It seems that beauty gadgets are everywhere we look and with such a wide choice, I was keen to find out, which ones are good for midlife skin and what should we be looking out for results wise and more importantly, investing in?
Before we go any further, I need to clarify that at home devices don’t replace any kind of in-clinic treatment undertaken by a doctor or trained clinician, which will be more intense and may involve more down time (which equates to healing time). At-home devices, however, are a more user-friendly way of getting results with no downtime and the key here is consistency if you want to see results… I like to think of these devices as a more intense version of your regular skincare routine, so let’s get started.
The eyes have it!
Starting at the top here as I am constantly hearing about friends concerned about their eye area – and this can be one of the first areas to show the early signs of ageing. Enter the current body LED eye perfector – this slips on like a pair of glasses and is very comfortable to use – the LED device incorporates natural light energy in the Amber, Red, Deep RED and infrared spectrums that can help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and targets specific areas such as crow’s feet, brows and brow furrows and working within the layers of the skin to stimulate collagen and elastin production. The bonus is the treatment is three minutes so can be used daily whilst getting ready for bed!
Tip: Cleanse your face and apply serum or eye cream before the treatment for a double hit!
Ice Ice Baby
The benefits of cold-water bathing are everywhere. If, however, like me, you won’t be seen anywhere near icy water, never fear, the ice roller could be the answer! All the top facialists rave about the benefits of ice rolling your face which include a reduction in inflammation and redness, it also can help depuff the facial contours and reduce dark circles under the eyes and shrink pores. I have been doing this every morning for a while now, just a light roll across the entire face for a few minutes after cleansing and my skin feels great all day and is definitely more glowy as a result, not to mention cool!
Tip – don’t use it fresh out of the freezer – leave it out for about 3 minutes or keep it in the fridge to avoid freezer burn!
The Midlife hair debate
Let me clarify, I am talking about those pesky whiskers that seem to spring out of our chins and necks in midlife. It is a constant battle, and I am going to be honest, there is no simple solution here. It’s even worse if you have white or silver hair like me, as laser devices will not work on this colour of hair, so I urge you to embrace the laser removal whilst you still have pigment in your hairs! Some of my tried and tested home solutions are as follows:
I am a fan of the Smooth Skin Pure Fit (RRP £249) which I use on my lower face and neck weekly to keep any rogue hairs at bay. This is a hand held IPL device that has 3 treatment modes to accommodate sensitive areas and also has a little precision attachment for difficult areas such as the upper lip.
The increase in facial hair in midlife is alarming. I have therefore embraced the art of face shaving or dermaplaning as it has become known. I use this clever little device from Tweezerman (£18) a couple of times a week to ensure a smooth visage as it removes fine hairs and fluff and also exfoliates the skin at the same time, as a result, I have noticed that my make up sits better and lasts longer so a triple win!
Tip: I keep one at home and have one in my washbag for travel as you never know when a chin hair will appear trust me…
Know your currents in midlife
ZIIP Halo (£379.99)
Think you know about micro current devices .. well think again, because Ziip is changing the game, and this little device is a literal gem. First off, it isn’t just about micro current with this tool, but also nano current – what’s the difference I hear you ask? Well micro current stimulates ATP (which is what brings energy to our cells) and boosts collagen production which gives a more sculpted and lifted effect on the facial contours and the nano current works at a deeper cellular level to enhance skin health, boost radiance and reduce fine lines.
The device links to the Ziip app on your phone, so that you can select the facial treatment you wish depending on your concerns – I love the “Instant Gratification” cycle which is 6 minutes of everything! If you are pushed for time just switch it on and benefit from a 4 minute signature treatment. One suggestion I do have here is that they include a travel case with it please as I want to take this with me everywhere!
Tip: use the Ziip Halo with the Ziip skincare gels, or simply get a conductor gel online.
Get with the Gua Sha
Botanics Rose Quartz Gua Sha, £11.25
Sometimes only a great massage will do, and I like to alternate my skincare to get maximum benefits. This is a great tool to have handy for an evening self-care moment and the Gua Sha will get into all those facial nooks and crannies… to lift and depuff but also to relax tense jaw and forehead muscles. Use in conjunction with a facial oil and check out master facialist Michaela Bolder’s Instagram for lots of different moves you can do either with your hands or a Gua Sha to depuff and sculpt.
Tip – don’t forget the neck and collarbones!
Body Brushing for Summer Bodies
Lymph-Lite Dry Body Brush, £20
There is nothing quite like a brisk body brush of a morning to get the circulation going and the skin tingling – in a good way – I have mentioned my love of body brushing in the past. I do this once or twice a week, but you can do it as much as you like. Benefits, according to the Leg experts Legology, include boosting circulation to the skin surface, lymphatic drainage and improved skin tone so a perfect all rounder to get us ready for summer! Use your body brush with gentle strokes on the skin in long, swift upward movements towards the heart (don’t scrub!).
Tip: Use Legology Cellu-lite oil after a body brushing session for added benefits.
Words by Nicola de Burlet
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