I can’t remember what life was like before incorporating the best facial tools into my routine. What started with a humble jade roller that I admittedly never used has somehow transformed into a full on collection of high-tech gadgets that I power on to treat an array of skin concerns—sans a trip to my dermatologist’s office.
Vogue’s Favorite Skin Care Tools
While I still keep aforementioned jade roller on hand—it works wonders to boost blood flow, particularly during a sheet mask session—I have graduated my beauty product assortment quite a bit. Joanna Czech’s angled roller boasts similar circulation benefits, but is also apt for sculpting the cheekbones and jawline. The NuFace takes it up a notch, powered by a strong microcurrent technology that delivers visible results with consistent use. When I’m after overall skin rejuvenation (think: improved radiance and smoothed fine lines), my trusted LED face mask by Dr. Dennis Gross does the trick—it simultaneously provides anti-aging benefits with acne-fighting ones. And just when I thought I didn’t need another gadget, new innovations hit the market—like the Hailey Bieber-approved Medicube Age R Pro which helps deliver skin-care ingredients deep into skin, or Therabody’s wand which depuffs the face via cold therapy. Since incorporating this range of gadgets, my skin has never looked better—more on that below. Ahead, these and more of the best skin care tools, as tested and reviewed by Vogue beauty editors. Read on to discover which items could supplement your regimen.
In This Story
Best LED Face Mask: Currentbody Skin LED Light Therapy Face Mask
Currentbody Skin LED Light Therapy Face Mask
- Why We Love It: For those battling fine lines and lackluster skin, LED light therapy has emerged as a potent solution, delivering noticeable results in brief daily sessions. Dermatologist Dr. Melanie Palm explains, “LED light therapy is a safe skin treatment using low-level light available in different colors and wavelengths,” noting its efficacy in addressing various skin conditions, “including acne, inflammation, swelling, signs of aging, stimulating collagen, and even minor wounds.” The Vogue Verified Currentbody LED face mask is designed for ease of use, crafted from flexible silicone to comfortably fit the skin, allowing for hands-free movement during treatments. FDA-cleared and clinically validated, it’s proven to diminish wrinkles within a month of consistent use.
- Editor’s experience: “Hands-free skincare devices are essential for multitasking. I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my skin’s brightness throughout the week. While I’m proactively addressing potential fine lines, this mask seamlessly fits into my routine. Plus, for fans of Emily in Paris, this is the same mask featured in the show!” —Iman Balagam, contributor
- Type: Flexible silicone LED Face Mask
- What It’s Good For: Patented flexible silicone LED face mask designed to improve skin tone, texture, and firmness.
- Specs: FDA-approved, two light wavelengths: red (633nm) and near-infrared ((830nm)
- Best For: Brightening, fine lines, wrinkles, texture, pigmentation
- How to Use: Begin with clean, dry skin. Secure the mask using the attached straps, adjusting for a snug fit. Activate the mask for a 10-minute treatment session, repeating three to five times per week for optimal results.
Vogue senior beauty writer Kiana Murden trying on the CurrentBody LED Mask for face.
Video: Courtesy of Sam Ravin
Best IPL Device: Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 IPL Hair Removal System
Braun Pro 5 IPL Hair Removal System
- Why We Love It: For effective at-home laser hair removal, experts often favor IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) over traditional laser treatments. IPL emits a broader spectrum of light wavelengths, which not only targets hair follicles but also enhances skin texture and tone. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Noah Gratch advises selecting an IPL device with skin tone detection and automatic light adjustment for safe and effective hair removal without skin damage. The Braun device incorporates this feature, ensuring hair follicle removal while protecting the skin. IPL devices are versatile for use on legs, arms, underarms, bikini line, back, chest, and lower face but are most effective for individuals with lighter skin tones due to IPL targeting melanin.
- Type: IPL device
- What It’s Good For: Long-lasting, at-home hair removal
- Specs: FDA-approved, three intensity levels (Standard, Gentle, Extra Gentle)
- Best For: Hair removal
- How to Use: Begin by shaving the treatment area. Select the appropriate treatment head for the body area (options include underarms, precision for bikini line and upper lip, and wide for larger areas). Glide the device over the desired hair removal area.
