Clarisonic Mia Review: My Journey Begins!

[Update 11/26/2012]: The Two Week Mia Review is Up! 
[Update 01/05/2013]: The One Month Mia Review is Up!
[Update 03/23/2013]: The Two Month Mia Review Here!

In my last post, I mentioned buying the Clarisonic Mia. Since the purchase, I've used Mia once a day every day and it'll be my fourth time tonight. I haven't even used it for a full week for what is meant to be a regular process in my daily skincare regime so it's too early to provide any in-depth review. I will use the opportunity to write down a few expectations I have and review the Mia on here after 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, and provide a 6 months brief update if nothing drastic has been observed.

Clarisonic was recommended first to me by a friend. She liked it, because it was very good for cleaning residue makeup off her face after her using her normal routine to remove makeup. It's fair to say the least of my hopes is to have a cleaner face after using Clarisonic. The rest of my hopes for the product comes from from other people's reviews where many atested that Clarisonic cleans and exfoliates so effectively it improves your overall complexion allowing for both skincare products and makeup to absorb better. And a cleaner face means less buildup of dead skin, oil, dirt, and makeup where the former two of the four are identified to foster growth for blackheads and other acne baddies.

My Clarisonic Mia came with a normal brush head, charger, and Clarisonic's own brand of gentle facial cleanser. I have been using my own cleanser so I haven't tried it yet. I also bought a gentle brush for my mom as her skin is more sensitive than mine. It's much softer to the touch than the normal one. The little gadget is waterproof (big plus!), small enough to fit with the charger into most makeup bags (another big plus), and the charger is universal, meaning it'll work in every country. How fantastic is that? I am thoroughly impressed by the thoughts gone into designing this. They've made it so you never need to part with it!

The Mia is one speed (Mia2 has two speeds) where the center bristles of the brush is rotated or vibrated when you turn it on. The machine turns itself off after one minute and that is the recommended time you should use it on your face. While they say (see description below) the product can be used twice a day, it's not meant for long sessions. Please note your face doesn't need to be exfoliated for several minutes at a time! They instruct you to charge your Mia for 24 hours when you first get it. Every time after that, charge it until the flashing green light becomes solid on the back of the handle.

More detailed information in the instructions pamphlet that comes in the box. Go through it before you begin using.

Product Description Directly Off Clarisonic's Website

About Clarisonic Mia Sonic Skin Cleansing System

Our smallest Sonic Skin Cleansing System, the one-button, one-speed Mia comes in a variety of colors and fits your active lifestyle – offering beautiful skin at home or on-the-go.
Directions: Gently move the brush using small, circular motion.  Use on forehead (20 seconds), nose/chin (20 seconds), and both cheeks (10 seconds each).
Tips: Prior to the first use, charge the Clarisonic Mia handle for 24 hours.
Once a week remove the brush head and wash the handle using warm soapy water to remove any residue buildup.
View full Mia Userguide

Kit Includes

• Clarisonic Mia
• Universal Voltage Charger
• Sensitive Brush Head (Note: Gray Mia & Limited Edition Carbon Fiber Mia come with a Normal Brush Head)
• 1 oz. trial size Refreshing Gel Cleanser

Beautiful Skin Begins With Cleaner Skin

Traditional methods of cleansing don’t get your skin as clean as you’d think. Fortunately, the lead inventor of Sonicare discovered a breakthrough in how we cleanse. Using Sonic Technology, Clarisonic’s patented micro-massage motion works within skin’s natural elasticity to gently remove the impurities traditional methods leave behind- leaving skin softer, smoother and more beautiful.

• Cleanses 6x better than with your hands alone in just 60 seconds
• Works with skin, not against it, to gently massage away impurities trapped within pores
• Prepares skin for better absorption of creams, serums and moisturizers
• Gentle enough to use 2x a day

With the product description and reviews in mind, my own guideline to grade the Mia will be based on:

1. Effectiveness at removing makeup - The residue makeup that remains on my face, the less random zits will pop up.

2. Cleanliness of skin immediately after use.

3. Cleaniness of skin maintained with regular use - I have an oily t-zone where zits are most likely to appear. I hope the use of Clarisonic will vastly improve these areas and reduce acne problems.

4. Improved complexion of skin - I have a sensitive patch of skin on my cheek that's a bit redder than the rest of my cheeks. It goes away when my face is fully moisturized (and there's more humidity in the air). Although irritation sometimes occurs unexpectedly, I have faith that the Clarisonic can reduce the dryness in this area when product is absorbed better.

5. Noticeably better absorption of facial products - I see the Clarisonic as an investment for my skin. I am saving money over time if I don't need as much product for the same results.

I will, of course note additional observations as I see them. At this point, I hope the Mia at the end of three months will make it on the Perfect 10! list

Retails for $119 USD
Where to buy: Clarisonic's official website and most major cosmetics and department stores online and locally.