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We like
- Misting takes under two minutes
- Serums tackle a variety of common concerns
- Capsule canisters are recyclable
- Device is easy to use
- Brand funded study to support claims
- Device comes in a range of candy colors
We don't like
- Some serums are pricey
- Serums can leak onto device
- No independent research conducted
Beyond the obvious bank-account-suck, there’s another huge reason why you shouldn’t spend $300 on a serum: most actives in topicals barely penetrate your skin barrier as the molecule size is too large to go into the deep layers of the dermis. But Droplette, a pod-shaped misting device that’s the brainchild of former drug-designer Madhavi Gavini, a mathematician from Johns Hopkins and MIT, shrinks down product molecules so that they’re able to go further into your skin (actually way further, meaning 20x more). As a result, the active ingredients are 90% more effective than those in their traditional serum counterparts.
The Science Speaks
Originally designed for the medical field for easy, painless delivery of medications into the skin at an effective depth (and without needles), Gavini saw an opportunity in the cosmetic landscape, as the device’s delivery system is truly ideal for skincare. Specifically, the atomizer converts the capsules into an aerosol, and then the airflow mechanism enhances penetration into skin. Something I love about the device is that there is only minimal skin barrier disruption, as the company tested for TEWL (trans epidermal water loss) and found none.
Shop According to Concern
If need be, you can take a quiz on the site to help determine your concerns (which is for those of you who don’t obsess over them daily, like I do). While my quiz revealed that I have lingering sun damage from life, along with some fine lines and dryness, I really wanted to test-drive the device’s newest features that control the force of the mist so that you can target specific facial zones. I chose Collagen (from $239) for the subtle hollowing under my eyes, along with the Lip Plumper (from $60) to add back some volume which has diminished with age. Synching up the device with the brand’s app lets you choose your mission. And as a long-time beauty writer and mother to young daughters, I’ve become increasingly concerned with skincare ingredients, so I was really pleased to learn about the capsule’s contents. The Collagen Hydrofiller, for example, has advanced peptides, Vitamin C antioxidants, turmeric and Argireline which gives a bit of a “lifting” effect. And yes, it’s free of sulfates, phthalates, silicone and parabens – the “no-nos” of modern skincare.
I should also say that there were other really tempting serums from which to choose – specifically the Growth Factors (from $499), derived from 100% pure, pharma grade human stem cells that are stored cold and delivered bioactive to your door (these are the priciest capsules which start at $300, matching the cost of upper echelon creams on the market). And the Glycolic Acid (from $239) capsules claim to resurface skin using a combo of exfoliating acids and healing peptides to clear away any break-outs and give an all-around glow-up. I put those on my mental deck for future mist cycles.
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It’s Actually Easy to Use
Like most home devices, it takes a minute or two to learn, but once it clicks, it literally could not be easier. The capsules arrive in trays, so every day you pop one into the device (it will only lock if the capsule is inserted correctly), squeeze the side button, and mist all over for three 30 second blasts. They’re meant to be used post-cleanse, pre-moisturizer – otherwise known as the step where you’d insert your serum. Since I was targeting specific areas of the face, I synched up with the brand’s app to control the mists so that the stream was directed onto lips and under my eyes. After a few days, you can clean your device with included capsules (this is especially great if you are using multiple formulations at once).
As a responsible consumer, I was worried about all the little plastic empty capsules (landfill loot!) but Droplette sets you up with a recycling bag and a pre-paid label to be sent back. I’ve noticed that many mindful companies are doing programs like this these days, which is much appreciated and makes me like the brand even more. You can order capsules on a subscription basis or as a one-off order.
Is it Worth It?
Beauty products are notoriously tricky to test because it can take a while for a product to “work,” but the capsules I chose claim to have immediate effects. The lip plumper is supposed to plump pouts for three to six hours, making it an ideal pre-going-out step (I used it before heading to a dinner party and a work event). And I have to say that while subtle, I definitely noticed a fuller lip that reminded me of myself in my twenties. I rarely wear gloss but puffier lips ask to be accentuated, so on it went. As for the under eyes…this is a harder area to tackle but again, I was pleased with the results. While nothing (except filler and perhaps PRP) can truly re-build volume loss, the targeted collagen did make the thin skin appear thicker and less sunken, which is all one can ask for when tackling this zone without a cannula.
Would I recommend that someone invest in this home device? Yes. Yes, I would. The science is strong, and the results are solid. As a system, sure, it’s pricey, but if you think about replacing the majority of your skincare with these capsules, it most likely evens out (after purchasing the device, that is). And if you’re married to another brand or product, layering in a Droplette serum that attacks your biggest concern also makes sense. Of the many home devices I’ve used, this one gives visible results that justify the investment.
Pick a pod shade and start your Droplette journey
