Yahoo Finance The 30 Best Facial Tools and Skin Care Devices to Use at Home
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If the pandemic taught us anything, it’s that we can DIY some of our favorite beauty treatments with the best facial tools. With the right skin care tools, you can lift your face, flush away puffiness, brighten up your eyes, and much more. Some modalities, like facial gua sha tools, even have research behind their benefits.
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Many facial tools, like LED face masks and face massagers, mimic treatments you can find at the dermatologist or the spa, but at a lesser intensity, making them a great way to score subtle skin improvements or maintain your results between treatments. “The convenience of at-home devices is great, and they’re often more cost-effective, too,” says New York City dermatologist Dr. Hadley King. “They can be used more regularly, which may have advantages for effectiveness.”
New York City dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman adds that regularly incorporating tools into your routine can “help prevent signs of aging and boost your skin’s health” in the short and long term.
The recent boom in at-home facial tools and the increase of brands pouring resources into creating new beauty innovations means you have more options than ever. Unfortunately, this also means that choosing the suitable facial tool device for your goals can feel tricky. So to help you narrow the choices down to the top 30 skin care tools you should consider, we consulted with several top experts for a comprehensive guide to facial tools.
Keep reading because we dive further into the top asked questions: “What is the best skin care device?” “Do facial tools really work?” “What are facial tools used for?” and more. If you’re searching for a gift for the women on your holiday shopping list or a little beauty gift to treat yourself, look no further.
Top Facial Tools and Skin Care Devices for 2022
Best Do-It-All Facial Tool: Theragun TheraFace PRO
Best Facial Roller for Dull Skin: Joanna Czech Skincare Facial Massager
Best for TMJ Relief: Jillian Dempsey Gold Sculpting Bar
Best Gua Sha: Wildling Empress Stone
Best Ayurvedic Face Tool: Ranavat Kansa Wand Detoxifying Facial Massage Tool
Most Expert Recommended At-Home Microneedling Device: Jenny Patinkin Rose on Rose Derma Roller
Best for Product Absorption: Hollywood EGF Micro-Needling + Ion Infusion Kit by Georgia Louise
Best Travel-Friendly Microneedling Tool: BeautyBio GloPro Facial Microneedling Tool
Best Radio Frequency Facial Tool: TriPollar Stop Vx
Best Facial Tool for Active Breakouts: Stacked Skincare High-Frequency Acne Device
Best Tool for Congested Pores: DermaFlash DermaPore
Best Ice Roller: Vanity Planet Revive Professional Facial Ice Roller
Best Cooling Face Mask: Earth Therapeutics Gel Bead Sleep Mask
Best Ice Globes: Dermstore Collection Set of Two Ice Globes
Best Tool for Puffy Eyes: Nurse Jamie Eyeonix Eye Massager
Best Tool for Defining Eyes: Foreo Iris Illuminating Eye Massager
Best Lifting Tool: ReVive Revolve Contouring Massage Roller
Best Microcurrent Tool: ZIIP Facial Device
Best Customizable Microcurrent Device: NuFace Trinity Facial Toning Device
Best Facial Cupping Set: Skin Gym Glass Cupping Set
Expert-Recommended Dermaplaning Device: Hollywood Browzer
Best Dermaplaning Device: Tweezerman Facial Razor
Best At-Home Microdermabrasion Tool: PMD Personal Microderm Pro
Expert-Recommended LED Treatment: reVive dpl lla Professional light therapy
Best At-Home LED Mask: The Light Salon Boost LED Mask
Best On-the-Go LED Treatment: Trilogy Wand
Best LED Mask for Sun Damage: Omnilux Contour Face
Best LED Device for Spot Treating: LightStim LED Device
Best Investment: Lyma Laser
Best for Travel: SolaWave Advanced Skincare Wand with Red Light Therapy
Top Facial Tools for Massaging
TheraFace Pro
Best Do-It-All Facial Tool
Type: Electric
Size: 8.31 x 7.44 x 3.15 inches
Weight: 2.23 pounds
Colorways: Black, White
Special features: Two-hour battery life; three intensity settings, and three-speed settings
Warranty: Yes
Best for: Those seeking a one-and-done device to target multiple skin concerns
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: After clicking your desired attachment, adjust the percussion settings for massage or the intensity settings for microcurrent or cleansing. For microcurrent, stroke the device outwards and upwards, working from your jawline to your forehead. You can freestyle the others, targeting problem areas to relieve tension, brighten dullness, or scrub away grime.
What Reviewers Say: “I deliberated over various skin care devices for ages and finally pulled the trigger on the TheraFace, and I’m so glad I did! Great product — good value for all of its functionalities, straightforward to use (came with a QR code linking to videos to show you exactly what to do), and doesn’t take too much time to use. I’ve been incorporating it into my daily skincare routine for a few weeks and am already seeing an improvement in my overall skin condition!”
This device is for you if you’re ready to invest in a tool but don’t know where to start. Yes, it’s pricey, but the tool comes with six attachments so that you can rig it for light therapy, microcurrent, deep cleansing, and massage (a gentler version of the percussive therapy found in traditional Theraguns). Hot and cold attachments are sold separately, but you’ll want to go all in. The cooling tip acts like a cryo facial tool by staying icy as you glide it on your complexion. Plus, if you’ve been figuring out a way to try Ultherapy at home, this is the closest way to do so. To learn more about the device, read our full review.
