At home facials have come a long way. There are more beauty tools for you to use on your face than ever before! But, what are all these skin care devices, gadgets, and tools, how do they work, what do they do and are any of them right for you?
While I can be a big sucker for anything that looks like it’ll erase years from my face, I’ve learned the hard (and expensive) way that not everything is the fountain of youth it promises to be.
Sometimes, that pricey gadget gets you the same results as a drugstore exfoliator.
Other times, the skin care tool will actually give you the glowing baby soft skin of your dreams.
At-Home Skin Care Tools & Devices That WORK:
This beauty class is going to do a deep dive into the world of skin care tools and devices to give you the info you need to make the right choices for your skin.
Covering 20 of the newest, hottest skin care devices and tools – you’ll be armed with a bevy of possible products that can eradicate whatever skin care concern you have.
And, just so you know, none of these companies are paying me, none of them have sent me free products, and I don’t owe any of them any favors. With that said, some are affiliate links and that means I’ll get a small comish if you try them, too. This just helps offset the cost of running the blog.
Let’s dive in so you can tap the fountain of youth so we can age like Jennifer Aniston.
#LongLiveTheQueen
1. PMD Beauty: Personal MicroDermabrasion Device
What is it?
The PMD is a personal microdermabrasion device that mimics the results you might get at an in-office microdermabrasion treatment.
How does it work?
A spinning exfoliating disc sits below an open cap, creating a gentle suction that is suppose to exfoliate your skin, removing the top layer of dull, dead skin cells. The suction also creates increased circulation, boosting collagen and elastin production – resulting in a fresher, plumper, rosier complexion.
Who should use it?
The PMD is designed for anyone who wants plumper skin, reduction of fine lines, scars, blemishes, and other skin marks. If you’re not struggling with any fine lines or skin discoloration, you will probably get great results with a good glycolic acid or vitamin c serum.
Does it work?
I personally bought a PMD last year. I’d seen it on so many Instagram posts and blog posts that I just had to try it. There is a bit of a learning curve, even for a skin care veteran like myself. After figuring out how to use it, I did see some slightly plumper, rosier skin – but I just don’t do it very often. Most nights I barely have the energy to slap on a night cream. I would like to use it more in the future, though.
Read more about the PMD Personal Microdermabrasion Device here.
2. PMD Beauty: PMD Clean
What is it?
The PMD Clean is a vibrating face cleaning device. What’s neat about the Clean is that it is made from silicone, which is very easy to clean, resilient, antibacterial, waterproof, and other things.
How does it work?
Supposedly, it vibrates 7,000 times a minute, which would definitely do a deep clean and exfoliation on your skin. When you’re finished, you just rinse the brush, which never needs replacing, and then you can use it again to help serums or oils sink in. The vibration would also be a nice way to help reduce tension in your face and encourage circulation.
Who should use it?
The Clean is a fit for anyone who wants a nice face massage.
Does it work?
Yes, I can imagine it would feel quite nice, too! This reminds me of the Clarisonic – but that brush did need replacing and was harder to keep clean.
Read more about the PMD Clean here.
3. PMD Beauty: PMD Kiss
What is it?
The PMD Kiss is an anti-aging, lip plumping treatment.
How does it work?
Similar to the PMD, the Kiss uses a light suction along with the included serum to plump lips and give them a rosy glow. The gentle vacuum suction is said to increase the collagen and elastin production, too. The serum has hyaluronic acids, which increases our skins ability to retain water, so that would also help with temporary plumping as well.
Who should use it?
The Kiss is a fit for anyone who wants plumper, rosier lips without injections.
Does it work?
Yes, the combination of the serum ingredients and suction would temporarily increase the look of your lips. It won’t be a permanent solution, but you could use the Kiss regularly to maintain results.
Read more about the PMD Kiss here.
4. Herbivore Jade Face Roller
What is it?
The jade face roller is an affordable ($30) skin-care tool that you simply roll up and down your face for a relaxing facial massage. There are two stone sizes on each end of the roller designed to fit in different areas of the face. This image is of the Herbivore roller, but there are lots of jade rollers in different price points.
How does it work?
The jade roller uses jade crystals for facial healing. Crystal healing has been used throughout history to create youthful, smooth skin. Also, the gentle massage of the face releases tension, relaxes muscles, as well as increases circulation. If you suffer from any kind of inflammation in your face, you’ll really enjoy the relaxing qualities of face rollers and how they help your facial lymphatic system drain. You can use it after putting on a face oil or serum to really increase absorption and efficacy.
