Many are alcohol free, fragrance & dye free
- Most are cruelty-free
Cons
- Some donโt disclose their ingredients
- Varied quality & ingredients
- Increased risk of skin reactions (vs ultrasound gels)
- Some donโt have strong conductive ingredients
- No way to compare conductivity
- No extra added skincare goodies
- Donโt feel as luxurious as NuFACE
Try these conductive gels:
I’ve not tested these, but the ingredients look good and they’re designed for use in professional clinics and/or for multiple electrotherapies including microcurrent and TENS. Some are brand gels for other devices, too.
๐ฌ๐ง Valquer Laboratories Conductive Gel
ยฃ – Wipe-off
You could also try these:
bleu & marine Bretania Conductive Gel – 500ml bottle & pump – ยฃ
Rio Conductive Gel – 80ml tube – ยฃยฃ
MAGNITONE LiftOff Superconductive Prepare + Glide Gel – 150ml tube – ยฃยฃ
Absonic Conductive Gel – 500ml bottle – ยฃยฃ
Silk’n Slider Hyaluronic Gel – 130ml tube – ยฃยฃ
Kaeso Beauty Regenerate Collagen Micro Current Gel – 250ml bottle & pump – ยฃ
MAGNITONE Take Me Hya – Hydrating Superconductive Gel with Aloe Vera + Hyaluronic Acid – 150ml tube – ยฃยฃ
SBC Skincare Anti-Ageing Collagen Gel – 1 litre bottle & pump – ยฃ
๐บ๐ธ Absonic Conductive Gel
$$ – 2x 8.5oz bottles – Wipe-off
โ๏ธ Designed for electrotherapies
โ๏ธ No fragrance or alcohol
โ No hydrating ingredients
โ Full ingredients not listed
๐บ๐ธ BUY ABSONIC CONDUCTIVE GEL
You could also try:
Spectra 360 electrode gel – 8.5oz tube – $
Medvat conductive gel – 5 litres –ย $
RED Multi-Device Conductive Gel – 5 litres – $
Silk’n Slider Hyaluronic Gel – 4.4oz tube – $$
3. Cosmetic conductive gels
Price range: $ to $$
Works by wetting your skin.
Leave-on.
UK ๐ฌ๐ง
Sizes: 150ml, 250ml, 500ml
Cost per 100ml: ยฃ2 to ยฃ10
USA ๐บ๐ธ
Sizes: 6oz, 8oz, 10oz
Cost per 1oz: $1 to $4.50
These gels are water-based skincare products without inhibiting oils or butters, which are also marketed as effective microcurrent gels.
They vary in formula, thickness, and texture. Most contain glycerin which improves slip and feel on your skin. Itโs a case of trial and error to find one your skin loves. Designed to absorb into your skin, they dry faster than ultrasound and conductive gels.
These gels work by wetting your skin, which lowers its resistance. They have humectant ingredients for better hydration too, so ions can move freely in the moisture. Some buffering and preservative ingredients in low concentrations are also weak conductive ingredients in these gels.
Many people successfully use cosmetic gels as alternatives to the NuFACE activators. But, although marketed as suitable conductors for microcurrent, their formulas arenโt electro conductive by design. Therefore, they may not be as effective as other conductive gels and the NuFACE activators.
WHAT NUFACE SAYS ABOUT COSMETIC GELS…
NuFACE says nothing specific about cosmetic gels. The only alternatives they suggest to their activators are FDA-cleared conductive gels.
Water-based, varied thickness, texture & slip, varied colours & scents, or clear & fragrance-free. Absorbs into your skin (faster drying).
Longer lists of ingredients with humectants, vitamins, extracts and antioxidant goodies. Skin reactions are common because there are more ingredients including fragrances and alcohol in some.
Common weak conductive ingredients: sodium hyaluronate, triethanolamine, sodium hydroxide, potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, disodium EDTA.
Common humectants: glycerin, hyaluronic acid, hydrolyzed collagen, propanediol, propylene glycol, aloe vera.