TheraFace Pro
Joanna Czech Facial Massager
Best Facial Roller for Dull Skin
Type: Manual
Colorways: Silver
Special features: Aluminum alloy roller balls
Warranty: No
Best for: Dullness and fine lines
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: You’re in luck—this tool comes with extensive tips on the best technique for results on your lips, eyes, cheekbones, and chest (moral of the story: work the device up and out).
What Reviewers Say: “After two weeks of consistent use, my droopy eyelids are more lifted. My cheeks and cheekbones are more defined, and my jawline is sharper. I’ve started bringing this down to my deck and décolletage, and I’m noticing the area looks extra plump.”
Joanna Czech is a master of facial massages (just scroll through her Instagram feed, and you’ll see what we mean), so we trust any tool she ideates. This device “stimulates blood flow, while automatically hemoglobin brings more oxygen to the surface, so the skin becomes brighter, rosier, and healthier,” says celebrity facialist Joanna Czech.
Czech says it comes down to consistency and how you roll your skin to get results from a facial roller. “When you do the facial roller right, you get the cheekbone, or area you’re targeting, between the two roller balls, and you roll it with pressure across,” she says. (Otherwise, if the rollerballs go directly over the area, it will flatten instead of plump and lift.) Czech also adds that when purchasing a facial roller, ensure the balls can move so that you aren’t causing friction against the skin. “It’s a super easy piece of equipment and the closest thing to manual massage,” she adds.
Joanna Czech Facial Massager
Jillian Dempsey Gold Sculpting Bar
SPONSORED
Best Facial Tool for TMJ Relief
Type: Electric
Colorways: One
Special features: Battery operated; 24 karat gold finish
Warranty: No
Best for: Softening muscle tension
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Turn the dial at the bottom of the device to power it up. You can freestyle the tool to treat any areas of tension, using firmer pressure for your jaw and lighter pressure around your eye area.
What Reviewers Say: “I use it almost every evening after applying face oil, and the results are immediate. My skin looks much more youthful, I can barely see my fine lines anymore. It’s helping blur tech lines and overall gives my face a lot of lift. I love it! I also suffer from headaches and neck/shoulder pain, so it’s also excellent for massaging my temples.”
If you clench your jaw or suffer from TMJ, you’ll consider this tool a lifesaver. It’s conducive to releasing stiffness in your facial area, but you can also use it to soften tight muscles in your neck and shoulders. The 24-karat gold-plated tip smoothly glides over the skin, and the 5,000 rotations per minute instantly up your skin’s circulation wherever you use it (our kind of Midas touch).
Jillian Dempsey Gold Sculpting Bar
Related: Check Out Our Editors’ Favorite Picks From ShopBop Beauty
Wildling Empress Stone
Best Gua Sha Facial Tool
Type: Manual
Colorways: Black
Special features: Unique edges to target different planes of the complexion
Warranty: No
Best for: Lymphatic drainage and lifting
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Apply a generous coat of face oil, then perform a massage following one of Wildling’s extensive tutorials. You’ll learn as you and gain confidence to DIY it. “To reap the benefits use it two to three times a week,” says Jarosz. “I like to use it in the morning to reduce puffiness and energize my skin, or at night, just before sleeping, to relax my facial muscles.”
What Reviewers Say: “I am a huge skincare fanatic and a new mama, and decided to upgrade my probably not real rose quartz gua sha to this one as a treat… and it is a dream. This gua sha is of superior quality and has an excellent weight in the hand, it grips well and is very intentionally designed for multi-purpose use.”
Perhaps one of the oldest skincare tools on record, the gua sha is a Traditional Chinese Medicine massage tool designed “to relax stiff muscles and promote tissue drainage in the face and body,” says Jarosz. “Gua sha relieves tension in the face and reduces puffiness and inflammation.” Nowadays, gua shas are everywhere, but this one’s a real gem. It’s made of a rare material called Bian stone, composed of over 40 minerals touted for healing properties. It feels heavy in hand, and the patented design features five different edges to target myriad beauty goals, like relaxing tense jaws or lifting your cheeks.
Wildling Empress Stone
Ranavat Kansa Wand Detoxifying Facial Massage Tool
Best Ayurvedic Face Tool
Type: Manual
Colorways: Brown/Gold
Special features: Teak wood handle with a copper and tin base
Warranty: No
Best for: Calming irritation and redness
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: After applying face oil, gently massage the tool over your cheekbones, forehead, and jawline for 10 to 15 minutes.
What Reviewers Say: “It feels significantly less abrasive and more soothing than facial reflexology tools not only because of the structure and shape but also because of the materials. I feel less nervous using this on the delicate areas of my face than I would something more sharp-edged. Because of the smooth shape, I feel it worked better for lymphatic drainage purposes than other tools as well.”
In Ayurveda, the mix of copper and tin is a sacred material referred to as Kansa. The combination of metals balances the skin’s pH, which helps to calm irritation and lessen the redness. Those benefits are packaged beautifully, with a teak wood handle that deserves a place on your vanity. The smooth material is excellent for lymphatic drainage, too.
Ranavat Kansa Wand Detoxifying Facial Massage Tool
Top Facial Tools for Wrinkle Reducing
Jenny Patinkin Rose on Rose Derma Roller
Expert-Recommended At-Home Microneedling Device
Type: Manual
Colorways: One
Special features: Hypoallergenic stainless steel microneedles
Warranty: No
Best for: Improving circulation and increasing product absorption
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Gently roll the tool vertically on your cheeks, forehead, and jaw, then repeat in horizontal and diagonal patterns, avoiding the eyelids, nose, and lips. After rolling, apply a nourishing serum with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or peptides, and wipe the roller head with rubbing alcohol.
