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ZIIP vs Nuface review [which one is actually best?]

Let’s talk about my precious microcurrent devices again. And this time compare ZIIP vs Nuface. Two beauty gadgets I have been using for over two years now for firming, toning, and sculpting.

These are both extremely easy to use and incorporate into your daily (or weekly) skincare routine. And since I have both, I often get questions about which one is best. In this post, I will try to answer that in detail.

I will compare their features, the results they give me, how much they cost, how I use them, and which one I use the most.

This is what I’ll cover:

Update! The ZIIP device has recently been updated with several new amazing programs that have made me stop using my Nuface completely. I will tell you more about that throughout the post.


*Please note, this post contains affiliate links, and I may receive a small commission if you purchase through any of those links. It doesn’t cost you any extra and I only recommend products I truly love and use myself. You can read my full disclosure here.  


ZIIP vs Nuface – the basics

Here are the basics of these two devices.

  • Both ZIIP and Nuface are FDA cleared as safe devices for microcurrent treatments.
  • The ZIIP strength goes up to 400 microamps depending on the program that is used (It has 14 different programs).
  • The Nuface strength goes up to 335 microamps and has 1 program only.
  • ZIIP uses different frequencies for different programs.
  • Nuface has only one fixed frequency.
  • ZIIP has a two-year warranty.
  • Nuface only has a 1-year warranty. But they also have a 60 days money-back guarantee to ensure you get satisfied with your purchase.

Both devices use microcurrent technology to train your facial muscles, lift, tone, and improve skin quality over time. I’m not gonna go into more details about the technology itself in this post. Since I did that in my previous post about microcurrent.

I encourage you to read that post if you want to learn more about this technology itself.

The ZIIP differs from all the other microcurrent devices in that it also includes nanocurrent.

What they look like

Nuface Trinity has a replaceable head. So you can either use the large probes (for the most part of your face). Or change to the so-called ELE attachment, which is suited for the eye- and lip area (it also has a red light/infrared attachment that I have not tried).

Nuface Trinity
This is what my Nuface looks like. Two replaceable heads with either large probes or smaller ones.

Nuface also has a version called Nuface mini. It works just as the Trinity but without a replaceable head.

The ZIIP comes in one size and form, but with a lot of different programs (which I’ll get back to). It also comes in two different colors (see next section).

ZIIP Beauty device - close up.
My ZIIP GX.

ZIIP GX vs OX

There are two editions of the ZIIP. The ZIIP GX (with a golden strap on the side) and ZIIP OX (with a silver strap on the side).

But do not get confused because they work exactly the same and both give you access to all 14 treatments via the ZIIP app.

When you buy your device the ZIIP GX comes with the conductive gel called the Golden gel. And the ZIIP OX comes with another gel called Crystal gel.

Tip: This post will explain more about conductivity gels for microcurrent. And I why I don’t use the Nuface gel.

Ziip vs Nuface - which is the best microcurrent device?
ZIIP vs Nuface – This post is all about these two microcurrent devices, and which I prefer to use the most.

How they function

Nuface has one frequency of waveforms (meaning how many times per second the electrical current travels through your skin). And this frequency is aimed to target your muscles.

ZIIP has a plethora of different waveforms in order to target many kinds of concerns. For example, they use lower frequencies to stimulate muscles (lifting and sculpting). As well as higher frequencies to increase circulation and plumping in the skin itself. And in most of their programs, they mix these together.

As mentioned, ZIIP also incorporates nanocurrent. Which is a current even more low level than microcurrent. 

The company claims that nanocurrent results are even more effective and long-lasting (compared to microcurrent). And that it is so gentle that even the most sensitive skin types will respond well. I’ll get back to this under the next section.

My ZIIP treatments vs my Nuface treatments

Let’s compare how it’s meant to use these different devices. And how I prefer to use them personally.

I will start with the ZIIP, which is my favorite, and also has the most comprehensive treatment options.

How to use ZIIP

The ZIIP device has one button only, which turns it on and shuts it off. Simple as that. 

But it also has an app that you need to download and connect to your device. This app contains 14 different programs that you can use. All with different sets of waveforms and strengths. To target a variety of needs and concerns.

The programs are between 2-14 minutes long depending on what you want to do. And you can combine them for longer treatments as well.

