Beauty devices that treat ALL manners of skin concerns are my crack.
These days, any extra money I save goes towards fuelling my skin care addiction. I fill drawer upon drawer with buzzing gadgets and elaborate contraptions, chasing the ultimate goal of a flawless complexion and covetable glass skin. Do I really need a jade roller and a dermaroller? A facial steamer and a pore extractor? I only have one face, after all.
But maybe my skin is so un-problematic because of my arsenal of skincare products and tools. I guess we’ll never know. It’s a regular chicken-or-the-egg paradox.
Whatever, it’s my birthday (🥳)and I’ll buy ALL the beauty devices if I want to. Plus, it seems like a better investment than wasting money on piles of make-up. Or at least that’s how I justify it 😬
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From facial toning devices to ancient gua sha, there are beauty devices to solve any skincare concerns you may be suffering from, whether you’re struggling with congested pores, wrinkles or acne. The question is: Which ones are worth investing in?
Here are quicklinks to some of the best in the skincare industry:
Best Beauty Devices
NuFACE Trinity Facial Toning Device
Skin Concerns:
Fine Lines, Wrinkles, Puffiness, Loss of Elasticity, Collagen Production, Improving Firmness and Complexion.
Beauty Device:
Using beauty devices that implement microcurrent technology, like the NuFACE Trinity ($479), is like doing sit-ups for your face. It’s a high tech tool that applies low-level electrical currents to stimulate the underlying facial muscles to lift, firm, and tone the skin for a more sculpted visage.
Need more convincing? The NuFACE Trinity is used by celebs like Jennifer Aniston, Miranda Kerr and Jessica Alba, who appear as if they’re Benjamin Button-ing before our very eyes.
While it might be pricy and time-consuming AF (they say it only takes 5-minutes to use but from personal experience, it has never been less than 20) it’s definitely worth it. That is, if you have to possess the motivation and/or discipline to use it on the regular.
How To Use Skin Tool:
You have to use the NuFACE Trinity 5 days a week for the first 60 days then you can pare down to 2-3 days a week for maintenance. Wash your face for a clean canvas and apply the conducive gel in sections. Glide the device along neck and contours of the face as instructed. If you’re using the NuFACE Gel Primer, you can leave it on, otherwise wash your face and continue with your usual skincare steps.
Why I’m Obsessed:
I saw a difference immediately! My jaw looked SNATCHED, my cheeks looked plump and contoured and my complexion was glowing. I use the eye attachment to lift the corner or my eyebrow, making my eyes look brighter.
Alternative:
If the price tag makes your heart stop, opt for the slightly cheaper Foreo Bear ($399) or the NuFACE Mini ($238) that slashes the price in half. However, both of these alternatives lack the Facial Trainer attachment that lets you to target the crevices around the eye and mouth area.
BeautyBio GloPRO Microneedling Regeneration Tool
Skin Concerns:
Uneven Skin Texture, Acne Scars, Hyperpigmentation, Stretch Marks, Collagen Production, Hair Loss or Thinning, Cellulite
Beauty Device:
Of all the beauty devices that I’ve ever heard about, the BeautyBio GloPRO Microneedling Regeneration Tool ($249) sounds the most terrifying. It’s a facial tool, or dermaroller, with a small wheel covered in 540 tiny needles (!) that rolls over the face and gently pricks the skin. EXCUSE ME, WHAT?! It’s been described as “hardly painful” which is hardly reassuring.
The “micro-injuries” inflicted by the dermaroller triggers the skins natural healing process and kicks the production of collagen and elastin into high gear. The result is a tighter complexion, microscopic pores and skin that is as plump as a baby’s. It also helps the absorption and overall effectiveness of serums and moisturizers by 200 times!
How To Use Skin Tool:
Wash and exfoliate your face with a gentle chemical peel before applying a serum, preferably one with hyaluronic acid or peptides (avoid vitamin C and retinol as they may cause irritation). Glide the skin tool over the face in quadrants — don’t press too hard! Follow the process up with a hydrating or nourish serum to maximum impact. Disinfect thoroughly.
Why I’m Obsessed:
I like that it emits a red LED light to address skin concerns like acne and inflammation. Plus, the needle head can be switched out for a rose quartz roller attachment for a more soothing experience.
Alternative:
The ORA Facial Microneedle Roller System ($30) is highly rated and a fraction of the cost. It’s a great option if you want to dip your toes into this intimidating skincare treatment.
Vanity Planet Aira Ionic Facial Steamer
Skin Concerns:
Clogged pores, Aging Skin, Dryness, Dehydration, Large Pores
Beauty Device:
Do you ever notice how rosy and soft your skin looks when you emerge from the sauna? You can achieve the same effect with the Vanity Planet Aira Ionic Facial Steamer ($95.99) that blasts pleasantly warm, moist air into your face. The steam encourages the pores to open and softens the oil deposits for easy removal. The ion generator in the Vanity Planet facial steamer goes one step further by enriching the molecules in the water so the steam can penetrate and clean more deeply. Goodbye breakouts!