What Reviewers Say: “I have very sensitive skin, so I was a little worried about using this. But I have had zero reaction! I love using this and definitely recommend it. Jenny’s products are made with so much thought and care, and they are very high in quality. They are also very pretty, and this roller is no exception.”
If you’re needle averse, stay with us! The roller head on this tool packs in microneedles so small you won’t feel a thing. The device creates little points of entry for your topical skin care products to better absorb into your skin. A rose quartz acupressure bulb on the other end of the tool is amazing for under-eye massage or pressing on your temples for a “me-time” moment.
Jenny Patinkin Rose on Rose Derma Roller
Hollywood EGF Micro-Needling + Ion Infusion Kit by Georgia Louise
Best Facial Tool for Product Absorption
Type: Electric
Colorways: White
Special features: Includes firming serum
Warranty: No
Best for: Improving hyperpigmentation, product absorption, and stimulating collagen production
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Apply the included serum to your complexion after cleansing. Using light pressure, smooth the microneedling device vertically on your cheeks, nose, forehead, and jaw, focusing on areas where you’re experiencing hyperpigmentation or fine lines. For ion infusion, apply serum and glide the device on all areas of your face to help the product absorb.
This two-step facial tool kit is for those who take their skin care products seriously. The microneedling head creates channels in your skin at just the right depth for skin care products to seep into, and the included EGF serum is excellent for firmness, but you can also use the device with other topicals like vitamin C or hyaluronic acid. You’ll also get an ion infusion head that works with the device—this add-on also helps activate products on your skin.
Hollywood EGF Micro-Needling + Ion Infusion Kit by Georgia Louise
BeautyBio GloPro Facial Microneedling Tool
Best Travel-Friendly Microneedling Tool
Type: Electric
Size: 9.88 x 2.38 x 7.88 inches
Weight: 1.29 Pounds
Colorways: White
Special features: LED therapy and microcurrents
Warranty: No
Best for: Increasing firmness and product absorption
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Roll the device vertically, diagonally, and horizontally over clean skin. Then, follow up with your favorite serums and moisturizer.
What Reviewers Say: “Every time I use it, the next few days I receive compliments on how fresh I look, or how rested I look. The products I use after this treatment just get slurped into my skin very quickly. The next morning my skin glows a bit more than the day before.”
With this tool, you get more than microneedling: It also has red light therapy to aid in firming up fine lines and preventing new ones from forming. Like other microneedling devices, you’ll get increased product absorption immediately after use, so it’s a great option to add to your nighttime routine before applying high-powered active ingredients.
BeautyBio GloPro Facial Microneedling Tool
Tripollar Stop Vx
Best Radio Frequency Facial Tool
Type: Electric
Size: 8.78 x 5.28 x 4.33 inches
Weight: 1.25 pounds
Colorways: One
Special features: FDA-cleared radio frequency device
Warranty: Yes
Best for: Building collagen to plump the skin
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: After cleansing skin, apply the prep gel to any area you plan on treating. Then work the tool around your face in slow, circular motions.
What Reviewers Say: “I can see a difference instantly. My skin looks tighter and the contours of my face, especially along the jaw, are more defined. I’ve been using Stop Vx for about six weeks and my skin is definitely smoother and younger looking. It’s working!”
This device may be an investment piece, but the FDA-cleared tool delivers major benefits with consistent use. It works by heating the deep layers of your skin, triggering a wound response that ups your body’s collagen production. In short — your skin will plump itself from the inside out, leaving you with a more radiant, less wrinkly complexion.
Tripollar Stop Vx
Top Skin Care Tools for Acne and Blackheads
Stacked Skincare High Frequency Acne Device
Best Facial Tool for Active Breakouts
Type: Electric
Size: 12.7 x 8 x 2.5 inches
Weight: 1.25 pounds
Colorways: White
Special features: Four included attachments to target different areas
Warranty: Yes
Best for: Treating emerging pimples and reducing inflammation
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Choose an attachment based on the treatment area. Slide it into the handheld piece, plug it in, then use the dial at the base of the device to adjust the intensity level. Touch the tip to the problem area for a few moments, repeating as needed.
What Reviewers Say: “I purchased this as my esthetician always uses this during facials and highly recommends it! I really like all the tools that are included. It seems to help with inflammation and helps to clear my skin.”
This bacteria-zapper is one of the best high-frequency facial wands on the market because it’s a well-priced option for acne-prone skin (or those who deal with those pesky cystic bumps every month). It works by emitting an electrical current that generates oxygen, which kills acne-causing bacteria on contact. The interchangeable tips make it simple to target acne in hard-to-reach places, like your back, and cover larger swaths like your cheek. You’ll feel the tingle — we recommend starting on the lowest intensity setting and working your way up based on comfort level.
Stacked Skincare High Frequency Acne Device
DermaFlash DermaPore
Best Skin Care Tool for Congested Pores
Type: Electric
Colorways: Pink, Charcoal, Green
Special features: Stainless steel spatula shape with an easy-to-grip silicone handle
Warranty: Yes
Best for: Safely extracting blackheads and aiding in product absorption
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Splash your face with water, then turn the device on and hold it at a 45-degree angle as you move super slowly around congested areas. If your face dries out while you’re going, continue to re-wet it for the best results.
What Reviewers Say: “I love using this to clean out the pores on my nose, easily navigating around the creases of my nose (you know those problem areas) without having to mash my skin trying to squeeze things out by hand. Great for days when I need a little extra deep cleaning.”
