At-home microcurrent devices have become popular skin care tools thanks to claims that they can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving you firmer, lifted skin. To find out whether this is true and whether these devices can replace professional treatment, we consulted dermatologists to ask if they actually work, what the potential benefits are, who shouldn’t use a microcurrent device, and, ultimately, whether they’re worth the cost.

Do microcurrent devices work?

At-home microcurrent devices aren’t cheap, costing hundreds of dollars. If you’re thinking about investing in one, you might be wondering whether they actually work. What do the experts say?

“Yes, at-home microcurrent devices can provide noticeable benefits, though they’re generally less powerful than professional-grade treatments,” said Hannah Kopelman, a dermatologist at Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery. “These devices deliver low-level electrical currents designed to stimulate facial muscles and boost circulation. Over time, this can create a temporary lifting effect and provide mild improvement in skin tone.”

While the effectiveness of at-home microcurrent devices hasn’t been thoroughly tested, some studies show they can deliver real results. In a 2024 study, 56 participants were instructed to use the Slendertone Face microcurrent device, and 52 were assigned to a control group. After using the Slendertone Face device five days per week for 12 weeks, participants reported significantly better skin tone, radiance and fewer wrinkles compared to the control group. 

But before you start using an at-home microcurrent device, it’s important to set realistic expectations. 

“At-home microcurrent devices can be a beneficial part of your skin care routine, but they work best for mild improvements and maintenance, rather than dramatic changes,” Kopelman said. “For individuals looking for more immediate or pronounced results, professional treatments remain the gold standard.”

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Microcurrent device benefits can depend on the person

When you use an at-home microcurrent device consistently, it can have a wide range of benefits for your skin. “The main benefits include mild lifting and firming of the skin, improved circulation and enhanced lymphatic drainage, which can reduce puffiness. Some users also report that their skin looks more refreshed and radiant after consistent use,” Kopelman said.

For deeper wrinkles and significant sagging, however, Kopelman said these devices probably won’t have the same effect as professional treatments or more invasive in-office procedures.

While these at-home devices can be effective, the results aren’t one-size-fits-all. According to Dr. Robyn Gmyrek, a dermatologist at New York-based UnionDerm, “The benefits of at-home microcurrent devices vary from person to person based on age, health status and behavioral choices, like sun exposure, smoking, diet and the specific device used.”

Like with most skin care treatments and procedures, you shouldn’t expect results immediately. “With at-home devices, consistency is everything,” Gmyrek said. “I recommend using a microcurrent device daily, or at least three to five times per week. Think of it like the gym — if you don’t continue to go, you will lose the benefits.”

Microcurrent devices could have side effects

Generally speaking, at-home microcurrent devices are safe when used as directed. And because the microcurrents are small, the treatments shouldn’t be painful. Some side effects are possible, though.

“Some people may experience mild redness or a tingling sensation during use but this is usually temporary. However, improper use — like applying excessive pressure or using the device for longer than recommended — can lead to skin irritation or muscle fatigue,” Kopelman said.

In the 2024 study referenced above, only a few participants experienced mild skin redness during their treatments. None of the participants had any other adverse reactions, suggesting that these devices are mostly safe.

While there are dozens of at-home devices that deliver microcurrents, they’re not all created equal. Each device works differently and has unique advantages and drawbacks.

If you’re in the market for an at-home microcurrent device, there are a few things you should look for, according to Gmyrek. She recommends buying a device with FDA clearance, multiple intensity levels and different functions, such as LED light therapy. You should also look for a device that comes with or requires a conductive gel to properly transmit the microcurrent. Pick a device from a well-established brand with positive user and expert reviews. 

How to use a microcurrent device, step by step

Before using an at-home microcurrent device, read the manufacturer’s instructions. Each device might be slightly different but here’s a general overview of how these devices should be used:

1. Wash your face: You should always start with clean, dry skin before using a microcurrent device.
2. Apply conductive: Most microcurrent devices require a conductive gel that allows the device to glide over your face and helps deliver the current into the deeper layers of your skin.
3. Select the intensity level: If your device has multiple intensity settings, select the one that is right for your skin at the time of use. Start low and gradually increase once you get used to the different settings.
4. Glide the device over your face: Using light pressure, gently move the device across your face in an upward and outward motion. You can use the device on your jawline, cheekbones, forehead and the sides of your neck (make sure to avoid the thyroid in the center).
5. Remove the gel from your face and device: Once you’re finished, wash the gel off your face. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning the device — generally, you can wipe off the gel with a soft, clean cloth. Then, you can continue with the next steps in your skin care routine.
6. Repeat based on the manufacturer’s recommendation: Most at-home microcurrent devices should only be used five times per week, for 3 to 5 minutes, but some devices can be used daily. Check the instructions to see how often your device should be used for optimal results.