You can choose between programs that target the eye area, the jowls, the brows, the forehead, and problem areas (acne or hyperpigmentation). Or you can choose to work on contouring, lymphatic drainage, plumping the skin, or longer treatments that include a bunch of all these things. You also have one program that only uses nanocurrent for amazing glow, healing, and long-lasting cumulative results on the skin.

Every program has a specific movement pattern, and you can follow along with the very detailed instructions videos that are included in the app. 


I would also say that ZIIP is very well suited for treating the lips and the area around them. See my post about smokers lines to learn more about the kind of wrinkles that can form above your upper lip.

How I personally use my ZIIP

I have been using my ZIIP now for almost two years. And I must say I am amazed by what it is capable of.

To have this arsenal of treatment options feels so luxurious. And it sure makes it a lot more fun to use my ZIIP than any other microcurrent device.

I love to combine the programs. In the beginning, I did about 15-20 minutes per session. But now I love to do even longer series of different treatments. So I now do at least 20 minutes (if I’m in a hurry) and all the way up to 40 min.

And if I do the longer (40min) session, I always let my skin rest the day after.

My favorite programs

My favorite programs are the one for the jowls, the eyes, contouring, and the one that only uses nanocurrent (called founder’s favorite). But I like to combine with some of the others every once in a while.

I am most impressed with the program called Jowls since it gave such a drastic result on that area. And the corners of my mouth changed completely to up instead of down.

Treatment routine with the ZIIP.
Here I am daubed with the golden gel, and doing my ZIIP treatments. I love lifting my eyebrow to reduce my hooded eyes. And I truly love to plump and lift my cheeks. Wich gives great results on nasolabial folds as well as marionette lines.

In the beginning, I followed all the instructions carefully. Since there are different movement patterns for different programs. But nowadays (when I feel confident in how the different programs work) I like to freestyle with some of the programs.

I have also learned a trick from the company itself. And that is to use the Eye program to plump your lips. If you use the device over your lips (with the Eyes program turned on) you will see an incredible plumping effect that will last for at least 4 hours. For me, it lasts a whole day.

I also want to mention that when I used to have occasional outbreaks, the program called Problem Solver was fantastic!

Nowadays I hardly ever get outbreaks anymore thanks to finding my triggers (see this post to learn more). But if you are struggling with outbreaks of any kind this will be a great help.

Lastly, I want to mention how effective I have found this device to be on lifting the lower part of the face (aka jowls). In my post about jowls and marionette lines, I explain more about this concern, and how microcurrent can help.

Definitely try the program called Jowls if this is something that troubles you.

 How often to use ZIIP 

The company recommends you use your ZIIP 3 times per week and no more than 6 times per week. With the exception of the Pigment and Total clearing program. These two should only be used a maximum of 3 times per week and no more than 1 time per 24 h period. 

For the other programs, you can use them almost daily. And the company recommends rotating between the treatments. Just make sure to always take at least one day off per week, to let your skin rest and process.

I personally like to use my ZIIP every second day.

Lip plumping with my ZIIP.
The more I use my ZIIP beauty device, the more I love it. The program options are extensive and can be combined to suit any skin concern.

I have no strict rule as to how often I use it and which programs I use.

How to use Nuface

The Nuface device is very straightforward since it only has one program of waveforms. You turn it on and besides adjusting the intensity, you’re good to go.

With the device, you’ll get basic instructions on how to perform the glides (super easy). And on the company’s website, you can also find instructions videos for both the basic movements as well as the advanced techniques. 

To work on your eye- and lip area you’ll need to switch the attachment head to the one that can target these small muscles. This ELE-attachment has a lot smaller probes and provides a lower strength on the current as well.

How I personally use my Nuface

Personally, when I did my Nuface treatments, I liked to always prioritize the advanced techniques (but I often do the glides as well). And I work my whole face for a total of about 20 minutes. That includes the eye area (above and under).

If I was in a hurry I only did the eyes and the cheeks. I found Nuface to be incredibly effective for my whole eye area. And I used to find it superior compared to my other devices when it comes to under-eye bags. But since discovering more programs with the ZIIP I now use that one almost exclusively.

When it comes to intensity, I always used the highest setting on my Nuface. Which is 335 milliamps (and 200 with the ELE attachment). 

How often to use Nuface

Nuface can and should be used 5-6 times per week. Which means almost every day. 

The company recommends that you start with using the Nuface 5 times per week for the first 60 days. And after that, you can retain results by using it 2 times per week.

