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Ultrasonic facial cleansing
Medical expert of the article
Last reviewed: 06.07.2025

There are various ways to cleanse the skin on your face and prevent the appearance of inflammatory elements or acne - such procedures are carried out in almost any salon or cosmetology clinic. There are also ways to cleanse your face at home. However, as statistics show, one of the most popular procedures is ultrasonic facial cleansing - a procedure using ultrashort waves that penetrate deep into the tissues and improve blood circulation and drainage.
Advantages and disadvantages
The ultrasonic facial cleansing procedure has a number of positive aspects:
- During cleaning, the skin is not overstretched or injured;
- cleaning takes less time than other similar procedures;
- In addition to cleansing the face, the device performs a fine tissue massage;
- ultrasound has a positive effect on local blood circulation and immune processes;
- Skin elasticity increases due to increased synthesis of collagen and elastin fibers.
Ultrasonic cleaning does not affect the deep layers of the skin, so the procedure is considered minimally invasive and practically safe.
The harm of ultrasonic facial cleansing can only appear in cases where the procedure was carried out unprofessionally or with ignoring contraindications.
To avoid possible negative consequences, it is recommended:
- have your cleaning done by an experienced professional with good recommendations;
- choose a period for the procedure when there is no scorching sun or frosty wind, or protect your face from possible negative impacts of external factors;
- Do not cleanse during menstruation;
- do not perform the procedure too often (optimally – once every 2-3 months).
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Indications for the procedure
Clogged pores usually lead to all sorts of skin problems – pimples, uneven skin surface (bumpiness), unhealthy complexion. Trying to cleanse the face with cosmetics usually does not improve the condition, as more serious procedures are required to clean the pores.
Until recently, pores were cleaned using deep peeling procedures. Now, ultrasonic facial cleansing is considered more effective, and can be done in almost any beauty salon or clinic. The action of ultrasound is based on improving local blood circulation and accelerating metabolic processes, which leads to increased collagen production, softening and rejuvenation of the skin.
Thus, indications for the use of ultrasound are:
- clogged and enlarged pores;
- unhealthy appearance of the skin, flaccidity and flabbiness, decreased natural elasticity of the skin;
- the appearance of blackheads and superficial acne.
Ultrasonic facial cleansing for acne
Ultrasonic cleaning is a procedure similar to superficial peeling. After the session, the skin acquires a fresh and even color, and also looks younger: pores become less noticeable, the appearance of scars and irritation decreases.
At the same time, the degree of sebum production of the skin is normalized, especially if the skin was oily before the ultrasound procedure.
If the skin on the face is too problematic - there are comedones, deep pimples and massively clogged pores, then it is recommended to first use mechanical cleansing, and only after that, if necessary, carry out ultrasonic facial cleansing.
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Preparation
Ultrasonic facial cleansing does not require any serious preparation. Immediately before the procedure, make-up should be removed from the skin of the face using regular cleansing products - lotion, milk or foam.
After this, the specialist who will perform the cleaning will apply a special gel-like substance to the face. Such a gel, under the influence of ultrasound vibrations, will help renew the surface layer of the skin.
Technique ultrasonic facial
In order to achieve the effect and consolidate it, it is recommended to undergo a course of ultrasound procedures. Such a course, depending on the time of year, may consist of 2-5 cleaning sessions.
The ultrasonic facial cleansing protocol includes the following steps:
- The skin is pre-prepared for cleansing using suitable tonics, milk, lotion, etc.
- In some cases, the face is additionally moisturized (especially with flabby skin, with visible age-related changes).
- The surface of the face is heated with steam using a special device. This is necessary for maximum opening of the pores.
- The face is treated with a gel that conducts ultrasound and also additionally protects and nourishes the skin.
- After setting up the device, the specialist begins the procedure using the connected scrubber. All areas of the face are treated - with the scrubber movements performed in a circle.
- The ultrasonic cleaning procedure takes about 15-20 minutes, during which the specialist frees the pores from impurities and removes them using a special bactericidal wipe.
- Sometimes after ultrasonic cleaning, phonophoresis with nutritional preparations is performed.
- After the cleansing, the face is treated with a soothing cream, which will help eliminate possible irritation of the facial skin after the procedure.
Hardware ultrasonic facial cleansing
There are currently many methods of hardware facial cleansing. Their action can be based on mechanical cleansing of the epidermis, on evaporation and exfoliation of cells, on increased blood circulation and tissue massage.
The unconditional advantage of hardware methods is the precision and direction of impact, in contrast to manual cleaning methods.
Hardware ultrasonic cleaning, despite its popularity, is often underestimated by the specialists themselves. However, the use of the device allows you to tone the superficial muscles and tissues, tighten the skin - the face acquires clear outlines, and this is really noticeable. In some cases, it is possible not only to clean the skin, but also to visually reduce problem areas - such as cheeks or a double chin.
Ultrasonic facial cleansing device
An ultrasonic facial cleanser is called a "scrubber". It is usually an electronic unit with a special ultrasound transducer. A metal spatula is included in the kit.
The device operates continuously or in pulses. There is a timer inside to control the duration of the procedure.
On sale you can find both professional equipment for ultrasonic skin cleaning and devices for home use.
The device has the following types of effects:
- cleanses the skin;
- massages the upper layers of tissue;
- accelerates all processes occurring in the skin layers (metabolism, oxidation-reduction reactions, production of collagen and elastin, etc.);
- stimulates the bactericidal activity of topical medications;
- improves lymphatic drainage.