Best Skincare Wand: Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand with Red Light Therapy
Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand
- Why We Love It: Achieving an at-home facial experience is now simpler than ever with the Solawave Radiant Renewal Wand. This multi-functional skincare wand integrates four essential treatments into a single, portable device, making it an essential skin care tool. Red light therapy targets fine lines and scarring, microcurrent technology tones facial muscles, gentle facial massage reduces puffiness, and therapeutic warmth enhances skincare product absorption—all within a quick five-minute treatment.
- Editor’s experience: “The Solawave’s portability and user-friendliness are standout features. Its compact design makes it ideal for travel, ensuring my skincare routine remains consistent wherever I go. The quick treatment time is also a major plus – it’s easy to fit into a busy schedule.” —Iman Balagam, contributor
- Type: Skincare Wand
- Specs: One light wavelength: red (630nm)
- What It’s Good For: Reduces the appearance of wrinkles, dark circles, blemishes, and dark spots, decreases puffiness, and aids in the absorption of your skincare products.
- Best For: Wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, puffiness
- How to Use: Apply a thin layer of conductive gel or serum to a clean, dry face. Glide the wand upwards across your face, covering the forehead, cheeks, under-eye area, jawline, neck, and upper lip.
Vogue senior beauty writer Kiana Murden trying on the Solawave Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand for face.
Video: Courtesy of Sam Ravin
Best Microcurrent Device: NuFace Trinity+
NuFace Trinity+ Starter Kit
- Why We Love It: The NuFace Trinity+, a pronged microcurrent massager, is a favorite among Vogue editors and celebrities alike, including Cynthia Erivo and Madeline Petsch. This essential skin care tool delivers microcurrent stimulation to facial muscles in quick 5- to 20-minute sessions, resulting in a firmer and more toned complexion. For optimal glide and conductivity, apply a conducting gel prior to use. The Trinity+ model is praised for its ability to smooth lines, tone, lift, and sculpt facial muscles through smart microcurrents, offering transformative results.
- Editor’s experience: “For an instant snatched look, my NuFace is indispensable. It’s the fastest, easiest, and most comfortable way to tone my face. Just a few passes along my cheekbones and jawline, and I’m camera-ready in minutes.” —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writer
- Type: Microcurrent tool
- Specs: FDA Cleared, 340 microamps at maximum intensity
- What It’s Good For: Stimulates facial muscles to tone, lift, and tighten, providing both instant and long-term results.
- Best For: Wrinkles, fine lines, sculpting
- How to Use: Cleanse your face with an oil-free cleanser, then apply a serum of your choice. Brush on the Microcurrent Activator and gently glide the device over your skin, following the contours of your face.
Vogue senior beauty writer Kiana Murden using the NuFace Trinity+.
Video: Courtesy of Ingu Chen
Best Face Massager: Joanna Czech The Facial Massager
Joanna Czech Facial Massager
- Why We Love It: While a personal visit to Joanna Czech’s New York salon may not be feasible daily, her product line brings the salon experience home. The Joanna Czech The Facial Massager, when used for just a few minutes each day, effectively reduces puffiness and enhances jawline definition. Its robust, waterproof design and ability to boost product absorption distinguish it in the market. Integrate it with your preferred serums, creams, or face masks to maximize product penetration.
- Editor’s Experience: “One facial with Joanna Czech was all it took to get me hooked. While daily treatments aren’t possible, this roller is the next best thing, mimicking her signature massage techniques. It stimulates circulation, reduces puffiness, and eases facial tension. I absolutely love it!” —Kiana Murden, beauty shopping writer
- Type: Facial Massager
- Specs: Aluminum and zinc alloy
- What It’s Good For: Facial massager designed for Joanna’s clients to easily use at home, sculpting, depuffing, and aiding in product absorption.