The best microcurrent devices we tested

To figure out which microcurrent devices are the best, CNET Wellness Editor Anna Gragert tested six devices over the course of two months. Based on price, modes, accessories, features, FDA clearance, cleaning instructions, app compatibility and the required conductive gel, she found the NuFace Trinity Plus to be the best microcurrent device overall. 

The NuFace Trinity Plus costs $395. It helps you track time with audible beeps, has helpful tutorials on its app and is easy to charge with its included stand. 

If you’re looking for a device with more features, such as massage and LED light therapy, the $420 TheraFace Pro is recommended. This device can also cleanse the face. Hot and cold rings are sold separately but can be used with the device. The only potential downside is that app tutorials are on the longer side and would be better with voice instructions. 

Can you overdo it with a microcurrent device? 

At-home microcurrent devices aren’t without risks, and using them too often can do more harm than good.

“Overuse can lead to inflammation in the skin, redness and swelling,” said Gmyrek. If that happens, you should stop using the device immediately until your side effects resolve.

“Using an at-home microcurrent device too frequently can also cause muscle fatigue, leaving the facial muscles feeling sore or overly tight. Sticking to the manufacturer’s recommended usage schedule can help avoid this issue,” added Kopelman.

Before you start using an at-home microcurrent device, read the instructions on the frequency of use, which will vary by product. For example, the Foreo Bear is designed for everyday use. However, the NuFace Trinity Plus and Skin Gym Microcurrent Wand should be used five times per week for 60 days, then up to three times per week for maintenance.

Don’t be tempted to use the device more often than recommended. Experts agree that overusing won’t provide better benefits or faster results. Plus, you could end up damaging your skin in the process.

Who shouldn’t use a microcurrent device?

Although at-home microcurrent devices are typically safe, not everyone is a good candidate. 

“Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy, a pacemaker or other implanted electrical devices, should avoid using microcurrent devices, as the electrical currents could interfere with their function,” said Kopelman.

Microcurrent devices should also be avoided during pregnancy, unless it’s cleared by a health care provider. 

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Professional vs. at-home microcurrent devices

Microcurrent is a popular offering at many medical spas and skin care clinics as a standalone treatment or an add-on to other services. According to experts, in-office treatments offer more bang for your buck.

“Professional microcurrent devices used in clinical settings are much more powerful and can deliver a more significant, long-lasting lifting effect in a shorter period of time,” said Kopelman.

Additionally, professional treatments can be better personalized to your needs, potentially giving you better results faster.

“Licensed professionals are also trained to adjust settings based on your skin’s needs, which makes the treatment more customized,” said Kopelman. “At-home devices, by contrast, are designed to be safe for general use, so they deliver lower current levels and require more frequent treatments to maintain results.”

At-home microcurrent devices aren’t cheap, either. FDA-cleared devices can cost anywhere from $150 to upward of $400. Most devices also require a conductive gel, which is sold separately.

However, at-home devices tend to be slightly cheaper than professional procedures. In-office microcurrent treatments often cost between $250 and $500 per session but it depends on various factors, including the type of treatment, length of treatment and your location.

The bottom line

At-home microcurrent devices can be a great addition to your skin care routine if you want to improve skin firmness, reduce puffiness and sculpt your face. But it’s important to have realistic expectations about the results. While at-home devices do work, they aren’t nearly as effective as professional treatments.

If you’re on the fence about getting an at-home microcurrent device, there are a few things you can consider. First, think about your skin goals. An at-home microcurrent device won’t get rid of deep wrinkles and it’s not an alternative to Botox, dermal fillers or skin lasers.

You should also determine how often you will realistically use the device. Here’s some advice from Gmyrek: “Be honest with yourself — if you aren’t going to use an at-home device consistently, don’t bother spending the money on it. Instead, spend that money on in-office treatments that are more effective.”

Amazon has brought the 42mm Apple Watch Series 11 back down to $299 for the weekend, offering $100 off its regular price. The sale also includes discounts on larger 46mm models and premium titanium styles.

Weekend Apple Watch shoppers have plenty of reasons to take a look at Amazon, where Apple Watch Series 11 models are $100 off across multiple configurations. The standout offer drops the 42mm GPS model to $299, within $20 of the lowest price on record.

