Our previous Clarisonic assessment sparked a bit of controversy with one responder claiming
you are a complete idiot…
before you write a hack review on a product know what you are talking about first.
Ouch! Sometimes it’s hard to be a Beauty Brain.
Mostly, we ignore criticism like this, but two things happened. First, my sister asked if stimulating skin makes it produce extra collagen and I was not sure. Then we serendipitously got another Clarisonic device in the mail. Since the Clarisonic definitely stimulates skin it got us Beauty Brains talking about it again. Sarah said it was a sign.
I do not believe in signs, but was interested enough to take a closer look at Clarisonic.
Clarisonic Science
The Clarisonic Skin System is a water-proof, hand-held device with a vibrating brush head. You apply a cleanser then move the brush on your face in a circular patter. A built-in timer tells you when to move from one face section to the next.
Think of it like a high-tech poof or washcloth.
The product claims to use “sonic technology” which is not defined. I
guess it is a reference to the brush heads which move at “super-sonic” speed? The brushes do move fast and that helps clean skin. Certainly, Clarisonic was trying to get people to connect sonic toothbrush technology with this product figuring if one works so will the other. They do have a few patents on the design and the motor. (US 7,157,816)
Clarisonic Exfoliation
We mentioned in the previous post you could probably get the same effect by exfoliating. One reader pointed out that Clarisonic does not exfoliate. True, Clarisonic does not advertise itself as an exfoliating system, but it does lightly exfoliate your skin so keep your daily use limited.
Clarisonic Claims
Clarisonic makes the following 3 primary claims and a few soft ones.
More than twice as effective as manual cleansing
We don’t have access to their test data, but this claim is confusing. What exactly does it mean? Do they mean effectiveness at 
cleaning? It seems like it but that’s not clear. No set guidelines means companies can come up with any reasonable test and report positive numbers. So, if Clarisonic could’ve found some specific compound removed better with their device than manual cleansing they could make the claim.
That doesn’t mean your face will be twice as clean.
6 times more make-up removed
Without their test data/protocol it is hard to say exactly how they proved this. However, you can bet the number sounds much more impressive than what you’ll experience in reality. If manual cleansing is done properly, it adequately removes make-up.
61% greater vitamin C absorption
We don’t know how they proved this, but it was most likely an in vitro test (lab) meant to simulate human skin. It is doubtful that you’ll get 61% vitamin C absorption in real use and even more doubtful you would notice if you did.
Clarisonic soft claims
The soft claims include “reducing the appearance of visible pores” and “reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.” You prove these using consumer panelists who try the product and answer some questionnaires. ANY product will score well in a test like this, especially one like Clarisonic which is novel and feels good when you use it. While it will “appear” to you that your pores & wrinkles are reduced, don’t count on them actually being affected.
Clarisonic and Collagen
As to my sister’s question about stimulating the production of collagen, there is no definitive evidence that it does. Some in vitro studies have suggested it might. The company does not make this claim so they haven’t done the testing. It would be a big challenge to safely design this kind of study anyway. So, it probably doesn’t stimulate collagen production but it won’t hurt.
Clarisonic Benefits
Beyond their claims, three things make Clarisonic interesting to try.
1. Less exposure to harsh surfactants and exfoliating particles
2. Timed cleaning so you’ll be more consistent
3. It feels good
While it doesn’t mean much, most people who try the Clarisonic love it. It’s a unique experience and makes face cleansing fun. Whether that is worth the >$150 price tag is only something you can decide for yourself.
Will Clarisonic change the face of daily cleansing?
Clarisonic requires a behavior change and most people will not be able to change for long. They’ll use it religiously for a month or so then forget to get new brushes and eventually it will end up under their bathroom sink next to their lipstick stencils. We could be mistaken, but results are not vastly different from standard cleansing so lasting behavior changes will be difficult.
Beauty Brains Bottom Line
There are definitely some benefits of Clarisonic over other methods of cleansing like more consistent cleansing, less exposure to harsh surfactants & exfoliating particles, and it just feels good. Who wouldn’t want a fresh-feeling face? It is also a unique alternative to standard products. We here at the Beauty Brains want to encourage all cosmetic companies to make unique products rather than unique product stories. Clarisonic is definitely a unique product.