In addition to decongesting the pores of impurities, softening the outer layer of the skin also helps the penetration and effectiveness of topical skincare products. Double whammy!
How To Use Skin Tool:
Thoroughly clean your face before using. Fill the tank with distilled water to avoid mineral build-up in the facial steamer. Post-steaming, rinse face and pat dry before applying skincare treatments — like a peel, clarifying mask, or any product with active ingredients — to take advantage of your freshly opened pores.
Why I’m Obsessed:
I try not to play favourites when it comes to my beauty devices, but the Vanity Planet Facial Steamer is THE MOST enjoyable. It’s like a mini at-home spa experience with essential oil basket to add my favourite soothing lavender oil into. I love the streamlined, ergonomic design with the adjustable nozzle (so you don’t have to crouch to get your face in the steam) and little suction cup feet on the bottom to keep it from sliding around.
Alternative:
If money is no object then The Dr. Dennis Gross Pro Facial Steamer ($188.81) is a quality option. It’s a reputable brand known for producing impactful products aimed at mature skin.
LightStim for Wrinkles
Skin Concerns:
Wrinkles (duh), Fine Lines, Aging Skin, Large Pores
Beauty Device:
Sun damage is real, but LED (Light Emitting Diode) therapy gives off red wavelengths to deliver a hefty dose of light energy to the skin for numerous benefits. Initially developed by NASA, LED light accelerates the skin’s healing response as well as prompts collagen and elastin production for smooth and firm skin.
The handheld LightStim for Wrinkles ($324) will help you turn back the clock — or at least the appearance of it — by treating fine lines and wrinkles. According to NYC dermatologist Howard Sobel, MD, “The light receptors in molecules react to varying frequencies, which is why different colors of light have different skin benefits.”
How To Use Skin Tool:
Cleanse face (are you noticing a trend here?), apply a serum, then hold LightStim in one area until the skincare device beeps. Move on to another area until you’ve completed your entire face.
Why I’m Obsessed:
It fascinates me that different colour lights have varying effects on the skin. For example, the LightStim for Acne emits LED light with blue and red wavelengths to combat redness and treat mild to moderate breakouts. Plus, the heat of the device increases circulation, decreases inflammation AND is as soothing as a cup of tea on a rainy afternoon.
Alternative:
The Foreo UFO ($259) is slightly cheaper and is positioned as a “transcendent smart mask treatment.” It also boasts a pleasant warming sensation but is a bit finicky, requiring the use of specific, circular Foreo masks that get quite costly.
For a splurge, check out the DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro ($555). It may make you look like you belong in a horror flick, but it does double duty with red AND blue light to combat fine lines and bacteria at the same time (or switch between the two lights).
Sarah Chapman’s The Facialift
Skin Concerns:
Puffiness, Dull Complexion, Detoxifying, Jaw Tension
Beauty Device:
Compared to the other beauty devices we’ve looked at so far, this facial massager from British celebrity facialist Sarah Chapman, appears whimsically innocuous. The Facialift ($52.50) looks like a large wishbone with a main handle that branches off into two prongs with 8 rotating heads and 48 massaging nodules. It also has a small round paddle at the end of the handle meant to tap around the eyes and face to get that blood flow pumping for maximum skin plumpness.
In general, facial massagers increase the blood flow to the face to brighten the skin, while simultaneously draining toxins to reduce puffiness. They also lifts the skin and can provide relief to nighttime teeth grinders by massaging the jaw to release tension.
How To Use Skin Tool:
Make sure your face and the face massager is clean before applying a serum or moisturizer to help the tool roll around with ease. Using an anti-aging product in tandem with The Facialift will boost its effects. Roll around the face, neck and jawline (especially if you experience jaw tightness) at least 6 times in each direction before using the end to tap.
Why I’m Obsessed:
Not gonna lie, using The Facialift makes me giggle. It looks so funny to be rolling this eccentric-looking contraption around my face! But I can’t deny that using this skincare tool to massage my forehead and jaw after a tough day is verrryyy relaxing, letting go of all the tension I was unknowing holding in my face.
Alternative:
If you’re not into beauty tools with lots of bells and whistles, opt for this facial roller ($30) from The Body Shop. Compact and easy to grip in one hand, you can pamper and relax your face muscles.
This particular set by Yeamon ($29.99) is battery operated and vibrate to help tone skin and help skincare products penetrate deeper. It comes with a 3D Roller and a T-shaped massager in a luxe gold.
Lanshin Pro Gua Sha Tool
Skin Concerns:
Lymphatic Drainage, Increased Circulation, Collagen Production, Brighter Complexion, Sculpting Facial Muscles, Diminishing Appearance of Dark Circles
Beauty Device:
Gua Sha is a natural healing technique with roots in ancient Chinese medicine that dates back centuries. The word derives from gua, meaning “scrape,” and sha, meaning “sand,” and uses a smooth, curved stone in a scraping motion. Gua sha can be used all over the body — to move energy, or “chi,” around — but it’s particularly effective for the face.
