What Is Electroporation? The Needle-Free Secret Behind Japanese Skincare Serum Absorption

Learn everything about this non-invasive, scientifically proven skincare technology, widely used in Japan for deep hydration, brightening, and maximizing the effectiveness of serums.

Often referred to as “needle-less microneedling,” electroporation is a technology that enhances serum absorption by temporarily creating pathways in our skin cells, a popular approach in Japanese skincare.

It's perfect for anyone looking to make their serums work harder and achieve a brighter glow without aggressive procedures or downtime. And who doesn't want that!

This non-invasive treatment temporarily opens tiny pathways in the skin cells, allowing active ingredients to penetrate deeper for maximum hydration, brightening, and rejuvenation.

In this post, I’ll explore what electroporation is, how I incorporate it into my signature facials at Glow by Tomoko, and why it's been a staple in professional Japanese skincare treatments for years.

What Is Electroporation?

Electroporation technology uses short, controlled electrical pulses to temporarily create tiny openings in the skin cell membranes. These microscopic pathways allow active ingredients to penetrate deeper into the skin, where they can work more effectively.

Our Skin's Barrier: Why Serums Struggle to Penetrate

Our skin is the first line of defense against outer environment and it does an amazing job protecting us. However, that same protective barrier can make it difficult for even the best skincare products to reach the cells that need them most. That's where electroporation comes in!

This technology helps active ingredients bypass the skin's natural barrier safely and effectively, allowing them to penetrate deeper and deliver real results.

Ingredients Compatible with Electroporation

This technology is particularly effective at delivering large molecules that usually have trouble getting past the skin's protective barrier, such as:

• Hyaluronic Acid - for deep hydration

• Peptides, including Stem Cell Growth Factors and Exosomes - for repair, regeneration, and boosting collagen

• Vitamin C - for brightening and antioxidant benefits

• Glutathone - for brightening and antioxidant

Safety and Contraindications

One of the best things about electroporation is that it's safe and gentle, even for sensitive skin. It's completely non-invasive and causes no downtime. The microscopic openings in the cell membranes are only temporary and close after a few minutes.

Although electroporation is a safe, non-invasive, and gentle technology, it may not be suitable for everyone. The treatment is not recommended for clients with the following conditions:

• Pregnancy

• Pacemakers or implanted electronic devices

• Severe skin infections, open wounds, or active inflammation

  
  

All of my treatments are fully tailored to each client, so you’re always welcome to ask questions or discuss any concerns with me in advance or before your treatment.

Pro Tip

Some advanced skincare products understand the importance of getting past the skin's barrier, which is why well-formulated products may use delivery systems like liposomal capsules. These microscopic capsules carry active ingredients and are designed with a membrane structure similar to that of our skin barrier, making them more compatible and better able to absorb into the skin. Even with these encapsulated technologies, adding and electroporation step can further enhance absorption and results.

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Electoporation is a true game-changer, especially for skincare-savvy people like you who already invest in high-quality ingredients. After all, even with daily use, if active ingredients can't reach the targeted skin cells, much of its potential is lost.

Glow by Tomoko's Facial with Electroporation

At Glow by Tomoko, electroporation is thoughtfully incorporated into my signature facials to maximize the effectiveness of serums, specially selected for your skin type and concerns.

Every treatment is fully customized based on your skin’s condition and goals on the day of your appointment.

During the facial, electroporation is used to help active ingredients penetrate deeper into the skin, enhancing hydration, brightness, and overall skin vitality. You may feel a slight tingling sensation from the electric pulses. Sensitivity to electric current can vary from person to person (I'm quite sensitive to it myself), so the intensity is always adjusted to ensure your comfort.

I carefully select and layer serums rich in hydrating, brightening, and regenerating ingredients, such as peptides, vitamin C, and stem cell growth factors and exosomes, and use electroporation to help your skin absorb them more efficiently. It's an especially effective step after exfoliation or a peel, when dead skin cells are removed and the skin is prepped to absorb active ingredients, while soothing components in serums help calm and restore the skin post-treatment.

✨ The result is skin that looks plumper, refined, intensely hydrated and more radiant, with benefits that go beyond what topical application alone can achieve. It delivers immediate results especially for fine lines and enlarged pores caused by dehydration and dryness.

How to Incorporate Electroporation at Home

Electroporation isn’t just limited to professional treatments. There are also at-home devices designed to gently enhance serum absorption as part of your regular skincare routine. While these devices use lower-intensity electrical pulses than professional machines, they can still be a great way to maintain results between facials ✨

I personally use Unish Eporation Supreme at home or when i'm traveling. This powerful hand-held device features 5 different functions + 3 attachments (face, body and scalp), but its electroporation mode is what truly sets it apart.

Developed by the professional electroporation manufacturer Unish in Japan, this device is widely used in clinics and salons across Japan. The technology itself is backed by patents, ensuring that the performance is almost parallel to professional-grade machines.

When using a home device like this, it’s important to always adjust the intensity to what feels comfortable for you. The sensation is typically mild, gentle tingling.

Unish - Eporation Supreme | Japanese Electroporation Facial Device

Check Out More

Priced at 165,000 yen (approximately USD 1,060), this isn’t an inexpensive device. However, its power and effectiveness are comparable to many professional-grade electroporation devices found in Japan. If you’re looking for a high-performance facial device that truly delivers results, it’s absolutely worth the investment, and i'm always here to guide you on how to use it.

It's like giving yourself a mini facial at home. ⚡️

Step-by-Step Guide to At-Home Electroporation

1. Start with Clean Skin  Wash your face, pat dry, and apply toner (if any).

2. Apply a high-quality serum

   As electroporation technology improves absorption, it is important to use good-quality serums.

   All the serums on my Shop Page are compatible with electroporation infusion.

3. Ensure smooth gliding 

   Apply enough serum so the device can glide smoothly over your skin. Avoid friction or tugging, which could cause irritation.Continue layering serums throughout the treatment to ensure the skin remains smooth, allowing the device to move comfortably.

4. Move Outward and Upward

   Gently and slowly move the probe, focusing on areas where you want to boost hydration, glow, or firmness.

5. Seal in the Benefits with a Moisturizer Finish with a moisturizer to lock in all the active ingredients and support the skin barrier.

Frequency and timing: Electroporation is best used 2–3 times per week, with 10–15 minutes per session.

Electroporation (especially if it's a good quality device like the one above) is not for daily use. Your skin also needs rest between treatments to fully recover and maintain balance.

SHOP SERUMS

Takeaway: Electroporation in Japanese Skincare

Electroporation is a powerful yet gentle technology that allows your favorite serums to work more effectively and deliver enhanced results. By temporarily creating microscopic pathways in the skin cell membranes, without needles or downtime, it helps active ingredients penetrate deeper, maximizing hydration, brightening, and overall skin health.

Whether experienced through a professional facial at Glow by Tomoko or incorporated into your home routine, electroporation can make a noticeable difference, especially if you’re a skincare enthusiast like me who already invests in high-quality ingredients. For those who use premium serums, it’s a way to ensure those active ingredients effectively reach the skin cells where they’re meant to work.

I personally love adding this extra step to my routine once a week. This technology reflects the Japanese skincare philosophy I believe in: gentle, results-driven, science-backed, and skin-respecting care. When used intentionally and tailored to your skin’s needs, electroporation can elevate your routine and your Glow to the next level.

✉️ If you have any questions about electroporation, which serums to use, or any other skincare-related concerns, I’d be happy to share my recommendations and advice. You can simply email me at glowbytomoko@gmail.com