If you are unsatisfied with your current cleansing routine, try the Clarisonic Skin Care System (or something like it).
–Right Brain
Do you have a Clarisonic device? What do you think? Are you still using it after a couple of months?
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This is a pretty good assessment of Clarisonic’s scientific claims. I think one of the primary benefits of it is the timer. You are *supposed* to cleanse thoroughly aka for more than 20 seconds. The Clarisonic really helps with that (so would an hourglass timer, but hey)! I have better skin since using it, and I do chalk most of the results up to better and more thorough cleansing.
I’d like to think the vibrations/movement of the bristles does help to remove a little more makeup and dirt, too — as you said, exfoliating, but lightly.
I love mine, and have been using it for a year. I agree that it’s the “enforced” length of time that’s keeping my skin extra clear, but I do admit my skin has fewer breakouts, looks younger and fresher (fine lines are less apparent), and feels softer and smoother.
In fact, since using it the pesky clogged dark pores on my nose are gone, and the cloggy white pores on my chin are also gone.
I can’t argue with the results, whatever the exact cause, so I recommend the Clarisonic!
Huh, that’s funny you posted on this today. I cheeped out and bought the “Wave” yesterday….problem is, you have to use the scrub pads that already have cleanser on them…(and they are supposed to “tingle”..not good for sensitive skin).
But if the Clarisonic can do for my face what my Sonicare did for my teeth, than I’m SO in.
I didn’t believe the hype on this device either and didn’t think I’d ever spend that amount of money on something that just cleans the skin better than a washcloth. But then I saw it on QVC for 5 installment payments and I thought, okay, I can try it for 30 days and if it isn’t fantastic I can send it back. Well, I don’t know what this think does but after just two weeks using it am and pm with my regular cleanser, my skin was absolutely beautiful (and still is after 2 months). In fact my son and his girlfriend asked me one day if I’ve been going to a tanning salon because I was glowing. I thought they meant I looked red but they said no you just look really good like you’re skin is glowing. Well, needless to say I never sent it back and I’ve been using it ever since. And to address the issue of it ‘making you stick to a cleansing routine’, I already was diligent about cleansing am and pm and exfoliating, etc. So I was already doing everything right. The only thing I changed was using Clarisonic to wash. It’s like a magic wand or something.
I’ve been using the Clarisonic for 2 years now. I love it. Once its charged I leave it on a shelf in the shower. It’s waterproof, lasts for 2-3 months on one charge and doesn’t take up any space on the counter. The timer makes cleansing a no-brainer and the choice of brushes makes it good for any skin type.
At times when the battery runs out, I have gotten lazy and not used it for a week or so. But when I feel the difference in my skin, less smooth and more clogged, I know its time to get back to using it. I would definitely recommend it!
Dear Beauty Brains, you lost me… If it uses a cleanser and the timer part of it results in you washing your face longer, I don’t see how there is “Less exposure to harsh surfactants.” Can you explain your thoughts on this further, please?
@Fuzz – Theoretically, you have less exposure because you are supposed to use less cleanser. Left Brain thought it was a stretch, but it makes sense to me.
Just watch out if you have extremely sensitive skin. I break out whenever I use harsh exfoliants or acne products, and the Clarisonic was no different. Even using the sensitive brush head, it gave me the largest, most painful pimples of my life. My dermatologist said my skin just couldn’t take it. Now I stick to warm washcloths and/or Cetaphil mixed with baking soda.
I just came across your blog a couple of days ago and was impressed with your information and credentials, but after reading this review, I have to admit that I’m a little disappointed. Many of the questions that you pose in your review of the Clarisonic are provided on their website. For instance the sonic technology is in fact defined: “The Clarisonic Skin Care Brush uses a patented sonic frequency of more than 300 movements per second to clean, soften and smooth your skin.” In order to give a fair review of the product, you really need to do your homework.