If you feel like pore strips are satisfying, prepare for your mind to be blown. This spatula acts like a facial extraction tool to degunk clogged pores. It’s unique because it uses ultrasonic waves, which loosen excess oil and grime. You can edge it into curves around your nose and use it on larger planes of your face, like your cheeks and chin. Stick with the device instead of picking or squeezing, and you’ll lessen your odds of developing acne scars.
DermaFlash DermaPore
Facial Tools for Depuffing
Vanity Planet Revive Professional Facial Ice Roller
Best Ice Roller
Type: Manual
Size: 3.5 x 7.88 x 2.25 inches
Weight: 5.12 ounces
Colorways: White
Special features: Stainless steel head
Warranty: Yes
Best for: Puffy, tired skin
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Store the roller head in the freezer, then click it onto the handle before use. Glide it around your face, focusing on any areas of puffiness, then wipe down the roller head and return it to the freezer.
What Reviewers Say: “I love how long this roller stays cold, I take it out and 45 min later it’s still very chilly! This is such a relaxing product to use when watching TV or working away from home, and does a great job at depuffing.”
Ice rollers are easy to find — but many on the market are hard to clean. Enter Vanity Planet’s option, which has a removable stainless steel head you can easily wipe down after use. Pop the roller in the freezer but keep the handle separate, and it’ll stay like new for ages. The cold temperature boosts your skin’s circulation, helps flush away puffiness, and feels calming on sunburns or bug bites. It’s amazing for the mornings, especially after a rough night’s sleep (or a late night out).
Vanity Planet Revive Professional Facial Ice Roller
Earth Therapeutics Gel Bead Sleep Mask
Best Cooling Face Mask
Type: Manual
Colorways: Green
Special features: Fleece lining
Warranty: No
Best for: Cooling the eye area
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Store the mask in the freezer, then place it on your eyes. Lightly tap the beads while it’s on for extra soothing.
What Reviewers Say: “I wake up every morning with majorly puffy eyes. This is so nice to pull out and just take a little me time before starting my day.”
Slide this cooling eye mask on to rest and reset your skin simultaneously. The gel beads retain chilliness if you store them in the freezer, and the fleece lining goes soft on your delicate eye area. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes for best results.
Earth Therapeutics Gel Bead Sleep Mask
Dermstore Collection Set of Two Ice Globes
Best Facial Ice Globes
Type: Manual
Colorways: Silver/Black
Special features: Silicone handles prevent slipping
Warranty: No
Best for: Facial massage and decreasing inflammation around the eyes
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Chill the globes in a bowl of cold water on your counter or on their own in the refrigerator. Apply your favorite serum, face oil, or sheet mask, then massage around the lower and upper eye area.
What Reviewers Say: “I love using these first thing in the morning or after I have been outside for a long time. I pop them in a bowl of cold water, and they instantly make my under eye and face feel less puffy and less tired.”
These globes are great for massaging away inflammation around the eye. The liquid inside gets cold quickly: You can cool them in a bowl of chilly water or just store them in the fridge. We love this option compared to others on the market because of the slip-proof silicone handles and the smaller size of the globes (great for targeting the inner corners of your eyes).
Dermstore Collection Set of Two Ice Globes
Nurse Jamie Eyeonix Eye Massager
Best Skin Care Tool for Puffy Eyes
Type: Electric
Colorways: Silver
Special features: High-frequency vibration
Warranty: Yes
Best for: Tightening under eye skin
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Apply your favorite eye cream or serum, then sweep the device around the eye and brow area. The tool uses smart touch technology to turn on, so it’ll power up once it contacts your skin.
What Reviewers Say: “This device vibrates and helps eye products absorb more efficiently. I really noticed a difference in how well my eye cream absorbed while using this device.”
This eye massager is excellent for those looking to lift and tighten under their eyes and brows. Use it consistently, and the high-frequency vibrations help to boost elasticity for increased firmness. The subtle vibrations are gentle, so they’re safe for the thin skin in the eye area but strong enough to promote lymphatic drainage. Make sure to glide the device from the inner corners of your eye area towards your ears.
Nurse Jamie Eyeonix Eye Massager
Top Facial Tools for Sculpting
Foreo Iris Illuminating Eye Massager
Best Face Tool for Defining Eyes
Type: Electric
Colorways: Petal Pink
Special features: Tapping mechanism mimics lymphatic drainage facial massage
Warranty: Yes
Best for: Firming skin around the eye area
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Apply eye cream, turn the device on, and work in sweeping motions around the entirety of your eye area.
What Reviewers Say: “I’ve tried every eye cream out there for my dark circles. This is the only product that’s ever given me results. I don’t have to pack on as much concealer, and it feels amazing.“
You may be familiar with Foreo’s cleansing brush (a good one), but the brand does more: This eye tool recreates manual lymphatic drainage with a series of light tapping motions. “The Iris also is great for de-puffing, especially when paired with a good refrigerated eye gel,” says Gigi Hadid’s aesthetician Kristyn Smith. The bacteria-resistant silicone device also aids in product absorption, allowing your eye creams to go the distance. With regular use, you’ll notice softened fine lines and less puffiness.
Foreo Iris Illuminating Eye Massager
ReVive Revolve Contouring Massage Roller
Best Lifting Face Tool
Type: Manual
Colorways: Silver
Special features: Three rollers to target larger planes of the face as well as the eye area
Warranty: No
Best for: Defining the cheekbones and jawline
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Starting at your jawline and working up, run the rollerballs from the inner areas of your face towards your hairline. Wipe with rubbing alcohol or water after use.
