Shark FacialPro Glow Review: A High-Tech At-Home Facial Device Tested
The beauty tech market has experienced a significant boom in recent years, with numerous brands launching products that promise clinic-quality results from the comfort of home. Following the success of its LED face mask, the Cryoglow, which made many beauty enthusiasts' wishlists for 2025, Shark's latest offering, the FacialPro Glow, aims to bring professional hydrofacial technology into everyday households. This two-in-one device claims to deliver a hydration-boosting, sculpting facial in just nine minutes, but can it truly replace a trip to the salon?
What Is the Shark FacialPro Glow?
The Shark FacialPro Glow is a portable skincare gadget designed to tackle various skin concerns, from pore size to puffiness. It features two main attachments: a hydrofacial exfoliation tool and a DePuffi attachment for temperature therapy. The device retails at £299.99 RRP, though it is often discounted, and comes with a set of skincare products, including an AHA/BHA exfoliating gel and a BHA hydrator.
Hydrofacials, also known as hydradermabrasion, are renowned for their pore-cleansing and hydrating effects when performed by trained professionals in clinics. However, the FacialPro Glow seeks to democratise this technology, allowing users to achieve similar results without the high cost of salon visits, which can exceed £100 per session.
How We Tested the Device
As a beauty writer with extensive experience testing skincare products, I put the FacialPro Glow through its paces over a month. To ensure a comprehensive evaluation, I followed the device's instructions meticulously and documented any changes in my skin's texture and appearance. Additionally, I consulted with cosmetic dermatologist Dr Nora Jaafar and skin specialist Debbie Thomas, founder of D.Thomas Clinic, to gain expert insights into the safety and efficacy of at-home hydrofacials.
Testing involved weekly exfoliation sessions and daily use of the DePuffi attachment. I noted that the device is straightforward to operate, with clear instructions and simple controls. By the third treatment, I was able to use it without referring to the manual, indicating a user-friendly design.
Key Features and Specifications
The FacialPro Glow kit includes a power hub, exfoliation attachment, DePuffi attachment, various treatment tips for different skin types, and skincare serums. Specifications are as follows:
- Price: £299.99 RRP (currently £242.99)
- Running Costs: Skincare refills at £39.99 every eight uses; replacement tips at £15.99 every nine months
- Recommended Usage: Exfoliation once weekly, DePuffi daily
- Treatment Time: Four minutes for DePuffi, nine minutes for exfoliation
- Battery Life: Approximately one week of use
- Waterproof Rating: IPX5 for power hub and exfoliation attachment
The exfoliation attachment uses two water tanks: one for clean water or infused liquid and another to collect extracted impurities. It offers adjustable suction levels and comes with tips for normal and sensitive skin. The DePuffi attachment employs hot and cold therapy to enhance lymphatic drainage and reduce puffiness.
Pros of the Shark FacialPro Glow
During testing, several positive aspects emerged. The device effectively smoothed skin texture and provided a healthy glow, particularly after four weeks of consistent use. The exfoliation process felt gentle yet thorough, with the "gunk" tank visibly collecting dirt and oil, indicating deep cleansing.
The DePuffi attachment was praised for its comfort and ease of use. The curved metal surface fitted well into facial contours, and the temperature settings offered a refreshing morning cool-down or a relaxing evening warm-up. Experts like Dr Jaafar noted that contrast therapy can temporarily reduce inflammation and improve skin tone, making it a valuable quick fix for tired skin.
Moreover, Shark has considered diverse skin types by including interchangeable tips and adjustable settings. This flexibility allows users to customise their experience based on sensitivity and needs.
Cons and Drawbacks
Despite its strengths, the FacialPro Glow has notable limitations. The suction feature, while effective, poses risks if misused. Debbie Thomas warned that improper use could lead to bruising, irritation, or damage to blood vessels. Users must start with low settings and move the device smoothly to avoid these issues.
Marketing claims about permanent pore reduction were questioned by experts. Thomas explained that while pores can appear smaller temporarily due to cleansing and hydration, their genetic size cannot be permanently altered without professional treatments.
Practical frustrations included the timer function, which automatically stops after three minutes during exfoliation, requiring a tank refill. This can be challenging for beginners, and a countdown display would improve usability. Additionally, the device defaults to the highest intensity setting each time it is switched on, lacking a memory function for user preferences.
The small 10ml tank was difficult to fill without spills, and leakage occurred if overfilled. While the device is waterproof, this inconvenience detracted from the experience. The DePuffi attachment also dragged on skin without adequate slip from oils or creams, a point not covered in the manual but confirmed by Dr Jaafar as necessary for delicate areas like the under-eyes.
Ongoing costs are a significant concern. Skincare refills are needed every eight uses, amounting to approximately £260 annually at full price, plus tip replacements. The case provided is insufficient for storing all components, and the skincare products come in non-refillable containers, contributing to plastic waste.
Warranty and Customer Support
Shark offers a one-year warranty on the device, extendable to five years with online registration within 28 days. Customer support is available via a helpline or website. However, using non-Shark products in the device voids the warranty, as it may cause damage and affect results.
Verdict: Is It Worth the Investment?
The Shark FacialPro Glow is an effective at-home facial device that delivers noticeable benefits, such as smoother skin and reduced puffiness, when used correctly. Over a month of testing, it provided results comparable to professional hydrofacials, albeit requiring consistency and care.
However, it may not be a necessary addition to everyone's skincare routine. Experts like Debbie Thomas emphasise that traditional skincare regimens with BHAs, retinoids, and sunscreen remain the gold standard for long-term skin health. While the device excels in extraction and hydration, the results may not significantly surpass those from a well-curated exfoliating and hydrating routine.
In conclusion, the FacialPro Glow is a worthwhile splurge for those seeking occasional salon-like treatments at home, particularly before special events. The DePuffi attachment is a standout feature for daily use. Yet, the high ongoing costs and some design flaws mean it may not justify regular use for all consumers. Always follow instructions and consult experts if unsure to maximise benefits and minimise risks.
