Sound Advice
By Don Lindich
Week 35, 2021
AOGNY High Frequency Facial Machine: I mentioned that my shaver review led to my being introduced to some interesting new products. The best so far is the AOGNY High Frequency Facial Machine, and for some of you reading this it is likely to be good news, just as it was for me.
The AOGNY uses high-frequency radio energy to penetrate and heat the skin, and it “accelerates the contraction of the dermis and subcutaneous tissues” to “lift and tighten the skin, improve skin tone, reduce pores and lighten darkening spots.” The AOGNY has racked up an uninterrupted string of 28 5-star reviews and I saw some impressive before-and-after results from RF skin tightening, so I gave it a try. Two probes are included, one for the face and one for the body, which is used to reduce stretch marks and cellulite.
I never thought I would be discussing something so personal here, but as I have aged I have noticed sagging skin under my chin, which has persisted despite weight loss achieved through diet and exercise. It seemed like I needed a little extra help, and perhaps the AOGNY would provide it. Reading the instructions was a little intimidating but using the device was very comfortable and easy. I attached the facial probe, rubbed the included aloe vera gel on my face and set the device to Setting 1 for 10 minutes. I passed it over my face in the recommended patterns, first under the chin, then to the cheeks and then my forehead. I quickly found a rhythm and pattern without referencing the instructions, doing five minutes per side of my face with the aid of the timer. You have to reapply the gel at times to keep the skin hydrated and lubricated, but again it was easy to know when to do so. Within a few weeks I saw a nice improvement with the skin naturally appearing tighter, matching the contour of my jaw rather than sagging underneath. It seemed miraculous because I thought my appearance would only get worse over time, short of surgery. A friend who knew I was testing the “beauty device” jokingly asked, “do you feel younger and more beautiful?” and I laughed, both because I was taken off guard by his remark and because in fact, I did!
Applications are suggested every 3 to 4 days until the desired results are achieved, and weekly or bi-weekly thereafter depending on the individual. The AOGNY sells for $369 on Amazon. There is currently a $20 checkbox coupon available but as I noted in last week’s column, promotions can and do change frequently. I was initially skeptical of high frequency RF skin treatment, but after using the machine I am a believer. As with any device of this type, anyone interested should thoroughly read the product information and reviews on Amazon before purchasing, read and follow the instructions carefully and if necessary, check with your physician to make sure it is safe for you.
Q. I am replacing my old HDTV with a 4K OLED TV. Does my 14-year-old HDMI cable need replaced because it has worn out? Should I get a new one and if so, what brand?
-D.J., Atlantic City, NJ
A. A 14-year-old HDMI cable will not support 4K picture quality. I would get new 4K HDMI cables. Bluerigger, Monoprice and Amazon Basics 4K HDMI cables are all fine and available for under $10 each.