Technically Speaking: The Gritty Pretty Guide To Beauty Tech Devices

Whether it’s tightening, lifting or wrinkle reduction that you’re after, skin care products can only go so far…

Fortunately, we have technology on our side: introducing the next-gen skin devices you need to know.

We’ve come a long way since the days of Motorola Razrs and Windows 98. In 2020, technology has infiltrated almost every aspect of our lives – including our beauty routines.

Skin care routines are now punctuated with LED facials, microcurrent devices and vibrating gua shas. When skin clinics were forced to shut during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, many beauty buffs tried to recreate the in-salon experience at home. Sound like you? Here’s a hot tip: skin care devices have the power to supercharge your next DIY facial – provided you know how to use them.

Before you invest in a brand new beauty tech device, you’d be forgiven for thinking: will this thing actually do anything? In a word: yes. “At home devices get surprisingly close to the results you would achieve in-clinic,” says renowned facialist Jocelyn Petroni.

Dermatologist Dr Shyamalar Gunatheesan agrees and suggests that at home devices work hand-in-hand with an in-salon treatment program as they’re “perfect for providing ongoing maintenance.” Most at-home devices have around 20 percent of the power of their professional equivalent; this should keep your skin ticking along nicely.

So, you want to ramp up your regime but don’t know where to start? There are a few paths you could go down…

Lymphatic drainage: Gua shas, jade rollers and other massage tools help to sculpt cheekbones and depuff the face by increasing circulation and moving fluid along. “This will increase blood flow to the skin and feed it with oxygen and micronutrients to stimulate lymphatic drainage and remove toxins,” Petroni tells Gritty Pretty. When used correctly, these devices can provide almost identical results to those found in-salon. We love Vanessa Megan Beauty Vibe Micro Vibration Wand ($69.95) and Hunter Lab’s Aura Facial Sculpting Tool ($298).

Microcurrent machines: Designed to tone and firm, these devices send out a low-voltage current that stimulates energy production within the skin, creating more collagen and elastin in the process. This microcurrent technology also helps to “increase the absorption of your topical skincare products,” according to Dr Gunatheesan. With regular use, handheld machines, such as NuFace Trinity Mini ($319) and TriPollar Stop X ($728), can make your skin appear more youthful.

LED light therapy: Great for treating acne and fine lines, the LED rays are absorbed by receptors in our skin cells called qualifores. This boosts the skin’s levels of ATP (aka the energy-rich molecule Adenosine Triphosphate) which can “rejuvenate and plump the skin due to the increase in energy,” says Dr Gunatheesan. We suggest Dr Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite EyeCare Pro ($254) to target the eye area or Dr Dennis Gross Spectralite Faceware Pro ($696) to target the entire face.

Microneedling: After a little extra collagen? Aren’t we all. When rolled across the skin, microneedling tools create small microscopic holes; this triggers the body’s natural wound-healing response, resulting in brand new, collagen-packed skin cells. The bonus? This process helps your skin care products work harder by creating a channel for better absorption. We love the Mukti Organics Microneedle Dermal Roller ($59.95).

Cleansing: If you’re noticing breakouts more than usual, a cleansing device could be your ticket to clear skin. These shower buddies get deeper into the skin than hands alone and operate on a timed basis, so you know you’re cleansing thoroughly. Our favourite? The Foreo Luna3 ($299).

This article originally appeared in the Spring 2020 issue of Gritty Pretty Magazine. Click here to read more about beauty tech devices…