What You Need to Know About 2020's Trendiest Skin Care Tools

Out with the old and in with the new! There are plenty of skin care tools that were made popular in 2019 (you probably noticed a few of them popping up on Instagram) that we think will continue to garner fanfare well into 2020 and beyond. If you’re not already familiar with the likes of jade rollers and microneedling, it’s high time to learn. Whether or not you add these tools into your own skin care routine is up to you, but it’s nice to be in the know either way. Here’s everything you need to know about 2020’s trendiest skin care tools.

SKIN CARE TOOL #1: JADE ROLLERS

You’ve likely seen these gorgeous gem-stone devices all over your social media feeds, and you can expect more of the same in 2020. Why is everyone using these photogenic skin care tools? Proponents of the jade roller say it helps stimulate blood flow to the complexion. They’re also a simple, non-electronic tool, so if you’re new to skin care tools, this one is perfect for beginners.

To use a jade roller, use the large end of the tool to massage the large areas of your complexion (cheeks, jawline, and forehead) using upward motions. Then, switch the tool around and use the smaller end to gently roll over smaller areas of the face, such as the under-eye area and the bridge of your nose. If you want to take things to the next level, store your jade roller in the fridge for a cooling, de-puffing effect that feels oh-so-good on tired skin.

Here’s another bonus tip: Jade rollers work great for helping to spread facial serums onto your complexion evenly. Reach for the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum, dispense a few drops onto different areas of your face, and start rolling!

SKIN CARE TOOL #2: DERMA ROLLERS

Also known as microneedling, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, the process of using a derma roller on the face involves puncturing the skin with micro needles to create tiny wounds, which triggers the skin’s repair system and can help to improve the appearance of everything from large pores to fine lines and wrinkles. You may have noticed that at-home derma rollers have become trendy, but the AAD reveals that these at-home devices can be hard to clean and maintain, and the needles can dull pretty fast. So, if you want to try out derma rolling, it’s best to make an appointment with a professional.

SKIN CARE TOOL #3: LIGHT THERAPY MASKS

Professional dermatologists have been using light and laser treatments for years to treat common skin conditioners such as acne, rosacea, and aging skin, according to the AAD. But now, it’s 2019, and there are plenty of at-home devices that utilize the power of blue and red-light therapy to improve the appearance of skin. These devices are typically marketed toward acne treatment, and the AAD reports that it’s true that consumers using light therapy could see skin-clearing results. However, whether the at-home mask devices are as effective as in-office treatments is unclear.

SKIN CARE TOOL #4: DERMAPLANING DEVICES

In simple terms, dermaplaning is a form of skin exfoliation that involves actually shaving the skin—but it’s not the same type of shaving you do elsewhere. The primary function of dermaplaning isn’t to remove hair, but rather, to help resurface the skin. According to Stanford Health Care, dermaplaning can be used to help address deep acne scars and uses a hand-held instrument called a dermatome. The dermatome looks similar to an electric razor, but it evenly skims off the surface layers of skin.

Although there are plenty of at-home dermaplaning devices available for purchase, it’s probably best to start with a visit to a professional for this service. This is because doing it the wrong way or with the wrong type of tools (or tools that aren’t properly sterilized) can spread bacteria and irritate the skin.

SKIN CARE TOOL #5: FACIAL MASSAGERS

Want to treat yourself to a facial massage? Well, there’s a trendy tool for that. You may have seen this facial rolling device, which is silver and features two ball-shaped beads on one end. The device is meant to imitate the kneading manipulations of professional aestheticians. The overall goal, as with nearly all beauty devices, is to tighten and tone the skin. Indeed, according to research published by the National Institutes of Health, it has been shown that with long-term use of facial massage rollers, skin blood flow is increased. These tools can also often be used on other parts of the body, such as the underarm, waist, and even thighs. Of course, as with any sort of beauty tool, you should follow the included directions.

Editor’s note: Want to try facial massage without purchasing a special tool? Here’s How to Give Yourself a Face Massage.

SKIN CARE TOOL #6: FACIAL STEAMERS

You probably recognize this skin care tool from the spa, as these devices are typically used as one of the first steps in a facial to help prep your skin before moving on to other treatments, per a study from the National Center for Biotechnology Information. You’ll be happy to know that there are also face steam machines you can use at home prior to masks, serums, and other skin care products to help you get the most out of your routine and reap the benefits of steaming your face, which can include helping relieve dry skin.

SKIN CARE TOOL #7: FACE CLEANSER BRUSHES

While face cleanser brushes aren’t new to 2020, they’re becoming more and more popular. This tool helps to gently exfoliate your skin while cleansing, giving you a deeper clean. There are different brush heads that can be attached to your device based on your exfoliation preference and your skin type.

SKIN CARE TOOL #8: EPILATORS

Tired of constantly reaching for a razor to shave unwanted hair? Epilators have received quite a bit of attention as an alternative. This electric hair removal tool contains a bunch of tiny tweezers that pluck the hair from the root, giving you ultra-smooth, long-lasting results. To learn more, here’s How to Use an Epilator.

SKIN CARE TOOL #9: GUA SHA TOOLS

Similar to the jade roller, gua sha tools are named after the gua sha massage and can be used to apply serums and massage your face. There are some noteworthy benefits of adding this skin care tool to your routine, which you can read about in Your Intro to Gua Sha Massage.

Want to learn about more beauty trends? Up next: Mini Skincare Fridges Are the New Place to Store Your Products.