Are At-Home Devices Worth it?
At-home skincare devices have become increasingly popular, especially on social media. There’s the LED masks, the NuFACE, ultrasonic brushes, IPL machines and more traditional tools like Gua Sha or facial rollers.
But do they really work?
The short answer is…it honestly depends. Most of the time you can get a result with regular usage of an at home modality, but the issue is typically the frequency of use required to get a minimal result. These are not professional machines, meaning they don’t have the technology required to give you the same results as you would if you saw the right practitioner, and the prices are no easy swallow.
NuFACE devices are a microcurrent tool, which helps to tone and lift facial muscles at a superficial level. I don’t use any microcurrent modalities in my practice, because the result is too minute for my standards. I have machines that offer a stronger, longer lasting result and take the same amount of time in the treatment room. Professional microcurrent treatments are recommended weekly for a noticeable result, and the home devices are meant to be used daily. NuFACE devices start at $300, and are going to take 30-60 minutes per session. As a professional, i’ve never met someone who kept this routine for more than a month at a time.
Reputable at home LED devices can be over $1000 and require 30-60 minutes per week. Some even recommend daily usage. LED requires specific wavelengths of light in order to penetrate the skin, as well as high light intensity. The home machines emit weaker light for safety, and typically do not have enough energy to produce skin improvement. Also, if the machine does not have the correct wavelength, there is 0 result. Very rarely do LED machines contain the necessary wavelength to achieve results, even in the professional circle. So when using these devices, you’re more apt to be paying for a meditation session than getting any skin benefit.
IPL/Laser hair removal is an expensive treatment, but so are the more effective home devices. Professional devices are more powerful with higher light intensity and customizable settings. They penetrate deeper into the skin offering faster and reliable results. With the home device you are much more likely to burn/hyperpigment yourself, and you’re going to spend 2-3 hours each week. Reputable machines are around $400-$600.
Ultrasonic brushes can cause irritation and are usually a breeding ground for bacteria. I have seen them cause more problems than i’ve ever seen them improve. It’s also unlikely someone will use it regularly, and if they do they’re probably going to see more breakouts. If you do use one, make sure it’s silicone and cleaned before/after use. If you have inflamed acne, this should be the last thing on your wish list.
Gua Sha’s and facial rollers are wonderful for stimulation and lymphatic drainage. They are also the most affordable tool on this list, usually not exceeding $40. The downside is these are treatments that also take about 30 minutes. It’s extremely good for you, and women in Asia sware by it to de-bloat and get that heart-shaped face, but it’s not nearly as comfortable or relaxing when you are outside of a spa setting. Facial rollers are great for product penetration and circulation, but you can get a more effective massage using your hands.
My take on At-Home devices?
I don’t recommend them due to the amount of time these modalities take, and their lack of efficacy. Not to mention, some of these machines are exorbitantly overpriced. Your Gua Sha-like tools are a great addition to a skincare treatment at home, but it’s so rare for people to do treatments on their own. Routines are difficult to implement, and committing to a 1hr+ skincare routine is unsustainable. Most of these tools are lucky to get 5 uses before collecting dust in the back of your cabinet.
You will save $ and have better results with a consistent, quality skincare routine that includes regular exfoliation, a mask from time to time and professional treatment.
