tDCS

tDCS: Safety at a glance

Harsh Pandey

— 2 min read
tDCS: Safety at a glance

Here is a quick primer on safety aspects linked to tDCS.

Is tDCS Safe?

Short answer: Yes-when used within established research protocols, tDCS is considered safe and well tolerated.

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive technique that has been studied for more than two decades across cognitive neuroscience and clinical research. Across tens of thousands of documented sessions, including healthy adults, older adults, and clinical populations, no serious or lasting adverse effects have been attributed to conventional tDCS use.

“The existing evidence indicates that tDCS, when delivered within conventional parameters, does not produce serious adverse effects.”
- Bikson et al., Brain Stimulation

What protocols does research typically use?

  • Current: 1–2 mA (current), this would feel like a faint tingle you feel when a smartwatch/cellphone vibrates lightly on your wrist/hand
  • Session length: 15–30 minutes
  • Frequency: Single sessions or repeated daily sessions over weeks
  • Electrodes: Large, saline- or gel-based pads to diffuse current safely 

What do people commonly feel with tDCS?

  • Mild tingling or itching under electrodes 
  • Temporary warmth or scalp redness 
  • Occasional mild fatigue or headache 

These usually only last 10-15 minutes post session and they generally go away on their own without any effort or extra care.

“No irreversible adverse effects were detected. All reported side effects were temporary and resolved shortly after stimulation.”
- Poreisz et al., Brain Research Bulletin

Why is tDCS considered low risk?

tDCS uses a very low electrical current that is well below levels known to cause harm. It does not override brain activity or force brain cells to fire. Instead, it gently adjusts how ready certain brain networks are to work, especially during learning, attention, or emotional regulation.

“tDCS does not directly activate neurons; rather, it alters their likelihood of responding to ongoing brain activity.”
- Stagg & Nitsche, Neuroscientist

This is why tDCS is often described as supportive rather than invasive. Its effects depend on what the brain is already doing, which is why many studies show the strongest benefits when stimulation is paired with active engagement.

What do people actually experience?

Across studies, the most commonly reported effects are mild and short-lived. These sensations usually appear during the first few minutes of stimulation and fade quickly.

“The most frequently reported adverse effects were itching, tingling, and headache, all of which were mild and transient.”
- Brunoni et al., International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology

Importantly, large reviews comparing active and sham stimulation show that while these sensations are slightly more common with active tDCS, they remain low in intensity and self-resolving.

Who should NOT use tDCS?

Responsible use always includes screening. In line with research and clinical standards, tDCS is generally avoided in people with:

  • Implanted electronic medical devices (e.g., pacemakers, deep brain stimulators)
  • Open scalp wounds or active skin infections at electrode sites
  • Uncontrolled seizure disorders (unless medically supervised)
“Contraindications are largely precautionary and reflect conservative safety practice rather than evidence of demonstrated risk.”
- Antal et al., Clinical Neurophysiology

Our Approach to Safety

At Mave, safety is foundational. Our protocols align with those used in peer-reviewed research: conservative stimulation levels, clear session limits, careful screening, and transparent user guidance.

tDCS is not a shortcut or a cure-all. It is a gentle, well-studied tool designed to support the brain’s natural capacity to learn and regulate-when used responsibly.