At-Home Skin Care Device Guide | Donaldson Plastic Surgery

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By Andie Schroeder |

At-Home Skin Care Device Guide

A Professional Overview Of Which Tools Work & Which To Avoid

At-Home Skin Care Device Guide

Every day, it seems like there is a new at-home device that pops up on social media, promising professional-level results from the comfort of your bathroom. While the right tools can elevate your routine and deliver glowing skin, choosing the wrong ones could do more harm than good. Our at-home skin care device guide will help you navigate these trending solutions, ensuring you make informed decisions for your skin’s health.

The Devices Our Providers DO NOT Recommend

The following tools present a range of concerns — they could be considered dangerous if used without the correct training or they are simply ineffective. If you choose to use these tools, we recommend consulting with your primary care provider and skincare professionals first to ensure your safety.

Microdermabrasion Device

At-home microdermabrasion devices can be too abrasive for sensitive skin, leading to irritation, redness, and potential damage if not used correctly. Without professional guidance, there’s a higher risk of over-exfoliation and skin barrier disruption.

Pore Vacuum

Pore vacuums can cause broken capillaries, bruising and skin irritation if used improperly or with excessive suction. They may also exacerbate skin conditions like acne or rosacea, and can lead to long-term damage if overused.

Laser Hair Removal Device

At-home laser hair removal devices may not be as powerful or effective as professional laser hair removal treatments, requiring more sessions for results. Improper use can result in burns, hyperpigmentation or scarring. They may also be less effective on certain skin tones and hair colors.

RF (Radio Frequency) Device

At-home radio frequency devices often lack the precision and safety features of professional equipment, increasing the risk of burns and uneven results. Without proper training, users may not achieve the desired skin tightening effects and could potentially damage their skin.

We highly suggest opting for Morpheus8 skin tightening treatments at a certified practice as an alternative solution.

Facial Cleansing Dry Brush

Dry brushing the face can be too harsh and abrasive, leading to irritation, micro-tears, and compromised skin barrier. It can exacerbate conditions like acne, eczema, and rosacea, and may cause more harm than benefit when used frequently.

Kansa Wand

While the Kansa wand can promote facial massage and relaxation, its therapeutic benefits are greatest when performed by a professional medical aesthetician. Users may also find it less effective as an at-home solution compared to other tools, and improper use could potentially irritate the skin.

The Devices Our Providers Recommend

These solutions range from simple manual tools to more advanced electronic gadgets, catering to a variety of skincare needs. They offer a range of benefits, from tightening and hydrating, to detoxifying and clearing the skin. These devices can bolster cosmetic results and improve skin health when used in coordination with professional skincare treatments and medical-grade products.

Facial Steamer

Facial steamers open up pores, allowing for deep cleansing and better absorption of skincare products. The steam can also improve circulation, hydrate the skin and leave it looking more refreshed and radiant.

LED Light Therapy Mask

While not as powerful as some professional laser therapy options, LED masks use different wavelengths of light to effectively target various skin concerns.

  • Blue light can reduce acne by killing bacteria
  • Red light can promote collagen production and reduce inflammation
  • Near-infrared light can help with skin healing and rejuvenation

Ultrasonic Skin Scrubber

This device uses ultrasonic vibrations to exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells, blackheads and other impurities. It also helps in deep cleansing and improving skin tone and texture, leaving the skin smooth and clear.

“The ultrasonic skin scrubber is especially great when you need extractions, but you can’t come in for a facial anytime soon — or if you need help getting product to penetrate deeper into the skin.” 

-Andie Schroeder, LE

High-Frequency Wand

High-frequency wands use electrical currents to oxygenate the skin, kill acne-causing bacteria, and stimulate circulation and collagen production. They can effectively treat acne, reduce fine lines and improve overall skin health.

Infrared Sauna Blanket

Infrared sauna blankets use infrared heat to penetrate deeply into the skin, promoting detoxification, improving circulation and easing muscle tension. They can also enhance skin tone and texture, promote relaxation and support immune system function by reducing chronic stress and cortisol spikes.

Microcurrent Device

Microcurrent devices deliver low-level electrical currents to the skin and facial muscles, which can help lift and tone the face, reduce wrinkles, and promote collagen and elastin production.

“You often hear this tool referred to as the ‘non-invasive facelift’ on social media, and while it’s not as effective as surgery, we find it beneficial for aging well.”

-Andie Schroeder, LE

The Devices Our Providers Recommend With Proper Cleaning

The following tools can be used at home to fortify and improve the longevity of the results from your professional treatments, but they also require additional upkeep and maintenance to ensure the best results. You may increase the risk of infection without proper sanitation protocols in place.

Derma Roller

Derma rollers create tiny micro-injuries on the skin’s surface, stimulating collagen and elastin production while also allowing products and serums to penetrate deeper into the skin. This process can improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of scars and fine lines, and enhance the absorption of skincare products.

Dermal rollers should be purchased from a reputable aesthetic provider rather than online or from a department store because those options are often not sterile and can lead to infections or needle breakage, meaning the small needles can get stuck in the skin. Our providers have witnessed this occur in the past, underscoring the importance of choosing a trusted source.

Gua Sha Tool

Gua Sha tools are made of various stones and are used to perform a scraping massage technique that helps boost circulation and promote lymphatic drainage. This can reduce facial tension, decrease puffiness and improve skin tone and texture, giving the face a more sculpted appearance.

Cryo Facial Roller

Cryo facial rollers are designed to be chilled and used on the face to reduce inflammation, tighten pores and soothe the skin. The cooling effect can help reduce puffiness, calm irritated skin and provide a refreshing and invigorating facial experience.

Jade Roller

Jade rollers are used to massage the face, helping to reduce puffiness and promote lymphatic drainage. They can also improve blood circulation, enhance skin elasticity and aid in the absorption of serums and moisturizers, leaving the skin looking more refreshed and radiant.

About The Author

Andie Schroeder, LE is the cosmetic tattoo artist and skincare specialist at Donaldson Plastic Surgery. When she isn’t performing facials and eyebrow tinting, she can be found providing personalized skincare recommendations for her patients. Andie believes that education is a vital component of skin health and aims to provide clarity about which trending products and devices are worth it — and which may be causing damage.

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