What Reviewers Say: “A beautiful, substantial piece of equipment that really helps depuff my face and under eye. It’s great for lymphatic drainage and increases glow.”
If you’re anything like us, you agree that the best part of a facial treatment lies in the massage. With this contour face machine tool, you can get it at home. The zinc-based material called Zamac has cooling properties, so it feels cold when it makes contact with your skin. The dual roller balls are positioned at the right angle to sculpt your cheekbones and jawline (a smaller roller on the other end is for use around the eyes).
ReVive Revolve Contouring Massage Roller
ZIIP Facial Device
Best Microcurrent Facial Tool
Type: Electric
Size: 8.5 x 7.9 x 3.4 inches
Weight: 1.45 pounds
Colorways: White/Gold
Special features: Targeted treatments for different areas of the face
Warranty: Yes
Best for: At-home microcurrent facials with guided tutorials
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Apply a generous coat of conductive gel on your complexion, then turn the device on and toggle through different treatments on the app. After making your selection, mirror the instructions, completing the treatment from start to finish.
What Reviewers Say: “I didn’t know my beauty routine needed an upgrade until I had this. This is so easy to use, and I feel immediately refreshed. The device is small, light, and fits right into the palm of your hand. I have sensitive skin but haven’t had any issues using this. I love how easy it is to use the app and switch up the treatments.”
Professional facial tool rookies will have no trouble getting comfortable with this device. The device connects to an app containing loads of tutorials. The tool delivers two types of microcurrents into your skin to firm, tighten, and lift over time. But the real selling point with this device is the library of tutorials on the connecting app that ensure you use the tool the most efficient, effective way each time.
ZIIP Facial Device
NuFace Trinity Facial Toning Device
Best Customizable Microcurrent Skin Care Device
Type: Electric
Colorways: Original
Special features: Adjustable power settings
Warranty: Yes
Best for: Maintaining firm skin
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: After washing your face, apply a thick layer of the included gel primer to treatment areas. Then, glide the device from the base of your neck (yes, it’s a neck-tightening device, too) to your forehead in short, slow strokes.
What Reviewers Say: “I’ve seen a significant improvement with my laugh lines and fine lines on my forehead around the eyes. My skin feels so soft and velvety afterward, and the results are pretty incredible with only a couple of days of use.”
Microcurrent devices stimulate your facial cells and muscles for a tighter, firmer look. NuFace is a popular face lift device, and we love it because you can customize your routine with an added attachment that targets the eyes and lips. The device is painless for most (you’ll feel a slight buzzing), and the adjustable intensity settings let you crank it up or keep it gentle.
NuFace Trinity Facial Toning Device
Skin Gym Glass Cupping Set
Best Facial Cupping Set
Type: Manual
Colorways: Pink
Special features: Two cup sizes
Warranty: No
Best for: Removing excess fluid and toning cheekbones
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Massage a face oil or emollient cream on clean skin, gently squeeze the silicone side of the cup, and place it on the area you’re targeting. Slowly drag the cup out and up as you work across different areas of your face.
What Reviewers Say: “As a professional esthetician, I am very pleased with this cup. I can control the suction and actually make it pretty strong if needed. And the glass is easy to sanitize.”
Unlike traditional cupping, facial cupping won’t leave you bruised or marked up. Instead, these small facial suction tools help drive away puffiness, leaving behind more defined features. This particular set is made with silicone and glass, so they’re easy to care for and glide smoothly over the skin. The small and large cup sizes allow you to target any area on your complexion, be it your cheeks or the inner corners of your eyes.
Skin Gym Glass Cupping Set
Top Facial Tools for Exfoliating
Hollywood Browzer
Expert-Recommended Dermaplaning Skin Care Device
Type: Manual
Size: 0.51 x 0.39 x 0.71 inches
Weight: 0.7 ounces
Colorways: Black
Special features: Foldable blade
Warranty: No
Best for: Removing peach fuzz and gentle exfoliation
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: After washing your face with a mild cleanser, use short strokes around your complexion while holding the skin taut. Avoid going over any area twice, then rinse your face and clean the blade with rubbing alcohol.
What Reviewers Say: This has saved my skin. No more waxing or harsh hair removal cream. I have sensitive skin, so I usually come out with spots if I either wax or use the creams. But not with this, it’s so easy to use, and the hair doesn’t come back thicker.”
Dermaplaning is a way to exfoliate your skin while removing fine hairs on the face. By sweeping the blade over your skin, you’ll create a smooth canvas for skin care products and makeup. This one is dermatologist recommended: “It has safety features to help avoid cuts, nicks, irritation, and over-exfoliation,” says King.
Hollywood Browzer
Tweezerman Facial Razor
Best Dermaplaning Face Device
Type: Manual
Size: 0.75 x 2.52 x 8.11 inches
Weight: 2.47 ounces
Colorways: Silver
Special features: Replaceable blades
Warranty: No
Best for: Removing peach fuzz and gentle exfoliation
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: On clean, dry skin, swipe the device across your complexion using short, feathery strokes. Next, rinse your skin and apply moisturizer on top.
What Reviewers Say: “It glides effortlessly across your skin and the weight and feel of it is really nice. The shape of the head makes it easy to get into tight areas and make sharp lines.”
Tweezerman is a trusted brand for all things beauty tools — and they do more than tweezers. The brand’s facial hair removal tool has a nice weight to it, and we love that the device has replaceable blades, so it’s less wasteful than plastic alternatives (swap out your blade for a fresh one after five or so uses, or when the blade starts to feel dull).