I would personally recommend using it at least every second day though. Just as with the ZIIP.

Because microcurrent gives so much more than just muscle training. It also boosts your circulation and ATP production (meaning your skin cells will be more energized and promote more collagen and elastin). See this post for more information. 

In the beginning, when I only had the Nuface, I used it every day for 6 days per week (that is how I got sold on microcurrent!). And that is what I recommend you to do as well if you get this device. 

Prices and ZIIP discount code

Both devices are a bit of an investment. But if compared to different salon treatments they do become very affordable in no time. Since you can do the treatments as often and regularly as you want.

ZIIP [+ promo code]

The ZIIP Beauty device costs $495 with a bottle of the golden gel included. And $480 with the crystal gel included.

If you live in the US, I have a ZIIP promo code (ziipwithann) that gives you a 20 % off. Which means a saving of almost $100.

You find the product on this link. Just don’t forget to add the discount code ‘ziipwithann’ before you check out.

If you live in the UK you’ll get the same discount with the same code (ziipwithann) at Currentbody. And if you live in the rest of Europe or Asia, that link will give you 10 percent off.

Nuface

The Nuface Trinity (with the ELE attachment included) costs $429. And you find it on Dermstore using this link. The trinity alone costs $315.

You will also find the Nuface mini on the same website if you’re not interested in being able to add the attachment for the eye- and lip area. The mini costs $199.

If you live in Europe you find Nuface on this link (Cultbeauty) with 10 % off your first order.

These links include Nuface money-back-guarantee. This means you can try the device for 60 days risk-free.

Summary

In short, here is my experience of the ZIIP vs Nuface.

  • Nuface was my first microcurrent device, and I used to love it big time. But after I started using my ZIIP more often I do feel it is more powerful in results. And it does a lot more than the Nuface can achieve.
  • Nuface has one program with one set of waveforms. Which targets the muscles (for lifting and sculpting). And it goes up to 335 microamps.
  • The ZIIP has 14 different programs and goes up to 400 microamps. It has many different waveforms and can work more specified on a diversity of concerns (and more effectively on different parts of the face).
  • The ZIIP also utilizes nanocurrent (in some of its programs). An even lower current than microcurrent and believed to give even better results in increasing collagen and elastin. And overall skin health.
  • I have found my ZIIP to give me better results with overall tightening and sculpting, lymphatic drainage, and skin glow! With that said, I still find the Nuface to be a great tool for lifting and sculpting. And it does give a great glow afterward.

If you want to try the ZIIP you find it on this link (USA). And you’ll get a 20 % discount if you use my promo code ‘ziipwithann’ before you check out.

If you live in Europe or Asia, the same code wiIl give you 10-20 percent off at Currentbody.

The Nuface can be found on Dermstore on this link if you live in the US. In Europe, you find it here (10 % off your first order). Both links include a 60 days money-back guarantee. So in case you are uncertain about it, you can try it risk-free.


I hope this helps! Let me know in the comments below if you have any more questions.

Also, once you’ve decided what device to chose, I recommend you see my post about conductivity gels for microcurrent. It will give you some great tips on how to save money on the gels.

I also suggest you read my post about sagging skin and nasolabial folds, and jowls and marionette lines. To get some more tips and wisdom if those are concerns of yours.

Until next time, love your skin!

This Post Has 30 Comments

  1. Jane

    Couple of questions:
    1) Have you used the myolift? I have the professional one and wondered how the ZIIP compares?
    2) I stopped using MC when I heard plastic surgeons saying not to use them as we don’t want to work the muscles, as stronger muscles create lines/wrinkles (hence botox stops movement). What are your thoughts?

    1. Ann

      Hi Jane, and thank you for your questions. Here are my answers:) 1) Yes, I have the myolift mini at home. The professional one is of course more powerful than the mini. ZIIP is different since it also has nanocurrent and many different programs for different concerns. It is also a lot easier to use since use can do your treatment with just one hand (and no mirror once you get used to it). 2) I suggest you read my post about botox and my post about microcurrent to get more detailed explanation. You’ll find them by searching under menu. But in short, no, more muscle mass is not what cause wrinkles. Lack of collagen and elastin is the real reason because that is what cause your skin to loose elasticity. Botox can cause muscle atrophy and therefor cause more wrinkles over time. Microcurrent on the other hand will keep your muscles vital and strong and increase collagen and elastin. It will also plump and lift your face all naturally.

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