For a high-quality gua sha designed by an acupuncturist who specializes in facial rejuvenation, go for the Lanshin Pro Gua Sha Tool ($125). It’s made of gleaming black nephrite (jade) that addresses all manners of issues, from protecting against infections to cleansing the body of toxins.
How To Use Skin Tool:
Cleanse face and apply an oil-based serum for the gua sha to glide with ease. Use various shaped sides of gua sha to apply gentle pressure and even strokes in the direction of lymphatic draining, starting at the centre of the face and scraping outwards.
Why I’m Obsessed:
I try to pack a carry-on whenever I travel, so I love how low-maintenance and compact the gua sha is. It doesn’t require plugs, outlets or batteries and you can pretty much use it anywhere. Plus, the black jade, often used as a talisman of good luck, has a luxurious feel and heft to it.
Alternative:
Looking for a more budget-friendly option? Check out the Mount Lai Gua Sha($28-$34) — it comes in jade, amethyst, rose quartz and obsidian for different healing properties. AND it’s carbon neutral!
Mount Lai Jade Facial Roller
Skin Concerns:
Puffiness, Lymphatic Drainage, Dull Complexion, Detoxifying, Boost Circulation
Beauty Device:
Does it seem a bit silly to sweep what looks like a fancy paint roller over my face? Yes, but no more silly than the rest of the beauty devices I’ve listed in this post. Jade rollers are rooted in ancient Chinese medicine dating back to the 7th century. Believed to impart healing energy, jade is used to promote calm, positivity and balance.
The De-puffing Jade Facial Roller by Mount Lai ($50) is considered to be one of the best jade rollers. It’s an aesthetically-pleasing (see: IG-worthy) handheld tool with two stone heads made of Xiyuan jade on either end. Give your face an enjoyable massage that will drain stagnant lymphatic fluid holding toxins and tension, blocked by jaw-clenching, facial expressions and stressors.
How To Use Skin Tool:
Wash face and apply an oil-based serum to allow the jade roller to glide with ease. Start from the centre of the face and roll lymph in one direction (not back-and-forth like you’re painting a wall) towards outer edges of the face. Pro tip: Pop the jade roller in the fridge if you want it to be extra chill and more effective for de-puffing.
Why I’m Obsessed:
If you were trying to decide between a gua sha and a jade roller, while gua sha you get more focused results, a jade roller is much more straight forward to use. You just roll and go! It’s a soothing sensation to glide the cool jade over the planes of your face, perfect to de-puff in the morning or unwind at the end of the day.
Alternative:
Constructed out of aventurine jade, the Jade Facial Roller by Herbivore Botanicals ($40), is another popular choice.
Dermapore Pore Extractor & Serum Infuser
Skin Concerns:
Dryness, Dehydration, Acne, Oily Skin, Large Pores, Blackheads, Whiteheads
Beauty Device:
“Ew…but yasssss!” That was my reaction to using the Dermapore Pore Extractor and Serum Infuser by Dermaflash ($129). It’s an electric dermaplaning tool that uses ultrasonic waves to remove dead skin cells and clear pores to smooth skin. On the flip side (literally), it has an “infuse” function that uses pulsations to break down the particles of serums in order to penetrate the epidermis more deeply.
Sometimes referred to as a skin spatula, you can witness (with grossed-out fascination) as gunk mined out of your skin before your eyes. Instant gratification.
How To Use Skin Tool:
Cleanse face thoroughly of make-up. Ensure skin is very wet throughout the process. Press Extract Mode and use gentle pressure at a 45-degree angle with the edged side of the device and glide around particularly congested problem areas. Rinse face and clean the device before applying serum or moisturizer and switching to Infuse Mode and using the flat side of the spatula to glide around skin.
Why I’m Obsessed:
You know when you watch those pimple-popping videos and you’re repulsed but at the same time, you feel a deep-seated satisfaction? You’ll experience that with this skincare device 100%. Plus, the design is so visually appealing with its smooth edges and pastel hues.
Alternative:
At a fraction of the price, the Miserwe Skin Scrubber ($36.99) gets great reviews and comes with two different silicone covers with different textures for varying exfoliating intensities. I love the gradient Skin Scrubber Face Spatula by JOYJULY ($109.65) too!
Since there are no occasions to get dressed up for or put on make-up, skin care is one of the few things that are making me feel better during lockdown. It’s especially important with winter drying up my skin!
It’s not necessary to buy every single device on this list; it depends on your specific skin concerns. I would splurge on tools that address your biggest complexion woes and save on ones that you’re just curious about.
Going broke on purchasing skin care tools? Save some coin with these budget-friendly but effective Japanese skincare products.
Keep your stalking game strong and follow me @teriaki if you aren’t already!
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