Does Clarisonic work? And is it really worth the price tag?
As a drugstore skincare fanatic, I’m someone who cringes at the thought of spending even upwards of $35 on a single product. I almost never purchase luxury skincare, and I set a very modest budget for myself for beauty items in general.
However, years after first getting my Clarisonic, I’m still using it every day and have purchased many new brush heads and other Clarisonic products to complement my skincare routine.
So, this is my unbiased Clarisonic review after several years of heavy use. We’re going to dive into pretty much everything you’ve ever wanted to know about this popular skincare device (including if I think it’s actually worth the money), so keep reading to learn more and get my honest opinion on if Clarisonic really works!
This post may contain affiliate links.
Because I’m going to be answering virtually every question I’ve ever received on my Clarisonic in this post, feel free to jump around using the links below. I want to make it easy to get your specific questions answered as you contemplate purchasing a Clarisonic, so I truly hope this helps you find what you’re looking for!
Skip to the Bottom Line…Does Clarisonic Actually Work?
How Clarisonic Works
- What does Clarisonic do for skin?
- How to charge your Clarisonic?
- How often to use your Clarisonic?
- How to clean your Clarisonic?
- Can Clarisonic be used in the shower?
- Can Clarisonic battery be replaced?
Clarisonic What to Expect
- Can Clarisonic cause breakouts?
- Can Clarisonic damage skin?
- Can Clarisonic help acne?
- Will Clarisonic help with acne scars?
- Will Clarisonic help with clogged pores?
- Will Clarisonic get rid of blackheads?
- Will Clarisonic help with wrinkles?
- What cleanser to use with Clarisonic?
Clarisonic Brush Heads
- Which Clarisonic brush head should I use?
- When to replace Clarisonic brush head?
- How to change Clarisonic brush?
- Are Clarisonic brushes waterproof?
- Are Clarisonic heads interchangable?
- Are Clarisonic brushes good for your skin?
- Are Clarisonic brush heads antimicrobial?
Types of Clarisonic Models
Purchasing a Clarisonic
How Clarisonic Works
What Does Clarisonic Do for Skin?
Before we dive into the efficacy of the Clarisonic, let’s talk about how it’s designed to work.
According to the Clarisonic website, the facial cleansing brush uses a patented technology called the Clarisonic Sonic Method.
This method utilizes a patented range of sonic frequency to drive oscillation of over 300 movements per second to transform skin’s texture and appearance.
Because skin is subject to oil, perspiration, debris, makeup, and environmental pollutants both day and night, we often suffer from not only clogged pores but also a barrier that’s created on our skin that prevents skincare products from really seeping in.
That $50 night cream you’re using? Imagine it just sitting on top of dirt and grime that’s still leftover on your face — even after you cleanse.
Clinical results have proven that the Clarisonic cleanses 6x better than hands alone and also increases overall product absorption.
So basically, Clarisonic is designed to give a deeper clean. This helps unclog pores and subsequently allows for skincare products to penetrate the skin more effectively.
How to Charge Your Clarisonic
For my Clarisonic Mia 2, it came with a magnetic charger that attaches to the Clarisonic handle. It needs to charge for approximately 18 hours (but it’s recommended to charge for 24 hours for your first use), and provides 24 minutes of use per charge.
The newer version of the Mia 2, the Clarisonic Mia Smart comes with a stand that you simply plugin and place the Clarisonic into while it charges. It also needs to charge for approximately 18 hours to reach a full charge, but provides up to 100 minutes of use per charge.
How Often to Use Clarisonic
When thinking about purchasing a Clarisonic, many people wonder if Clarisonic can be used daily. Personally, I use my Clarisonic 1-2x per day.
Your brush head should be gentle enough for you to use it whenever you’re washing your face, but start out gradually if you’ve never used a facial brush before to see how your skin reacts.
Clarisonic offers plenty of different brush heads for each skin type, so you should be able to find an option that suits your needs for everyday use!
How to Clean Clarisonic
Each time after you use your Clarisonic, you’ll want to rinse it off and briefly dry it with a towel.
Once per week you should remove the brush head from the device and thoroughly clean it. This really doesn’t take long, and ensures everything stays as clean as possible!
Can Clarisonic Be Used in the Shower?
Yes! Clarisonic devices are fully waterproof and safe for use in the shower or bath.
Can Clarisonic Battery Be Replaced?
First and foremost, the best thing you can do to keep your battery from going dead is to continue charging your Clarisonic every so often through periods of disuse.
There are some tutorials on Youtube on how to replace a Clarisonic battery, but my Clarisonic has been going strong for several years without issue, so I’ve never tried it.
Clarisonic What to Expect
Can Clarisonic Cause Breakouts?
The short answer? Any change in your skincare routine can potentially cause a breakout. I wouldn’t let that hold you back from trying Clarisonic though.
Personally, I never experienced any negative affects when I introduced my Clarisonic into my skincare routine…my skin just kept getting better!
As with using any new product though, you’ll want to introduce the Clarisonic gradually into your routine and monitor your skin for changes.
