The best face massager for puffiness and tension relief

Relieve jaw tension and sculpt your face naturally with these beauty devices.

The best face massager

by Ellen Kinsey |
Updated on

If you are looking to depuff your skin and naturally give your face some more definition, the best face massager can be a genuinely transformative tool. Rooted in ancient practices such as gua sha, massaging your face can help with lymphatic drainage and tension relief. We can hold a lot of tension in our jaw when stressed, so giving your jaw and face muscles some TLC is good for your appearance and pain relief too. But what exactly is a massager, and how do massage guns and face massaging devices and tools reduce tension? Here are the basics of how face massagers work.

A face massaging device is designed to rejuvenate and revitalise the skin, enhancing blood circulation and stimulating the natural production of collagen. This facial massage can be done at home with a nifty tool or even with your hands. This technique promotes lymphatic drainage and will release tension in the face, reducing puffiness and a luminous glow as the facial muscles drain the excess fluid that can cause puffiness. Pairing your skincare regimen with a face massager can really make all the difference. These tools don't just offer a relaxing experience; they amplify the effects of your favourite skincare products. From eye creams to moisturisers, these manual or electric massagers ensure that every drop of your product is absorbed effectively, promising a radiant glow and toned appearance.

Wellness technology has taken the world by storm, with massagers being one of the most popular. There are even foot massagers - you no longer need to take a trip to the spa to treat yourself and your body that works so hard for you. These devices, much like their facial counterparts, offer many benefits. They're not just fantastic gifts for loved ones but also essential tools for self-care. Whether it's a scalp massager or a face massager - self-pampering is good for the soul.

Best face massager at a glance:

• Best face massager for toning: NuFACE Mini Facial Toning Device – View on Look Fantastic
• Best face massager for cleansing: FOREO LUNA 4 – View on Look Fantastic
• Best face massager for microcurrents: TheraFace PRO Facial Health Device  – View on John Lewis

When it comes to face massagers, there is an extensive range to choose from, each with unique benefits. Top-tier face massagers are designed to efficiently enhance the skin's texture, leading to a more sculpted, smooth, and toned appearance. Jade rollers and gua sha stones are rooted in ancient skincare traditions and are adept at eliminating toxins and blockages. Meanwhile, contemporary vibrating facial massagers are engineered not just for relaxation but also to optimise the absorption of skincare products, ensuring that the skin reaps the maximum benefits from each application. So, without further ado, let's get into the best face massager for your needs.

Best face massagers

Best face massager for toning

NuFACE Mini Facial Toning Device
Price: £138 (RRP £184)

www.lookfantastic.com

The NuFACE mini is a microcurrent device that offers a swift 5-Minute Facial-Lift™. It's good for toning, lifting, and contouring and helps to reduce fine lines. It comes with a hydrating aqua gel enriched with hyaluronic acid for your skincare routine.
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Customer review:** "I love this. I don’t use it often because I don’t have the time, but I really see the difference when I use it."

Pros

  • Compact and portable for on-the-go use.
  • Tones, lifts, and contours facial muscles.
  • Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Cons

  • Potential for skin sensitivity or reactions to the hydrating aqua gel.

Best face massager for cleansing

FOREO LUNA 4 Smart Facial Cleansing and Firming Massage Device - Sensitive Skin
Price: £228.65 (RRO 269)

www.lookfantastic.com

This 2-in-1 skincare device is your ticket to a radiant complexion. With its ultra-soft silicone bristles and T-Sonic™ pulsations, it promises a deep cleanse. With 16 adjustable intensities, it's a match for every skin type.

Customer review: "I'm so happy with this device, it's amazing, and it works exactly as promised. It's so gentle and really relaxing to use. My evening routine has been considerably more effective since I stripped it back to the basics and incorporated the Luna 4 into the mix. Those who are seeking for a gentle form of physical exfoliation and don't tolerate chemical exfoliants all that well need look no further than the Luna 4."

Pros

  • 2-in-1 facial cleansing and massaging device.
  • Offers 16 adjustable intensities for customisation.
  • It is made of ultra-soft silicone, suitable for sensitive skin.

Cons

  • Requires regular cleaning to prevent bacterial buildup.

Best gua sha stone face roller

BAIMEI Jade Roller Gua
Price: $12.99

Gua sha is a traditional Chinese healing method. This method requires an upward and outward motion to reduce inflammation, improve skin complexion, and decrease wrinkles. This rose quartz duo promises to relieve muscle tension, reduce puffiness, and give your skin that sought-after fresh look. Pop them in the fridge and enjoy an icy relief on your skin for an extra refreshing touch.

Customer review: "Lovely product and appears well made, but I have only had it for 1 days. My skin looks firmer, and I love the afterglow feeling once you have used it. In fact, I have bought another as a birthday gift."

Pros

  • It provides muscle tension relief and reduces facial puffiness.
  • Made of rose quartz, sturdy and smooth.
  • Gua Sha tool helps shape the jawline and improve fine lines.