I’ve been using the Clarisonic for over a year now and it is a truly amazing device. Like Sharon, I charge it up and leave it in the shower for weeks before I have to recharge it. Before I used it, I had been fighting eczema around my eyes for two years. Within a week of using the Clarisonic, my eczema was gone. I use it faithfully and have convinced several of my friends and relatives to buy one, and we all agree, it’s the best investment you’ll ever make in your skin!!
Thanks for the kind words. So sorry to disappoint.
We are aware of what they say on the website. What isn’t clear is what “sonic frequency” means. “Sonic” refers to sound not speed. So, it’s still not clear what they mean by “sonic” technology.
What are the other questions we pose that were answered on their website?
We’re not disputing your experience and those of many other users.
I bought the Clarisonic brush and cleanser 4 months ago on the recommendation of a beauty therapist. I love it, my skin feels softer and is consistently clearer of pimples and acne. I’ve also noticed some minor acne scarring is becoming lighter over time. I really like the blue clarisonic cleanser, my skin never feels tight or over-cleaned with it, I use it twice a day and my skin always feels soft and smooth.
For those who do use it and like it, I’m curious to know what cleanser you use with the clarisonic. Also, can you use an exfoliator (like the St. Ives apricot scrub)with it? Thanks.
I bought the Clarisonic Brush from Sephora that came with a Kinerase Vitamin C Serum – and have been using both daily for the past six weeks. I have noticed pleasing results. There has been a complete disappearance of clogged pores – ie. black and whiteheads, no pms breakout and two scars – one from an accident over twenty years ago and a chicken pox mark are getting lighter and less deep. I have tried numerous exfoliating and lightening products with much less improvement. My makeup also goes on like a dream – smooth, glowing skin! I worked as a beauty advisor/makeup artist for Lancome, Arden, Shiseido and Clinique for almost ten years so I am not uninformed, lazy or cheap with my skin care and I think Clarisonic is worth every penny. There has been discussion about whether the Clarisonic brush exfoliates – whether the maker claims it or not – yes it exfoliates – even a cotton ball with your toner on it provides gentle physical exfoliation. If you use a toner with glycolic, sal., or some other type of acid in it – then you are also getting some chemical exfoliation as well.
Right on – the Clarisonic has changed my skin and made fine lines and wrinkles disappear. I cannot agree more that this is an innovative and new product that if you can afford, get one.
OMG – I named this the best find of 2008 for me. No matter why or how it works, if you try it for a while, you will notice the difference. Within days my blackheads were gone. I changed NOTHING new – and they are clear. I would NEVER get this result using a sponge or washcloth – no matter how hard I tried.
After using Clarisonic for about two months now, I could not imagine a day without it. It is worth it just for that extra clean feeling, and I swear that my products are working better for me now that I have started using it twice a day.
Bay Area, I use the generic version of whatever salicylic acid cleanser is on sale at the store with the Clarisonic. DON’T use an exfoliating scrub with it, unless you want to end up looking like the Sphynx.
I’m close to 40 and have, in the last couple of years, been getting a combination of very dry, sensitive skin and adult acne. Using the Clarisonic for six months seems really to have normalized my skin. I haven’t changed the type of cleanser or makeup I use–just use the CS once a day, to take makeup off after work.
Rather than skin so dry it cracks (!!) combined with persistent breakouts and awful blackheads, I now have mostly-clear skin with very little dryness.
*shrug* I was able to afford the steep price, and for me it works. Nothing else had, so I’m sticking with this ‘un.
I love my Clarisonic. Can I marry the person who invented it? I’ve had rosacea for ahem 20 years (I’m 43) and have battled assorted skin issues all my life. I am a walking clogged pore with a very flaky dry nose and red bumpy cheeks. That’s all gone now. Am not exaggerating. I use the delicate brush head and am super careful as I go over my cheeks. My rosacea papules are GONE. My clogged pores are unclogged. I don’t care a whit about the science or technology. The thing works and it’s totally worth the price tag. I’d probably spent 20 times that amount on cleansers and prescriptions and make-up and everything but voodoo to improve my skin. If you wear a lot of make-up, start with a precleanse oil, like Dermalogica. Rinse that off and then apply cleanser to use with your Clarisonic. This keeps the brush head cleaner. If you’re on the fence, jump to the other side, women: Your skin will feel like baby skin and there won’t be anything left to pick at. You’re gonna love it.