- Best For: Lifting, firming, depuffing, fine lines, wrinkles
- How to Use: Glide the facial massager over your face and décolletage to enhance circulation and firm the skin.
Best Cleansing Brush: Foreo LUNA 4 Face Cleansing Brush
Foreo Luna 4 Face Cleansing Brush
- Why We Love It: Combining Swedish design with sonic cleansing innovation, the Foreo LUNA 4 features bacteria-resistant silicone touchpoints that gently remove impurities from pores without harsh scrubbing. For those who find makeup removal tedious, the Foreo simplifies the process, effectively eliminating sweat, oil, and dirt for smoother, clearer, and more radiant skin. It’s an essential skin care tool for achieving a healthy glow.
- Editor’s experience: “Even after double cleansing, I sometimes question if I’ve fully removed makeup and daily grime. The Foreo offers reassurance. It’s incredibly user-friendly and, being silicone-based, it’s shower-safe and germ-resistant.” —Iman Balagam, contributor
- Type: Silicone Electric Cleansing Brush/Massager
- What It’s Good For: Enhances the absorption of skincare and is clinically proven to remove 99% of dirt, oil, and makeup residue.
- Specs: Battery Powered (1 Lithium Polymer required)
- Best For: Facial cleansing, firming
- How to Use: Apply your preferred cleanser, power on the device (single press for cleansing, double press for firming massage), and glide it outwards across your face until it automatically shuts off.
Best LED Light Therapy Tool: Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite Dpl FaceWare Pro
Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro
- Why We Love It: The Dr. Dennis Gross hands-free mask simplifies skincare with three treatment modes for skin rejuvenation. This user-friendly LED mask employs red and blue light to combat bacteria and reduce wrinkles in just three minutes daily. Despite its futuristic appearance, it’s designed for comfortable wear, making it a seamless addition to your routine. It’s a top-tier essential skin care tool for effective at-home treatments.
- Editor’s experience: “Given my less-than-perfect lifestyle choices, this mask feels like a valuable investment in my skin’s future. Its quick three-minute treatment time makes it easy to incorporate into my daily routine, unlike longer, more cumbersome masks. Plus, it’s great for a funny surprise during video calls!” —Iman Balagam, contributor
- Type: LED Mask with silicone strap
- What It’s Good For: Smooths the face, diminishes the appearance fine lines, prevents acne flare-ups, and firms the skin. It also clears existing acne using blue and red light.
- Specs: FDA-cleared, four light wavelengths: red (630 – 700nm), blue (400 – 470nm), infrared (800 – 1200nm), and amber (590nm – 630mm)
- Best For: Acne, wrinkles, fine lines
- How to Use: After cleansing, position the mask over your face and secure the straps. Press and hold the button for two seconds to select your desired light mode. The mask will automatically turn off after the treatment cycle.
Vogue senior beauty writer Kiana Murden trying on the Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro for face.
Video: Courtesy of Sam Ravin
Best for Hair Growth: Currentbody LED Hair Growth Helmet
Currentbody LED Hair Growth Helmet
- Why We Love It: Red light therapy is a top method for encouraging hair growth, enhancing cellular energy and scalp blood flow, according to dermatologist Dr. Lauren Penzi. The Currentbody helmet is highly recommended by experts as a leading beauty device for hair growth. Dermatologist Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose notes patient success with this helmet, especially when combined with topical or oral treatments. Vogue contributor Danielle James experienced significant hair density and length improvement after testing it for six months. This helmet is an essential skin care tool for hair rejuvenation.
- Editor’s Experience: “Currentbody guarantees results within 16 weeks, or your money back. I saw changes around week 12. Shedding decreased by week 6, and by week 8, my hair was healthier, shinier, and stronger. New growth was noticeable by week 20, though I believe daily use could have accelerated results.” —Danielle James, contributor
- Type: Red light therapy helmet
- What It’s Good For: Hands-free red light therapy designed for the scalp for those interested in a hi-tech approach to hair growth.
- Specs: FDA-cleared, emits red light at 620-660nm, protective charging base, USB-powered, and available in two sizes for a comfortable fit.