Ultrasonic facial cleansing gel
The gel, which is applied to the facial skin before the procedure, acts as an ultrasound conductor, while also providing a therapeutic effect.
High-quality gel is produced on the basis of hyaluronic acid, which helps restore damaged connective tissue fibers. In addition, hyaluronic acid is considered a wonderful conductor for bioactive components.
Additionally, the gel may contain extracts from medicinal herbs, so such preparations often vary depending on the skin type and the expected effect of the procedure.
Mandatory condition: a quality gel must interact with ultrasound waves, i.e. be phoretic. Otherwise, ultrasound exposure can destroy all the useful components included in the gel.
Atraumatic ultrasonic facial cleansing
Ultrasonic facial cleansing is considered one of the most atraumatic hardware cleansing procedures. This means that skin recovery after cleansing occurs relatively quickly, since damage and irritation of the skin are insignificant.
The ultrasonic cleaning procedure is most suitable for patients with pain hypersensitivity. The device generates high-frequency ultrasonic vibrations that do not irritate nerve endings.
Ultrasonic facial cleansing during pregnancy
Pregnancy is a contraindication to ultrasonic facial cleansing. Therefore, during this period of time, it is recommended to use other alternative skin care methods.
For example, any cosmetologist will be able to select special cleansing products for a woman "in position": gels, foams, scrubs. You can apply masks using white clay, kaolin.
Ultrasonic facial cleansing during breastfeeding is replaced by manual mechanical cleansing. Ultrasound is allowed to be used only when a woman's monthly cycle is restored. If you need to use ultrasonic cleansing before this time, you should consult a professional cosmetologist whose opinion you trust.
Contraindications to the procedure
The procedure of ultrasonic facial cleansing is considered very common, however, not everyone can try the effect of ultrasound on their skin, since the procedure has a number of contraindications.
It is not recommended to carry out the cleansing for those who have been diagnosed with skin diseases (eczema, dermatitis), cardiovascular pathologies, or trigeminal neuralgia.
Contraindications include pregnancy – all three trimesters.
In addition to the above, ultrasonic cleaning is not performed:
- in case of craniofacial injuries;
- in malignant neoplasms;
- in inflammatory and purulent processes in the acute stage;
- for herpes.
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Complications after the procedure
The risk of developing adverse effects and complications increases if ultrasonic facial cleansing is performed by a person who does not have the qualifications and experience in performing such procedures.
The most serious complications are usually associated with infection, which results in inflammation, boils or even abscesses. The patient has to see a dermatologist to treat such an infectious complication.
The consequence, which manifests itself in the form of swelling or slight redness of the skin of the face, is considered a normal reaction to the procedure. If all the instructions of specialists are followed, such unpleasant symptoms will pass in a few days.
Scarring and lumpy skin are the consequences of improperly performed ultrasonic cleaning, when the procedure is carried out without strict adherence to the rules and stages of the protocol.
If there are deep inflammatory elements on the skin, it is not recommended to perform cleaning. If this contraindication is ignored, the consequence may be infection and further spread of the infection in the tissue.
Burn after ultrasonic facial cleansing
Sometimes, if the ultrasonic facial cleaning procedure is not carried out correctly, traumatic injuries may occur, which are often mistaken for burns. They appear as redness, peeling, and irritation of the skin. A tingling and burning sensation in the irritated area is possible.
This damage is caused by improper use and positioning of the scrubber (blade) during cleaning.
Patients with sensitive skin are especially susceptible to injury.
Such symptoms usually disappear on their own within 15-20 days, but in such a situation it is better to consult a specialist.
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Care after the procedure
A characteristic feature of ultrasonic facial cleansing is that a properly performed procedure is not accompanied by a further rehabilitation period. The skin is restored almost immediately.
Repeated cleanings can be carried out after 2 months, depending on the degree of sensitivity of the skin and the individual characteristics of the patient.
In between sessions, facial massages and peeling procedures are permitted.
After ultrasonic facial cleansing, no special skin care is required.
If the procedure is performed in the summer, it is recommended to apply products with UV protection of at least 30 to the skin of the face for a week.
If the patient has sensitive skin, he may be prescribed individual gentle care, which will be reported by the cosmetologist who performed the procedure.
Immediately after cleaning, you cannot visit a swimming pool, sauna, swim in open water, or sunbathe (including in a solarium).
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Ultrasonic facial cleansing at home
If there is no opportunity to visit professional salons and perform hardware facial cleansing, then you can perform a similar procedure at home. For this, you will also need an ultrasonic device, which can be ordered and purchased, for example, in online stores. Some users claim that performing cleaning at home allows you to save a significant amount of money. The only question that remains is the quality of such ultrasonic cleaning.
Doctors' reviews of ultrasonic facial cleansing
Medical experts insist: you should not treat ultrasonic facial cleansing as a method that will get rid of absolutely all skin problems. The cleaning procedure has its own indications and contraindications, and they must be taken into account before signing up for a session.
Moreover, you shouldn’t expect a stunning effect from one procedure. In order for the result to be really noticeable, 2-5 sessions may be required.
Sometimes, in parallel with the course of ultrasonic cleaning, other cosmetic procedures can be used - an experienced cosmetologist should understand this issue and solve problems individually and comprehensively.
In addition, it should not be forgotten that ultrasonic facial cleansing is primarily performed to cleanse the face: the procedure does not affect age-related changes such as wrinkles.