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Home AccessoriesThe 11 Best Facial Tools of 2026, Tested and Reviewed

The 11 Best Facial Tools of 2026, Tested and Reviewed

by R.Donald


The NuFace Trinity+ tool came out on top during our test. It’s one of the best multipurpose tools for facial toning and contouring, and it improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Whether you’re chasing Angelina Jolie’s sculpted jawline, trying to fake eight hours of sleep, or want to enhance your skin care products, having the best facial tools in your arsenal is key. These skin-loving gadgets may look like they belong in a sci-fi movie, but they’re actually hardworking sidekicks designed to boost circulation and give your skin that post-facial glow without leaving your bathroom. “A facial tool is any device or instrument designed to enhance your skin care routine by helping cleanse, exfoliate, massage, or stimulate the skin,” explains Katie McNaughton, a New York-based aesthetician at Skincerely Rockland Med Spa. “Their main purpose is to boost the efficacy of skin care products, improve skin texture, increase circulation, and address specific concerns like puffiness, fine lines, or dullness.”

To separate the glow-getters from the gimmicks, we tested 51 at-home facial tools, clocking over 250 hours of hands-on use. We evaluated each for ease of use, effectiveness, quality, and overall value. Ahead are the best facial tools worth your time and effort.


NuFace Trinity+ Starter Kit with Eye and Lip Attachment

Credit: NuFace

Why We Love It: Microcurrent devices work exactly as their name implies: they deliver a low-voltage electrical current to the skin and underlying muscles, triggering a temporary spike in collagen production and causing the facial muscles to contract and tighten. Our InStyle tester with sensitive, combination skin loved that this tool was easy to use, didn’t leave any visible redness, and she saw results immediately. In addition to the beloved NuFace facial toning device, the kit includes an eye and lip attachment, a charging cradle, and a power cord, as well as activator serum and creams that enhance the device’s benefits while protecting your skin.

Who It’s For: Ready to make a worthwhile investment in your skin care routine with real results? This is the perfect tool for you. Long considered a game-changing tool, the NuFace is easy to use at home and is one of the best facial toning devices on the market.

Worth Noting: If you are new to using microcurrent devices, you may feel an unfamiliar sensation that takes some getting used to. Though never painful, expect to feel some tingling. Plus, NuFace’s activator gel, which conducts the microcurrent from the device to the facial muscles, must be applied to the face before using.

Type of Tool: Microcurrent | Good For: Contouring, lifting | Recommended Usage: 5 times per week

Elena, tester with acne-prone, textured skin (not pictured): “The features were great. The heads were easy to attach, and the app was intuitive to follow. I also especially liked the timer that beeped when you should restart a section. It really helped me know if I was going too slow or too fast.”


Sephora Therabody TheraFace Depuffing Wand for Under Eye Bags & Dark Circles

Credit: Sephora

Why We Love It: If you’re anything like our tester, Joie, you love using an ice cube or ice roller to soothe your skin and reduce puffiness. Luckily, now you can enjoy the cooling effect without worrying about water dripping down your face. Consider this depuffing wand your new go-to for a quick, effective refresh. Joie loved how the device combines cooling and warming options to target areas of concern, including dark circles and dullness, and with three temperature settings, you can customize treatments to suit your personal needs.

Who It’s For: This sleek device feels less like skin care and more like self-care. It’s especially great for those with sensitive skin who want a gentle yet effective way to improve their skin’s overall appearance. Frequent travelers will also appreciate its slim, portable design, which makes it easy to incorporate into your skin care routine no matter where you are in the world.

Worth Noting: Individuals with sensitive and delicate skin should exercise caution when using this device, especially around the eyes. Some may find the cold setting too intense, but we suggest applying moisturizer beforehand to help reduce discomfort.

Type of Tool: Massager, microcurrent | Good For: Depuffing, dark circles | Recommended Usage: Daily

Joie, tester with combination skin (not pictured): “This is a 10 out of 10 product to buy for your travels, especially if you want to use the cold feature to wake up refreshed and take away any puffiness from jet lag, sleeplessness, etc. I used it a ton as well after my hot yoga classes when I was on the go, getting ready for work to cool down and take away any residual redness and puffiness.”


