Buff Your Skin to Perfection with the Clarisonic Mia Sonic Skin Cleansing System

The Clarisonic Mia is available in a variety of stylish colours

Using sonic technology, the Clarisonic Mia lets you clean your pores like a pro

The Clarisonic Mia is a small, hand-held skin cleansing system for the face created by the folks who brought us Sonicare electric toothbrushes. Using the same sonic technology, the Clarisonic removes impurities from the face that traditional cleansing methods tend to leave behind. Its patented micro-massage motion gently buffs the skin leaving it softer, smoother and more even-toned.

There are different versions of the Clarisonic brush and the original Mia system is smaller than the Classic Clarisonic and it’s waterproof so you can take it into the shower. The new Mia 2 differs only in that it now – like the larger Classic version – offers a choice in speeds (there is only one speed with the original Mia). This review is for the original Clarisonic Mia.

The Clarisonic comes with:

• Cordless Clarisonic Mia
• Universal voltage charger
• Sensitive brush head
• 1 oz. trial sized Gentle Hydro Cleanser

Clarisonic Claims

• Cleanses 6x better than with your hands alone in just 60 seconds
• Works with skin, not against it, to gently massage away impurities trapped within pores
• Prepares skin for better absorption of creams, serums and moisturizers
• Gentle enough to use 2x a day

Performance

I have dry, somewhat delicate skin so right away I knew I wasn’t going to use it twice a day, but I did use it every night for the first few weeks. I generally approach manual exfoliation with a healthy dose of caution and proceed gently, which is how I used the Mia: with a very light, gentle touch.

It definitely felt a little abrasive the first few times but I’ve since gotten accustomed to it. I’ll probably stick with the sensitive brush head through the summer and then switch to the delicate brush head for winter when my skin gets a bit more reactive and sensitive.

I really liked the Clarisonic Mia. The key is to approach this knowing what kind of skin you have and incorporate the Clarisonic into your existing skin regimen. So if I was already using a manual exfoliator or even a chemical one, I’d stop a few days before introducing the Clarisonic, so as not to irritate the skin. And even thought they recommend using it twice a day, if you know your skin won’t like that, then use it only as needed whether it’s once a day or once a week. The Clarisonic Mia does work, but like any other serious skincare product, it has to fit into your skin’s needs and routine.

I use it at night because I wear heavy duty sunscreens, which require a thorough cleansing at the end of the day. I love knowing I’m buffing every last trace of product off my face and am left with super soft, smooth skin. And it really does prep the skin for any serums or lotions you use afterward. I was amazed at how quickly my serums sank and disappeared into my skin.

Tips for Using the Clarisonic

A few things I’ve learned or considered while using the Clarisonic Mia:

• When you get your new Clarisonic Mia, follow the instructions and charge it for a full 24 hours before using. Do not give into the temptation to use it before it’s fully charged. It will affect the life of the battery. And keep it plugged in when not in use.
• Just like your electric toothbrush, change the brush head every couple of months, depending on use. Clarisonic suggests changing it every three months based on using it twice a day, so since I use it only once a day, I’ll switch out the brush heads after six months.
• If you already use a chemical exfoliator (AHA or BHA) or another manual exfoliator, proceed cautiously and slowly. Do not irritate your skin with too many exfoliants! I don’t subscribe to the theory of “purging.” I think if your skin starts to break out, you should stop whatever new treatment you’ve introduced and let your skin heal, instead of forging on. Products do not need to sting, burn, scratch or irritate in order to be effective!
• If you do have a breakout or other infection, stop using the Clarisonic Mia and wait for the skin to fully heal. Either sterilize your brush head or replace it with a new one before continuing, or else you’ll simply spread the infection.

Would I Repurchase the Clarisonic?

Yes! This works well for me and makes a noticeable difference in my skin’s texture and definitely helps skincare products absorb more quickly. Before I started this, I used manual exfoliators occasionally and thought they were good enough, but I have to say the Clarisonic Mia’s really elevated my expectations of just how clean and smooth my skin really can be.

The Clarisonic Mia is $119 and is available in store or online at Spa Boutique and Sephora.