- Best For: Hair growth
- How to Use: Place the helmet on clean, dry hair and power it on. The 10-minute treatment allows you to continue with your day. The helmet automatically shuts off after completion.
Best Laser Device: Lyma Laser
Lyma Laser
- Why We Love It: The Lyma Laser is a clinic-grade, FDA-cleared tool, surpassing traditional LED therapy in power. It rejuvenates skin by delivering a painless, low-level laser (500mW at 808nm) deep into the skin, promoting cellular repair and regeneration. This results in reduced wrinkles, sun damage, redness, and pigmentation. While a significant investment, its effectiveness is undeniable. Joanna Czech recommends it for diminishing dark spots over time. It’s an essential skin care tool for advanced at-home treatments.
- Editor’s Experience: “By week five, the Lyma Laser made a noticeable difference in my skin. Compliments from others confirmed it. It traveled with me, proving useful for post-jet-lag skin. Sunspots faded slightly, and my skin appeared plumper and brighter.” —Margaux Anbouba, senior beauty editor
- Type: Laser
- What It’s Good For: Reduces the appearance of fine lines and dark spots, and improves texture and tone.
- Specs: FDA-Cleared, Near infra-red 500mW laser technology
- Best For: Wrinkles, texture, dark Spots, hyperpigmentation
- How to Use: Hold the laser over the area you want to treat for three minutes or glide it across the face and body for broader treatment.
Vogue senior beauty writer Kiana Murden using the Lyma Laser.
Video: Courtesy of Ingu Chen
Best Depuffing: Therabody TheraFace Depuffing Wand
Therabody TheraFace Depuffing Wand
- Why We Love It: For those prone to puffiness, the Therabody TheraFace Depuffing Wand is a game-changer. It quickly diminishes morning puffiness around the eyes and cheeks, providing a rapid lift and gentle sculpting effect. Utilizing cold therapy with three preset temperatures, it tightens skin akin to an ice roller but without freezer burn risk. Additionally, it offers heat therapy to enhance skincare product absorption, making it a versatile essential skin care tool.
- What It’s Good For: Depuffing under-eye bags, reducing puffiness in the morning or after a flight.
- Specs: Plastic wand with a copper/aluminum alloy head for cold and heat therapy.
- Best For: Depuffing, firming
- How to Use: Glide the wand across clean, dry skin on areas needing treatment, such as under-eyes, cheeks, jawline, and forehead.
Best For Contouring: Jillian Dempsey Gold Bar
Jillian Dempsey Gold Sculpting Bar
- Why We Love It: Achieve Hollywood-level facial sculpting at home with the Jillian Dempsey Gold Bar. This facial toning device contours cheekbones, lifts the jawline, and massages tense brows, mimicking the touch of top facialists. Its 24-karat gold vibrating bar, operating at 6000 rotations per minute, enhances blood flow, relaxes muscles, reduces puffiness, and sculpts the face—a significant upgrade to your gua sha routine. It’s a luxurious and effective essential skin care tool.
- Type: Facial Massager
- What It’s Good For: Sculpts and defines cheekbones, jawline, chin, and neck areas.
- Specs: 24K gold plated vibrating bar with 6,000 rotations per minute
- Best For: Lifting, Toning, Contouring
- How to Use: Moisturize your skin, then move the bar upward along the jawline towards your temples for up to five minutes for optimal contouring and lifting effects.
Vogue senior beauty writer Kiana Murden using the Jillian Dempsey Gold Bar.
Video: Courtesy of Ingu Chen
Best for Acne: OmniLux Mini Blemish Eraser
Omnilux Mini Blemish Eraser
- Why We Love It: Speed up blemish clearing with the OmniLux Mini Blemish Eraser, an essential skin care tool for acne treatment. Unlike waiting days for patches or spot treatments to work, this device accelerates the process. It combines hydrocolloid patches infused with salicylic acid and green tea antioxidants with blue and red wavelength lights. Blue light targets surface bacteria, while red light reduces inflammation and redness. Its hands-free design allows for uninterrupted daily activities during treatment.
