Complements Clarisonic®: to brush or not to brush?

07/15/15

It’s advertised in about every magazine, so I’m sure you have seen ads for the Clarisonic®. Maybe you’re considering splurging on one or maybe you already have one. Is it a necessity? And what exactly does it do? Well, let me tell you about this little cleansing brush that’s been making its appearance known more and more.

The Clarisonic, which comes in many different forms and sizes, is a specialty skin care tool that claims to clean your face more thoroughly than just using your hands. It’s not cheap, starting at about $100 at specialty beauty stores. According to their website this is what the Clarisonic is supposed to do:

  • Leaves skin feeling and looking healthier
  • Removes six times more makeup than cleansing with hands alone
  • Helps skin care products absorb better
  • Pores appear smaller
  • Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Reduces oily areas, dry skin patches and blemishes
  • Gentle enough for use twice a day
  • Soft, non-abrasive for different skin types

I do have to admit that it made my skin feel very smooth after my first use, and I love knowing that I’m getting all my makeup off before going to bed. That being said, I’m sticking with my toner on a cotton pad. It’s amazing what toner takes off that your cleanser didn’t, Yuck! However, I don’t think it's gentle enough for all skin types and I wouldn’t use it twice a day. Over-exfoliating can irritate your skin, causing inflammation and redness.

I think that if you wear a lot of makeup or have very thick and/or oily skin, then investing in a Clarisonic is a good idea. If you have rosacea and/or papules and pustules from acne, I don’t think a Clarisonic cleansing brush is for you. I also wouldn’t use it along with other exfoliating products. If you love the Clarisonic and it works for you, then by all means continue using it. I myself prefer using cleanser, toner and glycolic products for exfoliating and removing my makeup.

As always, feel free to schedule an appointment with me and we can work together to determine what is the best solution for your skin.