One of the most frequent questions I get from friends and clients is about the Clarisonic and whether it’s worth the investment.
Just in case you’ve been too preoccupied with a baby on either hip to have heard about this beauty device, here’s the deal: The Clarisonic is basically an electric face brush that exfoliates your face. In short, I’m not a fan. I think it’s a gimmick and too expensive (at around $150). You could use your electric toothbrush and get the same results (but please don’t do that–that would be gross). I find it to be too rough, even with the sensitive and delicate brush heads. Also, most women have a tendency to overuse it (2-3 times a week is what I would recommend for someone with normal skin). And it’s not good for all skin types; if you have broken capillaries or any redness, if you have acne or sensitive skin, I would advise not using it as it can aggravate these skin conditions.
For exfoliation, I prefer either a gentle scrub or a chemical exfoliant in the form of glycolic or lactic acid. My favorite gentle scrub is Dr. Hauschka Cleansing Cream, which is a daily cleanser and also an exfoliant. To use it, make a paste with some water and press and roll it into your face, using the suction to exfoliate. It’s great for all types of skin, especially dry and sensitive.
For someone who wants a little more oomph, I really like the Arcona Brightening Gommage, which is a traditional scrub with little beads that you gently work into wet skin. It has a nice warming effect on the face, which I really like, and works to brighten skin tone, which I’m all about. I also really love glycolic acid; I find it to be great for acne prone or very sensitive skin. I recommend Prescribed Solutions Start Up Face Cleanser. A word to even the wisest of moms: It’s pretty strong, so start off slow and work your way up.
That being said, I know there are women out there who don’t use traditional exfoliators and, instead, swear by their Clarisonic, so take what I say with a grain of salt. Skincare is very personal what works for one mom may not work as well for another. You have to find the products that you love and will use regularly–and that fit your budget and lifestyle. So get out there and test all the products and skincare you can get your hands on!
Amity Spiegel is a total beauty junkie who lives in Brooklyn with husband Mike and son Cole. She is an esthetician with a holistic focus, a once and future triathlete/marathoner, a lover of trashy rock biographies and healthy eating and cooking.