I’ve got to weigh into this discussion too. I’m usually very cynical about products like these, but this really does work. No, it’s not a facelift, but people have actually remarked that my skin is glowing and i do look healthier. Better still, I suffer mild scalp psoriasis and tried using the Clarisonic on that. It doesn’t cure it, but it keeps it under control far better than T-Gel shampoo does. Don’t expect miracles, but this thing is great.
I just got my clarisonic a few weeks ago (and an extra brush head for my Man!)…I have suffered with Acne all my life, and I need to say that this is a total God-send! My blackheads, are almost completely gone… Washcloths have NEVER worked this way for me, extended “proper” cleansing or not. The massage stim to the face promotes circulation (basic massage no-brainer) and it leaves my skin more smooth and nice textured than I have ever experienced. It feels like I just got a facial…every day! So, yeah, I love it. BTW I used to have one of the cheapo models that just spins (no vibration) and it didn’t do anything except irritate my skin. FOr the sensitive, there is a “delicate” brush, the sensititve is more for normal skin, and the “normal” brush is more for your rough faced man, or your body. I know it is pricey… but it rocks.
I bought my clarisonic in Dec. and I believe it has helped my flaky skin that I get every winter from seborrheic dermatitis. I’m not having the flakiness that I usually do. I also have rosacea and I bought the “delicate” brush.
It’s not a miracle-worker, but my skin feels smoother and I am happy with the results. (I also love my sonicare toothbrush.)
My partner and I have sensitive skin. I have acne and she has rosacea. It worked great for both of us. I use a combination of this device plus the Clearogen products. I use the Clearogen foam cleanser with the white (sensitive) brush head then follow with the other products. I have not had any problems since and I had a serious problem before. My partners skin and mine are super soft. She was worried it would bother her rosacea at first, but it turns out it does not after she got used to it. She uses the blue (delicate) brush head, which is the one softer than mine. We’ve had it for a few months and our skin is looking fantastic. Smooth as silk.
alright to clear everything up!! the clarisonic is a faboulous device. i have it and it does wonderous job.
first off the 2 times more cleaning means it oscalating the skin (wiggling it) to get all the dirt, oil and junk that is trapped deep with in the pores to bring it up into the surface and clean it. And it’s not only in your pores but your fine lines and wrinkle. So keep that in mind.
removes 6 times more make up? I use the bare escentuals make up and if any of you ladies out there use it knows how hard it is to take it off!!! after a manual cleanse i still have to use a face toilette to take the access mineral make up off but with the clarisonic, it takes it off completely!! once again not to worry about it getting into the pores.
61% more absorbtions means with a nice clean skin your skincare treatment will absorb deeper into your skin. think of your skin like a plant that has not been watered in weeks…what happens when you water it? it soaks it right up and that is exactly what is happening to your skin. lack of maintence and upkeep over the years causing your skin to deprive of its nutrients. by using the clarisonic it takes the layers of damage that is on top of your skin and over time you are going to be using only half the amount of skin product to much will be a waste.
Why pay $195 for the system? yes you can a cleanser, exfoliator, mask, serum or mositurizer, etc. difference is exfoliator only takes care of the topical surface it won’t be able to pentrate deep with in the pores therefore not allowing the mask to work ot it’s full effect. your skin will improve with exfoliating and follow with a mask 2 (twice) a week but only to a certain extent. with the clarisonic it’s safe to use 2 (twice)a day with gentle pressure which will eliminate exfoliating and mask (saving yourself $15-$60 depending on what you use). And like i stated before your skincare treatment you will only be using half the amount, again saving money. overtime the machine will pay for it self.
so who would softer, suble, firmer skin? i do!!!
i have the clarisonic pro. it worked beautifully for approx 2 months and now my skin is terrible. the products i use are still the same and i change my brush montly as opposed to the 3 month suggestion clarisonic recommends. my face is full of angry red pimples. i have discontinued clarisonic and in 3 days my skin is already better. will not use again.