Who should use it?
The jade roller is great for all skin types and ages. Any person who wants to relax their face, increase circulation and encourage proper drainage would enjoy using the jade roller.
Does it work?
I’m not sure that I saw a remarkable improvement in fine lines or skin marks, but I definitely appreciated the relaxing qualities of using it.
Read more about the Herbivore Jade Face Roller
5. Skin Gym Rose Quartz Face Roller
What is it?
The rose quartz face roller is an affordable ($28) skin-care tool that you simply roll up and down your face for a relaxing facial massage. There are two stone sizes on each end of the roller designed to fit in different areas of the face.
How does it work?
The rose quartz roller uses rose quartz crystals for facial healing. Crystal healing has been used throughout history to create youthful, smooth skin. Also, the gentle massage of the face releases tension, relaxes muscles, as well as increases circulation. If you suffer from any kind of inflammation in your face, you’ll really enjoy the relaxing qualities of face rollers and how they help your facial lymphatic system drain. You can use it after putting on a face oil or serum to really increase absorption and efficacy.
Who should use it?
The rose quartz roller is great for all skin types and ages. Any person who wants to relax their face, increase circulation and encourage proper drainage would enjoy using the rose quartz roller.
Does it work?
I preferred the rose quartz roller to the jade for some reason. It could have been that the design made it easier and the rollers worked more smoothly. Could be that I found it more aesthetically pleasing. Or, maybe there really is something to the crystal healing. However, my skin looked the same as when using the jade roller – so pick your poison.
Read more about the Skin Gym Rose Quartz Face Roller
6. Neutrogena Light Therapy Acne Mask
What is it?
The Neutrogena Light Therapy Acne Mask is another affordable ($30) skin-care tool that mimics light therapy masks that have been only available in a dermatologist’s office.
How does it work?
The mask uses blue light technology to target acne bacteria so the skin can be allowed to heal itself. The red light reduces inflammation associated with skin level breakouts, swelling, and pain. The mask is easy to use – after cleansing, you put the mask on for 10 minutes, relax, and let the mask do its work. It’s a chemical free, clinically proven acne treatment.
Who should use it?
The Neutrogena Light Therapy Acne Mask is designed for people suffering from breakouts, acne, cystic acne, and other bacterial skin conditions.
Does it work?
While I haven’t tried it personally, I do wish treatments like this were around when I was in college and suffered from adult on-set acne – because the treatments available were much more severe and had a lot of side effects. For the price and the safety, it really would be worth a try.
Read more about the Neutrogena Light Therapy Acne Mask
7. GloPro Microneedling Regeneration Tool
What is it?
The Beauty Bio GloPro Microneedling Regeneration Tool is a tool that is supposed to trigger the skin’s natural healing process by creating a ton of small surface level skin pricks.
How does it work?
When you roll the GloPro over your face, 540 stainless steel microneedles puncture your skin, removing dead skin and allowing products to deeply penetrate. The skin is stimulated to regenerate and heal. When you use the LED light function, their research says, “Cells exposed to LED light grow an overwhelmingly 150 to 200 percent faster than unstimulated cells.” The result is firmer, more youthful skin.
Who should use it?
If you’re looking to see significant improvements in skin product efficacy or in the appearance of your skin, you may be up for the microneedling tool.
Does it work?
I really try to stay away from needles and pain at all costs, I have talked to several people who absolutely swear by it and read a lot of positive reviews online. Supposedly, the needles are so small you barely feel them. It’s nothing like the injectables at a derm’s office. Who knows, in a few years, I may get desperate and give it a go.
Read more about the Beauty Bio GloPro Microneedling Tool
8. La Roche-Posay Skin Track pH
What is it?
The La Roche-Posay Skin Track pH is a small, flexible, adhesive skin sensor that tracks your skin pH levels from your sweat in your pores. The Skin Track takes approximately 15 minutes to give an accurate reading of your skin pH levels.
How does it work?
Since healthy skin pH levels are important to skin balance and unhealthy levels have been linked to inflammatory reactions such as eczema, acne, rosacea and more, the Skin Track allows you to have a clear understanding of what your levels are and how you can balance them if needed. The ideal skin pH is 5.5 and using the Skin Track can help you get there.
Who should use it?
Anyone struggling to find the right skin care products or suffering from skin inflammation issues they can’t seem to get under control.
Does it work?
Initial studies and tests have gone well. The product is still not available to the public, but should be released in 2019.
