I never really took the rise (and culminating obsession) with skin-tightening devices seriously until a couple of years ago when I got my hands on ZIIP’s ultra-coveted Nano Current Device ($495). You can read the long story here, but the short story is that it pretty much lifted, toned, and contoured my face after the very first use, and when I’m consistent with the ritual, the results just get better and better. So yes, I now staunchly believe in the effectiveness of these types of gadgets, even though I definitely don’t deem them a necessity. One last time for the people in the back: Lines, wrinkles, and sagging are normal and beautiful—they’re your well-lived life on display, after all!
There is one caveat, however. Even though certain skin-tightening devices that use high-tech technology like LED, microcurrent, and radiofrequency might provide visible changes to the skin and be satisfactory investments, there are plenty of models on the market that just aren’t up to snuff and worth your hard-earned cash. So if you’ve been toying with the idea of investing in some type of skin-tightening tool but want to make sure you get the best bang for your buck, you’ll want to keep reading. Below, I’m detailing my favorite skin-tightening device (yep, the ZIIP) along with 10 other worthy options that have received rave reviews and high ratings among your fellow beauty shoppers. Keep scrolling! The 11 best skin-tightening devices for a firmer and tauter complexion are just below.
How it tightens: Essentially, this travel-friendly, palm-sized device (think a far chicer version of a Mac mouse) delivers the same benefits of an in-office electrical nano-current facial from the comfort of your home. (Celebrities like Jennifer Aniston swear by these kinds of facials for their taught and glowy skin, by the way.) Using nano-currents—think teeny electrical currents that sync to your body’s own frequency—the device actually communicates with your skin cells to generate more collagen elastin (plumpness!), decrease the onset of breakouts, boost circulation, accelerate wound healing, and heal and repair compromised skin tissue. Even more amazing? You can actually customize the electric treatment you receive by pairing your device with its app on your smartphone and going from there. Depending on your skin’s needs, there are different treatments to choose from—be it the four-minute Vital Eyes option targeting puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines or a Total Clearing option, which is my favorite. What the reviews say: “Hands down one of the best beauty investments I’ve ever made! The little device has endless options for beauty treatments that are efficient and actually produce results. My skin has never looked fresher, dewier, and just overall… better! Tighter, more defined, and less puffy. Such an easy device to use and simple to squeeze into any beauty regimen. Yes, the gold gel is pricey but my skin feels baby smooth after I use it and it can double as a face mask to leave on after your treatments. I love the skin clearing option too—it has cleared up a stubborn acne/blackout area I’ve had for months.”
How it tightens: If you’re someone who’s been around the beauty block, you’ve likely heard emphatic rumblings about NuFace’s collecting of skin-tightening devices, but the OG, shown here, is definitely the investment to make if you’re looking to reap maximum results. Just like spendy in-office treatments, this little gal delivers professional-level microcurrent technology to your face from the comfort of your couch, bed, bathroom, or wherever you so please. This set even comes with a red-light attachment that, as you’ll read more about below, further enhances the contouring, toning, and tightening perks. What the reviews say: “Totally worth the price! I purchased this from Sephora during their spring sale and have been using it for about a week now. Let me say, I am FLOORED! I’ve been going to a spa for microdermabrasion facials which can run a small fortune and do very little other than smooth the skin. This machine is truly a miracle. I highly recommend it if you want to see real results.”
How it tightens: This super-cool, high-tech tool is like the holy grail of skincare devices right now. It pretty much does everything and has extra helpful small details like smart-touch activation so it will turn on and turn off upon placement on or removal from the skin. The wand combines four patent dermatological technologies in a first-of-its-kind treatment: microcurrent, red-light therapy, therapeutic warmth, and facial massage. You’ll feel glowier and more radiant and see a lessening in fine lines and blemishes, and it will also increase the efficacy of your other favorite skincare products. What the reviews say: “I took a chance on this little skincare tool after seeing a few influencers post about it on Instagram. I don’t usually buy new beauty products without trying them first, but hey, there’s a pandemic, Sephora’s closed, and I can’t get in for facials. I know they say it’s a five-minute treatment, but this thing feels so nice and has already improved my crow’s feet, and it looks like it’s lifted my cheeks in a matter of a week. My boyfriend asked me the other day what’s changed with my skin and if I’ve had any work done lol, he has legit never commented on my skin before. I am now going to buy the conductive serum to see what that can do for my skin too. I can’t put this thing down!!”
How it tightens: Despite its ultra-cute design, this facial toning device from the geniuses at Foreo is quickly gaining attention as one of the best at-home skin-tightening solutions money can buy. It relies on advanced microcurrent technology, which smooths away fine lines and wrinkles while tightening up sagging skin. Plus, it features an exclusive anti-shock system that automatically customizes the microcurrent to your skin’s resistance so you feel comfortable the entire time. What the reviews say: “I’m 37 with good skin and only a few lines on my forehead and between my brows. I’m very devoted to my skincare routine but haven’t tried injections or major lasers yet. I purchased the Bear because Zoom calls have made me insecure about my jawline. I had moderate expectations, thinking I would have to wait a few months to see any toning. NOPE! My “11 Lines” were completely gone after one use. My brows were lifted, cheekbones popped, and my hooded eyes were noticeably larger. I used the Bear on my mom and her brows were noticeably lifted and her eyes were much larger. For the price of one high-end facial treatment, the Bear is well worth it!”