The term “sonic” as defined by the Oxford American Dictionary; “relating to or using sound waves. Denoting or having speed equal to that of sound.” I believe the latter to define their use of “sonic technology”. Clarisonic is wonderful.
I feel like a pessimist today – first, I wrote about how I didn’t like Moroccan Oil, and now I am here to write about how I am not a fan of the Clarisonic. I bought it about 5 months ago and loved it at first. Then I started breaking out in weird places where I never had problems before. I stopped using it for a month, then tried again, especially after reading about how some women break out at first (which I think is BS but I was willing to give it a try again). Well, break outs again! I stopped using it, and now use my $4 bottle of St. Ives Apricot Scrub and have nice soft skin without any breakouts.
I’ve been using my Clarisonic for a year now and I’m not impressed. I think I am the ONLY one on the planet! I think I must be doing something wrong… I use it twice a day, per the directions with a good cleanser and I still have breakouts-actually my break-outs are more frequent and worse than before I started using it, huge pores, and the fine lines haven’t gotten any better.
I am 50 (this year) ageing has brought more blackheads fat blind spots light mosquito bites and severe infected ingrowing hairs around my mouth… nice… and big quilted eye bags and rough dry peely skin that I had to pluck and groom for 20 mins before applying my id mineral makeup.
I have used clarisonic for 4 months and now I have NONE OF THE ABOVE! It is like a lymphatic massage. I have the softest skin. I use only once a day.
Can´t wait to find something to get rid of my vertical growing ageing eybrows…
I’m very excited that I just purchased a Clarisonic Mia at Fabove.ca. Their Mother’s day sale provided 15% discount plus free shipping to Toronto.
I definitely can relate to the few people that did not like the clarisonic. I had a few breakouts before i purchased it and thought it would really help. Now, my breakouts are 10 times worse, and bigger. I want to wear a bag over my face!! I had to get on acne medication. It’s probably not all because of the clarisonic, but i dont think it has helped at all. I think its definitely something to try though, everyone’s skin is different and you really dont know what it will do until you try it. After reading all of the reviews on here, i think im going to stop using it for a bit and see if my skin improves.
A staff member at Sephora did a Clarisonic demo on the back of my hand, and I decided to give it a whirl. I’m pretty suspicious, heh, so I asked about the return policy and I figured I’d just bring it back in a month. Now you couldn’t pry the thing away from me. I’ve been using it for 6 months and my skin looks better than it every has (I’m 38). I had an annoying problem with acne on my chin, and that situation is so much improved. My skin feels softer and clearer, with smaller pores. I live in hot, dry Colorado, and I’m a bike commuter — I don’t wear makeup at all, and I spend my energies on having really good skin. I’m always trying to protect my skin from the wind and sun because I had so many problems when I first moved to CO. My Clarisonic has really helped. Also, it’s fun and frankly, it worked so well I went out and bought a sonicare toothbrush 2 weeks ago! Love that too!
I have used clarisonic for 4 months and now I have NONE OF THE ABOVE! It is like a lymphatic massage. I have the softest skin. I use only once a day.
To be honest – I have only used this once – it stung & left my skin quite red
STAY AWAY FROM THIS! I have had acne for years and when I came across this I thought it was going to be my cure. And it was, for the first few months…..The breakouts decreased, my skin felt so smooth, I just loved it. Then I started noticing my skin was getting worse. I hadn’t changed any of my facial products either. I started getting cystic acne, which I had never had before. I went to an esthetician and she said she does not recommend clarisonic to her acne patients for several reasons. One it is too stimulating, two, it can spread acne bacteria/infection, three, using the same brush head for the recommended 3 months can not be sterile or sanitary, and four, the vibration can inflame hair folicules and make existing acne worse. I decided to see for myself. I stopped using the clarisonic as much as I didnt want to, and in 6 days using a Epicurens acne cleanser and unrefined neem oil on my acne, my face is 99.9% clear. It’s amazing, absolutely amazing.
