Margarita's Picks
Beauty Tech
LED masks.
Microcurrent.
Facial tools.
At-home devices promising firmer, smoother, brighter skin.
Beauty technology can be fascinating.
It can also get expensive very quickly.
This is where we look at what these devices are actually designed to do, what the evidence says, who may benefit, and whether the investment makes sense for you.
Before You Buy the Device
A device can look impressive on your bathroom counter and still not solve the problem you actually have.
Before spending hundreds of dollars, I want you asking:
- What result am I trying to get?
- Does this technology address that concern?
- Is there credible evidence behind it?
- How often would I realistically have to use it?
- Am I actually going to use it consistently?
- Is there a less expensive way to get a similar result?
- Are there reasons this device may not be appropriate for me?
Because a beauty device you use consistently may be useful.
A beauty device that lives in a drawer is a very expensive roommate.
What We'll Explore
LED & Red Light Therapy
What red and near-infrared light may do for the skin, what the research actually supports, and what to look for before buying an at-home device.
Microcurrent
What microcurrent devices are designed to do, what kind of results are realistic, and whether ongoing use is worth the commitment.
Facial & Skincare Devices
From cleansing tools to lifting, toning, cooling, heating, and massage devices—we will separate useful technology from very attractive clutter.
Device Comparisons
When two technologies promise similar results, we will compare what they actually do so you can decide which—or whether either—makes sense for you.
The Now & Well Beauty Tech Filter
Every device does not need to become part of your routine.
When I evaluate beauty technology, I look at:
- 1
THE CLAIM
What is the device promising?
- 2
THE TECHNOLOGY
What is it actually doing?
- 3
THE EVIDENCE
Is there meaningful research behind the technology, and does that research apply to the way this particular device is being used?
- 4
THE COMMITMENT
How often do you need to use it before you might see a result?
- 5
THE COST
Is the potential benefit reasonable for the price?
- 6
THE ALTERNATIVE
Could skincare, professional treatment, or simply doing less solve the problem more effectively?
- 7
THE REAL-LIFE QUESTION
Would I actually use this?
Margarita, Is It Worth It?
Beauty tech is one of the areas where this question matters most.
A device can be legitimate technology and still not be necessary for you.
Those are two different things.
My goal is not to convince you that every new device is useless.
It is also not to convince you that your face needs a charging cable.
It is to help you make an informed decision.
Beauty Tech Picks
I'm building this section carefully.
Recommendations will be added as products and devices are properly reviewed.
Until then, I would rather leave this space intentionally curated than fill it with products simply because they are available to sell.
Want to Understand the Technology First?
The Now & Well Journal breaks down beauty devices and skincare technology in plain English so you can understand what you are considering before you spend the money.
Start With Your Skin, Not the Device
If your skin has changed and you are not even sure what it needs anymore, a device may not be the first thing to figure out.
The Midlife Skin Reset can help you look at the whole picture first.