First up, at home facial steamers! This is a tough one, on one hand: they’re relaxing, helpful with congestion (hello allergy season!), can help products penetrate better. But on the other hand, I have never personally used one so I’m not incredibly familiar with them and don’t have first hand experience. Also, I do have some concerns at the front of my mind.

The first issue could be temperature, I’m not sure if they have a temperature setting but high heat can cause inflammation, dryness, and exacerbate skin issues. My second worry is the type of water you’re using, as estheticians, we’re trained and know to use only distilled water, tap water has a ton of crap in it and can affect the skin and also your steamer!

Another concern would be overuse, whether that’s in one sitting or over time. We get steam from our showers (if you’re a hot shower person), saunas, etc. And my last concern would be if your skin type or conditions can even tolerate steam; anyone with rosacea, sensitive skin, inflamed acne, active eczema, psoriasis, and more are all cases where steam would not only not help but could cause further damage and inflammation.

With all that being said I would recommend booking a consultation or a skin treatment with an esthetician and see if your skin can tolerate an at-home steamer and instructions for use. After all, we’re here to help you and any concerns you may have.

Next up, Dermarollers, these popular little handheld devices are everywhere! I’ve seen a ton on insta and Pinterest, but what’re they really about? If you’re unfamiliar with these little “tools“, they are small spiked rollers. Supposedly designed to mimic the results of microneedling, microdermabrasion, and other professional treatments.

They claim to rejuvenate the skin, help promote collagen, help with scarring, create stimulation in the skin in order to aid in product penetration, and have anti-aging properties. All similar results as the above mentioned treatments that this little device is mimicking, although it’s a cheaper at-home product, sounds like a no-brainer right?

Unfortunately, that is far from the truth! These little rollers can cause so much damage; from causing microtearing in the skin to spreading bacteria. For an esthetician a lot of at-home products, devices, treatments, etc can be so alarming. Without our guidance a lot can go wrong, as trained professionals we have undergone hours and hours of training to prepare us for every outcome, which as non professionals you haven’t! But that’s why we’re here, to help guide you! ☺️

Personally I am not a fan of the derma rollers for a handful of reasons. First, I have no idea how much pressure you’re applying when using the roller or if you’re being consistent with the pressure. Improper pressure can cause a lot of damage and tearing in the skin and also if your dermaroller isn’t medical grade the small metal spikes can break off into the skin, talk about scary! On top of that if you purchased one online, at Sephora, etc I have no idea what the sizing is, by sizing I mean the length of the tiny needles on the roller itself.

These rollers can cause micro tearing across your skin and can exasperate skin concerns you may already have such as rosacea, eczema, or acne. Not to mention damage in general! Another thing to think about (especially with this corona virus going around😳) is hygiene, if your roller isn’t properly cleaned you could be not only spreading bacteria across your skin but also pushing it deep into your skin. Talk about gross! *throws derma roller into the trash immediately*

Photo from Pinterest via Glow Skincare LA

Continuing with rollers, next I’d like to talk about Cold Rollers! These lovely little guys are incredible, no warnings here, I’m in a fully committed relationship with mine. These handheld beauties are so beneficial for an array of reasons! From inflammation to irritation the cold roller will quickly become your new bff. Anyone wake up with puffy tired eyes? Cold roller! Inflamed acne causing pain? Cold roller! Recently got a chemical peel? Cold roller!

I really could go on and on about this kick ass little tool, im truly obsessed. I personally use it to help my serums penetrate better, calm any inflammation I may have, help with my swollen allergy ridden eyes, and follow any peels I do with it! I also have migraines semi regularly and it really helps with tension on my forehead or even my neck. With Chico summer just around the corner, my lil’ cold roller will really have some work to do! Throw it in the fridge or freezer and use it on your face, shoulders, anywhere!

Cold rolling is really game changing but I do have some tips to get the best use out of it. First, make sure to always clean it after each use, I useoll 90% isopropyl alcohol to clean the rollers itself and the hand part. That way you make sure not to spread any bacteria! Also, I would recommend using a stainless steel roller that way cleaning it properly won’t be an issue and it won’t be porous and harbor bacteria like the jade or quartz rollers are. These rollers are a great addition to any skincare routine and are so relaxing and fun to use! (These can be purchased via www.glowskincarela.com or amazon by searching ‘cold roller’)

At home devices can be so useful if used correctly, it doesn’t hurt to go one step further and do a little research before you buy. As an esthetician I am always here to answer questions and help with your skin needs. I hope this quick little review helped you make a decision or maybe even throw some devices you have already *cough dermaroller cough*. Remember to always keep your tools clean, do your research, and if all else fails ask your local esthetician!

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