The sale extends beyond the entry-level model, with discounts on larger 46mm versions as well as premium titanium configurations. Whether you’re looking for GPS or GPS + Cellular connectivity, the models below are $70 to $130 off while supplies last.

42mm Apple Watch Series 11 deals

• 42mm Apple Watch Series 11 GPS (Aluminum Case, Sport Band): $299 ($100 off)
• 42mm Apple Watch Series 11 GPS + Cellular (Aluminum Case, Sport Band): $399 ($100 off)
• 42mm Apple Watch Series 11 GPS + Cellular (Titanium Case, Sport Band): $629 ($70 off)
• 42mm Apple Watch Series 11 GPS + Cellular (Titanium Case, Milanese Loop): $649 ($100 off)

46mm Apple Watch Series 11 deals

• 46mm Apple Watch Series 11 GPS (Aluminum Case, Sport Band): $329 ($100 off)
• 46mm Apple Watch Series 11 GPS + Cellular (Aluminum Case, Sport Band): $399 ($130 off)
• 46mm Apple Watch Series 11 GPS + Cellular (Titanium Case, Milanese Loop Band): $729 ($70 off)

Our Apple Watch Price Guide offers a comprehensive breakdown of the deals across retailers and styles.

DJI just released the AP100 Parachute, and the system essentially mounts to the rear of the Matrice 400 enterprise drone and gives operators a reliable option when flight does not go as planned. Enterprise teams use the Matrice 400 for inspection, surveying, and public safety work. Those jobs sometimes take the aircraft over cities or stretch beyond visual range. A sudden power loss or link drop can turn a heavy drone into a fast-falling object. The AP100 changes that outcome by turning an uncontrolled fall into a slower, more predictable descent.

The AP100 module weighs little over 935 grams and comes with its own power supply. Dual capacitors provide a dependable source of power for up to an hour. That manner, the parachute can continue to monitor the situation and deploy even if the main aircraft batteries fail. To eliminate the possibility of a single point of failure, the module is totally isolated from the drone’s power system. The unit has an IP55 designation for dust and water protection and can operate in temperatures ranging from -20 to 50 degrees Celsius, which is exactly the same as the Matrice 400.

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Inside the module, there is an independent flight computer, an IMU, and some other sensors, all of which constantly cross-check each other. The algorithms compare the data received from the parachute and drone in real time. This arrangement was meant to avoid false alarms while still detecting true problems, such as a sudden tilt or speed shift. Pilots can check their health status using the Health Management System in the DJI Pilot 2 app. The system does daily self-checks on the gas generator and communication links, and if anything is out of whack, it sends an alert.

When the parachute eventually deploys, it follows a very methodical pattern. When the system decides it’s ready to fire, an independent Flight Termination System cuts power to the motors in under 600 milliseconds. That turns off the rotors before the parachute emerges from the container, preventing the canopy from becoming entangled with spinning blades. The parachute then deploys at altitudes more than 30 meters, and the descent rate remains modest, at less than 5 meters per second. At lower altitudes, the parachute still deploys, however you may not have enough time for full inflation and slowing before hitting the ground; however, the system will not deploy at all unless the aircraft is airborne.

Operators have a few options for getting the parachute to deploy. The Pilot 2 app includes a simple slider that allows you to do it manually whenever you want. In some countries, the system will also appear immediately if the drone violates a geofencing boundary you’ve defined within the app or if the sensors detect something visibly wrong. If you manage a fleet of drones, you can even give orders remotely using FlightHub 2 as long as you have a live connection via a cellular dongle. Near your home point, the system adds a few extra precautions to prevent things from getting messy on the ground and disables parachute deployment if the drone is in cleaning or standby mode.

Once the parachute is deployed, the module just continues to move. It will sound an ear-piercing siren and flash some extremely bright lights for around an hour. This warns people nearby and assists recovery personnel in identifying the aircraft later, after which the entire incident is over because deploying a single-use gadget necessitates the purchase of a new one. If the module remains packed and performs well, DJI expects it to last about three years before needing to be retired.

from the fix-your-own-shit dept

To be clear, the FTC under Donald Trump and new boss Andrew Ferguson has been a dangerous embarrassment. Whether it’s the firing of both Democratic Commissioners, the politically motivated investigations, the extremist attacks on trans people, the agency’s useless attacks on porn, or its efforts to undermine free speech, the Trump FTC has largely been a hot and painful mess that looks nothing like the “extension of Lina Khan’s antitrust legacy” promised by Republicans last election season.

That said: stopped clocks and all that.