Read more about the La Roche-Posay Skin Track pH
9. LightStim for Wrinkles
What is it?
The LightStim offers professional strength LED light therapy device designed to treat wrinkles on the entire face.
How does it work?
Each LightStim device uses clinical strength wavelengths that reduce fine lines, wrinkles, increase circulation and help treat acne. Similar to how the sun powers flowers and helps them grow, the LightStim feeds extremely beneficial, safe colored wavelengths to the skin. Since the LightStim is completely non-invasive, there’s no recovery time or pain involved.
Who should use it?
The LightStim is specifically designed to reduce the look of wrinkles.
Does it work?
LightStim studies have shown a shocking 100% of users saw a reduction in the look of fine lines and wrinkles! I will definitely be trying this when I start to see signs of aging that my products and masks can’t help improve.
Read more about the LightStim for Wrinkles
10. Skin Inc. Supplement Bar Optimizer Voyage Tri-Light – Rose Gold Limited Edition
What is it?
The Skin Inc. Supplement Bar in the limited edition rose gold is one of the prettiest skin care devices on this list. The Skin Inc. is an at-home spa device.
How does it work?
Using NASA-inspired LED chromotherapy and low frequency stimulation, the Skin Inc. Supplement Bar gives you spa results in the comfort of your own home. The Skin Inc. Optimizer Voyage Tri-Light focuses on giving you five skin benefits—Revive, Glow, Soothe, Optimize, and V-Sculpt. Similar to some other devices, you would apply an included mask or serum, follow directions, then use the Voyage to rub around your face and neck for up to 10 minutes, twice daily, avoiding eyes. The Voyage requires batteries and needs to be cleaned with a damp towel.
Who should use it?
The Skin Inc. Optimizer Voyage Tri-Light should be used by anyone looking for spa style facial results at home and would like to sooth, smooth and brighten skin.
Does it work?
The response to the Voyager has been so intense at times that it has sold out. Reviews are rolling in hot and the Voyage continues to make lists of top skin care devices to try. Very compelling!
Read more about the Skin Inc. Optimizer Voyage Tri-Lite Here.
11. Sphynx 3-in-1 Portable Razor
What is it?
The Sphynx 3-in-1 Portable Razor is the perfect skin razor for the person who hates hair so much, they need a razor in their purse (just be sure to check it before getting on a plane). The Sphynx is not designed to replace your at-home shaving routine completely.
How does it work?
Pretty simple – the Sphynx is a small, handheld razor that can also can hold some water and a small shave bar. You would just twist the dial to release some of the water, twist the dial to lift the shave bar and rub it over the area, and then twist again to reveal the razor and shave. It’s small, cute, handheld, and super affordable – ringing in at only $15.
Who should use it?
Anyone obsessed with being able to shave at any time. Reviews say things like – they used it when they were wearing a tank top and forgot to shave or they were at work and realized they only shaved one knee.
Does it work?
Absolutely. It’s a small, adorable razor. For me, I could see the value in throwing it in the gym bag or taking it on vacation when we go to Hawaii. At $15 – there’s not much risk.
Read more about the Sphynx 3-in-1 Razor here.
12. Dermaflash 2.0 Luxe Facial Exfoliating Device
What is it?
The Dermaflash 2.0 LUXE Facial Exfoliating Device is inspired by dermaplaning and is designed to gently remove the outermost layer of the skin, including peach fuzz. The result is a smoother, more even surface for makeup application.
How does it work?
The Dermaflash uses a gentle sonic vibration and a stainless steel edge to gently remove the top layer of dead skin cells and fine hairs. The clinical studies have shown that the Dermaflash is gentle enough for those with sensitive skin, has helped with rejuvenating uneven skin tone, and is safe enough to be used even on the day of a special event. There is no downtime associated with using the Dermaflash.
Who should use it?
The Dermaflash is designed for anyone who would like a more even, healthy looking skin tone and complexion.
Does it work?
The clinical studies are captivating! Very high marks in all categories and the reviews are glorious. Some people express concerns with the Dermaflash increasing hair growth and thickness, but because of the dermaplaning technique, the results should be similar to waxing, where the hair eventually grows back softer and less thick. I waxed my eyebrows for so many years, they just stopped growing back. I don’t even have to pluck them anymore, so the idea behind the Dermaflash has me very intrigued! I would really love to try this one.
Read more about the Dermaflash 2.0 Luxe here.
13. NuFace Trinity Facial Toning Device
What is it?
The award-winning NuFace Trinity Facial Toning Kit stimulates the facial muscles using a microcurrent therapy attachment.
