Wearable Wellness Devices
As a dermatologist, I am always fascinated by the latest innovations in the beauty industry – and whilst I believe there is no better basis for healthy skin than a considered and consistent routine, wearable wellness devices technology is also taking the beauty world by storm.
In today’s journal entry, I share my recommended beauty gadgets for home use, breaking down the tech behind the trend, the benefits and my expert recommendations.
Wearable Wellness Devices
Wearable wellness devices come in many forms, from more medically-focussed innovations that monitor glucose levels or track vital signs, to devices focussed on self-care, such as light therapy, skin toning or deep tissue massagers.
Today, we’re going to focus on the tools that bring self-care and tech together.
LED Light Therapy
LED light therapy is a non-invasive treatment during which skin is exposed to multiple wavelengths of light that penetrate deep beneath its surface, with the aim of visibly improving its appearance.
The two most commonly used wavelengths of light are red and blue light. Red light increases collagen and elastin production while reducing redness, whilst blue light reduces acne-causing bacteria and regulates oil and sebum production.
LED Light Therapy has long been delivered in dermatologists offices, but thanks to at-home devices, you can see the benefits of LED on your skin from the comfort of your sofa. For me, the leading LED light devices are:
CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask 2.0: Focused on improving skin tone, firmness and texture, and clinically proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, the CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask is comfortable to wear, with short, 10 minute session times.
Unicskin UnicLED Korean Mask: With seven colours of light to choose from, this mask can treat almost every skin concern, but it’s important to note that the sessions are longer at 30 minutes each.
The Light Salon Boost LED Face Mask: Using almost 100 LEDs, this mask stimulates collagen product and promotes circulation, leading to improvements in texture, firmness, tone and fine lines.
Facial Toning Devices
Microcurrent devices utilise low-level electrical impulses to stimulate the muscles in your face, gently lifting and tightening the skin, whilst boosting circulation and enhancing penetration of skincare products. Some research shows that microcurrent devices can also potentially stimulate collagen and elastin production.
My favourite facial toning devices are:
Solawave 4-in-1 Advanced Skincare Wand: Containing four treatments into one small device, the Solawave 4-in-1 Advanced Skincare Wand combines microcurrents with LED light therapy, facial therapy and therapeutic warmth. It is recommended to use this three times each week.
Foreo Bear Microcurrent Facial Toning Device: Using T-sonic pulsations, the Foreo Bear Microcurrent Facial Toning Device will tone and firm your skin, whilst easing tension and promoting blood flow. Its anti-shock technology keeps currents at a safe level, and the accompanying app keeps you on track with your skin goals.
NuFace Trinity Facial Toning Device: A microcurrent massager that stimulates your facial muscles to leave skin firmer and more toned. This viral sensation delivers results but requires commitment: it is recommended to use it five times a week for the first 90 days.
Massage Guns
A massage gun might not be the first thing you think of for wearable wellness devices, but they are a lot more compact in size these days and can easily be carried on the go. They use repetitive pressure and vibrations in rapid succession to release tight muscles, whilst improving circulation and aiding lymphatic drainage.
Whilst generally associated with only the most avid gym-goers, massage guns can be an effective part of your self-care ritual: helping you warm up before exercise and alleviating soreness, stiffness and pain – whether it’s from an intense exercise session, or a long day sat at a desk.
My top massage gun choice is the Therabody Theragun Mini. This exceptionally small and light massager is incredibly portable, but has differing speeds and attachments to truly tailor your treatment to release tension, reduce soreness and speed up recovery. Combined with a deliciously fragranced product like the Joonbyrd DAYDREAMER Firming Body Serum it could almost be a professional massage in your own home.
Discover more industry innovations in my journal.