Tweezerman Facial Razor
PMD Personal Microderm Pro
Best At-Home Microdermabrasion Skin Care Tool
Type: Electric
Colorways: Blush, Pink
Special features: Interchangeable discs to adjust exfoliation intensity
Warranty: Yes
Best for: Deep exfoliation
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: After plugging in the device, choose a disc depending on your desired level of intensity. Screw the cap in place, then move the device in upward motions along the treatment area. Rinse your skin, then apply moisturizer.
What Reviewers Say: “I used this last night and I was surprised at how gentle it was. I didn’t have any discomfort and my skin feels so smooth today. I noticed my skin products soaked in better and I also noticed my face looked more supple and clearer today.”
A professional typically administers microdermabrasion, but this tool gives you a baby version of the exfoliating treatment so you can do it on your own. This tool does two things: A tip with aluminum oxide crystals brushes away dead skin cells, and a vacuum suction draws in what you shed. The exfoliating tips come in eight different intensities, so you can start gently and work your way up to a coarser option, depending on how your skin responds. The device can also be used on your body — the coarser tips are great for stubborn calluses.
PMD Personal Microderm Pro
Top Facial Tools for Improving Tone
ReVive dpl lla Professional Light Therapy
Expert-Recommended LED Treatment Skin Care Device
Type: Electric
Size: 11 x 4.25 x 9.5 inches
Weight: 2.95 pounds
Colorways: Original
Special features: Three color settings to choose from
Warranty: Yes
Best for: LED treatment for larger areas
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Plug the device in, choose your light treatment setting, and bask for three minutes.
What Reviewers Say: “I love that I can use this device on multiple areas. I use the red light for anti-aging on my face and neck and to help heal bruises (especially great for after I fascia blast). My daughter is headed into her teens years, and I have just started her on the blue light cycle to keep her face clear. Love the versatility of this device!”
The large panels on this at-home anti-aging device are a major selling point for those who like quick and easy treatments (the panels cover the whole face simultaneously to expedite the treatment time). “This features red light, blue light, amber light, and infrared light and can be used for anti-aging, acne, or both,” says King. She also notes that you can use it to treat your neck, chest, or other areas — it’s FDA —cleared, and in their studies, 97 percent of users saw anti-aging improvement.
reVive dpl lla Professional Light Therapy
The Light Salon Boost LED Mask
Best At-Home LED Mask
Type: Electric
Colorways: Original
Special features: Medical-grade silicone
Warranty: Yes
Best for: Quick at-home LED treatments
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Slide the mask onto clean skin, turn it on, and let it sit for about 10 minutes.
What Reviewers Say: “This mask has done wonders for my face in just two weeks. I have noticed a smoother texture, more even skin tone, fading of hyperpigmentation, and less acne.”
If you swear by LED treatments in a professional setting, then experiment with an at-home option as a booster in-between sessions. This device has rave reviews for its effectiveness in reducing pigmentation, acne, and fine lines with just a few 10-minute sessions per week. Add it to your routine, and you’ll begin to notice firmer, clearer skin in a month.
The Light Salon Boost LED Mask
Trilogy Face Wand
Best On-the-Go LED Treatment Skin Care Device
Type: Electric
Size: 2 x 1.7 x 6.4 inches
Weight: 1 pound
Colorways: White
Special features: Three settings to customize your treatment
Warranty: No
Best for: Brightening and soothing
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Each treatment has different recommended massage patterns, so you’re best off following the included treatment manual for an exact how-to.
What Reviewers Say: “After using the red light, my skin appears plumper and brighter. The two ends of the wand are helpful to reach around the eye and the bigger end of the wand to reach the rest of my face. I love how it helps with acne and wrinkles.”
This three-in-one tool is a great starter option for those interested in multiple facial tools. You can toggle between cooling blue LED light therapy, warming red LED light therapy, and ionic massage, and for the best effect, we recommend doing them all at once, for three minutes each. The handheld device is small, so it’s easy to travel with, too.
Trilogy Wand,
Omnilux Contour Face
Best LED Mask for Sun Damage
Type: Electric
Colorways: White
Special features: Flexible silicone material
Warranty: Yes
Best for: Reducing fine lines and pigmentation
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Secure the device around your head, then turn it on and let it sit for ten minutes.
What Reviewers Say: “This is expensive, but well worth it considering the results. I did not expect to see deep lines so diminished in six weeks of consistent use (five to six days per week). It’s more comfortable and convenient to use than other devices I’ve tried, and only needing ten minutes per day makes consistency easier.”
Omnilux Medical provides LED treatments for beauty industry professionals to use in the office, so we trust their at-home line, Omnilux Contour. This mask delivers two wavelengths of light to boost collagen in the treatment area, making your face plump and reducing signs of sun damage. It’s painless and quick, too.
“Of all the current techniques, I’ve definitely noticed the greatest improvements have come with the incorporation of infrared light,” says Smith, who swears by the Omnilux. “Not only is this device portable and easy to use, but my clients and I also all notice it offers an almost immediate decrease in puffiness and a beautiful luminosity to the skin.”
Omnilux Contour Face
LightStim LED Device
Best LED Skin Care Device for Spot Treating
Type: Electric
Colorways: White
Special features: Four types of wavelengths in each device
Warranty: Yes
Best for: Treating fine lines
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Hold the device on one area of your skin and wait for the beep (about every three minutes) before moving to the next location.
