What Is the NuFACE Mini?
The NuFACE Mini (now sold as the MINI+) is a compact, FDA-cleared microcurrent facial toning device designed to lift, sculpt, and firm the face. It delivers the same 335 microamps of microcurrent technology as the full-size NuFACE Trinity — just in a palm-sized form factor built for portability and ease of use.
It targets the 69 muscles of the face and neck through gentle electrical stimulation, prompting muscle re-education and improved circulation. Over consistent use, results include lifted cheekbones, a more defined jawline, and reduced appearance of fine lines.
The MINI+ is the current generation, featuring app connectivity for guided routines and progress tracking — a meaningful upgrade over the original Mini.
How Microcurrent Works
Microcurrent devices emit low-level electrical pulses that mirror the body’s own bioelectrical frequency. When applied to facial skin, these pulses stimulate the underlying muscles, increasing adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production — the cellular energy compound responsible for driving collagen and elastin synthesis.
The NuFACE Mini operates at 335 microamps, which is within the clinical range used in professional treatments. The current is imperceptible during use — most users feel nothing beyond a slight tingling when the spheres move without enough gel.
Key mechanism: repeated microcurrent stimulation re-educates muscles into a more lifted, contracted position over time. This is why consistent use for 60 days produces noticeable changes, and why results fade if treatment stops entirely.
The device uses two rounded titanium-coated spheres to conduct current through the skin. Conductive gel must always be applied first — without it, the circuit breaks and the treatment is ineffective (and can cause static discomfort).
NuFACE Mini vs. Trinity: What’s Different
The primary difference is attachments. The NuFACE Trinity supports the ELE (Eye and Lip Enhancer) and other treatment-specific attachments, allowing targeted treatment of smaller areas. The Mini has no attachment port.
Both devices deliver the same 335 microamps of microcurrent — the core technology is identical. The Trinity is larger, which some users find easier to control on cheekbones and jawline. The Mini is more maneuverable in smaller facial zones and travels more easily.
Price gap: the Trinity+ is approximately $114 more than the MINI+. For users who do not need attachments, the Mini is the better value. For users targeting eye area or lips, the Trinity + ELE attachment is the better system.
For a full breakdown of scores, specs, and real-world performance, see our NuFACE Mini+ review.
How to Use the NuFACE Mini
Correct technique is what separates results from frustration. Here is the exact protocol:
Step 1 — Apply microcurrent gel generously. The spheres need full conductivity. Apply to cheeks, forehead, and jaw before starting. Reapply as needed if skin begins to feel tacky.
Step 2 — Start at the neck. Begin at the base of the neck with upward strokes. The neck sets the foundation for facial lift — skipping it limits overall results.
Step 3 — Work upward in sections. Move to jawline (3 glides per pass), then cheekbones (3 to 5 glides), then forehead (5 glides). Always move upward and outward.
Step 4 — 5 minutes minimum per session. NuFACE recommends 5 minutes daily, but many users extend to 10 to 15 minutes for deeper treatment during the loading phase.
Loading schedule: 5 minutes a day, 5x per week for the first 60 days. After 60 days, maintain with 2 to 3 sessions per week.
Do not use on eyelids, directly over metal implants, over active acne, or during pregnancy without medical clearance.
Results Timeline: What to Expect
Day 1 to 7: Some users notice an immediate glow from improved circulation. Lifting is minimal at this stage — the muscles are just beginning to respond.
Week 2 to 4: Light definition in the cheekbone and jawline area begins to emerge. Most noticeable when comparing photos. Skin texture often improves as product penetration increases.
Day 30 to 45: The most significant changes typically appear here. Jawline definition, cheekbone lift, and overall facial contour improvements become visible without photo comparison.
Day 60 and beyond: Full loading phase complete. Results plateau at peak efficacy for most users. Maintenance schedule begins — skipping more than 2 weeks typically results in regression.
Clinical context: a published study found 85% of participants saw improvement in facial contour and skin tone after consistent microcurrent use over 60 days. Individual results vary with age, skin condition, and technique consistency.
Who the NuFACE Mini Is For
Best fit: First-time microcurrent buyers, frequent travelers, users who want portability without sacrificing technology. Anyone looking to start with microcurrent without committing to the full Trinity system.
Less ideal if: You want to treat the eye or lip area specifically — the Mini lacks attachment support. Or if you prefer the larger sphere surface area of the Trinity for broader coverage.
Age range: Most effective for users 28 and older, where collagen loss begins to manifest. Younger users see less dramatic results (muscles are already toned). Users 40 and over often see the most striking changes during the loading phase.
Not all microcurrent devices deliver the same output or ergonomics.
Output level, sphere size, attachment compatibility, and app integration vary significantly across devices — and those differences affect results. Our comparison breaks it down by use case.
View full microcurrent comparison →Frequently Asked Questions
Does the NuFACE Mini actually work?
Yes, when used consistently. The clinical evidence behind microcurrent is solid — the technology is the same used in professional treatments. Results require daily use for 60 days; occasional use produces little benefit.
How long does a session take?
Minimum 5 minutes. Most users do 10 to 15 minutes during the loading phase. The device has an auto-shutoff at 5 minutes, so you will need to restart for longer sessions.
Do I need the gel?
Yes, always. Without conductive gel, the microcurrent does not penetrate properly. NuFACE gel is recommended, but any water-based conductive gel works — avoid oil-based products.
What is the difference between NuFACE Mini and Mini+?
The Mini+ is the current version. It adds app connectivity for guided routines and progress tracking. The original Mini is still sold in some places at a lower price — the core microcurrent technology is identical.
Can I use it with my serum?
You can apply serum after the gel dries, or some serums work as conductive layers themselves. Always ensure good electrical contact — if you feel static, add more gel.
Is it safe for sensitive skin?
Generally yes. Start at intensity level 1 and work up. Avoid broken skin, active breakouts, and any area with implanted metal. Consult a dermatologist if you have epilepsy, a pacemaker, or other electrical device concerns.