Shani Darden Facial Sculpting Wand

Credit: Sephora

Why We Love It: Celebrity aesthetician Shani Darden designed this device to use sound-wave therapy to stimulate deep facial muscles, promoting circulation and collagen production. Our tester, Amanda, loved how easy it was to hold and use. Once she got the hang of the dual power controls, she felt her cheeks, jawline, and even delicate under-eye areas become visibly lifted and de-puffed. With two interchangeable attachments (a flat disc for larger areas like the jawline and a precision ball for delicate spots like the area around the eyes), the wand offers a customizable experience that lets you achieve age-defying benefits at home.

She was also impressed by the immediate results and how quickly a session works, making it easy to fit into her routine while watching TV or meditating.

Who It’s For: With noticeable improvements in forehead smoothness, reduced puffiness, and a more sculpted appearance, this tool is for anyone ready not only to feel relaxed but to look it, too. It’s especially beneficial for individuals experiencing jaw tension (consider this your sign to unclench) or discomfort, as the gentle vibrations help relieve tightness and promote relaxation.

Worth Noting: While effective on its own, we highly recommend pairing this product with a facial moisturizer or gel to avoid pulling and tugging at the skin.

Type of Tool: Sculpting wand | Good For: Sculpting, smoothing, tightening | Recommended Usage: Daily

Amanda, tester with combination skin (not pictured): “At first I was surprised and even concerned by how quick a session is, but once I felt the power of the vibration, it made sense! You really do feel it working. I also like that it came with a separate attachment for the smaller, more delicate areas like the under-eye and upper eyelids.”


Joanna Czech Facial Massager

Credit: Net a Porter

Why We Love It: Our tester, Abby, found the Joanna Czech Facial Massager to be a simple yet satisfying addition to her routine—especially on days when facial tension and puffiness are at their peak. The roller’s heavy metal orbs mimic the intense, sculpting facial massage Joanna Czech, celebrity aesthetician, is known for to amp up circulation, release jaw and neck tension, and improve lymphatic drainage. Though the technique requires a bit of angle adjustment (especially on the neck), the learning curve is minimal. Abby also loved using it as a self-care ritual several times a week, noting that while the results were more sensory than visibly dramatic, her skin felt refreshed, awake, and re-energized after each use.

Who It’s For: In just seven minutes a day, Czech says you can “physically change the shape of your face” with this tool for those who want to lift their brows, define their jawline, and contour their cheekbones. With consistent use, this tool delivers serious facial magic. It can be used alone, though it’s best when paired with a slippery skin care product to reduce friction.

Worth Noting: Our tester notes that the tool is top-heavy due to the massager balls.  Additionally, even after keeping it cool in the fridge, the material warms against the skin pretty quickly.

Type of Tool: Massager | Good For: Tension relief, sculpting, lymphatic drainage | Recommended Usage: Daily

Abby, tester with combination skin (not pictured): “So many facial tools require an oil or some kind of slip agent so that the tool doesn’t sting or tug at your face. This tool doesn’t need any of that. It’s very easy and fast to use, you are in control of the tool completely, and it’s just a simple way to give your face some love and release stress or tension.”


Shark Cryoglow Mask

Credit: Sephora

Why We Love It: Most people may know Shark for their coveted vacuums and home accessories, but did you know the brand is a total game-changer in at-home skin care? Developed with dermatologists and FDA-cleared, the CryoGlow LED Face Mask combines red and blue light therapy with cooling under-eye treatments to target everything from acne to dullness and puffiness. Our tester found it super easy to use and loved the instant post-treatment glow and refreshed look, with no surprise breakouts in sight. Additionally, we appreciate the mask’s ergonomic design, with adjustable straps for a more comfortable, customizable fit.

Who It’s For: If you’re anything like our InStyle tester, who wants to tackle a multitude of skin concerns, including dark spots, uneven complexion, and visible fatigue, consider this the tool for you. What really sets this infrared mask apart from similar facial instruments is its integrated under-eye cooling feature, which helps soothe and visibly tighten the under-eye area.

Worth Noting: The mask is heavy, which may cause discomfort or make your head feel heavy. However, after consistent use, users become accustomed to the feeling. Also, it doesn’t have the longest battery life among the tested options.

Type of Tool: Infrared and cooling mask | Good For: Tightening, acne, breakouts, fine lines, firming | Recommended Usage: Daily

Danielle, tester with combination skin: “I think my skin appears more glowy immediately after a treatment, and my skin looks less fatigued, so I think I would need to keep using this mask long-term to see some more change.”