Test how much you need for your skin so it stays wet per section, but doesnโt overload your skin.
Leave-on formulas which absorb into your skin. Apply water-based serums underneath, then skincare on top. After-feel differs by person and may or may not be a good base for your make-up. Most are cheap enough to wipe or wash-off if you prefer.
Pros
- Affordable alternatives
- Skin nourishing ingredients
- Humectant ingredients for better skin hydration
- Most contain glycerin for good slip
- Continue with your own skincare
- Most are alcohol free, fragrance & dye free
- Cruelty-free
- Get an extra boost of conductivity with an ion mist spray
Cons
- Too much choice!
- Varied quality & ingredients
- Skin reactions are common
- Absorb faster than other options
- No strong conductive ingredients
- No way to compare conductivity
Try these cosmetic conductive gels:
I’ve not tested these, but thy have hydrating and other skincare goodie ingredients, along with several weak conductive ingredients.
๐ฌ๐ง Kaeso Beauty Boost Collagen Gel
ยฃ – Leave-on
You could also try:
B.O.T. Firming Collagen gel – 500ml bottle & pump – ยฃ
First Lady Collagen Gel – 500ml tub – ยฃ
๐บ๐ธ YMEYFAN conductive gel
$ – 10.5oz tube – Leave-on
You could also try:
Indulge me Green tea Conducting Gel – 8.5oz bottle & pump – $$
Indulge me touch of Gold – 6oz bottle & pump – $$
Auralux Conductive Gel – 10oz bottle & pump – $$
4. Aloe vera gels
Price range: $ to $$
Works by wetting your skin.
Leave-on.
UK ๐ฌ๐ง
Sizes: 100ml, 200ml, 300ml, 355ml, 500ml
Cost per 100ml: ยฃ2.60 to ยฃ5.60
USA ๐บ๐ธ
Sizes: 6oz, 7oz, 12oz
Cost per 1oz: $1.15 to $2.50
Aloe Vera gels are natural moisturisers made from aloe vera juice or extract. They cool, hydrate and soothe the skin, which makes them a popular choice to treat sunburn.
Aloe vera gels differ in formula, thickness and texture, and some are noticeably thinner than ultrasound and conductive gels. They can drip and so are harder to apply, but still give excellent slip. Some dry faster than others.
Aloe Vera is between 98.5 to 99.5% water and contains the trace minerals calcium, chromium, copper, selenium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium and zinc, as well as vitamins, amino acids, moisturising sugars, and other organic compounds. The exact electro conductivity depends on the trace minerals found in each plant. We consider pure aloe vera gel a weak electrolyte.
Aloe vera works by wetting your skin and reduces its resistance to microcurrent because your ions can flow freely in the moistened outer layers. Some buffering and preservative ingredients in these gels are also weak conductive ingredients.
Although theyโre a popular alternative to NuFACE activators and they do work, their formulas arenโt electro conductive by design. Therefore, other conductive gels and the NuFACE activators may be more effective.
WHAT NUFACE SAYS ABOUT ALOE VERA GELโฆ
Back in May 2019, whilst researching for my Trinity trial, I asked NuFACE what I could use instead when my skin was sensitive to the NuFACE primers. They said some clients use a non-oil-based Aloe Vera Gel. But they caveat it:
โโฆsince our products are only cleared to be used together under the FDA, they have not been individually tested with outside products. We cannot speak to the efficacy, or the benefits. It may be something that will work for you!โ
NuFACE Client Services Representative, May 2019
Today, NuFACE takes a much harder line, saying:
โSince NuFACE devices have not been tested with aloe vera or ultrasound gel, we do not recommend using them, as they may not effectively deliver the microcurrent to your muscles. To continue your treatments safely, we recommend consulting your dermatologist to find an FDA-cleared conductor gel that suits your skin.โ
Info | NuFACE, March 2025
They also suggest if this is not possible, you can return the device if you meet their return policy.
