For all of us beauty enthusiasts, Lucire magazine’s recent article ”The Truth About Home Facial Devices” is the insight we needed on this popular topic. Over the past few years, it seems we can’t go a day without hearing about the newest beauty tools and devices hitting the market, all promising to take our skin care routines to the next level. Who wouldn’t want to look better, younger, more refreshed, all from the comfort of home? There are gadgets for every facial need and concern, ranging from manual rollers like jade and quartz to advanced electrical devices utilizing modalities such as radio frequency, ultrasound, LED light therapy, and micro-current therapy. But, amidst the variety and promises, which of these home devices truly deliver results? Lucire asks the experts to weigh in.
As an authority on facial rejuvenation and making faces more youthful, Dr. Konstantin Vasyukevich, top NYC facial plastic surgeon and facelift expert, shares his take on some of these popular beauty tools.
Gua Sha vs. Jade Roller
By now, surely almost everyone who has social media (or a Sephora beauty store nearby) has heard of the gua sha tool. It is a small, specially designed tool usually made from materials like jade or rose quartz, that has a smooth, rounded edge and is shaped to fit the contours of the face. When used with gentle pressure by gliding it over the face in upward and outward strokes, the gua sha is said to help promote lymphatic drainage, reduce puffiness, and improve the overall appearance of the skin.
Similar to the gua sha, a jade roller is a beauty tool also believed to provide benefits such as improving circulation and enhancing lymphatic drainage. It typically consists of a handle and one or two smooth jade stone rollers attached at the ends. The tool is gently rolled across the face, neck, and décolletage, applying light pressure. It can also help with the absorption of skincare products and provide a soothing, cooling sensation to the skin.
So, what is the verdict? In Dr. Konstantin’s opinion, the jade roller is the better option. He says, “between these two I would always prefer the jade roller, solely because both will work well for a lymphatic drain massage, but the jade roller doesn’t pull on the skin as intensely, but rather glides on top of the skin. Even when you are pulling your skin up, it’s still harmful because gravity will eventually pull the skin back down and stretch your skin. The gua sha will actually accelerate skin ageing due to the fact that it is stretching the skin.”
One of the main concerns for patients seeking facial rejuvenation with Dr. Konstantin is noticeable skin laxity or sagging. While everyone’s face and skin are different, avoiding any excessive or unnecessary pulling or stretching of the skin and using a gentle touch can certainly help to delay these early signs of aging from appearing.
Microdermabrasion Tools Vs. Dry Brush
Just type in ’at-home microdermabrasion tool’ in the search engine and countless results will pop up. There are options upon options of different brands and types of these handheld devices used to exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin. Microdermabrasion tools promise to help improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and promote a smoother, more radiant complexion. And Dr. Konstantin agrees that they can in fact be beneficial. He says “a microdermabrasion tool is wonderful because it also removes the top layer of dead skin while also cleansing the pores and plumping the skin by improving blood circulation! Just be very mindful not to tug the suction cup from your skin and ensure you are gliding the tool off the skin.”
And what about the classic dry brush beauty tool? By using a technique that involves brushing the skin in long, sweeping motions, the firm bristles are believed to help unclog pores, improve skin texture as well as stimulate circulation and promote lymphatic drainage. In Dr. Konstantin’s words, “a dry brush is great because it’s purely for exfoliating and removing the top layer of dead skin. However, when buying these, make sure you purchase one with white stoppers so you are regulating how much pressure you are applying to the skin.” As always, when in doubt, it’s best to start slowly and build up as necessary.
Ultimately, when selecting beauty tools it’s important to consider your skin type and what is most suitable for your specific needs. Some tools may work for some people, but not for others. Additionally, following proper usage instructions can help avoid any potential adverse effects. If you have sensitive skin, for instance, you may need to use gentler techniques or opt for softer bristles. Consulting with a skincare professional or doing thorough research can help you make informed decisions and ensure that you get the beautiful results you desire.
You can read the full article (and more about electric facial devices) in Lucire magazine here.
If you would like to know more about the cosmetic procedures and treatments we offer and if facial rejuvenation is right for you, we would be happy to see you for a consultation. Please contact our Manhattan-based practice to schedule your appointment with New York’s top facial plastic surgeon and facelift expert, Konstantin Vasyukevich, MD.
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