Anti-Ageing Tools & Devices - Do They Work?

In this article:
Are anti-ageing devices safe for all skin types?
Types of anti-ageing devices & technology
Microcurrent technology
Light therapy
At-home laser treatments
Dermarollers
Face massaging tools
Dermaplaning razors
Key takeaways

When it comes to addressing signs of ageing, it seems we have more tools in our arsenal than ever before. Although skin care and in-office procedures are usually considered the first lines of defence against visible signs of ageing, at-home anti-ageing devices have been enjoying a lot of popularity over the years, with this uptick showing no signs of slowing down. In fact, there’s seemingly new at-home anti-ageing tools and devices available all the time.

Of course, with all the ever-evolving options come many questions, among them, what are the best at-home anti-ageing devices? We’ve done the research and are ready to clear up some of the confusion that surrounds selecting an at-home anti-ageing device that works for you.

Are anti-ageing devices safe for all skin types?

In general, the answer to this question is yes, though it’s important to consider what kind of anti-ageing device you want to use. Some devices rely on physical manipulation of skin that might not be the ideal option if your skin is very sensitive or prone to rosacea or blemishes. Other machines utilise radiofrequency or IPL (intense pulsed light therapy) which may not be a fit for darker skin tones.

If your skin falls into this category, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist to see if a particular at-home anti-ageing device is right for you before making a purchase.

Types of anti-ageing devices & technology

As mentioned above, there are several types of at-home anti-ageing devices, many of which are designed for treating specific ageing-related skin concerns. In large part, which device you select will depend on which concerns you most want to address; for example, are you trying to tackle age-related uneven skin tone or are you seeking to firm skin’s architecture?

However, outside of your particular concerns, there are other factors at play. Here’s our guide to types of at-home ageing devices:

Microcurrent technology

Microcurrent technology is the practice of stimulating facial muscles through the application of low-voltage electricity. While that might sound a bit scary, electrical pulses are commonly used in clinical applications for wound healing as well as pain management and are overall safe (1).

The big question is: does at-home microcurrent technology actually work? Here’s the truth:

A 2021 study found that a combination of LED therapy AND microcurrent technology helped stimulate the production of collagen and elastin in pig skin, which sounds like it would also make an impact on visible signs of ageing on human skin (2). In vivo (that is, tested on living human skin) research, however, is not quite as promising. While scientists have found that microcurrent use did improve skin texture, it didn’t appear to have a significant impact on improving the look of deep lines or wrinkles (3). This stands to reason since there’s much more to wrinkles than muscle contraction and laxity.

Let’s keep our expectations realistic when it comes to microcurrent tech. With this in mind, at-home microcurrent technology might be a consideration if skin texture issues brought on by ageing are your primary concern, but not as much if you’re looking to see a significant visible impact on wrinkles.

One interesting note: there is research demonstrating microcurrent pulses could inhibit some factors that cause skin to become irritated and red when it’s affected by the bacteria that cause blemishes (4)!

Light therapy

At-home light therapy is the use of light emitting diode (LED), or low-level light therapy, claimed to treat fine lines, wrinkles, breakouts and uneven tone.

When it comes to zeroing in on its anti-ageing prowess, there’s growing evidence that at-home devices using low-level light therapy and LED – a process also called photobiomodulation - can have an impact on the appearance of lines and wrinkles – provided, of course, they are used properly and consistently (5).

One 2021 research paper found the use of at-home low energy red/near infrared light promoted skin rejuvenation, resulting in increased smoothness and elasticity and a reduction in the appearance of wrinkles (6). The study, however, concluded that more research is needed to fully determine if at-home light therapy is a solution for these skin concerns.

At-home light therapy devices can also often include a blue light setting. However, there’s mounting evidence that blue light can hinder skin health. This type of light-emitting device might produce short-term positive results but the cumulative damage from such exposure to blue light is not worth the trade-off.

At-home laser treatments

Laser treatments are popular for a variety of dermatological conditions, from rough texture to uneven tone, wrinkles and even hair loss. Many of these procedures are done at a clinician’s office, though there are a growing number of home laser devices designed for convenience. But are these effective?

Before we go any further, let’s talk about the two types of laser resurfacing methods designed to target signs of ageing: ablative and non-ablative (7).

Ablative lasers are used by dermatologists and other skin care professionals in-office to remove several layers of surface skin to essentially “resurface” it, giving it a smoother, more even-toned appearance. Non-ablative lasers heat up cells in skin’s lower layers to stimulate collagen production. At-home laser devices are non-ablative, largely since this type is much milder (the recovery from a professional ablative laser treatment is intense and weeks long).

Studies on at-home non-ablative laser devices have been promising, indicating that they can have a positive visible impact on minor skin discolourations and fine lines and wrinkles (8). In one research paper, more than 90% of participants reported an improvement in signs of ageing after 8 weeks of consistent use of an at-home laser device. A study of another device yielded similar results – 87% of patients said they noticed fewer wrinkles.

Researchers are quick to point out, however, that additional trials are needed, and that it’s also important to follow the instructions of at-home laser devices to ensure that skin is not injured.

For those with more advanced concerns, including deep lines, orange-peel skin texture and more pronounced discolourations, it’s worth considering in-office ablative laser procedures, as the visible results will be more impressive and longer-lasting. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Debra Jaliman agrees, recommending “at-home anti-ageing devices for some skin improvement but for deeper lines and dark-discolourations, it's best to see a professional for in-office treatments.” But again, the recovery is intense and demands time out of the public eye.