- Type: Silicone Mini LED device
- What It’s Good For: Targets expected/surprise breakouts, clinically proven to target acne-causing bacteria.
- Specs: FDA-cleared, two wavelengths: 415nm (blue) and 633nm (red)
- Best For: Acne, inflammation, redness
- How to Use: Apply the hydrocolloid patches to blemishes, then attach the device. Use for 10 minutes, four times weekly, until blemishes diminish.
Best for Microneedling: BeautyBio GloPRO Regeneration Tool
BeautyBio GloPRO Microneedling Rejuvenation Tool
- Why We Love It: For a poreless resolution in 2024, the BeautyBio GloPRO is a must-have essential skin care tool. This microneedling tool stimulates cellular turnover and collagen production, promoting wound healing. Just 60 seconds of daily use promises a plumper, more radiant complexion. Despite its intimidating appearance, it’s painless and enhances skincare absorption, leading to tighter, smoother skin with regular use three times a week.
- Type: Microneedling LED Light Tool
- What It’s Good For: Red LED light technology enhances the overall appearance of the skin through pulse stimulation.
- Specs: One light wavelength: red (620-625nm)
- Best For: Smoothing, retexturing
- How to Use: Sanitize skin with alcohol pads, then gently use the device on your face for 60 seconds. Immediately follow with serums to maximize absorption and results.
Best Dermaplaning Device: Dermaflash LUXE+ Advanced Sonic Dermaplaning Device
Dermaflash Luxe+ Dermaplaning & Peach Fuzz Removal Set
- Why We Love It: For efficient at-home facials, the Dermaflash LUXE+ is an essential skin care tool, featuring a two-in-one sonic extractor with a stainless steel spatula. In Extract mode, it gently removes blackheads, dirt, and oil. Infuse mode enhances serum penetration. When used with active ingredients, it significantly improves product absorption, maximizing skincare effectiveness.
- Type: Dermaplaning Device
- What It’s Good For: Exfoliates dead skin cells and eliminates the buildup of blackheads, dirt, and oil.
- Specs: Sonic dermaplaning system
- Best For: Blackheads, skincare absorption, peach fuzz removal
- How to Use: Prep skin with Preflash Essential Skin Prep to remove surface oils. Hold the device at a 45-degree angle and use short, feathery strokes on taut skin. Finish by applying your regular skincare products.
Best for Tense Muscles: Theraface PRO Microcurrent Facial Device
TheraFace Pro Microcurrent Facial Device
- Why We Love It: Finally, a facial device for those tempted to use a Theragun on their face. The TheraFace Pro is more than just a massager; it’s an 8-in-1 essential skin care tool offering diverse treatments through interchangeable heads. From percussive massage to LED light therapy and hot/cold sessions, it addresses a broad spectrum of skincare needs. Its versatility makes it ideal for relaxation and glam prep, endorsed by celebrity makeup artist Fiona Stiles.
- Editor’s experience: “For TMJ and facial muscle tension, no tool compares to the TheraFace Pro. The massage is incredibly soothing, and its ability to combine multiple treatments simultaneously, like LED light therapy with massage, is a huge plus.” —Kiana Murden, beauty shopping writer
- Type: Facial Massaging Device
- What It’s Good For: An 8-in-1 device featuring a facial massager, facial kit, and sculpting tool, equipped with LED Light Therapy for skin tightening and anti-aging care.
- Specs: Three light wavelengths: red, blue, and infrared
- Best For: Cleansing, sculpting, inflammation, acne, relieving tension
- How to Use: Apply conductive gel, select the microcurrent setting, and glide upward on all facial areas, including chin, cheekbones, nose, and temples. Rinse and pat skin dry post-treatment.
Vogue senior beauty writer Kiana Murden using the TheraFace Pro.