Despite this, aloe vera gels are very popular as alternatives to the NuFACE activators. Loads of people recommend them on forums and in Facebook groups and see super results with their device. So, although they donโt match NuFACE activatorsโ ion content, they do work. But itโs possible the NuFACE activators are more effective for faster and better results.
Water-based, varied consistencies, varied natural colours & scents, or colourless & fragrance-free. Varied drying rates, excellent slip.
Fewer ingredients than others but skin reactions to aloe vera are common. Many gels also contain other humectants & vitamins, which can further increase the risk of skin reactions.
Common weak conductive ingredients: Trace minerals in aloe vera, sodium hydroxide, disodium EDTA, sodium phytate, potassium sorbate, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, citric acid, sodium ascorbyl phosphate.
Common humectants: aloe vera, butylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerin, propanediol.
Apply a generous-size blob into a thin layer per section. Itโs cheap so doesnโt matter if you apply too much. Itโs thinner than other options so can drip and is harder to apply.
Leave-on and let absorb into your skin. Apply water-based serums underneath, then skincare on top. Or wipe or wash-off if you prefer.
Pros
- A cheap alternative
- Cooling & soothingVarious sizes & last for ages
- Some with all natural ingredients
- Simple ingredients
- Less likely to overload your skin
- Continue with your own skincare
- Get an extra boost of conductivity with an ion mist spray
Cons
-
No added skincare goodies
-
Absorbs faster than other options
-
Common skin reactions (redness, stinging, dryness)
-
Some thinner gels drip so are hard to apply
-
Doesnโt feel as nice as NuFACE activators
-
No strong conductive ingredients
Try these aloe vera gels:
I’ve tested these, and they’re good quality gels with natural ingredients. Buy a small amount to test it because skin reactions are common.
7 Minerals Organic Aloe Vera Gel
ยฃยฃ – 355ml bottle –
$$ – 10oz bottle –
Leave-on
โ๏ธ Hydrating aloe vera
โ๏ธ No fragrance, dye or alcohol
โ Weak electrolyte
โ Thinner texture
โ Common skin reactions
๐ฌ๐ง UK: BUY 7 MINERALS GEL
๐บ๐ธ US: BUY 7 MINERALS GEL
You could also try:
Anagel Aloe Vera gel – 500ml bottle & pump – ยฃ
Aloe Pura gel – 100ml tube – ยฃ
AROMATICA Organic Aloe Vera Gel – 300ml bottle & pump – ยฃยฃ
๐บ๐ธ Aloderma Organic Aloe Vera Gel
$ – 4oz tub
Leave-on
โ๏ธ Hydrating ingredients in aloe vera, &butylene glycol.
โ๏ธ No fragrance, dye or alcohol
โ Weak electrolyte
โ Common skin reactions
๐บ๐ธ BUY ALODERMA GEL
You could also try:ย
Aloe Pura gel – 6.8oz tube – ยฃยฃ
Raslok Aloe Vera Gel – 7.7oz bottle with pump – $
5. NuFACE Ionized activators
Price range: $$$ to $$$$$
Works by wetting your skin + conductive ingredients.
Leave-on
UK ๐ฌ๐ง
Sizes: 50ml, 97.6ml, 296ml
Cost per 100ml: ยฃ26.35 to ยฃ75.82
USA ๐บ๐ธ
Sizes: 1.69oz, 3.3oz, 6oz, 10oz
Cost per 1oz: $8 to $23
NuFACE calls their leave-on gels โActivatorsโ, which sounds more impressive than a bog-standard conductive gel. They work by wetting your skin, hydrating it with humectants, and with added electroconductive ingredients, giving the “correct ratio of ions”.
The Activators! You can get a NufACE brush too!
The older formulation NuFACE gel primers were FDA cleared back in 2016. In the 501K summary, it lists the conductive medium as Magnesium Sulfate (also called Epsom salt). The newer NuFACE activators donโt list Magnesium Sulfate, but it might be a component of another listed ingredient.