Solawave 4-in-1 Skincare Wand

Credit: Amazon

Why We Love It: This four-in-one skin care wand features four distinct settings designed to support the skin, all within one small, handheld tool that weighs less than an ounce (a.k.a. perfect for travel or wedding prep): red light therapy, low-level microcurrent, low-vibration facial massage, and therapeutic warmth. Not only can it help with facial tone, fine lines, puffiness, and redness, but it also gets the job done in just five minutes each day, three days a week. 

Who It’s For: This device is small and budget-conscious, making it a great choice for those always on the go. It’s also great to use before a big night out. Makeup artist Emily Cheng used this wand all over her face, spending extra time on her smile lines. “Also, it’s great to calm any inflammation or spots on the face prior to makeup,” says Cheng. 

Worth Noting: You’ll need to use a face serum containing hyaluronic acid and/or niacinamide (or just add on the brand’s LightBoost Activating Serum) to protect and hydrate your skin while using the device. A serum will also help the wand glide across your skin and prevent tugging.

Type of Tool: Microcurrent, LED, facial massage | Good For: Fine lines, puffiness, redness | Recommended Usage: 3 times per week

Stella, tester with hyperpigmentation (not pictured): “The device is like a tiny hot massage over my face. It’s small like a wand, so it’s not inconvenient or bothersome.”


NuFace FIX MicroWand

Credit: MyNuFace

Why We Love It: While all NuFace devices are FDA-cleared to visibly contour your face quickly, this FIX Microwand lets you level up your experience in just three minutes. Our tester loved how easy it was to use, especially around delicate areas like the eyes and lips. She noticed an instant, more awake look after each treatment and, with consistent use, a softening of fine lines, all without irritation—just a gentle tingle that made it feel like it was working. Depuff tired eyes, plump lips, and smooth fine lines for instant results in less time than it takes to make your morning matcha? We’ll take it!

Who It’s For: This is a great option for those seeking a noninvasive, at-home solution to enhance their skin care routine. The sleek, portable design of the microwand allows for easy on-the-go touch-ups, whether you’re prepping for an early-morning meeting or a late-night out. Suitable for a wide range of skin types and ages, it’s gentle enough for daily use or as needed whenever your skin needs a little pick-me-up.

Worth Noting: If you are new to using microcurrent devices, you may feel an unfamiliar sensation that takes some getting used to. Though never painful, expect to feel some tingling.

Type of Tool: Microcurrent | Good For: Depuffing, plumping, smoothing | Recommended Usage: Daily

Jillian, tester with combination skin: “What I liked most about this product was the ease of use. It’s the perfect size to hold comfortably, and the pen shape made targeting fine lines around my eyes and lips incredibly simple. The microcurrent took a little getting used to as it wasn’t a sensation I was familiar with. But after the first use, it felt like a gentle tingle, never painful, and actually made the treatment feel effective. I liked how fast the sessions were—it only took a few minutes, and I could see an effect. My skin looked more awake right after use, and with consistent application over a couple of weeks, I noticed a softening of the smile lines around my mouth.”


Amazon Dr Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite LipWare Pro

Credit: Amazon

Why We Love It: Thanks to this adorable device, there’s no need for injections to achieve plumper, fuller lips. The Dr. Dennis Gross product is the ultimate at-home treatment for anyone seeking to rejuvenate their lips and surrounding skin. It utilizes a combination of red and infrared LED wavelengths to address various lip concerns, including reducing visible signs of aging, stimulating collagen production to minimize fine lines, and enhancing lip firmness. Although the results are gradual, our InStyle tester was pleased to see visible improvements after consistently incorporating it into her daily skin care routine. She also noted that “consistency is key” for this product. But no worries, with results like hers, including less dryness on her lips and the fact that it’s quick and easy to use, it’ll be a no-brainer to add this to your lineup.

Who It’s For: If you want to enhance the volume and smoothness of your lips without the hassle of making a doctor’s appointment, the LipWare Pro is the perfect alternative to injectable treatments. It’s particularly great for those who want to address early signs of aging or maintain youthful-looking lips.

Worth Noting: We suggest staying near a sink during treatments, as saliva tends to accumulate. Luckily, the mouthpiece snaps off easily, so it’s easy to clean afterward.

Type of Tool: LED lip mask | Good For: Firming, plumping, fine lines | Recommended Usage: Daily

Roxanne, tester with normal to dry skin (not pictured): “I would definitely recommend this product to a friend. It has smoothed out my lips, and they’re no longer as dry. You have to be consistent when using this product and make it part of your routine—it worked best for me during my morning routine, but it is so easy to do a quick session at any time while you’re doing something else.”


