Overactive sebaceous glands lead to excessive oil production that clogs pores and causes acne breakouts. High frequency electrical current is one of the most effective tools for clearing up blemish-prone, oily skin naturally. Here we’ll examine how high frequency treats acne and balances oil production for clear, healthy skin.
How High Frequency Improves Acne
Several mechanisms make high frequency treatment well-suited for combatting acne:
Kills Pimple-Causing Bacteria
The reactive oxygen molecules generated by high frequency devices have natural antibiotic properties. When applied to the skin, these compounds directly kill acne-associated bacteria like Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis on contact.
Reduces Inflammation
High frequency has anti-inflammatory effects that calm the redness and swelling of inflamed pimples. This helps diminish the aggravated, painful side of acne lesions.
Dries Up Excess Oil
The astringent antiseptic properties of high frequency help absorb excess sebum. This dries out the oily environment that allows acne bacteria to thrive.
Unclogs Blocked Pores
The gentle stimulation of high frequency loosens debris and impactions deep within follicles. This clears congestion and allows pores to drain properly.
Boosts Cell Turnover
The mild abrasion from gliding electrodes over skin exfoliates the outer layers while increasing collagen deeper down. This resurfacing effect helps push out clogged pores.
Protocols for Acne Prone Skin
Customizing your high frequency technique maximizes results for oily, acne-ridden skin:
Cleanse/Tone - Remove oil, dirt, and debris that block pores before treatment.
Acne electrode - Use the pointed tip to penetrate deeply into the pore lining and kill bacteria.
Increase intensity - Acne-prone skin tolerates slightly stronger currents well.
Focus on congested zones - Target especially oily areas like the T-zone and chin.
Blackhead finishing - High frequency helps release stubborn blackheads after manual extraction.
High frequency first - Use on clean bare skin before applying acne medications for optimal absorption.
More frequent sessions - Aim for at least 3 times per week to continually manage bacteria.
Patience - It typically takes 2-3 weeks of consistent high frequency treatment to notice acne reductions.
Follow with acne-fighting and hydrating skin products to complement the disinfecting high frequency benefits.
Lifestyle Tips for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin
Lifestyle habits also impact acne. Try incorporating these tips alongside high frequency therapy:
Clean pillowcases - Change them 2-3 times a week to avoid transferring facial bacteria back to skin.
Gentle skin cleansing - Use non-comedogenic cleansers and avoid scrubbing aggressively.
Hydration - Drink plenty of water to flush out toxins.
Exercise - Sweating helps purge pores. Just shower immediately after to wash away grime.
Balanced, low-glycemic diet - Eating more vegetables and lean proteins helps stabilize blood sugar and hormone fluctuations that trigger oil production.
Stress reduction - Limit stress where possible, as it releases hormones that aggravate acne.
No excessive touching/picking - Fingers transfer bacteria, and picking inflames lesions.
OTC/prescription options - Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinoids help acne when combined with high frequency. Discuss options with your dermatologist.
Risks of High Frequency Treatment for Acne
While generally very safe, be aware that:
- High frequency can initially worsen acne as contents get pushed out of pores before improvement starts.
- Over-drying the skin with high frequency exacerbates acne. Always moisturize after treatment.
- Using too strong of intensity risks burns or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation on broken skin.
- Not all acne cases respond to high frequency. Hormonal acne may require additional treatment.
With responsible use, high frequency wands help restore balance, clarity, and smoothness to irritated oily and acneic skin. The antibacterial and exfoliating effects make it a therapeutic lifesaver for many acne sufferers.
The Takeaway
The unique mechanisms of high frequency treatment offer a safe, effective approach for cleansing and disinfecting acne-prone skin prone to oiliness. Killing pimple-causing bacteria, reducing inflammation, and exfoliating clogged pores helps treat existing breakouts and prevent new ones from forming. While not necessarily a standalone “cure,” high frequency current meaningfully improves acne as part of a comprehensive skin care approach. With lifestyle adjustments and consistency, high frequency wands work to create clearer, more balanced skin over time.