Theyโve got a fancy name for these conductive ingredients, too. Itโs called IonPlexโข. They say itโs “a proprietary blend of electrically charged minerals (such as magnesium, copper, zinc, and calcium).”
Hereโs a summary of the listed ingredients with conductive mineral content common to both activators:
| Ingredient | Type | Products | Conductivity | Ionplex key ingredient? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Silt Extract (Glacial Mineral Extract or glacial water from British Columbia coastline) | Nourishing Skin conditioning | Aqua Gel Silk Creme IonPlexยฎ Facial Mist | โ๏ธ Sea silt contains minerals that can dissociate into ions. โก๏ธ Conductive strength: depends on the mineral content. | โ๏ธ |
| Betaine | Humectant | Aqua Gel Silk Creme IonPlexยฎ Facial Mist | โ๏ธ An amino acid derivative that enhances ion dissociation of electrolytes in water. โก๏ธ Conductive strength: Weak | โ๏ธ |
| Tremella Fuciformis Sporocarp Extract (Silver Ear Fungus Extract) | Antioxidant Humectant | Aqua Gel Silk Creme | โ๏ธ May contain minerals that can dissociate into ions. โก๏ธ Conductive strength: depends on the mineral content. | |
| Olivine Extract (extract of peridot stone, magnesium iron silicate) | Skin conditioning | Aqua Gel Silk Creme | โ๏ธ Contains magnesium which dissociates into ions. โก๏ธ Conductive strength: depends on the mineral content. | |
| Sodium Citrate | Chelating Buffering | Aqua Gel Silk Creme | โ๏ธ A salt which dissociates into sodium & citrate ions in water. โก๏ธ Conductive strength: Strong | โ๏ธ |
| Potassium Sorbate | Preservative | Aqua Gel Silk Creme IonPlexยฎ Facial Mist | โ๏ธ A salt which partially dissociates into potassium & sorbate ions in water. โก๏ธ Conductive strength: Weak | |
| Sodium Metabisulfite | Antioxidant Preservative | Aqua Gel Silk Creme | โ๏ธ Partially dissociates into ions in water. โก๏ธ Conductive strength: Weak |
Sea silt extract looks to be the key ingredient in IonPlexโข, blended with other hydrating ingredients to keep your skin moist and resistance low.
There are other conductive ingredients in these gels, such as the preservatives sodium metabisulfite and potassium sorbate, ph adjusters sodium hydroxide and sodium phosphate, and soothing sodium nitrate. However, most are weak conductors, and all appear towards the end of the ingredients list (so thereโs less of them), so itโs not clear if they affect or enhance conductivity at all.
Skincare goodies
NuFACE coined the term โIonized skincareโ because, as well as doing the job of an electroconductive gel, they also contain skincare goodies. This means you can nourish and feed your skin at the same time as recharging it with your NuFACE device.
You can then choose from two different flavours of skincare ingredients:
Aqua Gel
- Lightweight gel
- Colourless & unscented
- Hydrates up to 24 hours
- NuFACE IonPlexโข & Hyaluronic acid
- Antioxidants & other nourishing and soothing goodies
- Soft & radiant complexion
- Itโs good for all skin types.
- Try this if you have oily skin.
It leaves skin feeling fresh, smooth, and hydrated, but takes a while to absorb, during which it feels somewhat tacky. Once absorbed itโs a good base for make-up.
Check out the detailed Aqua Gel ingredients.
Silk Creme
- Serum-crรจme
- Subtle scent
- Hydrates up to 48 hours
- NuFACE IonPlexโข & Butyrospermum Parkii Butter (Shea Butter)
- Antioxidant, moisturising, protecting & nourishing goodies
- Firm & bright complexion
- This is for skin thatโs 35+
The Silk Creme feels much richer and luxurious, more lotion-like than gel. It makes my skin feel like silk! But if you use too much, itโs greasy where the excess sits on the surface. And if you rub it in, it pills and clumps. Therefore, I prefer using the Silk Creme activator during a nighttime pre-bed session.
