Utah Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What type of current is characteristic of high frequency treatments?

1. Direct current

2. Alternating current

3. Micro-current

4. Pulsating current

The correct answer is: Alternating current

High frequency treatments utilize alternating current, which is characterized by the flow of electric charge that periodically reverses direction. This type of current is beneficial in esthetic applications as it creates thermal and mechanical effects in the skin, helping to promote healing, improve circulation, and enhance the penetration of products through the skin barrier. The oscillating nature of alternating current generates a vibration that can stimulate the cells, improving overall skin tone and texture. In contrast to alternating current, direct current flows in one continuous direction and is typically not used for high frequency treatments; it serves different applications, such as galvanic treatments, which have a different purpose and mechanism of action. Micro-current uses very low levels of electrical current to stimulate muscle contraction and is employed for facial toning; however, it does not achieve the same benefits as high frequency. Pulsating current refers to currents that are intermittent and often variable, which also does not align with the continuous oscillation seen in high frequency treatments.