Which little gadget will save you five minutes (and your glow) today?
We all lie to ourselves about ‘one more minute’ in the mirror. Those minutes add up — and so do stray flyaways and stubborn blackheads.
Top Picks
Urban OL 2-in-1 Cordless Straightener
We like this as a polished, travel-friendly tool that feels more luxurious than many portable alternatives. The titanium plates and leather-effect finish give it a premium touch while delivering reliably smooth results.
Who this is for
We see this as a brilliant option for style-conscious travellers and professionals who value both form and function. It’s compact enough for a handbag yet polished enough to sit on your dressing table without sticking out.
Tech highlights and styling notes
In practice, the plates heat fast and glide smoothly, giving salon-like finishes on mid-lengths and shorter hair. The dual-use capability — gentle curls or sleek straightening — makes it useful for touch-ups before events or meetings. The included velvet bag and protective lid are thoughtful extras for safe storage between uses.
Practical considerations
Because the plates are compact, a full styling session on very long, thick hair may take longer than with a full-sized iron. We recommend charging fully before travel and using the higher heat setting sparingly on resistant hair to avoid repeated passes. Overall, it’s an elegant, effective tool for upkeep and emergency styling.
Braun Face Mini Portable Hair Remover
We find this ultra-compact device ideal for quick, painless facial maintenance when you’re out and about. It’s lightweight, easy to use and leaves skin smooth for flawless makeup application.
What it is and who it suits
We love the Braun Face Mini for anyone who wants a simple, discreet way to remove peach fuzz and stray facial hairs without a salon trip. The fingertip-sized design makes it ideal for slipping into a clutch or wash bag for emergencies, with a no-fuss AA battery power system that’s immediately familiar.
Key features and everyday benefits
We appreciate how effortless it is to use — a few gentle passes in circular or linear motions and most users report noticeably smoother skin. It’s particularly good before applying foundation or for midday touch-ups when you need a polished finish fast.
Limitations and practical advice
While this is brilliant for surface-level hair removal, it does not always remove hairs from the root, so regrowth can be quicker than waxing or threading. Some reviewers have reported corrosion and reduced performance after long-term use, and replacement heads appear to be scarce. For longevity we recommend drying the head thoroughly after cleaning and storing with the cap in a dry place. For anyone after a true epilation result, a specialist tool will still be necessary.
HOMELYLIFE Cordless Straightening Brush
We find this cordless brush a clever compromise between traditional straighteners and on-the-go convenience. It heats quickly, tames frizz with negative ions, and charges to handle multiple touch-ups on a single trip.
Why we recommend it for travellers
We’re fans of gadgets that solve a problem simply and elegantly, and this cordless straightening brush does just that. Designed to be lightweight and portable, it’s aimed squarely at anyone who needs a reliable styling tool away from home — whether a weekend break or daily commute.
Standout tech and practical perks
In use, the brush warms quickly and detangles as it straightens, which means faster styling and fewer passes over each section. The LCD shows temperature and battery level, which we appreciate for clarity on the move. For fine or mildly wavy hair it often achieves a sleek finish comparable to traditional irons.
What to be mindful of
For very coarse or tight curls, it won’t replace a full-sized professional iron — you may need higher heat and a clamp-style plate to fully straighten. Also, because of the built-in battery, carry-on rules for flights can be strict: check airline guidance before you pack it in hold luggage. Finally, those with mobility or hand-strength issues may find its weight a little taxing for longer sessions.
Yccu Rechargeable Blackhead Vacuum Kit
We find this device offers strong performance for its price, with multiple heads and power modes to tackle different pore concerns. When used carefully it can noticeably reduce blackheads and improve skin smoothness.
What the gadget promises
We consider this a practical, economical option for anyone wanting to tackle blackheads and congested pores at home. The device’s adjustable suction and set of interchangeable heads make it versatile across nose, chin and cheek areas.
How it performs and when to use it
To get the best results we recommend softening pores first with a warm compress or gentle steam, glide the tool slowly and avoid lingering in one spot. Many users see clearer pores after just one session, and repeated, cautious use can lead to longer-term improvement in skin texture.
