You’ve probably seen or come across several facial tools and skin devices on the market. They have become increasingly popular for both in-clinic treatments and for consumers to use at home. Some have been around for ages, while others are brand new technologies. Sometimes its hard to navigate which tools are safe and effective, and which ones are best to leave up to skincare professionals. If anyone knows me, they know I’m obsessed with skincare tools and at-home modalities! The idea to treat your skin from the comfort of your own home in between professional medical-grade treatments, is a great form of self-care. It also can increase and prolong results from in-clinic treatments if done regularly and appropriately. Whether you’re looking for anti-aging results to treat skin laxity, increase more firmer and plumper skin, targeting breakouts, calming and soothing irritated skin, or just simply taking care of overall skin health— there is something for everyone. Here is a list of some of my favourite types of at home treatments: 1. Microcurrent: is a form of facial stimulation; sending soft, gentle waves through the skin, tissues and down to the facial muscles. Microcurrent has been shown to stimulate the creation of key structural proteins such as collagen and elastin. It helps to energize the facial muscles to create an improved and lifted appearance. * Certain contraindications apply to this device such as migraines, so make sure to do your research before purchasing. 2. Steaming: this has been around in the skincare world for ages and is very popular in spas and medical clinic treatments. With steaming, water transforms into a micro-fine mist that can help with clogged pores by allowing pores to relax or dilate, making it easier to extract blackheads. This process also helps serums and moisturizers penetrate the skin more effectively after use. 3. Facial Rollers: they help with lymphatic drainage which can contribute to swelling and puffiness on the face and especially around the eyes. These rollers can help drain some of that lymphatic fluid and remove some inflammation and puffiness. Typically made of Jade stone, a naturally cool stone, these are designed to be used room temperature or store in the fridge and use on the skin cold for a soothing and cooling relief for stressed or sensitive skin. 4. Radio Frequency: Nonablative low-level radiofrequency (RF) is one of the commonly used procedures, especially for the treatment of skin laxity. This is a therapeutic modality that produces a selective and controlled rise in tissue temperature from a high frequency alternating current. It can be adjusted in strength as well. 5. LED Light Therapy: LED (light emitting diode therapy) is a skincare treatment that uses varying wavelengths of light, including red and blue. It doesn’t compromise the skin's protective barrier and is a great compliment to other skin care treatments such as HydraFacials and gentle peels. Safe for all skin types, LED can treat the signs of aging and help heal acne by eliminating skin bacteria, reduce inflammation and redness, and promote collagen production and healing, even reducing the appearance of bruising. Some devices require or allow the use of serums or oils to increase effectiveness such as hydration, circulation, suppleness and radiance. The products I would recommend* using with certain devices:
- Ultimate Boost Serum by Alumier MD
- Calm- R Serum by Alumier MD
- Nourish Avocado Oil by Osmosis Beauty
- Immerse Moisture Boosting Oil by Osmosis Beauty
*Book a FREE online skin health assessment with me and ask which serum or oil would best work for your skin type and with your at-home device! Other tools you may have seen for at-home use are Microneeding devices (Dermarollers), dermabrasion or microdermabraison, and hair removal tools. As a professional Aesthetician, I do not recommend these specific types of devices to be used at home because if done improperly or with a poor quality device, they can have serious consequences and damage left on the skin. Broken capillaries, scarring, burns, pigmentation, and other types of skin damage can occur, so please, leave these ones to the professionals! It's important to understand what is best to leave for in-clinic treatments performed by a skincare professional or doctor. Of course with any device designed for home use, I always recommend consulting with a skincare professional or your physician before trying anything on your skin.