Easily irritated or enflamed areas should be avoided, and you should reevaluate the type of brush head you’re using if it’s not working for your skin.
I also wouldn’t recommend trying any new cleansers, masks, moisturizers, etc. when first switching over to the Clarisonic, as it can be difficult to differentiate what is causing problems if you switch out too many items in your routine at once.
Can Clarisonic Damage Skin?
Some people are concerned that using a Clarisonic could damage their skin, mainly due to the fear that they’ll end up over exfoliating (which can cause damage and may lead to premature aging).
However, the idea that the Clarisonic is an exfoliator is a total myth! If you don’t believe me, it’s right on their website.
“While the Clarisonic is designed to provide your skin with a deep clean that helps to cleanse pores and remove dirt, oil, and other impurities that can dull the skin, it doesn’t exactly exfoliate. Rather, cleansing with a Clarisonic is the perfect first step prior to your chosen method of exfoliation to help accelerate surface skin cell renewal.”
– Clarisonic Website
So bottom line? No, Clarisonic won’t damage your skin as long as you’re using it properly.
Make sure you’re using an appropriate brush head for your skin type, and swap it out with the Clarisonic Sonic Exfoliator brush head when you actually want to exfoliate.
Can Clarisonic Help Acne?
Yes, Clarisonic is a great for dealing with acne! They even make a special acne cleansing brush, which is designed for sensitive, acne-prone skin.
In a 4-week study, 98% of women saw a decrease in blemishes while using this brush head and 88% said they saw a reduction in blackheads…so I’d say it definitely helps with acne!
I’ve also personally noticed that my acne has decreased since I started using Clarisonic. I used to breakout all the time on the side of my face where I typically use my phone during calls, and now it’s rare for me to even get a small pimple there.
I’ve found that using my Clarisonic really does help to give a deep clean and get rid of all the dirt, oil, and grime that can accumulate throughout the day!
Will Clarisonic Help With Acne Scars?
I first developed acne scarring when I was in high school, from regularly picking at my breakouts. Once I got into my twenties though, I smartened up and started being more gentle on my skin.
While using a Clarisonic won’t necessarily do much to reduce already existing acne scars, I have noticed that it does help prevent the formation of new acne scars.
Honestly I haven’t really seen any new acne scars pop up in the past few years, which is probably due to a combination of changes I’ve made in my skincare routine.
Using a gentle Clarisonic brush head during breakouts like the acne cleansing brush though can be very helpful in treating acne (you’ll want to avoid using any harsh facial scrubs or exfoliators) and can assist in clearing out any pore-clogging debris from the skin to help both treat current acne and reduce future breakouts.
Will Clarisonic Help With Clogged Pores?
Yes, the Clarisonic is a great tool for helping with clogged pores. They even offer a special Deep Pore Cleaning Brush Head that’s specifically designed to dislodge oil and debris that can clog pores.
There really is a brush head available for almost every skincare need you could think of, which is one of the reasons I like the Clarisonic so much!
Will Clarisonic Get Rid of Blackheads?
If you use a brush like the Deep Pore Cleansing Brush Head, Clarisonic should help to reduce blackheads.
Some people notice that the Clarisonic completely removes them, while others notice a significant decrease. Pairing the appropriate brush head with a great cleanser and other skincare products does the trick for most people though!
Will Clarisonic Help With Wrinkles?
Yes! I personally use the Clarisonic Firming Massage Head, which is a great tool for anti-aging facial massage.
While I’m only in my twenties and haven’t had to deal with many wrinkles yet, I love using this as part of my preventative anti-aging skincare routine.
Dedicated facial massagers are pricey, so the Clarisonic massage head attachment is pretty affordable in comparison and overall makes me feel like the Clarisonic is a great multi-use product for everything from unclogging pores to preventing wrinkles.
What Cleanser to Use With Clarisonic
The best cleanser to use with your Clarisonic will depend on your skin type. I prefer to use a gentle cleanser like this one, because it removes makeup (even mascara!) while also cleansing and toning.
Whatever kind of cleanser you prefer though, you’ll want to avoid those with jagged exfoliating particles like shells or micro-beads when using your Clarisonic.
Clarisonic Brush Heads
Which Clarisonic Brush Head Should I Use?
The great thing about Clarisonic is that they offer different brush heads for almost every skin type/need. In fact, one of the biggest Clarisonic tips and tricks is finding the right brush head for your skin type.
Clarisonic offers brush heads for exfoliating, massaging, treating acne, and more.
It’s important to identify the right Clarisonic brush head for your skin, so you can have the best chance of getting positive results with the product.
Here are a few favorites that tackle common skincare issues with ease:
Clarisonic Acne Cleansing Brush Head
Specifically designed for skin prone to blemishes, blackheads, and clogged pores, the Clarisonic Acne Cleansing Brush Head should be your g0-to Clarisonic Mia brush head of choice if you struggle with acne.
It’s even packed with more bristles per tuft than other Clarisonic brush heads, for an ultra-soft feel that gently whisks away dead skin, sebum and other pore clogging impurities.
