Foreo Bear Microcurrent Beauty Device: Our Expert Review
Seen all over TikTok, I tried the FOREO BEAR device that hundreds of shoppers “can’t live without” to see whether it lives up to the hype.
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If you’re reading this, you’re curious about whether facial toning and microcurrent devices actually work, right?
You’re not alone. I too have long wondered if these magical devices really give you that ‘snatched-cheekbone-supermodel’ look.
Specifically, the FOREO BEAR.
Promising to lift the face, tighten the skin, reduce wrinkles and fine lines, and leave your skin looking radiant – the BEAR sounds like it packs a punch.
RELATED: We tried the Instagram-famous FOREO devices
I’ve seen it all over my TikTok feed with many beauty influencers testing it out and raving about the benefits. I'm not going to lie, every time I saw it in action I was intrigued yet sceptical because the results just seemed too good to be true. Plus, retailing at $549, you’d want to know that it works.
But as the friend who’s constantly ID’d due to my baby-esque face (thank you mum and dad), I do wish that I had some sort of definition on my face – especially along my cheekbones and jawline.
That’s why I jumped at the opportunity to test the famousFOREO BEAR out to see if it indeed stacks up to all the hype – and its hefy price tag.
FOREO Bear Facial Toning Device
QUICK LINKS
- What is the Foreo BEAR and how does it work?
- Foreo BEAR Review
- How often should I use it?
- Can I use other serums?
- Who can use it?
- What can I use if I don’t have one?
- At-home microcurrent devices or professional treatments?
WHAT IS IT AND HOW DOES IT WORK?
The FOREO BEAR is a non-invasive anti-ageing facial toning device that uses microcurrent technology and T-Sonic pulsations to give users an ‘instant facelift’, and help them achieve the ‘sculpted’ look – minus the needles of course.
According to well-known Aussie integrated facialist, April Brodie, microcurrents work on the nerves to create facial contractions while facial massages involves manually working the body of the muscles.
“Facial massages work to break up muscle tension and alleviate stiffness. It also increases circulation and oxygenation to the muscle tissue, and improves lymphatic drainage, both of which enhance the health and function of the muscles,” she explains.
The device is FDA-cleared, has an Anti-Shock system and is clinically proven to be the most effective facial device on the market.
Sounds impressive, right? Read on for my full FOREO BEAR review.
FOREO BEAR REVIEW
Before receiving the BEAR, I did my own research and it was hard to miss the countless positive reviews. That’s why I went into this review with very high hopes.
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE BOX?
- FOREO BEAR device
- USB charging cable
- Device stand
- Manual
- Tutorial diagram
- Serum Serum Serum sample
- Travel pouch
Setting it up was fairly straightforward. I broke it out of the box, charged it up, downloaded the FOREO app, paired my device via bluetooth, scanned the QR code et voila! We’re ready to go!
The app itself was easy to navigate and customisable – you can set the microcurrent intensity level from 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) and turn the T-Sonic pulsations on or off. Plus, there are three guided facial workout tutorials to choose from that target different parts of your face.
To start, I washed my face with a water-based gel cleanser in order to get rid of any oils. I then pulled up the app and selected the “Total Facial Knockout” treatment which runs for two-and-a-half-minutes – this one specifically focuses on the neck and jawline.
I kept the microcurrent intensity at level 1, applied a generous amount of the brand’s Serum Serum Serum and followed the guided tutorial to a T.
The device was easy to hold and I made sure that both steel spheres were touching my skin at all times. I moved the BEAR in an upwards motion with light to medium pressure and it glided so effortlessly over the serum. I also lightly held the device in place on the main pressure points to let it really work its magic.
After the two-and-a-half-minutes were over, the device automatically turned off and I stood there inspecting my face closely.
Not only did my face look dewdrop glossy but it felt firmer and I could definitely see that my cheek and jaw area appeared slimmer – which is exactly what I wanted.
CONSISTENCY IS KEY
While the results aren’t anything crazy, I was pretty damn impressed at how much of a difference was made in such a short amount of time.
However, it’s important to note that microcurrent and facial toning results tend to become more visible overtime when done consistently.
“Just like the gym, regular muscle workouts are important to build and maintain healthy facial muscle strength, consistency is the key,” April says.
Since that run, I tested out each microcurrent intensity and found level 3 to be my limit. Not because the higher levels are ‘painful’ but because they’re simply too strong and the rogue twitching around my lip and cheek area was an unpleasant feeling.
Fast forward to now, it’s been over a month, and I’ve continued to use the BEAR once a day – in the morning as that’s when I need the most depuffing and toning. I have also resigned from the guided tutorials and have started doing my own routine which I personally found to be better as I can work on certain areas more or less, and extend the routine if needed.
Throughout my experience, I did feel some zaps here and there but it wasn’t anything insanely painful.
Here are a few things I came to learn:
- Work in sections
If you find that the serum or gel you’re using dries out faster than you can blink, I would suggest working in sections.
I personally start with my neck on a level 1 microcurrent intensity, then move onto my jawline and cheekbones on a level 3 and then my forehead on a level 1.