How does it work?
The NuFace Trinity Facial Toning Kit has received multiple awards for it’s effective skin care regimen reduce wrinkles, improve facial contours and smooth complexions. To use, you would cleanse, apply the included primer and then move the Trinity around your face, jawline, and neck. Then, finish by rubbing a damp cloth to remove the primer and finish with your skin care regimen. Safe enough to use it nightly and there is no recovery time needed.
Who should use it?
The Trinity is for anyone looking to improve their skin tone and appearance.
Does it work?
Lots of awards and studies show that the Trinity is effective. Reading reviews, you’ll see most people are happy with the results, even if some of them say it doesn’t help with wrinkles as much as it does improve your skin tone. So, it’s not a magic face lift, but nothing really is. The Trinity is certainly an affordable, painless way to improve the look and tone of your skin.
Read more about the NuFace Trinity Facial Toning Device.
14. Tria Beauty Age-Defying Eye Wrinkle Correcting Laser
What is it?
The Tria SmoothBeauty Age-Defying Eye Wrinkle Correcting Laser (phew, that’s a mouthful!) is a portable, handheld device that uses laser technology to improve undereye wrinkles.
How does it work?
Lasers are all the rage these days and are being used by dermatologists, dentists, opthmalogists, etc. The Tria harnesses the power of non-ablative fraction laser to stimulate collagen production, thereby diminishing fine lines and wrinkles. These targeted beams of light allow you to specifically, gently improve the delicate undereye area – which is typically excluded by most skin care device instructions.
Ideally, you would use the Tria every day for 8 weeks and start to see results after 2 weeks. To use, you would wash your face completely, glide the Tria around your undereye area for 1-minute, and finish with the post-treatment cream.
Who should use it?
If you’d like to see improvement in your undereye area, the Tria is for you! The undereye area is typically hard to treat, because the skin is so much more delicate than the rest of your face and cannot handle the same chemicals and techniques. The Tria really isolates this difficult to reach area and gives you an at-home option for professional results.
Does it work?
Reviews are good! Fair warning – anything with targeted laser will usually sting a little and that’s what the review say. People with sensitive skin will need a richer post-treatment cream to layer on top of the one provided or they’ll see dryness and scaling while the skin rejuvenates. But, overall, a great alternative to expensive and painful injections.
Read more about the Tria Undereye Laser here.
15. Tria Beauty Positively Clear Acne Clearing Blue Light Device
What is it?
The Tria Acne Clearing Blue Light Device is a godsend for people suffering from acne – finally giving a clinically proven option to expensive and time consuming dermatologist visits.
How does it work?
The Tria Acne Clearing Device uses blue light to kill acne causing bacteria. Traditionally only available through doctors, this is an incredible option for people suffering from painful acne. Blue light technology has been FDA cleared as perfectly safe when used at home with appropriate devices, so you can blue light your skin to your heart’s content. To use, just glide over skin for 5 minutes a day. You can use all over or target areas prone to breakouts. Should be painless and not require any recovery time.
Who should use it?
Anyone suffering from chronic breakouts, acne, cystic acne, etc., would be great candidates for the Tria Acne Clearing device.
Does it work?
Reviews and clinical studies are promising! Blue light has been used for awhile as an effective acne treatment, so to have access to this technology is a gamechanger for those that cannot or do not want to go to a doctor’s office.
Read more about the Tria Beauty Acne Clearing Blue Light here.
16. Foreo Luna 2
What is it?
The Foreo Luna 2 vibrating cleansing device that deep cleans and exfoliates skin, which in turn will help with a more even skin tone and fine line reduction. What makes the Foreo unique is the option to choose your brush based on skin type.
How does it work?
While the Foreo is one of several vibrating, deep cleaning devices on the market, the Foreo is unique in your ability to choose the brush that best matches your skin type. So, you can get the Foreo for sensitive skin or you can get the Foreo for combination skin, along with several other variations, including a mini Foreo which is more cost effective. The cleansing brush is made of silicone, making it anti-bacterial, waterproof, and long-lasting. The Foreo also offers 12 vibration options, so you can pick what works best for you and your skin.
Who should use it?
Anyone who wants a nice, deep clean, improved skin tone and great exfoliation would enjoy using the Foreo. The compact size also makes it easy to pack for the girl on-the-go.
Does it work?
The reviews on the Foreo are positive! I really like the compact shape and cotton candy colors.
Read more about the Foreo Luna 2 here.