The agency appears to have actually done something useful in striking a new settlement with agricultural giant John Deere to address the company’s longstanding “right to repair” abuses. According to an FTC announcement, the settlement to the joint lawsuit brought by the FTC and five states requires that the FTC spend at least ten years trying to make repairing its tractors easier:

“The FTC’s settlement requires Deere—for the next 10 years and under the supervision of the FTC and plaintiff states—to provide farmers and independent repair providers with the same equipment repair resources, including applicable software capabilities, that it currently provides to authorized Deere dealers.”

As is often the case, whether this actually sees any meaningful enforcement will remain an open question. But right to repair advocates like U.S. PIRG’s Nathan Proctor say the settlement is a meaningful one, and a step up to the agreement John Deere made when recently settling a different right to repair class action lawsuit for $99 million.

“The agreement between Deere and the FTC is much better than the deal secured in a similar class action lawsuit,” Proctor said. “For example, it protects independent mechanics from anti-competitive practices in the repair marketplace.”

As we’ve covered for years, John Deere went out of its way to acquire smaller, independent repair centers to force users to use more expensive John Deere dealership repairs. Then it went out of its way to make tools, manuals, and parts as difficult as possible to get. In short they worked tirelessly, for years, to create a monopoly on repair — dramatically driving up costs for consumers.

John Deere’s behaviors had one positive net benefit: they directly sparked a nationwide and bipartisan right to repair reform movement that sparked Massachusetts, New York, Texas, Minnesota, Colorado, California, Oregon, and Washington to pass state level right to repair laws. All 50 states have considered such laws, and several (like Maine and Ohio) have gotten close in recent years.

More recently, John Deere had been striking meaningless “memorandums of understanding” with key trade groups, pinky swearing to stop their bad behavior if the groups agreed to not support state or federal right to repair legislation. Several such groups backed off their criticism, only to have John Deere continue its monopolistic behavior, the FTC’s original complaint noted.

It’s worth reiterating that since passage not a single state has actually enforced the laws despise no shortage of offenders, so a lot of work needs to be done on the enforcement front. And again, a settlement with the FTC is also only as good as enforcement; not exactly the Trump administration or U.S. government’s strong suit when it comes to standing up to consolidated corporate power.

Filed Under: antitrust, ftc, hardware, independent repair, monopoly, right to repair, tractors

Companies: john deere

This season of Love Island USA has been feeding fans plenty of bombshells, challenges, couplings (and recouplings) at Casa Amor with its dating-show twists. The initial cast lineup included the brother of a Season 7 participant, the daughter of a former NBA player and a Paralympic athlete. You can marathon all the current episodes of the season now with Peacock Premium.

In addition to Love Island USA’s returning host, Ariana Madix, Ciara Miller and Tefi Pessoa co-host the talk show Aftersun on Saturdays. But the addictive summer reality show is getting ready to wrap this latest run, and here’s how you can watch how things end up with the Season 8 Islanders in Fiji. 

When to watch the Love Island USA Season 8 finale

Love Island USA Season 8 initially premiered on Peacock on June 2 at 9 p.m. ET (6 p.m. PT). New episodes hit Peacock Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, all at 9 p.m. ET (6 p.m. PT). Wednesday is the show’s day off; Saturday is dedicated to Aftersun, the official aftershow that recaps the previous week’s events.

The finale will hit on Sunday, with four couples vying to win — so be sure to catch it and see if your favorites are crowned. 

Peacock’s subscriptions include Premium, Premium Plus and Select. The $8-per-month Select tier provides seasons of NBC and Bravo titles such as The Office and The Real Housewives, but it doesn’t offer original Peacock shows such as Love Island USA. You’ll need Premium, which costs $11 per month, or Premium Plus, which runs $17 per month, to binge the popular summer reality show.

You may be able to save money on Peacock by paying annually. You can also subscribe to a bundle of Peacock and Apple TV (formerly Apple TV Plus) if you want both of those services. Premium is the ad-supported tier, while Premium Plus is ad-free with some exceptions, such as commercials on live sports and a few shows and movies.

It takes years to tape out a chip and bring it to market, with overall industry seismic shifts taking much less time. Nothing will demonstrate that better than the rumored six-month gap between the M6 processor debut and the AI-focused M7.

Apple’s chip lines have gradually become more AI-centric, and that will be the same in the future too. However, rather than sticking to an established release format, Apple’s intending to skip ahead to the bits it wants the public to use.