See the detailed active-packed Silk Creme ingredients list.
TIP: Although the Silk Creme contains Shea butter and Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil (Sunflower Oil), which inhibit microcurrent flow, NuFACE says their overall formulation of the ingredients makes it an excellent conductor.
These activators are expensive, so to make them last, you need just the right amount. NuFACE suggests one pump per full treatment, but thatโs not enough for me. I share one pump per side (neck, cheek and forehead). Therefore, with each pump about 1/4 teaspoon (approx 1.2mls) and two pumps per session, this means I get about 20 sessions per 50ml tub.
Water-based, gel or lotion formulas, alcohol, fragrance & essential oil free, slow drying, excellent slip. No drips, stinging, or yucky taste.
A long list of ingredients with humectants & antioxidant goodies, plus conductive & nourishing minerals. Skin reactions are common because there are more ingredients.
Triethanolamine is a common weak conductive in ultrasound gels. It’s also the conductive medium in several FDA-cleared conductive gels.
You need a precise amount for your skin so it stays wet per section, but that wonโt overload your skin. Use as little as possible because itโs expensive!
Leave-on formulas which slowly absorb into your skin. Apply water-based serums underneath, then skincare on top. After-feel differs by person and may or may not be a good base for your make-up.
Pros
- Good quality ingredients
- They feel nourishing, pampering, & luxurious
- Several skin hydrating ingredients
- Conductive ingredients for enhanced microcurrent flow
- Cruelty-free
- Clever push dispense mechanism
- Handy no-mess brush
Cons
-
Very expensive
-
May overload your skin
-
Non-refillable plastic pots
-
Canโt see how much goo is inside
-
Replaces your favourite skincare
-
Lots of ingredients, so common skin reactions
-
No way to compare conductivity to alternatives
-
No cheaper & simpler option available from NuFACE
Try the NuFACE Activators
I’ve tested the NuFACE activators and they’re rather lovely! Check the links for discount deals…
NuFACE Hydrating Aqua Gel
ยฃยฃยฃ to ยฃยฃยฃยฃ – 296ml, 97.6ml, 50ml
$$$ to $$$$ – 10oz, 3.3oz, 1.69oz
Leave-on
โ๏ธ Hydrating, conductive & skin goodie ingredients
โ๏ธ Feel pampering & premium
โ๏ธ No fragrance, dye or alcohol
โ Common skin reactions
๐ฌ๐ง UK: BUY AQUA GEL
๐บ๐ธ US: BUY AQUA GEL
NuFACE Silk Crรจme
ยฃยฃยฃยฃยฃ – 97.6ml
$$$$ – 3.3oz, 6oz
Leave-on
โ๏ธ Hydrating, conductive & skin goodie ingredients
โ๏ธ Feel pampering & premium
โ๏ธ No fragrance, dye or alcohol
โ Common skin reactions
โ May overload your skin
๐ฌ๐ง UK: BUY SILK CREME
๐บ๐ธ US: BUY SILK CREME
NuFACE Supercharged IonPlex Facial Mist
ยฃยฃยฃ – 150ml spray bottle
$$$ – 5oz spray bottle
Leave-on
โ๏ธ Hydrating, conductive & skin goodie ingredients
โ๏ธ Hydrates skin & adds extra ions
โ๏ธ Preps for activators & other gels
โ Possible skin reactions
๐ฌ๐ง UK: BUY IONPLEX MIST SPRAY
๐บ๐ธ US: BUY IONPLEX MIST SPRAY
6. Other ionized gels
Price range: $ to $$$$$+
Works by wetting your skin + conductive ingredients.