im glad i found this website…i have mixed feeling with clarisonic.To start, i have combination skin,oily on t-zone and some dry area on chin, no pimples..but my biggest concern was my pores; the oiliness in my skin got worse this summer, and im just getting obsess with how my pores looked.Normally, i used MAC cleansing wipes followed with vichy toner but i thought maybe i need to switch to other cleansing method..i had read good reviews about clarisonic,so i decided to try…i love for the first 4 days THEN…..i started noticing something..first my skin started feeling tight(im only using it once a day).I thought it could be the philosophy cleanser that im using with it, so i switched cleanser.Then i noticed as well that the skin on my nose started peeling and it made my cheeks quite dry, that i cant even put a powder on.I use a good moisturizer and even combine it with hyaluronic acid..i also started noticing a minor breakout on my chin and on my left cheek…i dont want to make it worse…it helped shrink the pore in my nose but i just dont like the tight feeling i feel everytime i use it and the fact that im experiencing some whiteheads…i have mixed feeling about it now, whether to return it to sephora or probably just use it 2x a week as an exfoliator
I have very sensitive skin and had a mild rash on my cheeks when I tried the Clarisonic. I used it with a Darphin cleanser, which I believe I was allergic to and didn’t realize it, but I woke up with red, angry bumps ALL OVER MY CHEEKS. It looked like a combo of acne and hives and the bumps hurt like hell. Normally my skin looks like porcelain, so i was in tears. It was itchy and looked horrible, I took an anti-histamine and stayed home from work for 2 days b/c i couldn’t even put makeup on my face b/c it burned. I will absolutely NOT be risking this again, thankfully it was given to me as a gift so I didn’t pay a dime to completely ruin my skin. Hopefully it won’t take too long to get back to normal, I’m using neem oil until it heals (which smells horrible, but helps with the irritation tremendously). I also brought back the Darphin, which I think was the main culprit- irritating and overexfoliating with the Clarisonic didn’t help!
I think the Clarisonic feels great and does definitely clean my pores better than hands and cleanser… it is truly a luxury.
That said…. I did not have visible Rosacea until I used the Clarisonic Pro regularly (once you use it, pretty much nothing will make you give it up!). I followed all directions carefully, so this is not abuse or overuse. I now realize that it is common sense- don’t you remember your grandma always said “Pat your skin dry with a towel, dont rub it!” Well, even tho the bristles are soft, the mild friction managed to ignite Rosacea on my cheeks next to my nose. According to my Dermatologist, this stimulation aggravated a condition I might not have had- or at the very least, did not know I had.
So, any claims that it helps those with Rosacea, are contrary to what we know about skin care and Rosacea.
I’ve been using clarisonic for about 2 years now and i cant say nothing but great things about it, its a wonderful product. love using it everyday
One positive thing I can say about Clarisonic is that they have some mighty loyal fans.
I am not one of them, and after using it (which resulted in skin so dry & irritated it was literally cracking) I wrote a review of my own on my site. Now, I have been a makeup artist and skincare consultant for some of the biggest companies in the world. Like the Brains, I research using peer-reviewed, published scientific studies, dermatology texts; I even consult with cosmetic chemists, dermatologists and other industry experts, so when I review something, it’s not with ignorance, and it’s not just “I hated this, don’t use it.” Everyone’s skin is different, what works for some will NEVER work for all.
But to dispel some of Clarisonic’s advertising that the Brains discussed here:
Clarisonic cleanses twice as well: according to the company’s website, this test was done comparing Clarisonic to soap and water. The level of “cleanliness” was measured by oil levels in the skin.
Clarisonic removes 6 times as much makeup: 6 times as much as…water. Yup, that’s the standard they tested against, again, according to their own website.
For all of you commenting that Clarisonic changed your skin for the better, I’m happy you’ve found a system that works for you, but please realize that the negative experiences with Clarisonic are just as valid. I personally would caution anyone with dry skin, sensitivity, and thin skin (often includes fair skin and older users).
Ok, I’ve made up my mind, I’m not buying this. It’s one thing that it costs that much, and another that I’d have to purchase replacement every few times at $25.