17. Foreo UFO Smart Mask Treatment
What is it?
The Foreo UFO Smart Mask Treatment is a 90-second mask treatment device.
How does it work?
Using the optimal temperature, pulsing technology and LED wavelengths, the Foreo UFO is designed to quickly kill acne-causing bacteria and improve signs of aging. The smart mask uses different combinations of heating, cooling, pulsing, etc. to get the most results out of the accompanying masks. While the device is a one-time purchase, the masks need to be replaced. They run about $9.99 each, which is reasonable for a one-time use mask, but something to be aware of.
Who should use it?
The Foreo UFO is designed for anyone looking to improve blemished skin and have a heightened mask experience.
Does it work?
I love a mask. You could say I am a bit mask obsessed. But, would I pay the price to have a 90-second mask as opposed to the classic 10-30 minutes they usually require? Maybe. I really like the idea for days when I just don’t have time to sit in a Dr. Jart rubber mask for 30 minutes, while looking like an extra from Silence of the Lambs. Time is money.
Read more about the Foreo UFO Smart Mask Treatment here.
18. Dr. Dennis Gross Pro Facial Steamer
What is it?
Dr. Dennis Gross knows what’s up! His Pro Facial Steamer will give you that spa-like steam at home with this lightweight, portable device.
How does it work?
If you’re a facial veteran like I am, you’ll know exactly what this is for. The facial steamer will disperse what they call “micro-steam technology” – which is basically a fine mist of steam that will hydrate and detoxify skin. To use, you would begin by cleansing, then steam for up to 9 minutes, and finish with a mask or products. By steaming, your pores will open up and be better able to absorb products.
Who should use it?
The facial steamer is a fit for anyone looking to hydrate and detoxify skin. This is really great if you have sinus issues, congestion, inflammation in your lymphatic system or wear makeup regularly and want to deep clean your skin.
Does it work?
Steaming is a very effective way to cleanse and hydrate skin. Facials in a spa setting always begin with steaming because of how effective it is at intensifying product absorption after.
Read more about the Dr. Dennis Gross Pro Facial Steamer here.
19. Jillian Dempsey Gold Sculpting Bar
What is it?
The Jillian Dempsey Gold Sculpting Bar is a 24k gold, vibrating, facial massage tool designed to lift and tone the face.
How does it work?
The Jillian Dempsey Gold Sculpting Bar sort of stimulates a facial workout, with a vibrating t-shaped tool that you rub on your face, chin and neck. The vibrations stimulate muscle relaxation, softening fine lines and toning skin. Similarly to how massage helps blood flow, relaxation, and tone in the body, the Gold Sculpting Bar is like having a masseuse for your face.
Who should use it?
The Gold Sculpting Bar is designed for both men and women who are looking to improve skin tone and tightness!
Does it work?
The Gold Sculpting Bar is designed by Hollywood makeup artist, Jillian Dempsey, and has quite a following! Even actor Patrick Dempsey is supposedly a fan!
Read more about the Jillian Dempsey Gold Sculpting Bar
20. iLuminage Touch Permanent Hair Reduction
What is it?
Throw your razors away – because the iLuminage Touch Permanent Hair Reduction is an at-home system for permanently removing hair.
How does it work?
The iLuminage is the only FDA-approved technology for permanent hair removal. By using once a week, for a total of 7 treatments over 6 weeks, you should see major results in hair growth. The iLuminage uses what they call “elos technology” – but what that means for you is painless, fast, permanent hair removal.
Who should use it?
Anyone who wants to permanently remove hair from somewhere on their body.
Does it work?
The reviews can be mixed, but definitely veer towards total amazement at the reduction in hair growth over time.
Read more about the iLuminage here.
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WOW! You made it! 20 of the newest, hottest, best at-home skin care devices and tools to tap that fountain of youth – no needles, fillers, or trips to the derm’s office in site.
While some of these seem pricey – if you factor in the expenses in terms of time and money of going to a doctor for treatments, it makes any one of these seem affordable. But, that’s only if they work.
Luckily, at-home is majorly improving and we can get spa-like results from the comfort of our own homes. In yoga pants. Hurrah!
I’ve tried a handful of these and absolutely want to try more as the need arises. Have you tried any of these? Have a favorite skin care device you don’t see here? Share in the comments below!
Have a fabulous day,
E
Ohhhh…I’ve been thinking about a facial roller, now I just have to decide which one!
Author
Yes! Surprisingly relaxing and enjoyable! Come back and share which one you picked and what you think 🙂