Bioelectricity:
Biology Is Electrical Too
Every cell in the body maintains an electrical difference across its membrane. The movement of charged particles — ions such as sodium, potassium and calcium — helps cells communicate, respond to their environment and carry out essential biological functions. Electrical activity is therefore not something foreign to biology; it is part of how living systems function.
Microcurrent technologies apply very low levels of electrical current through the body using skin-contact electrodes or conductive materials. Rather than thinking of this as simply “putting electricity into the body,” we can explore how an externally applied current may interact with electrically active tissues, cell membranes and biological processes.
Microcurrent & Cellular Energy
One frequently cited laboratory study examined the effects of different levels of direct electrical current on skin. At currents between 100 and 500 microamps, ATP levels were reported at approximately three to five times those of untreated controls. The effect depended on current intensity: higher currents did not produce the same response.
From this foundation, we can explore the different technologies used at Raiko - how they deliver physical inputs, how they differ from one another, and what the evidence currently tells us about each.
Technologies We Explore
Explore how different biophysical technologies work, what they are designed to do, what manufacturers claim, what research currently suggests, and where evidence remains uncertain — alongside practical considerations for informed and responsible use.
Frequency Specific Microcurrent (FSM)
FSM is a form of microcurrent that delivers pairs of frequencies simultaneously through two independent channels. Within the FSM model, one frequency is selected in relation to a proposed tissue or structure and the other in relation to a proposed condition or process. This frequency-pairing approach is what distinguishes FSM from more general forms of microcurrent stimulation.
Alpha-Stim
Alpha-Stim uses low-level electrical current delivered non-invasively. The Alpha-Stim AID uses Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation (CES) through earclip electrodes, while the Alpha-Stim M combines CES with Microcurrent Electrical Therapy (MET), allowing low-level electrical stimulation to also be applied to areas of the body.
Viofor Clinic
PEMF, Magnet & R+IR LED Light
Viofor Clinic combines pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) technology with a range of whole-body and targeted applicators. At RAIKO, this includes PEMF mats and magnetic applicators, together with large-area and focused R+IR LED applicators using red (630 nm) and infrared (855 nm) light. Compatible applicators allow magnetic fields and light to be explored independently or simultaneously.
iCare
App-Based PEMF
iCare is a portable PEMF system designed for guided home use. It combines an app-controlled device with a magnetic applicator, allowing different programmes and frequencies to be selected through the iCare app. Where appropriate, RAIKO can also add personalised programmes remotely as part of an agreed home-use plan.
TimeWaver Frequency
Microcurrent Applications
TimeWaver Frequency is a programmable microcurrent system that allows very low-level electrical currents to be combined with selectable frequency applications. It supports different forms of microcurrent delivery and can also be used with FSM programmes, allowing frequency pairs and current parameters to be selected for different applications.
Żenni Method
Diadynamic (Bernard) Currents
The Żenni Method is an approach to electrostimulation using diadynamic currents, also known as Bernard currents. It combines established forms of low-frequency electrical current with a distinctive system of electrode placement developed by Viktor Żenni. At RAIKO, we distinguish the method’s historical concepts from what is supported by contemporary evidence.
Not All Electrical Stimulation Is the Same
Electrical stimulation is a broad category, and different technologies use very different current levels, waveforms, frequencies and methods of application. Microcurrent operates at very low current levels; FSM combines microcurrent with paired frequencies; CES applies low-level current through the head, commonly via earclip electrodes; MET applies microcurrent to areas of the body; and diadynamic currents use a different form of low-frequency electrical stimulation. Understanding these differences matters when considering how a technology is used and what evidence applies to it.
Explore Responsibly
Responsible use begins with understanding both the technology and its limits. At RAIKO, we consider the available evidence, manufacturer guidance, appropriate precautions and contraindications, and the individual circumstances in which a technology is being explored. Where evidence is limited or uncertain, we make that distinction clear.