I’m Skeptical of Beauty Gadgets, but Medicube’s New Booster Pro X2 Is the Closest Thing to an In-Office Glow at Home

It’s no secret that Korea is a global skincare hub where beauty and technology intersect, producing some of the industry’s most cutting-edge gadgets. But even as a beauty editor with access to information, products, and experts, it wasn’t until I recently had the opportunity to travel to Korea with Medicube that it fully clicked for me: accessibility of professional-grade skincare treatments and products has propelled both the technological progression and skincare “culture” in Korea forward. 

Nearly 80% of Koreans regularly visit skincare clinics for skin-brightening, tightening, and exfoliating treatments (I was blown away by this stat). But Medicube CEO Byunghoon Kim recognizes that most people around the world don’t have access to in-clinic procedures, which is why he and his team developed the Booster Pro—to deliver next-to-clinical-grade skincare at home. You might recognize the tool from Hailey Bieber and Kylie Jenner’s viral skincare videos, and the good news is: it just got a major upgrade with new and improved features and benefits. Though I often find skincare tools overly complex or not effective enough to justify their high price tags, I can confidently say I stand behind the Medicube Booster Pro X2 and will continue to use it regularly.

medicube Booster Pro X2

$249 at Amazon

About the Booster Pro X2

The Booster Pro X2 is a more powerful version of the original multifunction skincare device, featuring seven modes—with six intensity levels per mode—to deliver benefits such as firming, brightening, exfoliating, and improved skincare absorption. The head of the device is also 1.3x larger, for a more efficient treatment. Think of it as the next-best-thing to in-office clinical treatments—that you can do from the comfort of your bathroom. 

How to Use the Medicube Booster Pro X2

Generally, you’ll want to slide the head of the tool across your face after applying your favorite skincare serum or cream to give it some glide. As a rule of thumb, I tend to use the tool until the generous dose of skincare I applied underneath feels fully absorbed. It’s nice that there’s no need to buy a specific conductor gel—your go-to hydrating skincare products will get the job done. I’ve found that applying the medicube Collagen Jelly Cream creates the smoothest, most sensorial experience. The tool is suitable for daily use, though Airshot mode is recommended for use a maximum of three times weekly and is the only mode meant to be used on clean, dry skin. 

As for which intensity level to use for each mode and for how long, it really depends on your preferences and your skin’s needs. The tool will audibly tell you every time a minute has passed, all the way through five minutes, so I recommend beginners use the modes on lower settings for a minute or two, and work their way up over time. 

The Modes

Airshot Mode: Airshot mode focuses on refining pores and texture by creating a micro-passage in the skin using electric pulses that function similarly to microneedles. Use this mode on dry skin; rather than applying the head flat to the skin (as you should with the other modes), it’s best to use it at an angle. 

Booster Mode: Booster mode is meant to improve the absorption of your topical skincare products through electroporation, which, according to board-certified dermatologist and plastic surgeon, Dr. Lauren Moy, M.D., is a technology that uses brief electrical pulses to temporarily increase the permeability of the skin barrier, allowing certain skincare ingredients to penetrate more effectively. So, if you have a potent skincare item you’re using to address a specific skin concern, using booster mode might help enhance its effects. 

“While at-home devices are generally much less powerful than those used in professional settings, there is evidence that electroporation can enhance the delivery of active ingredients compared to topical application alone,” Dr. Moy says. Board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Danny Guo, M.D., agrees, saying, “[Electroporation could be] valuable these days as more skincare brands promote novel ingredients like PDRN and exosomes that in theory could benefit the skin but in reality struggle with skin barrier penetration.” 

MC (Microcurrent) Mode: Microcurrent mode uses microcurrent technology to improve skin firmness. According to Dr. Moy, microcurrent technology helps stimulate facial muscles and support cellular activity. “Clinically, microcurrent treatments can provide temporary lifting and toning effects, improve circulation, and reduce the appearance of facial puffiness. With consistent use, many patients see enhanced facial definition and a more refreshed appearance,” she explains. 

Derma Shot Mode: Derma shot mode is meant to be used in slow, upward motions to help sculpt and improve facial definition. It relies on EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) technology, which delivers electrical currents to stimulate facial muscles. While Dr. Moy says EMS won’t permanently reshape your face, regular use may help support muscle tone and provide a more sculpted appearance over time. She notes that some people notice an immediate “lifted” appearance after treatment due to increased muscle activation and circulation. 

Dual Mode: Dual mode allows you to use two modes of your choice at once. You can customize your combo through the AGE-R app, which uses Bluetooth to connect to your device. 

Mask Mode: Mask mode should be used in combination with your favorite sheet mask to help its essence permeate your skin more effectively. You simply apply your mask, then glide the tool over it. Note: it’s not compatible with gel masks. 

AI Mode: AI mode uses the AGE-R app to customize a personalized routine tailored to your specific skin needs. On top of the customization component, it gives you tips on how to use the device, helps keep you on track for consistent use, and provides a place to track your progress with before-and-after photos. 

My Review

My hopes for the next generation of this beloved tool were high (note: I had never tried the OG version), considering I flew 6,900 miles to Seoul to learn all about it, though my skepticism remained because, as previously mentioned, I typically find skincare devices pricey, complex, and ultimately impractical for consistent enough use to yield results. But after testing it almost daily for the past few weeks, I’m thrilled with the user experience and the results. 

I appreciate that the tool itself is easy to use (there are only a couple of buttons), feels sturdy and ergonomic, and, most importantly, gives me smooth, firm, glowing skin. Booster mode is my favorite because it incorporates seamlessly into my skincare routine and always leaves my complexion looking noticeably more radiant. I’m also a big fan of Derma Shot mode; I find it gives me a subtly lifted look and has helped relieve a bit of muscle tension in my face. If you’re looking for a multipurpose skincare tool with advanced technology to give you the closest benefits to in-clinic results, this one officially has my stamp of approval.