Hello Dolls!
Makeup artistry can be hard on the face; because of this, I am in the process of revamping my skin care routine. For some time now I have been on the search for a great cleansing brush. With so many options currently on the market at so many different price points, it can be difficult to choose. But after testing out a few products, I think I have brought my search down to two contenders. Both have major benefits, a few drawbacks; so let’s take a look at the stats…
Olay Pro X Cleaning System – $27 to $29
This system was created to compete with the higher priced “professional” systems and can be found in the beauty section of your local drug store or big box store. According to olay.com this system is “designed to cleanse 6 times better than basic cleansing and maximizes the immediate hydrating effectiveness of your anti-aging moisturizer.” The system includes a soft bristle replaceable brush head ($10 for replacements) that rotates at two different speeds. It is powered by 2 AA batteries and is water resistant, safe enough for use in the shower.
My Experience: My skin is very sensitive to abrasiveness. Anything beyond angel kisses turns my skin bright red and feels like I have a rash. After about 45 seconds of using this brush at the lowest level, the area around my jaw and chin began to turn red and sting a bit. Aside from that, I was very impressed with the exfoliation and cleansing quality and my skin felt baby soft when it was all said and done.
Clarisonic Mia 2 – $149
The Mia 2 is just one product in the Clarisonic family. Much like the Olay Pro X, it cleanses the skin 6 times better thank your hands alone in only 60 seconds. It also prepares the skin for better absorption of creams, serums, and moisturizers (www.clarisonic.com). However, unlike its competitors, “Clarisonic’s patented micro-massage motion works within the skin’s natural elasticity to gently remove impurities traditional methods leave behind.” The inner bristles, which oscillate rather than rotate, polish the skin and massage impurities away. The Mia 2 also includes a T-Timer that notifies you when it is time to move to another area of the face. This feature keeps the user from over working the skin during cleansing. The Mia 2 system comes with a sensitive brush head, but other brush heads can be purchased for $25 each and include delicate, deep pore, acne, normal, and a body brush. Like the Olay Pro X, it works on two speeds, but is rechargeable (no batteries needed), is completely waterproof, includes a travel case, and is available in several snazzy colors and patterns (ooh! aah!). The Clarisonic Mia 2 can be purchased at your local Sephora or Ulta Cosmetics or online.
My Experience: Using the Mia 2 was a revelation in skincare! The oscillating bristles felt like a lovely massage on my face and did not leave me with red, rash-like patches. The high-tech luxury is apparent during use. After use, my skin felt clean, silky from exfoliation, and rejuvenated.
My Verdict:
When it comes to cleansing, both systems are virtually on par leaving skin feeling refreshed and renewed. Although the bristles on the Clarisonic move faster than the Pro X (300 movements per second), the oscillation is much more gentle on my sensitive skin than the rotating bristles on the Olay Pro X. Because of this and the extra bells and whistles of the Mia 2, I believe that I will be treating myself and going with the big guns. However, if you have champagne taste and a beer budget, the Olay Pro X is an excellent alternative!
Until next time, dolls!
Melissa