How it tightens: Unlike other skin-tightening devices that utilize microcurrent or radiofrequency technology, this investment-worthy face mask from Dr. Dennis Gross relies on strategic LED light therapy to target wrinkles and jump-start collagen production for a tauter, firmer-looking complexion. While the mask’s blue-light setting is designed to curb acne-causing bacteria and prevent future breakouts, the red-light setting is what will push the mask’s anti-aging perks into high gear. Oh, and if you want the best of both worlds, there’s a setting for that too! What the reviews say: “I am a skincare-obsessed 36-year-old determined to eradicate wrinkles, discoloration, or any type of visible aging. I’m always researching and trying to find the best ‘at home’ treatments to try and give myself the next level treatment my esthetician does in-between visits. This device works just as great as the professional treatments. After the redness goes away in five to ten minutes, my skin is firmer and more lifted.”
How it tightens: Facialist Shani Darden’s sculpting wand has accrued a huge fan base among the celeb and beauty-editor set. Say goodbye to excess puffiness, fine lines and wrinkles, and lax collagen production, and let this device’s unique sound-wave technology do its thing by targeting key areas like crow’s-feet and nasolabial lines. What the reviews say: “I am very happy with this product. At first, I was skeptical about purchasing this, but I love the results it gives. It tones my face, and I already see some of my wrinkles smoothing out.”
How it tightens: This handy little device is known to be one of the best in the industry as far as firming and tightening go. And for good reason! It uses HT (aka Home Tightening) technology to lessen wrinkles while simultaneously tightening up the skin. The process helps repair the skin’s natural collagen and elastin fibers, strengthening the skin and helping to rejuvenate it from the inside out. Therefore, with continued use, you’ll actually be slowing down the natural aging process of your skin for a more youthful complexion in the long term, too. What the reviews say: “I was a little leery about this at first, and to be honest, I was worried because I have a darker skin complexion that it may make my skin get darker but it totally didn’t. I have used some other products by this company and like them, so I figured I would give this one a try. I definitely saw a positive increase in my overall skin texture, and I’ve been using it for about three months. I’m going to keep on using it, but I’ve already seen an improvement in my under-eye bags, which I really struggle with.”
How it tightens: This stunning gilded tool from makeup artist Jillian Dempsey may look pretty enough to eat, but it also packs a hearty punch in the tightening and de-puffing arena. It utilizes forceful vibrations (which mimic the toning effects of a massage) to help lift, contour, and revive tired skin. What the reviews say: “I’ve been trying out the Gold Sculpting Bar for over a week and love how it makes my skin feel! It feels plumper, more toned, and I pair it with my favorite serums both morning and night! It makes my skin feel refreshed, tightened, and less puffy! Would definitely recommend it.”
How it tightens: This tightening gadget’s results come from the magic of LED light therapy. It’s safe for all skin types, it’s FDA-cleared, and it combines LightStim’s signature MultiWave LED light with four different wavelengths of therapeutic light energy to visibly decrease noticeable fine lines and wrinkles. You’ll likely notice a reduction in pore size, and consistent use will also help reboot waning firmness and elasticity. What the reviews say: “I bought my LightStim for Wrinkles before Sephora carried it. I’m still using it, and it’s been over a year. It works! After the first use, my skin felt more radiant the next morning (I use mine at night) and was a little plumper. With consistent use, the lines start to disappear. I stopped using it consistently for a tiny bit and noticed my lines coming back. But after starting again, they have faded! Love it!”
How it tightens: This skin-tightening device is like a jolt (in a good way) to your skin. It offers high-frequency vibration (6000 per minute), which helps activate cellular activity, improve the elasticity of the skin, minimize the look of wrinkles, and increase overall firmness. It offers three different gears, the first of which is room temperature and is most recommended for wrinkle concerns. What the reviews say: “I was ecstatic to find this device for this price! I had stopped at a swanky skin care store was shown the same device for the incredible price of $1400. (I kid you NOT!) I love this device and use it every day. It soothes away stress and eliminates morning puffiness! And it really has helped me firm and tighten my neck skin!”
How it tightens: Using the latest bipolar radio-frequency technology, this skin-tightening tool emits potent RF waves that heat up the skin tissue, stimulating collagen and elastin production. The effect? A tighter, smoother complexion. It also has a built-in safety mechanism that automatically alters the energy emitted depending on the temperature of your skin, so you can feel super safe while you go about your treatment. What the reviews say: “I had Thermage done at a pricey skin spa about 15 years ago, and the cost was $2500. I saw such a difference in my skin after six months that I was beyond impressed. This skin-tightening device from Mlay, when used consistently, delivers the same remarkable results at home and at a fraction of the cost. I first used it on the lowest setting for ten minutes and found it very comfortable. After three days, I went up to medium and ten minutes. The second week I was using it on the highest setting (there are only three heat settings) and for as long as 20 minutes a day. I go slowly, using the gel provided with the device, and use it in a circular motion covering my entire face and neck. The neck will take the longest to improve, but I am seeing remarkable results; effects that no skincare regimen alone can accomplish, and I have some very expensive skincare products.”