This made it easier for me to manage the amount of serum I was using and definitely helped me avoid unexpected zaps if the serum dries out.
- Double check your skin’s condition
If you shave, dermaplan, wax, thread or pick at your face, you might be susceptible to micro tears or broken skin. While not visible to the eye, once you run the BEAR over your skin you might feel a sting and this may be due to broken skin.
To avoid the stinging, you can either apply a thicker layer of the serum OR If you have a low pain tolerance, you might want to skip the BEAR and revisit the next day.
THE VERDICT
I’m a fan. That’s it. And I can confirm that it is *not* a gimmick.
It’s probably time for me to reveal that I’m 24 – and while my skin is still very much taut, I noticed that I have been waking up with a less puffy face (than usual), my cheekbones are slightly more pronounced, my jawline has become slimmer, and my skin overall just feels more firm, plump and healthy.
As this device is recommended for those with concerns of ageing, many reviewers have noted their wrinkles and fine lines appear smoother than usual and their sagging skin has become firmer.
One reviewer wrote, “I have only been using it just over a week and can see results! I have been blessed with what I call ‘a washboard forehead’ (lots of wrinkles), but since I started using my BEAR I have noticed my forehead has changed. I can also feel a difference on the rest of my face and it definitely has me smiling much more! I absolutely love my BEAR!”
“I could notice a great difference since I started to use it. Some wrinkles and fine lines [have] already disappeared or are smoother. I can feel my skin [is] toned and firmer,” another wrote.
“I’m happy to report that this is a truly effective device! I love how well my skin has been doing. I’ve experienced some sagging and fine lines on various places on my face and it [the BEAR] has really worked well with firming and toning the skin and muscles,” another satisfied customer said.
For $549, the BEAR does come at a hefty price but if you think about the cost per use and convenience, I'd say it’s well worth it.
The BEAR holds a 4.5 out of five-star rating on THE ICONIC with hundreds of rave reviews from shoppers saying they’re “obsessed” with it and some even saying they “can’t live without it.”
Alternatively you could try out the brand’s smaller version — BEAR Mini ($359) which also offers microcurrents and T-Sonic pulsations.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I USE IT?
While it’s important to follow the instructions provided with your device, the FOREO BEAR should be used once every 24-hours and it’s safe enough to use everyday.
For handheld microcurrent devices, “the energy [current] is generally gentle enough for safe use every day,” April says.
WHAT ELSE CAN I USE AS A SERUM?
If you don’t have $99 to spend on the FOREO Serum Serum Serum, you can opt for any water-based serums or gels – as long as they’re thick, conductive and water-based.
Ultrasound gel is a popular and inexpensive option that many BEAR users opt for.
As the Serum Serum Serum contains hyaluronic acid, you can also check out our round up of the 19 best hydrating hyaluronic acid serums for alternatives.
WHO CAN USE MICROCURRENT DEVICES?
Facial massages and microcurrent devices are suitable for all ages and skin types.
“Prevention is always easier than a cure,” April says.
“Starting facial muscle toning treatments like massage and microcurrent in the 20s-30s age bracket is beneficial before muscle fibre sagging sets in.”
WHAT CAN I USE IF I DON’T HAVE A MICROCURRENT DEVICE?
It’s no secret that microcurrent devices can be expensive, so if you aren’t ready to splurge on one, you can use your hands, a gua sha or face rollers.
“When applying your skincare products, use this time to incorporate some massage movements into your ritual,” April says.
“Apply slow, firm pressure from the centre of the face working outwards to ensure you receive the benefits of lymphatic drainage at the same time. There are lymph nodes located around the temples and behind the ears, so massaging in these directions will help with correct drainage.”
AT-HOME MICROCURRENT DEVICES OR PROFESSIONAL TREATMENTS?
While the saying “leave it up to the professionals” is one that I standby, accessibility is a big thing for many. At-home devices are convenient and easy, but results may take longer to truly show compared to if you went to a professional.
“The power output of home devices are only a fraction of a professional muscle stimulation treatment. Results can be achieved, however, take longer and you must be consistent with use,” April explains.
While there are many at-home microcurrent devices on the market right now, they all work differently.
“Some [at-home devices] use very low-grade electrical currents, which is said to help make the skin barrier more permeable, helping with product absorption,” April says.
“While others use slightly stronger currents in order to stimulate the facial muscles.” “Stimulating muscle contractions – just like working out at the gym, will help tone the muscle fibres and keep them in shape,” she continues.
“As we age, our muscle fibres stretch and elongate. This contributes to sagging, drooping, jowls and laxity. Keeping the muscles toned will help reduce this.”
Ultimately, it depends on you, your situation and what you want to get out of your device or treatment.
WHAT IS FOREO?
FOREO is a Swedish beauty and tech brand that is extremely well-known for their innovative skincare devices – from the silicone toothbrushes and facial cleansing devices to beauty tech gadgets that’ll do wonders for your skin.
You can shop FOREO products at FOREO, THE ICONIC, Myer, Adore Beauty, and Amazon Australia.
Looking to upgrade your skincare routine? Check out the best masks for your face, hair and body.
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