How We Review

How we review

At Home Glow reviews are research-led, not sponsored placements. Every pick, rating and verdict comes from the same repeatable process, so you can weigh our advice knowing exactly how it was formed.

We are a research-driven publication. Where we have not physically tested a device, we say so plainly. Our value is in synthesising manufacturer specifications, clinical and regulatory guidance, and verified owner feedback into clear, UK-specific recommendations - not in pretending to a clinic or lab we do not run. For the full picture of how we research, source and correct guides, see our editorial policy.

How we choose what to recommend

1. UK-buyable first. A device only earns a place if a UK reader can actually buy it today from a reputable retailer. We build each shortlist from the real UK market, not generic global product knowledge.
2. Category-appropriate criteria. Each category is judged on what matters for it: an IPL device on its skin-tone safety range and comfort, an LED mask on wavelength, coverage and irradiance, a microcurrent tool on ease of use and the honesty of its claims, a hair tool on heat control and hair health.
3. Safety and honest claims over hype. At-home beauty tech makes bold promises. We weight devices toward those with credible evidence and clear safety guidance, and we flag where a claim outruns the proof.
4. Honest trade-offs. Every recommendation states what you give up. No device is perfect, and a review that hides the compromises is not useful.

What our ratings mean

Ratings summarise how well a device delivers for its intended use, weighing results, safety, ease of use, build and value. A high score is not "buy this over everything" - it means the device does its job well for the people it is aimed at. The "best for" and "skip if" notes on each review matter as much as the number.

Independence and safety

We are not paid to feature or rank any device. Some links are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission if you buy through them at no extra cost to you. That never changes which devices we recommend or how we rank them. At-home beauty tech is not a substitute for professional or medical advice - for skin conditions, treatments or safety concerns, speak to a qualified professional. See our affiliate disclosure for detail.

Corrections

Devices change: new models, firmware, revised safety guidance and discontinued lines. When we learn a guide is out of date or wrong, we fix it. Our editorial policy explains how corrections and updates are handled.