Safety pointers and realistic expectations
This tool is effective when used correctly, but misuse can cause temporary redness or bruising. We advise starting on the lowest setting, limiting treatment duration per area, and following with calming serums or masks. If you have very sensitive or broken skin, consult a skincare professional before using suction devices.
SwanSki Rechargeable Facial Cleansing Brush
We appreciate the SwanSki for its range of brush heads and adjustable speeds, which cater to varied routines and skin sensitivities. It refreshes the complexion and improves product absorption when used correctly.
The concept and who will enjoy it
We recommend this device for anyone who wants a more thorough cleanse than hands alone can provide. With three speeds and multiple brush attachments, it’s made to suit everything from sensitive daily cleansing to deeper weekly exfoliation.
Features that matter in routine use
Used sensitively, the brush helps clear makeup residue and dead skin, and many users report improved serum and moisturiser absorption afterwards. We advise pairing it with water-based cleansers and never pressing too hard — let the device do the work.
Limitations and best-practice tips
There are reports of display or power issues after a few months, so we suggest registering the device if a warranty is offered and storing it dry between uses. Start on the gentlest setting and limit exfoliating sessions to once or twice a week to avoid irritation. For those with acne-prone or medically sensitive skin, check with a dermatologist before introducing powered exfoliation.
Final Thoughts
If we had to pick just one hero for most of our lives, it would be the Urban OL 2-in-1 Cordless Straightener. It feels luxe, tames hair quickly with titanium plates and is genuinely travel-friendly — perfect for weekend trips, desk-to-dinner touch-ups and anyone who prizes polish with minimal fuss.
For quick, everyday facial upkeep, keep the Braun Face Mini Portable Hair Remover in your bag. It's discreet, painless and brilliant for quick touch-ups before an important meeting or after a long day. These two together give you the most practical, high-impact wins: one for hair, one for flawless skin.
Expert Guide: How to Make These Beauty Gadgets Work Harder for You
We’re often asked which gadgets genuinely earn their keep. The answer lies less in gadget specs and more in routine: pick tools that solve a real, recurring problem and then learn the small rituals that make them safe and effective.
Choosing the right tool for your needs
Maintenance and hygiene
We cannot overstate this: cleanliness preserves results and skin health. Follow these simple rules:
Safety and technique
Gentle, deliberate technique prevents damage. A few tactical tips:
Travel and power considerations
We travel a lot, so battery life and build quality matter to us. Check these points before you pack:
Cost vs benefits: a quick comparison
| Purpose | Best Pick | Why we like it |
|---|---|---|
| Travel hair tool | Urban OL 2-in-1 | Premium finish, titanium plates, compact and reliable |
| Quick hair touch-ups | HOMELYLIFE Brush | Fast heat-up, ionic frizz control, great for on-the-go styling |
| Daily facial touch-ups | Braun Face Mini | Ultra-compact, discreet, painless |
| Deep pore work | Yccu Vacuum | Multiple heads and power modes for targeted extraction |
| Daily cleansing/exfoliation | SwanSki Brush | Versatile heads and speeds for varied skin needs |
We recommend building a compact kit: one reliable styling tool, one facial maintenance device and a cleansing brush. That trio covers most bases without cluttering your bathroom. Use devices thoughtfully, keep them clean, and they’ll make your routine feel effortlessly curated — exactly the kind of small luxury we adore.
FAQ
No — we always advise using straightening tools on dry hair. Heat plus moisture can cause breakage. For best results with the Urban OL or HOMELYLIFE brush, dry hair thoroughly first and use the lower heat settings for fine hair.
Start with once a week on the lowest setting and limit suction to 2–3 passes per area. Overuse or high suction can cause redness, bruising or broken capillaries. Always finish with a calming toner or serum.
It can help reduce the need for manual scrubs, but don’t overdo it. Use the SwanSki 2–3 times a week on normal skin and once a week for sensitive skin. Alternate with chemical exfoliants rather than layering both on the same day.
Wipe heads and plates with a soft cloth after each use, store devices in their pouches, and pack small sanitising wipes for quick passes. For brushes and vacuums, remove detachable heads and wash with warm soapy water once a week.
Start with the Urban OL 2-in-1 Cordless Straightener if you prioritise styling and travel. If your main concern is quick facial maintenance and a polished base for makeup, the Braun Face Mini is the smarter first buy.