Cons

  • Requires regular cleaning.

Best face massager for microcurrents

This four-in-one facial device can help you achieve a radiant glow, all from the comfort of your sofa. Whether you're in the mood for a gentle massage, a wrinkle-reducing session, or a deep cleanse, TheraFace has got you covered. With proven results and a range of attachments. The microcurrent ring tightens the skin and improves muscle tone and contour in the face and neck.

Customer review: "With daily use this little gadget really worked wonders on my skin and tightened my jawline. Results depend on consistent use, so this is not a one-hit wonder."

Pros

  • Offers multiple treatments with various attachments.
  • Proven results based on a consumer perception study.
  • Features percussive therapy, micro-current, and LED treatments.

Cons

  • Might be overwhelming for beginners due to multiple attachments.
  • Requires regular maintenance and cleaning of attachments.

Best face massager for sculpting

Alternative retailers
JCPenney$62.10View offer
Walmart$69.00View offer
Ulta$69.00View offer
Dermstore$69.00View offer

Designed to mimic the effect of a deep-kneading professional facial massage for a relaxed, radiant look. It is crafted with two round-shaped ends that hug your facial structure for targeted contour and afterglow. It increases circulation and relaxes the muscles to help jaw tension.

Customer review: "I absolutely love this. I use it ever morning in my skin routine. I honestly feel like it is giving my face much more definition. Really glad I bought it."

Pros

  • Helps firm and sculpt the complexion in just 5-10 minutes daily.
  • Replicates a professional kneading massage.
  • It refreshes the skin and provides an instant glow.

Cons

  • It might be uncomfortable for some users.

Best face massager for relieving tension and lymphatic drainage

Although the Face Gym Face Ball might raise a few eyebrows at first glance, its results are unmistakable. Perfect for easing tension and promoting lymphatic drainage. The 250g PVC ball targets facial muscles, rolling over the skin for a massaging effect. Used on clean, dry skin, the weighted ball preps the skin for subsequent products in your facial workout, making it a great addition to your beauty arsenal.

Customer review: "I much prefer this to using a jade stone for facial massage. It's much more user-friendly, and you don't have to lube your face with lots of oils. Great to add pressure to your forehead if you hold tension in those areas."

Pros

  • It relieves tension and boosts lymphatic drainage.
  • Prepares skin for creams and moisturisers.
  • Simple and easy to use.

Cons

  • It might seem unconventional or ineffective to some.

Best face massager boosting collagen and depuffing

Sarah Chapman's Skinesis Facialift tool is inspired by the iconic Skinesis massage, this unique tool. With its eight wheels and 48 nodules, it can redefine your facial contours. Whether you use it on dry skin or pair it with your favourite serum, it's bound to leave your skin looking plump and radiant.

Customer review: "Love this facial roller. Instantly feels like it’s firming. It's so relaxing. I absolutely love it, I do it morning and evening.  I'm not sure if there’s much difference visually, but I only had it for a week, so I will see how I get on. "

Pros

  • The unique design mimics professional facial massage techniques.
  • Promotes more defined facial contours.
  • It can be used with various skincare products for enhanced results.
  • Good for relieving jaw pain.

Cons

  • Requires consistent use for best results.

Best massager for neck lifting

This neck lifting, sonic facial massager can also be used on the whole body. Best used with some oil or lotion, the weak current can activate facial muscle cells and promote metabolism. It can reduce skin wrinkles through high-speed sound vibration massage and stimulates blood circulation and the growth of fibroblasts and collagen.

Customer review: "I wasn't sure about buying this product, but I must say I love this tool. In particular, the warm setting is very relaxing on the face. I am very happy with this purchase."

Pros

  • Doubles as green, blue and red light therapy.
  • Neck lifting device with three functions.
  • Good for collagen production.

Cons

  • Best with some oil or lotion.

FAQs: Best face massagers

What is a face massager?

A face massager is a skincare tool designed to enhance blood circulation, stimulate collagen production, and help absorb skincare products. It can be manual like jade rollers and gua sha stones, or electronic with vibrating features.

Can face massagers help with jaw pain or TMJ?

Yes, certain face massagers can benefit those experiencing jaw pain or TMJ (temporomandibular joint) issues. Face massagers can offer relief by promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension in the jaw area. However, consulting with a healthcare professional before using a face massager for medical purposes is essential.

How often should I use a face massager?

For optimal results, using a face massager 2-3 times a week is recommended. However, always follow the specific guidelines provided by the manufacturer of your chosen device.

Can face massagers help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles?

Yes, by improving blood flow and boosting collagen production, face massagers can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time. They also aid in the effective absorption of anti-ageing products, enhancing their benefits.

Ellen Kinsey is a senior health and wellness product writer for Yours, specialising in natural health and beauty. She lives and breathes all things food, travel and wellness.

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