But, I’d have to thank clarisonic for making me realize some things:
1. I wash my face for a few seconds, less than 30. I probably would just wash it a little longer than that.
2. I don’t exfoliate regularly. I know they say the clarisonic is not an exfoliating gadget, but I can’t see how bristles moving at sonic speed won’t remove dead cells. And if it really doesn’t exfoliate, why is there a time limit?
With Collagen… Fortunately, my skin can tolerate Retin A, there are more studies that tretinoin does encourage collagen.
With Vitamin C absorption… I’ve read some studies stating that acidity levels and % of Vitamin C in the product affects Vitamin C absorption. I feel more compelled to believe that.
I was just wondering if there was some type of alternative for this product. Spending over $100 on my skincare regimen is just out of the question. So, can you suggest another product that might be more affordable or a newer product (since this was written a few years ago) that has better skincare results?
@ Kristin
Try the Nutrasonic travel one or whatever. You can get it from GNC. Personally, I loved the Clarisonic. It made my face feel so good and like every tiny bit of makeup, oil, and dirt was gone. Unfortunately, I have very acne prone skin and I think it agitated it. I’m not sure if it was too much exfoliation or if it was spreading bacteria or what but I had to return it. I was so hopeful…:-(. Maybe if my acne goes away I will try it again. I would still recommend trying it though.
I love my clarisonic…i have had it for a little over 2 years and definitely notice a HUGE difference in my skins texture and appearance. I completely agree with a few of the previous comments made about your so called “research”…It would seem as though you didn’t lift a finger in your attempt to find any information about the product. In fact, most of the answers are right on the box and also on the Clarisonic website.
-As for the claim to be twice as effective as manual cleasing…. First off, let me give you the definition for “manual”= Done by hand, or not using machinery or electronics to fulfil a function. So manual cleansing obviously refers to washing your face with your hands or even a washcloth. There also is a blacklight demo (pic also on the box and website) where they show a womens forehead with makeup on, and then on one side they wash it manually (with fingers) and the otherside with the clarisonic and you can see the difference. So to answer your question…Yes, I think it is pretty clear that they mean effectiveness at cleaning. Manual cleasing (even if done adequately) can only cleanse the surface whereas the clarisonic gets deep into pores..unless you are doing extractions on yourself everyday to get that dirt, oil and makeup out of your pores after manually cleansing your face then it is not removing nearly as much as a clarisonic will. I think that Mandy hit the nail on the head when speaking to “sonic frequency”, I also found that same definition and didnt have to look very hard for it at all…I simply typed it in and hit the search button.
Great review!
I tried the NutraSonic & my skin was smooth as silk while it lasted (a week). Ultimately, I returned the defective device, and bought the pricier but more reliable Clarisonic Plus from QVC on their 4 monthly payment plan. The “Plus” offers a “high” speed setting which I really like, but isn’t offered with Clarisonic’s Mia or Classic. The Clarisonic works, and it works even BETTER when you find the perfect cleanser for YOU. In my case, I’ve long used Cetaphil and have been very happy with it. Turns out that with the Clarisonic, I get better results when I use their Hydro Cleanser. For the first time in 50+ years, my sensitive rosacea-prone skin is super soft and without ruddiness. For those suffering with rosacea, I highly recommend Clarisonic’s Hydro Cleanser with the device. It’s a winning combination!
I work for a retailer that sells Clarisonics and I got a Mia for super cheap. I used it for about a month and while it does make me feel very clean, feels good, cleans dirt out of the pores, and helps with breakout, I feel like my pores look larger actually. My line has great products for pore minimizing, but when I started using the Clarisonc my pores started to look really big. What I know about pores is that manipulation can stretch them and I feel like my Clarisonic might be to blame. For me that makes it not as worth it.
I love my Clarisonic. I have washed my face with my regular cleanser, and then again with the Clarisonic and got a lot more makeup off. (This was at the end of the day after most had worn off too!) I haven’t had it more than a month, so I’m not going to comment too much…. but it does make my skin feel softer, and I like knowing that it does clean my skin better than anything else I’ve used. I wouldn’t have paid full price because I can’t afford to….. but thanks to ebay it can be a bit less painful.