Leave-on
UK ๐ฌ๐ง
Sizes: 50ml, 80ml, 100ml, 150ml, 250ml
Cost per 100ml: ยฃ4.70 to ยฃ149
USA ๐บ๐ธ
Sizes: 2.7oz, 6oz, 10oz
Cost per 1oz: $4.50 to $48
Although NuFACE created the ionised skincare marketing niche, there are several more options of microcurrent gels with both conductive ingredients and added skincare goodies. Some are much cheaper than NuFACE activators, but there are even more expensive brands, too!
These gels vary in formula, thickness and texture. They contain glycerin which improves slip, plus other ingredients for a luxurious feel. Some focus on anti-ageing others on hydration, so the skincare goody ingredients vary. Designed to absorb and nourish the skin, some stay wet on the surface like a mask, whereas others dry slowly. Theyโre designed to use with at-home microcurrent devices, most with their own matching brand device.
These gels work by wetting your skin, have humectants for better hydration, and varying quantities and strength of conductive ingredients. This combination reduces your skinโs resistance to the microcurrent by moistening your outer layers so ions flow freely, and by adding extra ions in to the mix.
What Nuface says about other ionised gels
NuFACE says nothing about using other ionised brand gels as an alternative to their own activators. And, whilst none of these alternative ionised gels are FDA-cleared, itโs also not mandatory because theyโre cosmetic gels, not medical gels. If you trust other brands to create effective microcurrent gels to work with their devices, then you can try them with your NuFACE device, too.
Water-based, varied texture gel formulas, slow drying, excellent slip. Varied colours & scents, or clear & fragrance-free. No drips or yucky taste.
Longer, varying lists of ingredients with humectants, aloe vera, antioxidant & vitamin goodies, plus various conductive ingredients. Some contain fragrances. Skin reactions are common because there are several more ingredients.
Conductive ingredients: sodium chloride (salt), sodium hydroxide, disodium EDTA, copper, zinc, copper gluconate, zinc gluconate, magnesium aspartate, sodium benzoate, sorbic acid, potassium sorbate, citric acid.
Common humectants: glycerin, hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate, niacinamide, propanediol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, caprylyl glycol, aloe vera, chondrus crispus extract, honey extract, bacillus/folic acid ferment filtrate extract, jasminum officinale oil.
Test how much you need for your skin so it stays wet per section, but doesnโt overload your skin.
Leave-on formulas which absorb into your skin. Apply water-based serums underneath, then skincare on top. After-feel differs by person and may or may not be a good base for your make-up.
Pros
- Affordable options
- Good quality skin nourishing ingredients
- Humectant ingredients for better skin hydration
- With glycerin for good slip
- Conductive ingredients for enhanced microcurrent flow
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- ZIIP gels are super expensive (but stay wet)
- Lots of ingredients, so more skin reactions
- No way to compare precise conductivity
Try these other ionised gels:
I’ve tested these, and they’re very good gels that don’t overload your skin and feel lush on your skin.
๐ฌ๐ง iAura Lift Hydrating Conductive Gel
ยฃยฃ – 100ml Tub
Leave-on
โ๏ธ Hydrating, conductive & skincare ingredients
โ๏ธ No fragrance, dye or alcohol
โ๏ธ Design to work with microcurrent devices
โ Possible skin reactions
๐ฌ๐ง BUY IAURA GEL
๐บ๐ธ 7E Wellness ReStore Conductive Microcurrent Gel
$$ – 4oz tub
Leave-on
โ๏ธ Hydrating, conductive & skincare ingredients
โ๏ธ No alcohol
โ๏ธ Design to work with microcurrent devices
โ Possible skin reactions
๐บ๐ธ BUY 7E WELLNESS RESTORE GEL
You could also try:
7E Wellness ReNu Conductive Microcurrent Gel – 4oz – $$ย
ZIIP Gels 2.7ozย – $$$$ to $$$$$+
To sum upโฆ
NuFACE uses clever and persuasive marketing, and you canโt help but feel their activators are essential. So, itโs a shame they donโt offer a more affordable and simpler gel, also with the โcorrect ratioโ of ions. This would help their loyal users who need a cheaper alternative, and possibly those who suffer nasty skin reactions with the NuFACE activators.