In Sunday’s “Power On” newsletter for Bloomberg, Mark Gurman revives a late June report that the M6 Pro and M6 Max chips won’t exist. Instead, it is putting the work into the development of AI-first chips for the M7 generation.

The fall cycle will include the usual base chip release, consisting of the M6. But there won’t be an M6 Pro, M6 Max, or even an M6 Ultra following months later.

Apple’s intended schedule is to instead bring the base M7 chip line a mere six months after the M6. That would make it a release in the first half of 2027.

The M7 Pro and M7 Max are thought to arrive at the end of 2027. That will then be followed by the M7 Ultra sometime in 2028.

Skipping to the good part

Gurman doesn’t really explain why Apple is moving to get M6 out of the way in favor of the M7 generation on Sunday. However, he did a better job doing so in June.

The M6 will improve the memory bandwidth from 153 gigabytes per second in the M5 to a massive 200 gigabytes per second. That will be by introducing a new memory architecture, as well as boosting the Neural Engine and using 12 GPU cores instead of ten.

While memory bandwidth is important, the M7 generation will have a much bigger focus on AI processing. This should help the prospective users of the M7 Pro, M7 Max, and M7 Ultra, who will have more complex workflows and could benefit from AI.

Even in the M7, memory bandwidth will also be increased, going up to around 240 gigabytes per second in the base chip.

The massive improvements in the M7 range are deemed by Apple to be sufficient enough to skip most of a chip generation.

Server Strategy

The usually massive performance of the Ultra chip is also at play here. To Gurman, the upgrades in the M7 Ultra allegedly bring the chip close in performance to dedicated AI accelerators, including Nvidia’s Blackwell.

That includes support for as much as 1.5 terabytes of memory. This may not necessarily be an amount presented to consumers or enterprise customers considering the current memory pricing crisis, but it could still be useful for servers.

Gurman proposes that the M7 Ultra could be the basis for Apple’s AI server strategy. While Apple is soon to introduce servers based on the M5 Ultra, engineers are said to be working on a new server chip built around the M7 Ultra.

That chip could see the light of day by 2029.

Old machines often end up sidelined once faster hardware arrives. Yet plenty of people still own working 386-era laptops and desktops that boot just fine. GentleOS steps in as a project built specifically for those systems. It delivers a graphical desktop experience without demanding modern resources or complex setup.

Luke 8086, the developer, worked on this operating system as a hobby. The goal is to provide hobbyists with a clean platform on which to work with vintage x86 hardware or run interactive graphical programs as near to the metal as possible. There is no online browser or app store, as the focus is on what the machine can accomplish directly in front of you. GentleOS/32, which targets 32-bit PCs starting with the i386 processor, was the first of two versions created. Depending on the boot image, you’ll need 2 to 4 MB of RAM, a mouse, and a VGA screen with a resolution of at least 640 by 480 and 16 colors, or higher VESA modes with 256 colors. Then there’s GentleOS/16, a more stripped-down version for actual 16-bit hardware such as 8086 or 80186 CPUs. That one uses less than 192 KB of RAM and rudimentary CGA graphics at 320 by 200 resolution in four colors.

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Both versions use the same design, with everything compiled down to a single binary that runs directly on the hardware, similar to microcontroller firmware rather than a standard operating system. The code is written in basic C with a little amount of assembly, allowing developers to easily follow the logic without becoming bogged down in layers of abstraction.

This approach lacks some of the capabilities that you would expect to see in newer systems. There is no virtual memory, no separate user and kernel zones, and no preemptive multitasking. Many modern systems provide file storage and networking capabilities, but this is not the case here. The entire system runs in memory and is single-threaded, with the main event loop managing graphics and dispatching actions to built-in programs.

Nonetheless, the finished design appears familiar, with a retro-style desktop with movable windows, an icon sidebar for quick access, and a simple color scheme. You get a retro clock with massive, segmented digits that update in real time, Klondike solitaire for some classic card game fun, a color palette tool for some quick creative work, and a about box to see what’s going on behind the scenes. The same concept is also used in programs for calendar functions, basic mathematics, art, and certain light games.

• SanDisk’s BiCS10 chip reaches 29Gb per square millimetre in density
• Bit density improved 59% compared to the previous BiCS8 generation
• Interface speeds now hit 4.8Gb/s, a 33% increase

SanDisk has confirmed it is now sampling BiCS10, its 10th-generation 3D NAND flash chip, built jointly with longtime manufacturing partner Kioxia.

The 1Tb TLC chip packs 332 memory layers into a die that reaches an area bit density above 29Gb per square millimetre, which the company calls industry-leading.