What Reviewers Say: “I am an esthetician and cannot recommend LightStim enough. It took me about six weeks of daily use to really notice a difference, but it dramatically softened my marionette lines and completely erased the fine lines around my eyes.”
“There are so many LED devices on the market, and very few are well-made and trustworthy,” says aesthetician Mila Moursi. “However, I like the LightStim handheld LED tools,” he adds.
This handheld LED device takes some time if you’re looking to treat your whole complexion (you hold it in one spot for three minutes before moving to the next). However, it’s an excellent choice for targeting problem areas like crow’s feet, lines around your lips, or fine lines on your forehead. With persistent use, you’ll notice firmer, brighter skin wherever you use it.
LightStim for Acne
Lyma Laser
Best Investment Facial Tool
Type: Electric
Colorways: One
Special features: Safe for use on face and body
Warranty: Yes
Best for: Noticeable, lasting improvements in skin texture and tone
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: Turn the device on, then hold it up to the problem area you’re treating for three minutes daily.
What Reviewers Say: “I have had acne scars on the side of my face by my eyes since I was 14, and one side has almost cleared in three weeks! The other side has smoothed out as well, I am very excited by this product, it does truly feel too good to be true.”
We know there’s sticker shock with this tool, but if you’re ready to invest in a tool that will make meaningful changes in your skin (on your face and body), this is the one. It’s FDA-approved and more powerful than other at-home LED devices on the market, delivering better skin elasticity, tone, and texture. Engelman calls it “an amazing tool that gives anyone the power to improve their skin’s appearance at home substantially.” Plus, if you’ve wanted to try Thermage at home, it’s a great and painless way to do so.
Lyma Laser
SolaWave Advanced Skincare Wand with Red Light Therapy
Best Light Therapy Facial Tool for Travel
Type: Electric
Colorways: Matte Black, Rose Gold, Ombre
Special features: Therapeutic warmth setting
Warranty: Yes
Best for: Travel treatments
How to Use This Skin Care Tool: You can freestyle this tool, pressing it onto problem areas or sweeping it on your face, neck, and chest. Wipe clean with rubbing alcohol or a damp towel after use.
What Reviewers Say: “For the last couple of months I’ve had uneven rough looking texture under my eye, and after one week of using this wand they’re gone. It’s not only helped with that. Within two uses my skin felt and appeared smoother and more refreshed. Also the redness of my skin went down.”
Stash this tool in your nightstand or keep it in your carry-on for quick LED treatments on the road. The device folds down to a slim size, so you can whip it out whenever you want a little boost. Beyond the smoothing benefits of red light therapy, the device is also good for facial massage; once it feels warm on your skin, swipe it from the center of your face upwards and outwards toward your hairline.
SolaWave Advanced Skincare Wand with Red Light Therapy
What to Look For in the Best Facial Tools
Facial tools for wrinkles: You have a few options to target fine and deep lines. The simplest is through exfoliation — over time, this can help to thicken your skin, therefore lessening fine lines, according to King (stick with it once or twice weekly to keep your skin barrier intact). In addition, King explains that microneedling is another route to soften lines, as this method “may improve absorption of topical ingredients with anti-aging properties.”
Facial tools for acne and blackheads: Blue light therapy is one way to zap burgeoning breakouts — the wavelengths target sebaceous glands to lessen oil production. It’s a safe process and, therefore, suitable for frequent use. Exfoliating devices are another option, as they remove buildup on your skin; aim for one to two times a week.
Skin-tightening tools for facial lifting and contouring: Modalities that encourage lymphatic drainage, like gua sha or face rollers, help reduce puffiness and leave you with more defined features. Lymphatic drainage-style massages are safe to perform daily. “Microcurrent may be helpful for skin tightening, facial lifting, and contouring, but we need more data,” King explains.
The Different Types of Skin Care Tools and Devices
The primary differentiator among skin care devices is whether they’re manual or electric. Manual tools don’t require energy to work — you activate their benefits by using them to massage, cool, or lift your complexion. On the other hand, electric devices rely on a power source (some are rechargeable, and others need to be plugged in during use) to activate. Regardless, “the treatments you’re doing at home are non-invasive and should focus on a holistic skin-care approach, as opposed to at-home tools that do aggressive exfoliation,” advises SkinLab’s celebrity aesthetician Joshua Ross, who recommends mixing both high and low-tech facial tools into your routine.
LED light therapy: At-home options generally emit either red or blue wavelengths, and they’re typically painless to use. Red lights act on fibroblast cells in the skin, which play a role in collagen production. In theory, they reverse symptoms of photoaging, says King, but she notes that more research is needed. “Blue LED light is known to treat acne,” she adds. These lights reduce activity in the sebaceous glands or kill bacteria that contribute to acne.
Microcurrent: Microcurrent technology sends out a low-voltage current that causes muscle contractions. More research is needed to support the claims; however, they allegedly tone the skin from the inside out to increase firmness and lessen fine lines and wrinkles. Usually, in the form of handheld wands, these feature metal on the ends through which small currents “charge” cells to “improve muscle tone and facial circulation, while stimulating your facial muscles for a natural lift,” explains Shafer Clinic aesthetician Edyta Jarosz. Microcurrent is not safe for everyone — those with metal implants or cardiac pacemakers should steer clear, says King.
Microdermabrasion: In a professional setting, this treatment sprays tiny crystals onto your skin to remove the outermost layer of your complexion for a smoother, more even complexion. At-home options are usually a gentler version of this treatment, gently buffing off dead skin without damaging the fresh cells underneath. The ideal candidates for the procedure are those looking to get rid of age spots, uneven discoloration, sun damage, minor acne scars, clogged pores, and skin texture issues.