Video: Courtesy of Ingu Chen
Best Gua Sha: Mount Lai The Jade Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool
Mount Lai Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool
- Why We Love It: Combat puffy under-eyes with the Mount Lai gua sha tool, available in jade, rose quartz, black obsidian, and amethyst. Choose based on stone properties or preference. Gua sha, a traditional Chinese technique, boosts blood flow, lymphatic drainage, and tones skin through quick motions. This daily practice offers both visual and meditative benefits, making it a valuable essential skin care tool for any self-care routine.
- Editor’s experience: “Without naturally defined features, gua sha is my go-to for facial definition. Consistency is key; daily use has made a noticeable difference. It’s also travel-friendly, ensuring my routine isn’t interrupted on the go.” —Iman Balagam, contributor
- Type: Gua Sha Stone
- What It’s Good For: This is good for boosting circulation and sculpting the face.
- Specs: Made of 100% jade, rose quartz, black obsidian, or amethyst stone
- Best For: Puffiness, contouring, releasing tension, lymphatic drainage
- How to Use: Apply oil or serum, then glide the tool down the neck, across the forehead, gently around the eyes, contour the cheeks, and sculpt the jawline.
Best Infrared Sauna Blanket: Higher Dose Infrared Sauna Blanket
Higher Dose Infrared Sauna Blanket
- Why We Love It: For those lacking space or budget for a traditional sauna, the Higher Dose Infrared Sauna Blanket is an excellent alternative, offering similar benefits in a portable, storable format. It utilizes far infrared rays for detoxification, simulating a light workout by increasing heart rate. Beyond detox and calorie burning, it reduces stress, elevates mood, enhances circulation, and promotes radiant skin. It’s a comprehensive essential skin care tool for full-body wellness.
- Editor’s experience: “I’ve been using my sauna blanket religiously for over four years. It’s my go-to for relaxation and focused work sessions. Though I don’t sweat easily, magnesium spray enhances the effect. Hydration is key – drink plenty of water before and after use to avoid dehydration.” —Iman Balagam, contributor
- Type: Sauna Blanket
- What It’s Good For: Made of water-resistant, elevated Polyurethane and infrared heat to promote a full-body sweat. Also contains charcoal boosts and crystals to deepen the benefits and generate negative ions.
- Specs: The blanket ranges from 68 to 158 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Best For: Detoxing, burning calories, boosting mood, glowing skin, reducing stress, increase blood flow
- How to Use: Wear full-coverage clothing and socks or use a blanket insert. Preheat for 10 minutes on a heat-resistant surface. Zip in for 30-45 minutes, followed by a cool shower.
Best Face Roller: Herbivore Stone Facial Roller
Herbivore Stone Facial Roller
- Why We Love It: Classic face rollers, such as the Herbivore Stone Facial Roller, are renowned for enhancing circulation, easing muscle tension, and promoting skin radiance. This jade roller, crafted from ethically sourced, high-quality stones, is both effective and stylish. It’s an essential skin care tool for lymphatic drainage and sinus relief, particularly beneficial for allergy sufferers.
- Type: Jade Stone Roller
- What It’s Good For: Helps boost circulation, relax muscle tension, and promote a radiant glow.
- Specs: Jade facial roller
- Best For: Puffiness, fine lines, detoxing
- How to Use: Apply face oil, then roll from the face’s center outwards and upwards, and down the neck’s sides. Refrigerate the roller for an enhanced cooling effect.
Best Korean Skincare Tool for Glass Skin: Medicube Age-R Booster Pro
Medicube Age-R Booster Pro
- Why We Love It: Leading Korean beauty innovation, the Medicube Age-R Booster Pro is a valuable essential skin care tool for achieving the sought-after “glass skin” look. Utilizing Electroporation, it effectively delivers skincare products deeper into the skin without needles, enhancing ingredient absorption by up to 785% as shown in clinical trials. With four modes and daily usability for all skin types, it transforms daily skincare into a spa-like experience.
- Editor’s experience: “Hailey Bieber’s TikTok introduced me to the Medicube Age-R Booster Pro, and it’s now a staple. This K-Beauty tool is simple, painless, and noticeably improves skin plumpness and glossiness after each use. It’s perfect for pre-vacation skin prep!” —Kiana Murden, senior beauty shopping writer
- Type: Facial Treatment Device
- What It’s Good For: Enhanced radiance, elasticity, pore care, and facial contouring.
