FAQ
Everything you always wanted to know about Phlas and cold plasma.
Cold Plasma
What is cold plasma?
Cold plasma is a partially ionized gas at near room temperature, which has antimicrobial properties and is used in various fields due to its reactive oxygen and nitrogen species.
Cold plasma is an established technology and has been used for years in professional skincare, medicine, and hygiene, among other applications.
Are there clinical data on cold plasma?
Yes, cold plasma has been extensively scientifically and clinically researched and published.
Phlas itself was tested at the independent test institute Dermatest as part of an eight-week clinical user study (study number ST-AT-2024-00233). The result: the award "excellent" for skin compatibility. In addition, an improvement in the pore index of 27.79% was documented.
Phlas was also intensively investigated at the University Hospital Regensburg. In tests on primary eukaryotic skin cells, both safety and compatibility were confirmed. No negative effects were observed within the defined application window.
Thus, Phlas combines innovative technology with scientifically proven quality - for maximum safety and trust.
How hot is cold plasma?
Cold plasma has room temperature (22°C–30°C).
Our cold plasma technology is dermatologically tested and completely safe for use on human skin by end consumers.
Is cold plasma the same as blood plasma?
No. Blood plasma is the liquid component of blood that transports cells, nutrients, hormones, and waste products throughout the body.
Cold plasma, on the other hand, is a partially ionized gas that generates substances, such as reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, similar to the human body's natural immune response to infections.
Product and Application
Who is Phlas suitable for?
Phlas has been specially developed for sensitive, blemished, reddened, and demanding skin, and is particularly suitable for acne-prone skin, as well as skin with a tendency towards rosacea or perioral dermatitis.
How often should Phlas be applied?
Phlas should be used once or twice a day (mornings and evenings after cleansing) for 60 seconds – depending on individual skin needs and current skin condition. For particularly sensitive or irritated skin, it is recommended to start with one application per day and slowly increase the frequency if well tolerated. Please refer to the instructions for use in the User Manual and adjust usage as needed based on your skin's reaction.
Can I use Phlas during pregnancy and while breastfeeding?
During pregnancy, the Phlas should only be used after consulting a doctor or dermatologist. Please obtain a medical assessment before use.
Are there any studies or dermatological tests that confirm the effectiveness of Phlas?
Yes, Phlas has been clinically tested in a user study by the independent testing institute Dermatest and awarded the 5-star seal for "excellent." In addition, studies at the Regensburg University Hospital confirm the efficacy of Phlas.
Does current flow through my skin when I use Phlas?
No, when using Phlas, no electricity flows through the skin. The cold plasma used is generated contactlessly and only unfolds on the skin surface. The skin is not electrically permeated, but merely comes into contact with the gaseous components of the plasma. This makes the application particularly gentle, safe and well-tolerated.
Is the Phlas application painful?
Application with Phlas is not painful. Phlas was developed with the aim of ensuring maximum safety and high skin compatibility. The cold plasma used works exclusively on the skin surface and respects the natural balance of the skin.
I notice a slight odor during use. What is that?
During use, a slight odor may occur. This is created during the generation of cold plasma. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen compounds are temporarily formed, which may be perceptible. The smell is reminiscent of pool or spa environments, quickly dissipates, and has no impact on skin tolerability or application safety.
Why do you need a spacer?
The spacer is a central component of the Phlas application. It ensures that the cold plasma is generated in a controlled manner and delivered to the skin particularly gently, with a uniform, defined intensity. At the same time, it ensures optimal distance to the skin. This way, the cold plasma reaches the desired area precisely, safely, and gently on the skin.
How often should I change the spacers?
For hygienic application, we recommend changing the spacer every three days. During phases when the skin is particularly sensitive, impure, or stressed, a daily change may also be advisable to avoid additional irritation and to optimally protect the skin.
Likewise, the spacer should be changed if it is dirty.
Technology
Which technology does Phlas use?
Phlas uses patented Surface Micro Discharge (SMD) technology to generate cold plasma in a controlled and precise manner. In combination with specially developed spacers, a clearly defined application environment is created in which the cold plasma reaches the skin surface evenly, reliably, and in a consistent concentration. This ensures a safe, reproducible, and skin-friendly application.
What is the difference between DBD and SMD technology?
DBD (Dielectric Barrier Discharge) and SMD (Surface Micro Discharge) are two different methods for generating cold atmospheric plasma. They differ fundamentally in their technical structure, operating principle, and the way the plasma interacts with the skin.
DBD Technology:
In DBD technology, plasma is ignited directly between the electrode and the skin. The skin is part of the electrical system, meaning there is current flow or an electric field through the skin. Plasma species are formed directly at the contact area on the skin surface. Due to the design, precise, reproducible, and defined dosing of the generated species can only be controlled to a limited extent.