Clarisonic Sensitive Face Brush Head
The Clarisonic Sensitive Skin Brush Head is the best choice for those with sensitive skin.
It will leave skin feeling smooth, clean, and un-irritated.
Clarisonic Sonic Exfoliator
Skip the harsh scrubs in favor of the Clarisonic Sonic Exfoliator.
This uniquely textured brush gently unclogs pores and buffs away dryness to reveal a smoother, brighter, healthier looking complexion.
Clarisonic Firming Massage Head
The Clarisonic 3D Face Sculptor massage head is the perfect anti-aging solution.
27,000 micro-firming massages lift and sculpt contours, while improving skincare absorption and boosting results of anti-aging moisturizers and serums.
Clarisonic Sonic Foundation Makeup Brush
A perfect example of just how versatile the Clarisonic can be, you’ll never have to suffer with uneven foundation again with the Sonic Foundation Makeup Brush.
A soft, feather-like makeup brush that blends your foundation, contour, blush and highlighter in 60 seconds or less, this is the perfect brush head to get that flawless airbrushed finish with your foundation.
When to Replace Clarisonic Brush Head
In addition to keeping the brush head clean, you’ll want to swap it out when it’s past its prime.
The general recommendation is to replace a Clarisonic brush head every three months…not much different than how you’d treat a toothbrush!
The new Clarisonic Mia Smart even has a built-in indicator that will turn red to remind you when it’s time to change your brush head.
How to Change Clarisonic Brush
Changing your Clarisonic brush head is easy. Gently push on and twist the brush head counter clockwise to remove it. To put a new brush head on, just align the attachment to the pins, push down, and rotate clockwise until it locks into place.
Are Clarisonic Brushes Waterproof?
Yes, Clarisonic brushes are waterproof.
Are Clarisonic Heads Interchangeable?
Yes, each replacement brush head is compatible with all Clarisonic devices. This makes choosing a new brush head super easy!
Are Clarisonic Brushes Good For Your Skin?
Everyone’s skin is different, but I’ve had incredibly positive results with my Clarisonic. I’ve always felt like it’s given a deep clean and only helped my skincare routine.
I personally use the Daily Radiance Cleansing Brush Head, which has always left my skin feeling soft, clear, and refreshed. I think the biggest tip to success with the Clarisonic is finding that brush head that is right for your skin type and utilizing the appropriate skincare products alongside it.
Are Clarisonic Brush Heads Antimicrobial?
I haven’t been able to find any evidence that Clarisonic brush heads are antimicrobial. If that’s something that’s important to you, try this sonic facial brush instead.
Types of Clarisonic Models
Which Clarisonic is Best?
There are currently two different models of the Clarisonic to choose from, including the Clarisonic Mia Smart and the Clarisonic Mia Prima.
The Mia Smart is the first 3-in-1 cleansing, firming, massage and makeup blending device. It has the capability to connect to the Clarisonic app to upload custom skincare routines, plus features two cleansing modes and a Smart mode (a timer guides you through each mode).
The Mia Smart also comes with a charging stand and can withstand up to 100 minutes of use between charges.
The Clarisonic Mia Prima is a no frills facial cleansing brush to help you get a deep clean in just one minute. It features one button, one mode, and a one minute cycle for fast and simple sonic cleansing.
The Mia Prima is still compatible with other Clarisonic brush heads, so you can use it for massaging or foundation application as well. That being said, it does not have the ability to connect to the Clarisonic app to track your skincare routine, provide updates/reminders, and more.
Purchasing a Clarisonic
What Clarisonic Should I Buy?
Which Clarisonic is best for you will all depend on your personal skincare needs. Since they’re both compatible with all Clarisonic brush heads, I personally would be inclined to purchase the Mia Prima as the price is more appealing to me (under $100).
The Mia Smart is more expensive, but it does have some neat features that might be worth it if you’re a total skincare fanatic!
Who Sells Clarisonic?
There are several retailers that sell Clarisonic products, but my favorites are Ulta and Sephora.
It looks like there’s a sale going on at QVC for the Mia Prima right now too, where you can get both the Mia Prima and the Sensitive Skin Brush Head for just $79.
Who Sells Clarisonic Brushes?
There are several retailers that sell Clarisonic products, but my favorites are Ulta and Sephora. That’s where I get mine!
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Bottom Line — Is Clarisonic Worth It? Does Clarisonic Work Well Enough to Justify Price?
So, the answer we’ve all been waiting for…
Is Clarisonic worth it? Does Clarisonic work well enough to justify the price?
I say yes, the Clarisonic IS worth it.
While it’s not a complete skincare necessity, if you can afford to purchase a Clarisonic (or save up to invest in one) your skin will likely benefit from it.
Since the device holds up over time, you’ll get your money’s worth over the years of using this innovative product.
Not to mention, if you’re someone that prefers at-home beauty treatments or doesn’t have access to regular facials, the Clarisonic actually is a budget friendly alternative to maintaining and treating your skin.
This is especially true now that Clarisonic offers so many different brush heads for all your skincare needs!
Does Clarisonic work in your experience?
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