- Specs: Electrical stimulation
- Best For: Hydration, plumping
- How to Use: Cleanse your skin and apply skincare products. Turn on the device and choose between watering (circular motions), boosting (sliding), or focus (pressing) methods to enhance product absorption.
Vogue senior beauty writer Kiana Murden using the Medicube Age-R Booster Pro.
Video: Courtesy of Ingu Chen
Best for Big Events: ZIIP Halo
Ziip Halo
- Why We Love It: The ZIIP Halo is an indispensable essential skin care tool, especially before significant events where photos are expected. Its microcurrent technology, though advanced, is painless, feeling like a gentle vibration. With 26 waveform and intensity combinations via an app, it offers diverse treatments ensuring consistent results without monotony. Vogue editors confirm its worth, noting its immediate lifting and contouring effects.
- Editor’s experience: “The Ziip Halo delivered immediate eyebrow lift and cheekbone contouring upon first use, explaining its popularity among celebrities before red carpet events.” — Veronica Cristino, Contributor
- Type: Microcurrent tool
- Specs: 50 Hz frequency, 900 nanoamps to 400 microamps power levels
- What It’s Good For: For those who want an immediate lifting effect in anticipation of an important event, such as a wedding or red carpet.
- Best For: Dark circles, fine lines, wrinkles, texture
- How to Use: Apply Electric Complex Gel to clean, dry skin, then activate the device via globes or the ZIIP App. Use three to five times weekly for six weeks for optimal results. Conduct a sensitivity test before initial use.
Best Dry Brush: Goop Beauty Ultimate Dry Brush
Goop Beauty Ultimate Dry Brush
- Why We Love It: The Goop Beauty Ultimate Dry Brush stands out from flimsy, harsh dry brushes. Made with gentle yet effective natural sisal, it exfoliates and removes dead skin cells. Its user-friendly handle ensures comprehensive reach. It’s an essential skin care tool for achieving smooth, glowing skin through effective exfoliation.
- Editor’s experience: “As a Gwyneth Paltrow devotee, I’m naturally a fan of dry brushing. This Goop brush is gentle yet effective, leaving my skin incredibly soft. The ritualistic aspect, followed by a rich body oil, is also a cherished part of my routine.” — Iman Balagam, Contributor
- Type: Body Brush
- What It’s Good For: Exfoliates and sweeps away dead skin to reveal glowing, smooth skin.
- Specs: Brush made from pure natural sisal
- Best For: Exfoliation, circulation
- How to Use: Use on dry skin before showering. Brush upwards towards the heart, starting from the feet, using small strokes or circular motions for 3-5 minutes.
Best For Skincare Absorption: Droplette
Droplette Microinfusion Device
- Why We Love It: The Droplette Microinfusion Device, integral to Brooke Shields’ beauty regimen, enhances skincare efficacy by improving ingredient penetration at a molecular level. This egg-shaped device delivers an aerosol mist of tiny droplets past the skin barrier, making ingredients more effective than topical application. Capsules include collagen, glycolic acid, growth factors, and retinol for diverse skincare needs. It’s an essential skin care tool for maximizing product benefits.
- Editor’s experience: “I never considered product wastage until Droplette significantly improved my skin hydration, reduced redness, and increased plumpness. Skincare is an investment, and Droplette maximizes it! The hyaluronic acid lip plumping capsule is also my secret for events, offering a filler-like boost without injections.” —Iman Balagam, contributor
- Type: Skincare Device
- What It’s Good For: Needle-free technology that delivers ingredients like collagen and retinol 20 times deeper into the skin.
- Specs: Micro-infusion Technology, Charging Adapter
- Best For: Skincare absorption, plumping, hydration
- How to Use: Insert a serum capsule until it clicks. Tilt your head back, position the device half an inch from your skin, and move the mist in slow circles across your face, following a recommended pattern starting from the right cheek.