Skin Gym Glass Cupping Set

Credit: Dermstore

Why We Love It: The Skin Gym Glass Cupping Set is a chic and effective way to bring ancient beauty rituals right into your modern skin care routine. The set includes two suction cups designed to stimulate circulation, promote lymphatic drainage, and enhance skin elasticity. Our InStyle tester was eager to try this tool after hearing rave reviews about its ability to deliver a more sculpted, glowing complexion. From the first few uses, she appreciated how simple it was to incorporate into her routine without adding extra time or effort. With consistent use, she noticed less puffiness and smoother-looking lines, and even said it “was designed perfectly for the everyday person wanting to keep up and elevate their skin care routine.” A quick note: we recommend pairing the set with a nourishing facial oil to ensure smooth gliding across the skin.

Who It’s For: Ideal for daily use and convenient enough for travel, our tester found that after consistently incorporating it into her routine for about two weeks, she could really see results. Additionally, we appreciate that the cupping set is a budget-friendly, noninvasive, at-home treatment that yields consistent results.

Worth Noting: Cupping may not be suitable for certain individuals with very sensitive or thin skin, active wounds, or infections that can be irritated by the cupping technique.

Type of Tool: Facial cupping | Good For: Complexion, depuffing, tension | Recommended Usage: Daily

Marissa, tester with combination skin (not pictured): “After using the cupping set, I don’t think I would change anything about the device. It was designed perfectly for the everyday person who wants to keep up and elevate their skin care routine. Couldn’t rave about this product more!”


Amazon Dermaflash Luxe+ Anti-Aging, Exfoliation + Peach Fuzz Dermaplaning Kit

Credit: Amazon

Why We Love It: If peach fuzz or dull skin is cramping your glow-up, this dermaplaning tool just might be your new holy grail. This sleek, spa-grade device combines dermaplaning and sonic technology to gently exfoliate dead skin cells and remove facial hair in one satisfying sweep. The result? A smoother canvas for skin care and makeup that’ll leave your skin with a lit-from-within type radiance. We especially love that, over time, the device improves the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and even dark spots thanks to its anti-aging exfoliation and ability to boost cellular turnover. 

Who It’s For: If you’re someone who loves that post-facial feel, but don’t have the time (or budget) for regular appointments, the Luxe+ is a dream. It’s especially great for those with dry, flaky, or textured skin who are looking for a smoother base that helps their skin care products sink in. Our tester loves how seamlessly makeup glides on after dermaplaning, making it a secret weapon in beauty routines. 

Worth Noting: This tool isn’t a quick one-and-done situation. You’ll want to commit to consistent use (once a week is the sweet spot) for the best results. We also want to note that the blades are single-use and that the device comes with four replacement blades, so you’ll need to purchase replacements over time. 

Type of Tool: Dermaplaning | Good For: Exfoliation, hair removal | Recommended Usage: Once a week

InStyle


Nikki, tester with combination skin (not pictured): “This tool was very effective at removing fine hair and dead skin cells. Naturally, I am not a very hairy person, but I did notice some dead skin and what appeared to be sebaceous filaments on my chin. The tool was particularly great at smoothing this area of my face. Overall, there was a visible difference in my skin texture after using the Dermaflash Luxe+.”


Foreo Bear 2

Credit: Amazon

Why We Love It: If you’re seeking a noninvasive facelift that fits in the palm of your hand, the Foreo Bear 2 is for you. This microcurrent device targets 69 facial and neck muscles to help tone, lift, and contour, with four specialized modes—advanced, lifting, tapping, and sculpting—so you can customize your treatment to address specific concerns, such as sagging, puffiness, or fine lines. Our tester found it felt premium and high-tech, especially with the app and customizable settings, though she ultimately stuck with the standard mode for a more seamless routine. While results felt subtle and not immediately noticeable in terms of sculpting or refreshment, it still served as a consistent, low-effort addition to her nighttime skincare routine. Thanks to Foreo’s unique T-Sonic pulsations, the device also offers five massage patterns for lymphatic drainage and to boost circulation for a radiant glow.

Who It’s For: This device puts skin rejuvenation in the palm of your hands. It’s perfect for those who prefer a customizable, user-friendly tool that aims to reduce fine lines and achieve a lifted appearance. We recommend using this device with a serum or cream to allow it to slide smoothly across the skin without tugging.

