Oregon Esthetician State Board

What modality uses an extremely low level of electricity that mirrors the body's own natural electrical impulses?

1. Galvanic current

2. Microcurrent

3. High frequency

4. Ultrasound

The correct answer is: Microcurrent

The modality that utilizes an extremely low level of electricity, mimicking the body's own natural electrical impulses, is microcurrent. Microcurrent therapy primarily focuses on stimulating and rejuvenating skin cells and tissues at a cellular level. This therapy can help improve skin tone, reduce fine lines, and promote healing by stimulating the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is crucial for cellular energy and rejuvenation. Microcurrent is effective because it operates at a very low frequency, usually in the range of microamperes, allowing it to interact safely with the body's natural electrical currents without causing any discomfort. This gentle stimulation promotes cellular repair and regeneration, making it a popular choice in esthetics for achieving a youthful glow and enhancing skin appearance without invasive procedures. In contrast, galvanic current employs a continuous electrical current for chemical reactions; high frequency uses a much higher voltage to sterilize and treat skin and acne; and ultrasound utilizes sound waves to penetrate the skin. While each of these modalities has its applications in esthetics, microcurrent's unique approach to mimicking natural electrical impulses sets it apart as the most relevant choice in this context.