This post is sponsored by Ziip.
A few months ago, Ziip sent me one of their Halo microcurrent devices and I was initially skeptical about how I’d fit it into my daily routine, and whether it was worth adding an extra step. Reader, it is worth it, and it was in fact easy to incorporate into my morning regimen.
Let me begin with the benefits: I find this tool has significantly helped with lightening dark spots and hyper pigmentation (in conjunction with niacinamide-rich skincare products), de-puffing, and achieving lift on a daily basis. I was initially intrigued by the latter because my Instagram friend Cheryl (do you follow her? I adore her!) had shared a couple of photos of herself before and after using the Ziip Halo that were extremely convincing on the lift/firmness front. I, too, can immediately see a difference after using the Halo in the morning — skin looks tighter and brighter. I have found in my 40s that I tend to run puffy (!) — probably a sign I’m not drinking as much water as I should, or some other joyful side effect of perimenopause — but that this device really helps combat the morning bloat. A bonus: I just read that the Ziip helps skin absorb skincare products more efficiently. I actually noticed this before reading that fact, as I find that the mornings I use the Ziip, my skin looks particularly well-hydrated and happy, and makeup lays on top much more easily. I can specifically tell the difference when I apply my Westman Atelier foundation stick. On the days I don’t use the Ziip first, it’s more difficult to blend in and I find I sometimes need to apply moisturizer on top of the makeup just to get things to a better, more blendable consistency. On the days I do use the Ziip, my makeup goes on smoothly. I can only assume this has to do with how well my moisturizer has been absorbed after using the Ziip. Last note: I was predisposed to test the Halo because I had the best facial of my life last year at Keswick Spa (Charlottesville, VA) and during the treatment, the technician used a microcurrent device on me and said that my skin (which is fair, prone to dark spots/pigmentation that are highly visible, aging, and also runs dry) was a perfect candidate for the tool. I have to agree; I noticed a marked difference in my skin about a week into using it. It really feels like I’m starting my day with the best skin possible.
There are several micro-current devices on the market and I haven’t tested the others but will tell you that I was drawn to the Ziip when I read this: “Many brands claim to have the “strongest” Microcurrent on the market. However, higher Microamps does not equal better results. The optimal waveform depends on your skin and the concern you want to treat.” The idea is that the Ziip “mimics your body’s natural electrical currents and sparks cell renewal and repair.”
Notes on Working the Ziip into a Skincare Routine.
Anyhow, on the routine part: the Ziip takes four minutes (to the dot) and can be done just after cleansing the face in the morning, before applying serums, moisturizers, and SPF. I use it almost every morning. It holds its charge really well so you don’t need to constantly re-charge it. The gel is very lightweight and can be wiped off at the end easily (you don’t need to wash your face — apparently it contains skincare grade products in it! — though I often do, just to start with a fresh canvas). I was reading that the gel that comes with other microcurrent tools is much less pleasant to deal with. Trust me, I was reluctant to add anything else to my morning ritual, but I find this very lightweight and easy to graft onto my morning process. The LED mask was a bit more challenging to incorporate because you really have to carve out ten minutes of downtime for it, or find a way to habit-stack, and sometimes I fall out of the habit. The Ziip can be used while standing, throwing my contacts out, picking clothes, etc. I do use both, though — I know I will have questions about that; I find the LED mask treats different concerns for me.
Ziip offered us Magpies 10% off with code SHOOP, and they are currently running a special promotion where you get a gel test set for free when you buy the Halo here.
I know there are several Magpies who love this tool — let me know what you think!
