By Georgia Lam,
The future of technology is here with us consulting AI generated chat boxes such as chatGPT for any queries we might encounter. As the world transitions into a full digital age, the beauty industry is too, ever changing. We jump from trend to trend, one coveted ingredient to another, and form collective approval of products we never thought we needed in our skincare routines. With the crowd chasing after new, intriguing inventions that actually work, demand for brands to level up their game when creating their new beauty line is high in recent years. Whether a futuristic electronic beauty tool or a clever invention made to solve issues you have never thought of, here are some affordable gadgets under $60 you should have stashed for the ultimate self-care experience for a beauty on a budget.
Pimple patches, who? Packaged in a case similar to that of earbuds (if you purchase the 2-pack option), one would think these cleverly designed pods are unrelated to the beauty industry. On closer inspection, however, you will realize that these are pimple patches, revolutionized to combine light therapy to reduce inflammation of pesky zits. In just 3 minutes, the keycap-slash-pod-looking device, otherwise known as the ‘Light Pod’, utilizes blue and red light therapy to eliminate acne-causing bacteria as well as reduce inflammation and redness at the speed of light (literally). Simply attach the HydroGrip stickers to the Light Pod and place it directly over the pimple you wish to treat; the device will automatically shut off once ready, guaranteeing a hands-free and convenient application while you go about your day.
Find comfort with a click of a pen. This convenient tool fits right in your pocket, offering immediate relief no matter your location with its aromatherapy targeted to provide calming notes that alleviate the day’s stress. With a natural blend of oils including lavender, peppermint, and tonka beans to soothe the body and mind, as well as niacinamide, peach flower extracts, and ashwagandha to moisturize and protect the skin, say hello to instant comfort and peace. Apply the makeup-friendly gel on pressure points such as the back of the ears, neck, and wrists, and be prepared to experience serenity in a bustling city and occupied minds. Packaged in a leakproof 5ml bottle, it makes the perfect travel buddy to bring onboard flights to release tension and help relax and refresh your senses.
There is finally an easy solution to remove those stubborn blackheads, and it's the Deep Clean Master by Ilso. With an ergonomic stainless steel tip that is flat and rounded at the edges, it provides maximum contact with the skin to gently scrape away the unwanted blackheads. Despite being thin, it offers a clean removal of impurities, especially when paired with an oil-based cleanser. If you are a frequent user of mud masks, nose packs, or cleansing oils, this handy tool helps wipe away all the remaining gunk, including dead skin cells and sebum that surfaces, leaving your skin soft and baby-smooth.
The concept of ice rollers isn’t something new, but many people who have tried out the trend swear by this method in their routine for relieving puffiness and inflammation. By gliding the cold block onto your complexion, it helps stimulate blood circulation, shrink pores, eradicate dark eye circles, and combat acne. If you wish to hop on this trend but dislike playing the waiting game by refilling a new batch after every use, perhaps this stainless steel roller is something you need. It is naturally cooling by itself, but you can also pop it in the fridge to mimic the ice roller, especially since it has a rubber cap for safe storage. The Rolling With It tool also helps keep things clean and hygienic by making it easy to clean after each use. Simply glide the ball onto your face for 5-10 minutes as desired, even under the eyes to reduce swelling and puffiness. For a deeper massage, try pairing it with your favourite sheet masks or liquid-based skincare products for increased absorption into the skin.
More than just sweat-absorbent bands around the wrists, these adorable scrunchies are also water-resistant and particularly useful for catching water while washing your face. They prevent residual water from dripping down the arms and elbows onto the floor, saving you from having to clean up a mess. Incredibly stretchy and soft, they provide a comfortable fit without interfering with your cleansing routine. This multitasking invention you never thought you needed will be a game-changer while washing up after a long, tiring day at work or a handy companion during your yoga sweat sessions.
Designed to work just like the pencil eraser we were all used to as kids, the Exfoliating Hair Removal Drop gets the job done without the lingering pain of waxing. It is fuss-free and leaves your skin smooth and soft. Using friction to get rid of surface hair, it also works to exfoliate and combat issues like ingrown hair, strawberry legs, as well as dry, flaky skin. Created with the razor in mind, this tool is considerably more environmentally-friendly, especially since you can use it for 6 months, reducing wastage of disposable shavers. It is recommended for use on your arms, legs, or back. For more effective results, rub the drop in circular motions and apply moderate pressure. After each use, ensure to moisturize your skin with cream or body oil.
Gone are the days when you needed separate tools for your lashes. With a handy applicator and lash comb in one that is both chic and reusable, you'll never fumble around your drawers again. Especially beginner-friendly, the dual-ended lash applicator is simple but makes putting on your lashes a breeze. Use the tweezer end to gently apply the lashes with precision and delicate control, and the flat teeth end to blend them all together for a natural finish.
Perhaps Hailey Bieber has influenced you to get a face sculpting tool, or maybe you've been scouring the internet for one; either way, the Brightening T Bar from Solaris Laboratories NY offers an affordable alternative to what the celebrity is using for a perfectly chiseled face. This battery-operated wand pulsates sonic vibrations and provides an instant facelift within minutes of usage. It also aids in lymphatic drainage, microcirculation, and brightens up dull-looking skin for a completely reinvigorated and radiant complexion. This thin, round bar made of zinc alloy and aluminum is not to be underestimated; when used correctly, it can help kick-start or enhance your skincare journey in achieving that natural dewy, glowing skin.
Taking LED light therapy to the next level, this device offers a whopping seven colours and modes for targeting various skin concerns, including providing an instant lift. Experience a spa-like treat within the walls of your room and achieve visible results in terms of reversing signs of ageing. Since red light can penetrate deeper into the skin, opt for this mode to stimulate collagen production for a younger-looking complexion. To support blood circulation and eliminate flushing or redness, choose the yellow LED. For hyperpigmentation, dull skin, wrinkles, crow’s feet, and dark circles, try using the green mode instead to help reverse signs of ageing. If you have acne-prone skin that is often red and inflamed, blue light is better at combating these areas of concern as it helps with the outer layers of your skin. Purple light is recommended if you have rosacea, as it combines red and blue light therapy to alleviate redness, benefiting from both by eliminating acne-causing bacteria and reducing inflammation. As for cyan, which uses a combination of blue and green LED lights, it helps minimize the size of capillaries and promotes healing. Last but not least, the neutral white LED encourages skin relaxation and helps with psoriasis and eczema. Choose from 3 massaging strengths and a constant mild heat for a comfortable self-care session at home.
Smooth out all your wrinkles with this satisfying 10-ball jade roller that not only stimulates collagen production but also loosens tight knots. It encourages blood circulation, and its ergonomically shaped handle makes it easy to grip while massaging. Shaped quite literally like an iron, the tapered end helps navigate into hard-to-reach areas such as under the eyes for depuffing. Recommended for use in one consistent direction to avoid dragging the skin, it also helps achieve the results of a gua sha where lifting and face contouring can be attained. Apart from the above, the SkinIron also aids in reducing inflammation, revitalizing and brightening the skin, as well as increasing product absorption when paired with your favorite skincare.
This story first appeared in Her World