Worth Noting: The brand includes an app with the device, but our tester was annoyed by the pop-up ads and found that the app sometimes ended the treatment prematurely.

Type of Tool: Microcurrent | Good For: Toning, lifting, contouring, reducing wrinkles, reducing puffiness | Recommended Usage: Daily

Anna Lee, tester with combination, sensitive skin (not pictured): “It was very easy to operate and felt light when holding and maneuvering. The product’s functions were intuitive, with a single button in the center to turn it on and off, accompanied by lights indicating battery life. It also automatically turns off after a few minutes as part of a self-timer feature based on how long you should be using it per session.”

Our Testing Process

Our team of editors huddled together to compile a list of top-rated facial tools and devices. By leveraging insights from previous tests and sending 11 InStyle testers home with new options, we were able to handpick the top performers from 51 products tested over a total of 264 hours. During these tests, we noted ease of use, effectiveness, quality, and overall value. These insights guided our selection process, and the most impressive and functional products are featured on this list.

What to Keep in Mind

  • Skin Concern: For those with acne-prone skin, a facial cleansing brush can help unclog pores and mitigate flare-ups by removing makeup, oil, and dirt, according to double-board-certified plastic surgeon Hardik Doshi, M.D. He also recommends a blue light therapy device because blue light wavelengths kill acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface. If you want to target discoloration from hyperpigmentation, a microcurrent device can help improve skin texture. Additionally, speeding up circulation with a manual device, such as a massage tool or a gua sha tool, is great for reducing inflammation. Finally, to lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, try a facial massage tool, says Dr. Doshi. “This can help to improve circulation and promote lymphatic drainage, reducing puffiness and improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” he says.
  • Type of Tool: Light-emitting diodes (LED) use different wavelengths of light to target various skin concerns, from acne to skin texture to fine lines. On the other hand, a microcurrent device uses small electrical currents to stimulate the facial muscles and tissues, says Dr. Doshi. Brands design these devices to deliver electrical current that contracts facial muscles, lifting and tightening the skin. In some cases, they may also stimulate collagen production. 
  • Application: It’s most important to remember that results require consistency. LED masks couldn’t be easier. Strap on the device and let it work for five to 15 minutes while you bask in the wavelength glow. Electric stimulation devices tend to be slightly more complicated, requiring a consistent pressure level and attention to each side of the face for symmetrical results. Lastly, you’ll need some dexterity when using facial massaging tools. They’re most beneficial when paired with proper technique, which is why it’s important to learn tips from trusted experts when perfecting the basics.

Your Questions, Answered

Do face-lifting devices really work?

With consistent and proper use, yes! “More advanced tools like microcurrent devices can stimulate facial muscles for a more toned appearance,” notes McNaughton. Although less powerful than professional-grade treatments, at-home devices designed for face-lifting use low levels of electrical current to stimulate the muscles and boost circulation. The result? A temporary lifting effect that lends skin a more toned and tighter appearance.

How do you use facial tools?

You’ll only see results if you’re consistent, and discipline is key. It’s also important to keep your expectations in check, as you’re never going to see the same dramatic results with at-home tools as you would with in-office treatments. At-home facial tools can be effective, but they should also be used in conjunction with a skin care routine, says Dr. Doshi, which includes, at a minimum, a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. “Additionally, for more severe acne, hyperpigmentation, or fine lines and wrinkles, it’s always best to consult with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon or dermatologist to develop a customized treatment plan,” he says.

Why Shop With Us

Chaise Sanders is a freelance beauty, fashion, and lifestyle editor. For this story, she dug through insights from InStyle’s dedicated team of testers. As someone who enjoys incorporating facial tools into her routine, she also relied on her experience with facial tools to determine which ones lived up to their claims.

Kieaundria Bellamy is a contributing beauty and fashion writer at InStyle and a licensed aesthetician. She uses her writing and beauty knowledge to uplift others, share honest reviews, and show up as a great representation for women to feel seen, heard, and celebrated in the beauty and fashion space.

The following experts spoke with InStyle for this story:

  • Dr. Hardik Doshi is a double board-certified plastic surgeon in Long Island, New York.
  • Katie McNaughton is an aesthetician at Skincerely Rockland Med Spa in New York.
  • Emily Cheng is a makeup artist whose clients include Meghann Fahy and Billie Eilish.





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