We’ve all heard of radiofrequency and microcurrent tools, which use heat or electricity to generate collagen in the skin, but what if you don’t want to use either, especially around the eyes? Did you know that there is also sound vibration therapy using acoustic waves?
What is sound wave vibration therapy?
According to a 2020 study within the Lasers in Surgery Medical Journal, researchers believe that“acoustic wave therapy is a safe and effective facial tightening and rejuvenation technique for the skin and subcutaneous tissue.” The study states, “Acoustic waves allow for nonthermal penetration of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, causing diverse effects on cells and their metabolism, resulting in an increased release of growth factors, and stimulating blood and lymphatic flow.”
More simply, acoustic wave therapy can potentially result in less puffiness (i.e. less fluid build-up), enhanced cell regeneration, and even potential for contouring and shaping adipose tissue.
Read more about the power and science of soundwave facial therapy here.
Can you do sound wave vibration therapy at home?
The answer is yes! “Shani Darden’s facial sculpting wand usessound wave vibration therapyto rejuvenate the skin. Shani has been employing this technology in her office for years.The wand’s gentle acoustic vibrations“penetrate up to 6 centimeters (about 2.4 inches) below the skin’s surface to stimulate facial muscles and tissues deep at their source.”
Who is Shani Darden?
Furthermore, Shani Darden is a renowned esthetician who has been in demand for over 10 years. She also has her own skincare line and a flagship facial studio located in Beverly Hills, CA. Consistently booked with A-list clients, Shani prides herself on producing top-notch and long-lasting results.
What does Shani Darden's Facial Wand help with?
Fine lines
The Facial Wand is able to reach deeper than most traditional facial massages or tools. “By sending vertical acoustic sound waves into the skin, the device aims to target fine lines and wrinkles“at their origin, rather than on a superficial level,” Darden explains.
The vibration therapy causes deep muscle stimulation – essentially exercising or relaxing the muscles that allow us to emote. As these muscles contract over time, lines like crow’s feet, frown lines between the brows (the “11s”), and nasolabial folds form. But, with repeated use, this stimulation can ease tension andsoften overactive musclesthat create wrinkles, leading to a smoother skin surface over time.
Circulation
Aside from tackling wrinkles, the sound waves also boost microcirculation in the skin. The gentle vibrations increase blood flow andenhance oxygen uptake, and this gives an immediate glow and plumping effect. In Shani’s words, it“makes you glow” by improving circulation, and with regular use, “helps skin appear firmer and more contoured.”
How is it different from microcurrent?
The wand’s approach is notably different from microcurrent devices (like NuFace, Ziip, or my go-to, the Myolift Mini). Microcurrent uses low-level electrical currents to stimulate muscles and typically requires conductive gel and careful handling. On the other hand, Shani’s Sculpting Wand uses mechanical vibrations. So, there’s no zapping sensation, no risk of shocking the skin, or mandatory gel layer.
Furthermore, these features make the Sculpting wand more convenient (and less messy) to use. To provide slip, you can simply apply a hydrating serum or the provided gel on clean skin and glide the wand.
And don't worry about not being able to glide it onto certain areas. The Sculpting Wand comes with two interchangeable treatment heads: a flat disc attachment for larger areas like the forehead, cheeks, jawline, and neck, and a precision ball attachment for smaller or more delicate areas such as around the eyes and mouth.
How is sound vibration therapy different from radiofrequency?
Even though both sound vibration therapy and radio frequency (RF) impart sound waves, they differ in their application and effects. Sound vibration therapy focuses on gentle vibrations to improve circulation and promote a healthy glow, while RF employs directed sound waves to heat deeper skin layers for tightening and collagen stimulation.
On the other hand, acoustic vibration therapy uses high-frequency sound waves to create micro-vibrations within tissue to promote collagen and improve tone.
How do you use Shani Darden's Facial Sculpting Wand?
The Sculpting Wand is a handheld, consumer-friendly option for vibration therapy and acoustic ultrasound.
A typical session
Slowly move the wand over the face for about10 minutes daily. Darden claims the vertical sound waves work beneath the skin’s surface while you experience a gentle vibration on the skin – many users find it relaxing, like an acoustic facial massage.
The results?
Enhanced Facial Contours (Lifted, Toned Look)
Customers say that “a more defined facial shape” is a top benefit. Users in their 30s and 40s say their jawline looks “less puffy” and more sculpted, with early jowls appearing reduced after a few weeks of use.
Reduction in Wrinkles and Fine Lines
With continued use over several weeks, reviewers have observed that fine lines (like crow’s feet and forehead lines) appear smoother.In fact, Shani Darden’s team conducted an independent consumer survey and found that 71% of users saw improvements in the appearance of wrinkles after 7 daily treatments, and 74% felt their forehead lines looked smoother.
Reduced Tension and Puffiness
Beyond cosmetic changes, an interesting benefit is muscle relaxation. Many reviewers comment that using the Sculpting Wand is therapeutic for facial tension. People who clench their jaw or have TMJ issues find that the gentle vibration “relieves jaw tension” and even helps with tension headaches. However, if you have any medical conditions, you should always speak with your doctor first before trying any new treatment or tool.
By easing tight muscles, the wand can depuff areas where fluid retention or muscle tightness is present. For example, massaging along the jaw and neck encourages lymphatic drainage.
What are users saying? What are the pros?
Consistent de-bloating effect
After nights of poor sleep or salty meals (when you might wake up puffy), users find a quick session with the wand helps reduce facial bloating and sinus pressure. This de-puffing effect, combined with the glow, contributes to an overall more refreshed appearance.
Noticeable improvements within a reasonable time frame
Overall, the consensus is that results build over time. Many reviewers note that changes aren’t overnight but become noticeable after a few weeks. For instance, one user in her late 30s saw little difference in the first two weeks and felt “discouraged at first,” but by the one-month mark, her “face looks more toned” and early jowls had improved, convincing her that “this device works and is worth it.”
The potential cons?
High Price Point
The number one concern is simply cost. At$399 USD, this wand is a significant investment, comparable to other high-end beauty devices. Some users question whether the results justify the price, especially when compared to in-spa treatments or even Botox.
This steep price means expectations are high;if results are subtle or require long-term use, certain users feel a bit let down. It’s worth noting that Shani Darden’s own site marks the device asnon-refundable (except for warranty issues).
Need for Consistency (Patience Required):
Learning Curve and Convenience Issues
Generally the wand is praised for ease of use, but a couple of critiques popped up about the practical aspect. The device vibrates at a high frequency, which for a very small number of users was uncomfortable. One user on social media mentioned it gave her a slight headache when used near her forehead (this seems to be rare, but people sensitive to vibrations or noise might need to go easy).
A few people also wished the wand had an internal timer or auto-shutoff after 10 minutes (you currently have to time yourself to not exceed the recommended 10 to 20 minute session).
These are relatively minor concerns, but worth noting for those who are particular about device features. Battery life hasn’t been a major complaint (the wand is rechargeable via USB-C), though like any device you’ll need to remember to charge it periodically.
The Takeaway
The Wandisn’t a miracle gadget after one or two uses; you have to stick with it, and Shani recommends using it daily or at least several times a week! Personally, I've seen amazing results and will continue to integrate this into my normal skincare routine!
Cover photo courtesy of Shani Darden.com