With wellness tech on the rise, Pulsetto—a device designed to target stress, sleep, and anxiety through vagus nerve stimulation (VNS)—is making waves. Promising non-invasive support for relaxation without medications, Pulsetto presents an intriguing option for those looking to enhance well-being. But how effective is it?
How Pulsetto Works: A Look at Vagus Nerve Stimulation
Pulsetto’s technology rests on stimulating the vagus nerve, a key nerve in the parasympathetic nervous system responsible for calming body functions like heart rate, immunity, and digestion. Unlike the sympathetic nervous system (which triggers the “fight-or-flight” response), the parasympathetic system helps our bodies rest and restore. By engaging this system, Pulsetto claims it can reduce stress and improve resilience over time.
This wearable’s approach to VNS is known as transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS). While traditional VNS requires surgical implants and is used medically for conditions like epilepsy, tVNS is non-invasive and much simpler. Pulsetto’s device works by resting on the neck, where it can deliver mild pulses to stimulate the vagus nerve. After applying the included electrode gel for a secure connection, users activate the device through an intuitive app with session options for stress, sleep, pain management, burnout, and anxiety.
Ease of Use and Setup: Ready for Calm in Minutes
Pulsetto prioritizes simplicity. In the box, users find a neckband, charging cable, and electrode gel tube. Once the neck area is prepped with the gel, users place the neckband on, connect to the app, and choose their session. Each session runs between 4 and 20 minutes, with an intensity scale from 1 to 9 to fine-tune comfort levels. Most users report that the device produces a tingling or “fizzy” sensation on the neck—described as similar to light pins and needles—during each session, with higher intensities offering a more pronounced effect.
While the app offers a range of session types, it’s worth noting that the device functions similarly across all sessions. This raises questions about whether each setting (such as “stress” or “sleep”) has different effects, or if they’re simply tailored experiences. The reality may be closer to using a common pain reliever like ibuprofen marketed for back pain; ultimately, the effect is consistent across needs, though users can adjust intensity and frequency for a personalized approach.
What Does Pulsetto Feel Like?
A Pulsetto session feels slightly unusual but is generally comfortable. Most users describe the sensation as “fizzy,” or akin to a mild muscle twitch. While not painful, it’s a novel sensation that can take some getting used to. Higher intensities create stronger tingling, and some users report brief feelings of dizziness or wooziness afterward. For this reason, it’s essential to adjust intensity based on comfort level, especially during initial use.
However, not everyone has the same experience. Smaller-framed individuals, for instance, may struggle to get an ideal fit, and if the device doesn’t rest closely enough on the neck, it may not provide effective stimulation.
Effects and Expectations: Is Pulsetto Effective for Everyone?
Pulsetto claims that the majority of users report reduced stress and improved sleep within a few weeks of consistent use. For instance, the device is marketed to help regulate heart rate and increase heart rate variability (HRV)—both indicators of relaxation and recovery. That said, individual results may vary, and some users find that they don’t experience dramatic shifts in HRV or overall calm.
Research on tVNS specifically for stress or sleep benefits is still in the early stages. The Royal College of Psychiatrists has found substantial evidence supporting implanted VNS for long-term depression management, but there’s limited evidence backing tVNS for similar benefits. Pulsetto acknowledges that results can take anywhere from one day to six weeks, depending on individual health factors.
For some users, the primary benefit of Pulsetto might simply be the act of setting aside time for self-care. Taking a few minutes each day to disconnect, breathe, and focus on relaxation can be beneficial—similar to the practice of mindfulness or brief meditative sessions. Users who may not experience dramatic shifts still find value in the daily pause that Pulsetto offers.
Potential Side Effects and Safety
As with many wellness devices, Pulsetto has some potential side effects, though they tend to be mild. Users sometimes report sensations like dizziness, muscle twitching, or localized tingling. These effects are generally temporary, but it’s essential to use the device as directed and monitor comfort closely. If sensations feel overwhelming, lowering the intensity or adjusting session frequency can help.
Comparison to Other tVNS Devices
Pulsetto isn’t the only tVNS device on the market. Other products, such as Nurosym, use an earpiece to stimulate the vagus nerve, while GammaCore offers a handheld option for those with cluster headaches or migraines. While these devices can be more targeted, they also come at higher price points. Pulsetto’s comparatively accessible pricing and ease of use may make it an attractive choice for those curious about VNS but not seeking clinical-grade treatments.
Verdict: Who is Pulsetto For?
For people dealing with regular stress, Pulsetto offers a structured and accessible way to integrate moments of calm into their day. It’s not a miracle cure, and its effectiveness may depend on individual needs and conditions. Pulsetto is best seen as one piece of a broader wellness approach, working in tandem with lifestyle practices like regular exercise, good sleep hygiene, and stress management techniques.
Pulsetto could be an exciting addition for those who appreciate non-invasive wellness devices and enjoy dedicating moments to self-care. For others, it may simply serve as a reminder to slow down and breathe—a benefit in itself, even if the physical results are subtle.
The Bottom Line: A Tool for Modern Life’s Stress
With so many of us facing the pressures of modern life, Pulsetto offers a practical, if modest, approach to supporting relaxation and well-being. For those open to exploring new wellness technology, it may offer the gentle encouragement to carve out time to slow down, pause, and reconnect. While Pulsetto isn’t a cure-all, its calming potential makes it worth exploring for anyone looking for a natural, accessible tool to integrate relaxation into their routine.