Dermarollers

Dermarollers are devices that use a technique called microneedling, which involves rolling a tool equipped with tiny needles over the face to cause small punctures in the skin. Microneedling is said to improve wrinkles, dimpled skin (AKA cellulite), enlarged pores and even help active skin care ingredients absorb more readily.

The issue with at-home microneedling devices is that – like in the case of many other at-home anti-ageing devices – there just isn’t a wealth of research backing up many of the more impressive claims attached to them. There is also a concern that since at-home microneedling devices don’t have any professional supervision, there’s risk for irritation and damage to skin’s barrier, which is pro-ageing (9).

Beyond this, it's in this tool’s nature to create punctures in skin. Like any other punctures, they can lead to infection without proper control and practices. At-home dermaroller needles are also often bent, dull and not at a 90-degree angle (which is the angle recommended for microneedling). This can cause further issues.

When it comes to microneedling, its success really depends on the expertise of the person performing the action. It's important to point out that microneedling, when carefully timed (waiting an appropriate amount between sessions) and done under the supervision of a medical professional, can yield impressive results, especially when it comes to treating blemish scars (10).

There is a history of research showing improvement in both skin roughness and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation when microneedling is used in clinical settings – meaning that if you’re seeking to treat skin affected by blemishes, it’s worth it to speak with your dermatologist about in-office microneedling procedures (11).

Overall, we’d pass on at-home microneedling devices since the risk outweighs the possible benefits.

Face massaging tools

The last category we’re covering is the use of facial massaging tools to tackle wrinkles. Two of the more popular facial massage tools are jade (or other stone) rollers and gua sha stones.

Both tools are tied to wellness culture in Asia, particularly China. Jade rollers resemble small paint rollers and are used to massage skin, while gua sha stones employ gentle scraping of skin’s surface.

In both instances the goal is the same: to stimulate lymphatic drainage and boost blood flow for the purpose of reducing wrinkles and improving complexion (12). They’re also intended to create a sensorial experience similar to that of an in-spa facial massage.

Unfortunately, while there is plenty of anecdotal evidence that jade rollers and gua sha stones help with a number of skin conditions, the research backing those claims isn’t there yet. It’s not that there’s no benefit– it’s just that there needs to be more peer-reviewed evidence showing it has any significant impact beyond relaxation before we can recommend this technique (13).

We should also mention that repeated manual manipulation of facial skin can result in fine lines and wrinkles – the exact opposite of what you want! If you decide to try either handheld device, the goal is to see your skin move as little as possible. No pulling or tugging!

Dermaplaning razors

Dermaplaning razors are handheld devices featuring a small, straight razor that is usually angled. In recent years they have transcended estheticians’ offices to become popular for at-home use (14).

The goals of dermaplaning differ from regular face shaving. Those who dermaplane want to remove fine vellus hairs (AKA “peach fuzz”) and lightly exfoliate skin's outermost layer. The end goal of dermaplaning is to have smoother skin.

You might have seen claims that dermaplaning has numerous benefits that include everything from temporarily reducing the look of fine lines and wrinkles to stimulating collagen production and improving the look of blemish scars. We should note, however, that there is very little independent, peer-reviewed research backing up these claims.

It’s crucial to point out that most studies on the effects of dermaplaning (such as those focused on whether it helps improve the penetration of active skin care ingredients) are done on in-office dermaplaning procedures – not those performed at home (15). This is because with in-office dermaplaning there are often fewer variables.

In non-clinical environments (i.e., at home) there are risks to dermaplaning, including irritation, injury and infection. Additional risks include the triggering of inflammatory conditions, such as blemishes and rosacea and skin barrier damage (16).

Until more compelling research is completed demonstrating at-home dermaplaning’s safety and effectiveness, you can achieve all the purported skin care-related dermaplaning benefits through routine use of a well-formulated chemical exfoliant.

One final note: if you do go see a professional for dermaplaning, go easy on your acid-based exfoliant in the days following your procedure, as it can over exfoliate skin! If you decide to dermaplane at home, skip acid-based exfoliation on those days, too!

Key takeaways

Summary: Overall, some at-home technology is a great alternative to in-office procedures, including red/infrared light therapy and non-ablative at-home laser therapies, and some should be left to the professionals (microneedling!). Before embarking on any at-home journey, do your research and consult your dermatologist. The best solution may be getting an in-office procedure for more impressive results, then using one of the devices mentioned above to help maintain your results at home. And remember, following a gentle post-procedure regimen can help skin recover from various procedures and at-home tool treatments.

Get more skin care tips.

References for this information:

1. Acta Mechanica Sinica, February 2021, pages 1,843–1,871
2. Med Lasers, June 2021, pages 96-105
3. Thai Journal of Dermatology, October-December 2022, pages 121-131
4. International Journal of Molecular Scientists, February 2022, pages 1-14
5. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, September 2020, pages 2,228-2,294
6. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, June 2021, pages 723–738
7. Dermatologic Therapy, January-February 2021, ePublication
8. Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, September 2011, pages 144-147
9. Experimental Dermatology, August 2015, pages 561-566
10. Dermatologic Therapy, December 2019, pages 1,570-1,579
11. Open Access Macedonian Journal of Medical Sciences, January 2019, ePublication
12. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, February 2023, pages 700-703
13. The Journal of Chinese Medicine, June 2020, ePublication
14. The Ohio State University Wexler Medical Center, Website, Accessed August 2025
15. AAPS PharmSciTech, February 2023, ePublication
16. Journal of Aesthetic Nursing, February 2022, ePublication