I'm not, nor have I ever been, a gadget girl. I don't buy into gimmicks and I'm sceptical about so-called wonder products and devices. However, I always listen to friends and their opinions and my friend Alison is an Arbonne consultant and has previously given me some skincare samples which I was very impressed with. At one of our lunch meetings, she was very excited about a new product, called the Genius Ultra, a device for massaging skincare products into the face to improve their performance. She offered to lend one to me at our next meeting so I could see for myself. By complete co-incidence, a few days later, the Arbonne team contacted me to see if I'd like one to try which of course I did and I have been using it for more than two months.
Here's the science bit: The Genius Ultra is actually an award winning product that uses ultrasound technology to ensure skincare products are applied more evenly. It uses gentle circular movement to smooth products onto the skin for one minute per area (it switches off automatically after one minute). It has a three-setting temperature control and vibration level and can be used daily for intensive, visible results. It works because our skin has microscopic ridges causing the surface to be uneven. When applying creams and serums with the fingertips, they are unevenly spread so can't penetrate each layer effectively. The ultrasound waves of the Genius device gently push the skincare product into the outer layers of the skin, so maximising performance.
Ultrasound is widely used for diagnostic purposes and routinely during pregnancy but it's also used therapeutically. About ten years ago, I had a series of treatments on an elbow injury, the rationale being that the ultrasound waves would penetrate thorough to the damaged tissue to accelerate repair. It worked within about six sessions and after trying every other kind of treatment for more than two years, I was both incredibly relived and impressed. Because of that proven outcome, I understand and appreciate the science and technology behind the Genius Ultra and accept that if it is safe to use on an unborn child, then it is must be safe to use on my face.
The device charges via a lead into a USB port, so I plug it into my laptop. I have used it for at least three minutes per session, approximately sixty times and have only just had to recharge it. I have been using it as part of my daily evening routine to help smooth Arbonne Intensive Renewal Serum into my skin around the eye area, my neck and around my lips and nasolabial area. If I have time, I use it for a further minute on my forehead and on my cheeks too. It has a very smooth contact surface which glides over the skin and because it gets warm, it is both comforting and relaxing. Although I've had a good skincare regimen for as long as I can remember, it's one born out of necessity. It's thorough, but functional and time-efficient. This device makes me stop for that little bit longer and as such, it's as soothing for my mind as it is for my face. It feels like I'm indulging in a little "me-time" and that's something many us need more of. The physical sensation is one of warmth and comfort and without question, the serum sinks into the skin quicker than it does when using my fingertips. Not only that, it relaxes the facial muscles which can only be a good thing.
So, has it made a difference?
Yes it has. My skin looks more even in tone and texture and definitely feels smoother. Using the Genius has become part of my daily routine and I now actually look forward to the whole palaver of removing make-up, cleansing, toning and moisturising before bedtime. At almost £300 it is a significant investment but it's like having a mini-facial everyday- calming, relaxing, soothing.
I love it.
Love Lizzy x
Disclosure: The Arbonne Genius Ultra was gifted to me for purposes of review. It is available from www.arbonne.com and retails at £296.
I was not obliged to blog about this product nor did I receive payment for doing so. My opinions are always 100% honest and the content is my own. Thank you very much for supporting those brands that support What Lizzy Loves.
I'm linking up with:
Brilliant Blog Posts/The Saturday Share
Please follow on Instagram and Facebook for more of What Lizzy Loves
Photographs: Poppy Johnston
 |
| Sign up to my newsletter and receive an exclusive discount for Lizzy O every month |