So, itโs not surprising alternative gels are a frequent, reoccurring topic in online forums and groups dedicated to home microcurrent devices.
Lots of people use and recommend alternative aloe vera gels, ultrasound gels, conductive gels, cosmetic gels, other microcurrent gels and even home-made gels. And they still see super results that make them happy.
Iโve tried a bunch too, and I can confirm they perform just as well as the NuFACE activators with no difference in my immediate or long-term microcurrent results.
My favourite gel alternative to the NuFACE activators is a cheap ultrasound gel. I donโt see an immediate โpopโ or lift (no matter what gel I use). But I have gorgeous, healthy, dewy, tight, clear, bright, and firm skin after several months of consistent use. And I love I can apply my serums underneath, wipe off the excess gel, and then finish up with my own skincare.
So, if you want to try an alternative, give it a go. I update the product lists in this article regularly so you can try one or two you like the sound of.
Go to product links:
- Ultrasound gels
- Cosmetic conductive gels
- Aloe vera gels
- NuFACE activators & mist spray
- Other ionised gels
If you look for or find another possible alternative gel, here’s a quick checklist when choosing…
checklist
Choosing & using a gel
If you choose your own gel, be sure to check:
- Choose a water-based gel.
- NO OILS! Avoid any product with any oils towards the start of the ingredients list!
- Check the ingredients on incidecoder.com, itโs easy! Just copy/paste the ingredients list or upload a photo.
- Look for any ingredient you’re allergic to. Avoid alcohols which can sting your eyes, and fragrances can cause irritation too.
- Glycerin means it will give good slip!
- Humectants are good – look for glycerin, hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate, hydrolyzed collagen, propanediol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, sorbitol, betaine, aloe vera, and seaweeds.
- Look for microcurrent conducting ingredients or minerals such as seaweed extract, sea silt extract, zinc, sodium, copper and magnesium. Other less fancy ingredients also conduct microcurrent, such as Triethanolamine and Sodium Hydroxide.
- Buy the gel and try it! Test a blob of the gel on your forearm first to check for reactions. Be sure to look for reactions when you use it with your device too.
- Wet your skin before applying the gel. This helps the gel dry slower and lowers your skinโs resistance to the microcurrent.
- Try different amounts of your gel to find what feels best. I need about a 1p / 1 cent size blob per section, but more on my neck. You can apply more of the cheaper gels as itโs not a waste of cash if you apply too much!
- Use a spray mist. Try an Epsom Salt mist spray under the gel, or treat yourself to NuFACEโs IonPlex mist. Itโs not as pricey as the activator gels, goes a long way, and may be the extra boost you need with a cheaper gel.
Whatever you decide, I hope you see super results with your NuFACE microcurrent device! You can let me know what you think of this article or of any alternative gels you recommend by getting in touch here.
References and sources
- Conduction of Electrical Current to and Through the Human Body: A Review
- How do series and parallel circuits work?
- Microcurrent facials at-home 101
- Conductors and insulators
- Does Water Really Conduct Electricity?
- What are the health benefits of mineral water?
- Water
- NufaceHydrating Aqua Gel ingredients list
- NufaceFirming & Brightening Silk Creme ingredients list
- MyNuface.com about the microcurrent activators
- Epsom Salt: Benefits, Uses, and Side Effects
- Anagel Ultrasound gel
- Parker ultrasound gel
- Thera-Cream electorconductive gel K032239 (Nuface gel predicate)
- Nuface conductive gel K161654 501K clearance summary
- Triethanolamine
- Endygel conductive gel K161715 501K clearance summary
- DR-HO’S Electro Therapy Conductive Gel K200402
- ALOE VERA: A SHORT REVIEW
- www.aloeecell.com
- DIY: Electrode Gel
- incidecoder.com
- Ultrasound Massage Gel With Hyaluronic Acid ingredients
- UB Collagen & Elastin Gel