As an Esthetician who sells the product. I feel the Clarisonic is okay but I don’t trust it. I think anything that vibrates the skin or uses a brush(vibrating or moving) is bad for the skin when you are using it daily.. Which everyone is. You also do not know how to properly use it. So conclusion is everyone is causing more damage and wrinkles to the skin. It’s the honest truth, and years of training has taught me this.
Just to clear up the sonic question.
The cleaning industry is misusing the term sonic. They are conflating the ocillation of the brushes (moving back and forth) with the motion of sound waves using the confusion to create and impression of power and speed, not to mention the fact that the word ocillation is not common and therefore tests poorly among consumers. The only real benefit the brush provides over ‘manual’ cleansing is that the brush traverses the skin more than the hand can. The secondary part of cleaning (the deep cleaning ) is completely reliant on the chemicals used (soaps vs detergents / surfactants) as the brushes are probably too large to fit in side most pores and if they did, all they would do is force the sebum further into the pore causing further problems ( like jamming a q-tip in to the ear).
That being said, the point to focus on is that if you are concerned about your skins appearance you should choose a method that a) works for you and b) will motivate you to maintain your routine c) results in better skin health. And sadly, you will only find this out once you have purchased the item. I will tell you that I have been reviewing sites covering this product and after tallying the love-its vs the hate-its and subtracting out any comments which are obviously people selling product it is about a 50-50 shot that this product helps. In the cases where people have testimonies with a good track record (6 mos. or more) they are all dedicated to a regimen face care and I suspect that it is this discipline that actually accounts for the effectiveness of the device.
Finally I would like to comment that this site has presented a reasonable and balanced review of the device and being skeptical of the claims is healthy. For those of you who think that simply looking on the box and trusting what the advertiser put there as an explanation I can only caution you that advertisers are paid to promote product, not inform the public.
Peace and good health.
SENSITIVE OR ACNE PRONE USE WITH CAUTION. The Clairsonic does not work for me. I tried it about a year ago with the sensitive brush. I started breaking out like crazy and my skin was irritated. So I stopped using it. I recently bought the delicate brush and tried again. Even with using it only once every 3 days or so, I began to get cystic acne all over my jaw and red rashy bumps all over my cheeks and near my nose. Once I stopped using the Clairsonic things started to clear up. I have sensitive acne prone skin to start with and this is simply too harsh for my skin. After 2 very bad experiences I can attest this simply does not work for everyone. This website helped me determine that I am not alone in this assessment. But, I DO use it now in the shower on my knees and ankles. It’s great for any rough skin on those spots. At least it is not a complete waste.
We got a Clarisonic Mia around Christmas time. My husband loves it and thinks it helps his face. I am prone to cystic acne on my chin. After only a few days I started getting cystic acne spots, usually several at a time. Prior to Christmas I hadn’t had any in months so I didn’t know if it was stress or the Clarisonic. Well it’s over 6 weeks later and I have had nonstop cystic acne, at least one at a time, but usually several clustered together in one region of my chin (kind of like a chain of volcanic islands on my chin). I finally woke up to the truth today,- that it must be the Clarisonic and my Google search brought me here. The rest of my face seems fine, the pores on my nose are smaller I think. I don’t think it’s helped with wrinkles. I have used it with my regular glycolic acid cleanser, rather than the one that came with it. I am planning to quit using the Clarisonic on my chin and see if things improve. Too bad, I really wanted to like it, but it makes sense that all the vibrations are too rough on the cystic prone area.
I’m really confused about this product. I had just about decided to invest in it when I found this site and now I’m to so sure. I have aging skin. My main complaint is that my complexion has started looking dull and lifeless. I do have some visible pores but no blackheads/whiteheads and rarely break out. I tend to be somewhat dry but not to the point that my skin is flaky, just feels tight if I don’t use a good serum and moisturizer. I do have some fine (and some not-so-fine) lines. Most of the reviews I’ve seen are by people with rosacea or acne/breakout problems but I guess my question is, what are the benefits if any to dry, aging skin like mine?
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