Therabody makes two standout products right now: a heated eye massager that targets tension and puffiness, and a vibration facial device for skincare. Both are premium-priced, but they're backed by clinical research and designed for daily use. Whether they're worth it depends entirely on whether you'll actually use them—impulse buys gather dust.
Why Therabody?
Therabody emerged from the recovery and wellness space, building expertise in vibration therapy and targeted heat application. Founded by Henry Halse in 2017, the brand initially focused on percussive massage (the Theragun), then expanded into facial and eye wellness. Their approach differs from cheaper knockoffs because they combine heat, vibration, and ergonomic design—each element is functional, not decorative. They publish clinical backing for their products; the eye massager, for example, is designed to reduce under-eye puffiness and improve circulation with 38°C warmth and specific massage patterns.
Top Picks
Smartgoggles Heated Eye Massager - Black (2nd Generation) — £164
Best for anyone spending 8+ hours at a screen. This device wraps around your eyes and combines gentle heat, vibration, and air compression to reduce puffiness and relieve tension. The 2nd generation improved battery life and added app control. One charge lasts roughly 30 minutes; most people use it 15–20 minutes daily. The verdict: if you have persistent under-eye bags or tension headaches, this delivers measurable relief within a week.
Theraface Pro With Gel — £299.98
Best for anyone serious about skincare consistency. This is a vibration facial device, not a gimmick massager—it vibrates at 7,000 oscillations per minute to enhance product absorption and stimulate facial circulation. The included gel is formulated specifically for the device (important: generic serums can be less effective). Waterproof design, wireless, lasts 2+ hours per charge. The verdict: this works best as a daily ritual paired with your existing skincare routine; results (improved skin texture, reduced fine lines) show after 4–6 weeks of consistent use.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Price | Best For | Standout Feature | |---------|-------|----------|------------------| | Smartgoggles Heated Eye Massager (2nd Gen) | £164 | Under-eye puffiness, tension relief | 38°C heat + vibration + air compression | | Theraface Pro With Gel | £299.98 | Facial texture, product absorption | 7,000 oscillations/min, includes branded gel |
What to Look For
- Heat control: Therabody's eye massager maintains 38°C (body temperature), not scalding heat. This is deliberate—too hot causes inflammation, too cool does nothing. Check if a product actually maintains temperature or just heats briefly.
- Vibration frequency: The Theraface Pro operates at 7,000 oscillations per minute. This is clinically shown to enhance microcirculation without causing irritation. Lower-cost alternatives (usually under 100 Hz) are largely decorative.
- Battery life and waterproofing: Both devices are wireless and waterproof (IP65 rated). This matters because you'll actually use them regularly—tethered devices or shower-incompatible ones become abandoned.
- Included formulations: The Theraface Pro comes with branded gel because vibration devices work differently on different products. Cheap knockoffs often lack this pairing, making results inconsistent.
The Bottom Line
The Smartgoggles Heated Eye Massager at £164 is the strongest buy if you genuinely suffer from under-eye puffiness or screen-related tension—results appear within days. The Theraface Pro at £299.98 is worth considering only if you're already committed to a skincare routine and want to accelerate results; it's an enhancer, not a replacement. Both are premium, but they're not overpriced for what they deliver—the cost is justified by clinical backing and daily utility. Skip them if you're prone to gadget drawer graveyards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Therabody good value for money?
Yes, if you use it daily. Both devices are expensive upfront (£164–£300), but cost-per-use drops quickly if used regularly. The eye massager, used 15 minutes daily, costs roughly 1p per use over two years. Most people see results within a week, which justifies the initial investment. Expensive dust collectors are not good value; daily-use devices are.
What's the difference between the Smartgoggles and cheaper eye massagers?
Therabody's Smartgoggles combine three distinct mechanisms—heat, vibration, and air compression—whereas cheaper alternatives typically use only heat. The 38°C temperature is clinically calibrated; many knockoffs overheat and cause irritation. Battery life is significantly longer (roughly 3 hours total across multiple uses vs. 1 hour for budget options), and the app control allows customised massage patterns rather than one fixed setting.
Can I use the Theraface Pro without the included gel?
Technically yes, but results will be inconsistent. The branded gel is formulated to work with the device's specific vibration frequency and pressure patterns. Generic serums may be too thick (causing drag) or too thin (insufficient slip for the device). For optimal results, use the included gel or replace it with products of similar viscosity designed for vibration devices.
How long before I see results from these products?
The eye massager shows visible reduction in puffiness within 3–5 days of daily use, with texture improvements over 2–3 weeks. The Theraface Pro requires 4–6 weeks of consistent daily use (15–20 minutes) to see meaningful improvement in fine lines and skin texture. Neither is an overnight fix, but both work measurably if used consistently.