Best for Skin Tightening: Currentbody RF Radio Frequency Device
Currentbody RF Radio Frequency Skin Tightening Device
- Why We Love It: Radio frequency (RF) technology is gaining recognition for its skin benefits. RF devices heat the skin to stimulate collagen production, tighten tissue, and enhance skin quality, as dermatologist Brendan Camp explains. The Currentbody RF Radio Frequency Device makes this treatment accessible at home, maintaining skin at 104 degrees Fahrenheit to tighten skin, reduce wrinkles, and improve texture. It’s an essential skin care tool for at-home skin firming.
- Editor’s Experience: “The Currentbody RF device delivers a gentle, comfortable heat. Its sensor maintains the ideal 104°F for collagen production. I focus on areas like my forehead and laugh lines. ” —Iman Balagam, contributor
- Type: Skin-care device
- What It’s Good For: Excellent for at-home radio frequency designed to tighten skin and spur collagen production with consistent use.
- Specs: FDA-cleared
- Best For: Collagen production, firming, improving skin texture
- How to Use: Apply radio frequency gel to clean, dry skin and glide the device in circular motions. Use for up to 70 minutes or follow the device’s five-minute regimens for targeted treatment.
What is the difference between different beauty technologies?
- LED Light Therapy: Esthetician Elizabeth Hand describes LED light therapy as a non-invasive treatment using specific light wavelengths for various skin concerns. Devices with both red and blue lights are crucial; red light boosts collagen and healing, while blue light targets acne bacteria. It’s a foundational essential skin care tool for diverse skin issues.
- Microcurrent: Microcurrent technology uses low-level electrical currents to tone facial muscles, mimicking the body’s natural impulses to improve muscle tone and firmness, explains Hand.
- Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy involves brief exposure to freezing temperatures for therapeutic benefits, reducing inflammation and swelling for a refreshed appearance, according to Hand.
- Facial Massage: Facial massage, using hands or tools, stimulates blood flow, delivering nutrients and oxygen for a radiant complexion. It also aids lymphatic drainage, reducing puffiness. Hand emphasizes it as the “easiest at-home treatment.”
- Laser: The Lyma Laser, the first FDA-cleared at-home laser, reduces aging signs, wrinkles, and pigmentation. It penetrates deep into the dermis, triggering cell regeneration and increased collagen and elastin production, explains Hand.
- Microneedling: Microneedling, or collagen induction therapy, creates micro-injuries with fine needles to stimulate collagen and elastin production, explains Hand, promoting skin renewal.
- Dermaplaning: Dermaplaning uses a blade to remove vellus hair and dead skin cells, smoothing skin and improving product penetration, explains Hand. Frequency depends on hair growth, typically every two to four weeks, and best left to professionals as emphasized later in the article.
- Radio Frequency: Radio frequency devices use electromagnetic waves to generate heat, stimulating collagen production and improving skin firmness. Consistent at-home use can yield results similar to professional treatments, according to aesthetician Athena Hewett.
How do you choose the right beauty tool for you?
Choosing the right beauty tool depends on your skin goals, concerns, and timeline, advises Hand. Consider factors like wedding preparation or holidays. Research expert-recommended tools for home use, especially for sensitive skin. Consulting an aesthetician is advisable. Hand recommends LED masks as universally beneficial Essential Skin Care Tools.
Are at-home beauty tools worth investing in?
At-home beauty tools are a worthwhile investment, according to Hand, but emphasize they are not substitutes for a solid skincare routine. For home use, avoid dermaplaning and microneedling due to potential risks; these are best left to professionals.
Meet the Experts
- Dr. Melanie Palm – Dermatologist
- Dr. Noah Gratch – Board-certified dermatologist
- Dr. Lauren Penzi – Dermatologist
- Blair Murphy-Rose – Board-certified dermatologist
- Elizabeth Hand – Esthetician
- Athena Hewett – Celebrity aesthetician
- Brendan Camp – Board-certified dermatologist
