Photo: Imaxtree
Some people say that ageless skin begins at the dermatologist’s office, but we’re believers that results can also be achieved at home. There are more skin care products and treatments available on the market every day so understandably it can be confusing to figure out where to start. Below are some of our favorite anti-aging devices and tools that are perfect for a good starter skin-care kit.
DEEP CLEANING WITH A CLEANSER BRUSH
Cleansing brushes are not only popular as they provide more exfoliation than the traditional method of using your hands but also with regular usage they help to combat signs of aging like lines, uneven skin tone, and enlarged pores.
Use a cleansing brush 1 time daily to 2-3 times a week depending on how sensitive your skin is.  A good way to figure out what best suits your skin is to start off using your cleansing device every other night when you first begin to use it. Depending on how your skin reacts, either decrease or increase usage. It’s normal for your skin to purge during those first few weeks of use and this may result in minor breakouts and inflammation.
For advanced anti-aging results, consider applying a retinoid, which is a skin-beneficial derivative of the antioxidant Vitamin A at night post-cleansing. Explore our guide on the benefits of Retin-A which is considered to be one the most powerful forms available for topical application.
PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS
Clarisonic Mia 2 Skin Cleansing System ($169)
Clarisonic’s device is known for being durable and with features such as the 2-speed setting and the USB charging function it stands out in comparison to some of the more cost-effective brushes out there. In a bid to prevent over exfoliation, the system also includes a built-in timer that beeps when the brush should be moved to another part of the face. Once a week, to minimize bacteria buildup consider deep cleaning your brush head with a gentle soap like Beauty Blender’s popular BlenderCleanser Solid ($20). The 3-month mark is a good time to consider replacing your brush head ($22).
Foreo LUNA 2 ($199)
Forea’s LUNA 2 is waterproof and made from silicone as a preventative measure against bacteria build-up. The device is customizable to your skin’s needs with its 12 pulsation settings and the different versions available for multiple skin types, inclusive of sensitive and oily. Unlike many cleansing brushes the Luna’s brush head doesn’t need replacement which not only cuts down on environmental waste but also on costs over the long run.
CHEMICAL PEELS FOR MORE ADVANCED RESULTS
A chemical peel is a type of anti-aging treatment that provides deep exfoliation for the skin and targets concerns like dark spots, roughness and fine lines and wrinkles. If you’re considering an at-home chemical peel but you’ve never had the treatment before we recommend going to a registered skin practitioner like a dermatologist for the first few ones before trying it yourself.
If you’re not a regular user of retinoids like Retinol or Retin-A consider using one of them for at least 4 weeks before doing a chemical peel because they help prep skin by removing dead layers and by doing so not only ensures more even results are achieved but also deeper ones as well.
Before proceeding with this anti-aging treatment make sure check out our guide on at-home chemical peels that covers in-depth information like the different types out there and how to choose the most effective one for your skin concerns.
PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION
 Skin Obsession 30% Glycolic Acid Peel ($13.99)
Glycolic acid peels, derived from natural sources like sugar cane and sugar beets or synthetic ones are considered to be the gold standard for anti-aging. Patience is needed for more advanced results as it usually takes 3-5 peels spaced 2 weeks apart to see a difference. Each bottle generally contains enough solution to cover 8-10 or more facial peels. If you’re more of an intermediate peeler try the 40% Glycolic Acid Peel ($16.99) or if you consider yourself an advanced one, consider the 50% Glycolic Acid Peel ($20.99).
SPONGES TO HIDE IMPERFECTIONS
The combination of the slow down of the skin’s regenerative processes, hormones and the exposure to the sun’s UV rays and other environmental factors result in discolorations on like acne marks, age spots hyperpigmentation and even melasma. Although skin care products and anti-aging treatments can protect and even reverse damage sometimes a quick fix option is needed. Makeup sponges are a popular choice as they can provide coverage that seems natural and minimize product wastage.
PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION
BeautyBlender The Original Beauty Blender ($20)
Although on the pricier side, Beautyblender’s quality sponge provides streak-free coverage perfect for complexion products like primers, foundation and cream blush that competitor sponges cannot compete with. Before using the Beauty Blender soak it in water and squeeze it a few times in order to prevent product absorption into the sponge. It’s also a good idea to apply makeup while the Beauty Blender is still damp as it helps prevent product from caking into fine lines and wrinkles. The unique egg shape of sponge’s tip is perfect for applying makeup in hard to reach areas like the inner eye. Beauty Blender’s usually last 3-4 months before they should be replaced and can be cleaned with a gentle soap once a week like the brand’s Solid Cleanser ($20).
FINAL THOUGHTS
Acceptance that aging is natural process is probably the best tool to cope with the passing of time. We aren’t advising that you throw caution to the wind and live recklessly. Rather, if aging concerns are something that bothers you remember that trying to look forever 25 and obsessing over every imperfection won’t actually make you happy. Consider the approach of trying to be the best you at the age you’re at now instead of the often futile battle against how you looked when you were younger.