SMD Technology:
In SMD technology, plasma is generated on an insulated surface – separated from the skin. A primary plasma is first created, from which secondary plasma species are formed. These secondary reactive oxygen and nitrogen species are locally bundled and guided to the skin without electrical current flow.
The technology works specifically with these secondary plasma species, which are biomimetically modeled after the molecules that also arise in the natural immune system during the defense reaction against microorganisms. This makes the application particularly controlled, well-tolerated, and effective at the same time.
In summary:
With DBD, there is direct electrical contact with current flow through the skin. SMD, on the other hand, generates secondary, biomimetic plasma species separated from the electric field and brings only these precisely dosed molecules into contact with the skin – this allows for precise control and high tolerability.
Is Phlas technology comparable to other cold plasma devices?
Phlas uses terraplasma's patented technology, which fundamentally differs from conventional cold plasma devices. Many classic systems operate with so-called DBD plasma (Dielectric Barrier Discharge), where electrical current is passed directly through the skin, and plasma species are generated as a byproduct.
In contrast, Phlas relies on advanced SMD technology (Surface Micro Discharge). Here, the plasma gas is generated in the ambient air, and the active molecules are specifically bundled in the spacer – and only these gas molecules, completely without electrical current, come into contact with the skin.
This technological approach enables a particularly gentle yet precise delivery of cold plasma molecules directly to the desired skin area.
Why is Phlas significantly cheaper than comparable professional devices?
SMD cold plasma technology was originally developed for medical use. Medical devices are subject to very strict regulatory requirements, extensive approval procedures, and high documentation obligations – this is reflected accordingly in the price.
Our goal was to make this innovative SMD technology accessible to private end-users as well. Through a deliberately cost-optimized development and the design and classification as a non-medical household appliance, we were able to significantly reduce regulatory efforts and make the price more attractive – without compromising on quality, safety, or effectiveness.
I see plasma devices online for €150–250. Why is Phlas more expensive than other cold plasma devices for end-users?
Many of the devices available on the market are based on DBD (Dielectric Barrier Discharge) technology. While this can also generate cold plasma, it applies the plasma species to the skin in a comparatively less controlled manner. A precise, reproducible, and reliable application can only be ensured to a limited extent with this approach.
Phlas, however, uses the scientifically sound SMD (Surface Micro Discharge) technology. Here, the produced plasma species are generated in a controlled manner and applied at defined times, so that the generated plasma can be precisely controlled. This enables an optimally coordinated, effective, and at the same time particularly gentle application to your skin.
The development and validation of such controlled technology requires extensive research, technical precision, and continuous quality assurance – which is also reflected in the price.
How do you ensure product quality?
We ensure the highest product quality through comprehensive, multi-stage quality checks. Phlas undergoes strict testing procedures, including regular effectiveness tests in our in-house Class I microbiological laboratory.
In addition, each individual device is individually inspected and tested before delivery. This ensures that Phlas meets our high quality, safety, and performance standards – and can reliably unleash its full potential for your skin.
Where is the Phlas developed and produced?
Phlas was developed in Germany. Its development was preceded by many years of intensive research – including at clinics, at renowned institutes such as the Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics, and through experiments on the International Space Station (ISS).
For series production, we work with a production partner in Germany. This ensures the highest quality standards, maximum precision, and consistently controlled manufacturing.
Has the Phlas device been certified?
Yes. The safety of our customers is our highest priority.
In addition to the legally required CE marking, Phlas also has the SGS test seal as part of the CB certification. In this context, the device underwent extensive safety tests in accordance with the international standard IEC 60335-1.
These tests confirm that Phlas meets the relevant electrical and mechanical safety requirements – with the aim of providing a reliably safe and high-quality device.
(CE Certification, SGS Certification)
Legal
Notes on the Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act and the Battery Act
This device is subject to the Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act (ElektroG) and may not be disposed of with household waste.
Old devices can be handed in free of charge at municipal collection points for waste electrical and electronic equipment.
Notice according to the Battery Act (BattG):
Batteries and rechargeable batteries may not be disposed of in household waste.
End-users are legally obliged to return old batteries.
The rechargeable battery installed in the device is not replaceable by the end-user.
Replacement may only be carried out by a specialist workshop.
Product Safety Information
Phlas is a cosmetic skincare device for home use.
It must only be used in accordance with the operating instructions.
Risks exist in case of improper use, especially when used on injured skin, without a spacer, or with excessive use.
The product complies with applicable EU regulations and bears the CE mark.