Dermaplaning: This physical exfoliation technique involves sweeping a blade against the skin’s surface to remove peach fuzz and dead skin. “Getting rid of the superficial layer of dead skin can brighten and help your favorite makeup go on smoother,” says King.
Microneedling: Professional microneedling smooths skin tone and texture by triggering our body’s wound response to increase collagen. The main benefit of at-home options is product absorption, as the tools can allow the ingredients to go deeper into your skin. It’s essential to keep the device clean and use light pressure — otherwise, you risk infection.
Skin-tightening: Skin-tightening machines such as cryotherapy tools provide a temporary firming of the skin, and they’re generally safe for all skin types to use. Other at-home skin-tightening devices take more time for results, working subtly to firm your skin.
Sculpting: King recommends radiofrequency or ultrasound devices, though she warns that they won’t be as effective as in-office options. Consider them a booster for in-between professional treatments, or try them frequently at home for a subtle improvement.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Dendy Engelman is a board-certified dermatologic surgeon at Shafer Clinic Fifth Avenue. Dr. Engelman completed her internship in Internal Medicine at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in Manhattan. In addition to a dermatology residency at the Medical University of South Carolina, Dr. Engelman completed a one-year fellowship in Mohs and dermatologic surgery, lasers, liposuction and vein treatments. She also has extensive training and experience in cosmetic dermatology – including neurotoxins, injectable fillers, and chemical peels. Most recently, Dr. Engelman was appointed Director of Dermatologic Surgery at New York Medical College, where she oversees the training of future Mohs surgeons and dermatologists. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, American Society of Dermatologic Surgery, and American College of Mohs Surgery.
Dr. Hadley King is a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology. She is also a Clinical Instructor of Dermatology at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University. Dr. King graduated magna cum laude from Harvard College with a degree in biochemistry. She received her MD from Columbia University. She trained in medicine at Greenwich Hospital, affiliated with the Yale University School of Medicine, and completed her dermatology residency at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University. After residency, Dr. King worked as an attending physician at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, during which time she specialized in cutaneous oncology and photodynamic therapy. She also has a background in immunology and her research has been published in a variety of medical journals, including the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Mila Moursi is the skincare legend behind the most beautiful people in the world. Hollywood royalty’s best kept secret, Mila opened her West-Hollywood-based spa, the Mila Moursi Skin Care Institute & Day Spa, in 1981. She welcomes A-listers from across the globe as well as clients from all walks of life who swear by her innovative techniques and luxury products. Mila’s passion began in Paris where she studied cosmetic chemistry as a disciple of Dr. Louis Renaud, a renowned French chemist who created many of the luxurious and timeless formulas of the great prestige skin care houses from all over the world. She moved to the United States at a young age to share this unique knowledge and passion for improving the health and beauty of her clients.
Edyta Jarosz was born in Poland and graduated with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Engineering, however her strong passion for Skincare pushed her to study Cosmetics, and Skincare in the Polish Institute of Cosmetic Science of Krakow, where she graduated with honors, then obtained her Advanced Master Diploma from the International Confederation of Beauty-Cosmetic School CIEFEC in France. Her knowledge and passion for skin care has enabled her to maintain a bespoke and renovated international skincare treatment practice and protocols. Over the years she has created a skincare signature technique combining various modalities of technology and massage.
Joshua Ross is a celebrity aesthetician and the founder of SkinLab in Los Angeles. After working in the beauty industry for more than 15 years, Joshua has developed a keen eye for symmetry and a fierce drive for perfection. He has a deep passion for making his clients feel beautiful — inside and out. Whether working with celebrities on The Real Housewives or serving clients at his Brentwood spa, Joshua provides highly effective, non-invasive treatments to restore and maintain healthy skin and combat the effects of aging.
Kristyn Smith as been a powerhouse in the wellness and beauty industry for over 15 years. Beginning her career as a makeup artist in London, Kristyn became frustrated that makeup was only being used to mask skin conditions or mimic the dewy look of healthy skin. Upon moving back to the West Coast, Kristyn’s education flourished as she worked with plastic surgeons as a medical esthetician and developed innovative techniques that approach skincare through a holistic lens. Her latest venture, Practise, specializes in treatments that are both renewing and anti-aging, all while incorporating techniques that combat hyperpigmentation and increase lymphatic drainage.
Joanna Czech has over 35 years of experience in the skin care space, beginning in Poland, and built in NY. Her treatments are a mixture of the most innovative technologies and timeless techniques, many of which she learned back in Poland. The results are undeniable and the process is never too aggressive. LED, Ultrasound, Microcurrents, Cryotherapy, Manual Massage and Manipulation of the Facial Muscles are incorporated into her customized treatments that are based on the condition of the skin, rather than a type. Some notable clients include: Jennifer Aniston, Cate Blanchett, Kate Winslet, Anna Wintour, Kim Kardashian, Christy Turlington Burns, Kourtney Kardashian, Hailey Beiber, and Justin Beiber.
Meet the Author
Claire Sullivan is a freelance beauty writer based in New York City. She spent six years writing and editing on staff for Martha Stewart Living and Martha Stewart Weddings, most recently covering the beauty beat for both brands. Her background in food writing translates to a no-nonsense approach to skin care, hair care, and makeup: In her eyes, it’s all about technique and ingredients. Claire loves to turn expert advice into easy steps that inspire you to give your beauty routine a makeover.
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