Welcome to What I Learned, Maire Claire’s monthly report on the most transformative treatments, devices, and innovations in aesthetics. Here, our editors candidly share their biggest takeaways post-procedure.

There is nothing as delightful as a relaxing massage. Calming essential oils! Skin-softening lotions! Human touch! However, the challenge with these treatments, especially in a bustling city like New York, is that it’s nearly impossible to secure an appointment with your favorite masseuse. You must book far in advance, which can be frustrating, especially when your schedule is inconsistent. There's also no middle ground between seedy reflexology studios (No shade! Some are great) and upscale spas that charge an arm and a leg to massage your arms and legs. And more importantly, I'm forced to speak with my massage therapist. Most places allow me to decide my communication preference before enjoying the experience, but for me, even engaging in small talk before, during, and after is exasperating. That is until I stumbled upon the robot massage.

New York-based lifestyle robotics company Aescape (pronounced escape) teamed with Equinox to unveil an AI-driven massage table that meticulously scans a user’s body, capturing over 1.1 million 3D data points. This data enables the table to accurately map the user’s body position and pinpoint key anatomical points for precise, targeted massage therapy. Currently, the treatment is offered at various locations across New York City (including the Lotte New York Palace Hotel) with plans to roll out nationwide later this month—no membership required.

Before you panic and embark on a “robots are taking over” campaign (which I almost did myself), it’s important to understand the nuances of this treatment and the gap in the market it fills rather than viewing it as a threat to traditional masseuses’ market share. This type of massage doesn't have the frills—no aromatherapy or fancy oils and serums. Instead, you receive an intuitive dry massage experience that you control entirely. Through a user-controlled dashboard, you can create a precise, targeted massage that fits your needs.

Curiosity got the best of me, so I decided to become a human guinea pig and booked a demo at the New York Aescape office. Everything I learned from the treatment—including having my knots rolled out by robotic arms—ahead.

The Treatment, Explained

Upon arrival, I changed into the provided apparel that minimizes friction like body oil does (similar to a wet suit) and settled onto the table. l immediately noticed a huge touchscreen embedded in the headrest, which allowed me to control the entire experience. I had complete power over the massage experience, including target areas, lighting, music preferences, and pressure points—no more needing to ask my practitioner to tone down their Hulk-like force. From there, I selected a highly customized range of massage experiences tailored to my body profile. I was brave—I went with a full body treatment. I must admit, I was also a little freaked out.

Overhead depth sensors meticulously scanned my body, capturing every detail to generate a precise 3D model. This model was then displayed on the touchscreen, serving as a comprehensive guide for my session. I was truly impressed by the level of detail and accuracy.

The treatment felt very dystopian as I laid in a dimly lit room, waiting for the robot to get to work, with the sound of a waterfall echoing throughout.

The machine had a very non-threatening appearance (more Wall-E than Ultron), so I didn’t fear it would crush my bones; rather, it just felt a bit unnatural. But for those who are scared or tend to wiggle around a lot, there is an automatic safety button I could press if I wanted to stop the session. The table itself was heated and comfortable, and while I missed the sensorial experience of a “real massage,” this new type of massage was just as effective in relieving muscle tension. The full-body experience targeted my upper back, mid-back, and lower back, as well as my hips and glutes. Initially, I wanted the highest pressure, but I adjusted it throughout the massage as I saw fit. Each part of my body had four to six minutes of attention as it acclimated to touch, increased pliability, stretched and elongated, broke up knots, and restored muscle tone. I was in heaven.

Above all the features, my favorite was the ability to remain silent. I’m an extrovert, and I have a hard time speaking up for myself and often wince in pain because I’m too nervous to tell them to tone it down. Thankfully, the dashboard allowed me to adjust the pressure, which I did often—without opening my mouth.

The Benefits

The benefits of this massage table extend to anyone seeking recovery, whether it’s from stress, the rigors of daily life, athletic endeavors, or any other challenges. “You always know what you’re going to get, and it’s going to be consistent,” says Eric Litman, Founder and CEO of Aescape.

Another benefit is its availability on demand, unlike traditional massages where you may have to wait weeks to find a person who connects with you and understands your body. You can even indulge in a session every day.

Furthermore, it’s a shorter time commitment for those who are always “too busy.” According to Litman, “you get 60 minutes worth of treatment in a 30-minute session at a price point we think people can incorporate into their everyday life.”

Moreover, you have the autonomy to determine what you get out of your treatment—where you want it, how firm you want it to be, and even the choice of music, environment, and overall experience without worrying about coming off as entitled or high-maintenance. Future plans for the company involve offering post-treatment insights about what it has learned about your body, providing suggestions and recommendations for future sessions, such as improving posture during the day. This will enable you to have a “more data-driven relationship with your body, including details on the work you’ve done with us, and how that work impacts key aspects of your health and life,” says Litman.

Additionally, you don’t have to interact with anyone if you’re uncomfortable with human touch or simply want some time to yourself.

The Cost

The base price at the Equinox in New York is $60 for 30 minutes and includes a free day pass to non-Equinox members. Future locations may vary in pricing, potentially offering additional features and amenities. The next iteration is to offer extras like a cold plunge, sauna, and hot tubs, with these options demanding higher fees.

The Aftercare

The beauty about the AI powered massage is that a post-massage shower isn't necessary. You aren't rubbed down with fragrant oils or lubricants, and there's minimal sweat, so you can immediately leave the spa without bathing.

Another plus, is that in the days afterwards, I experienced zero soreness and no bruising, which unfortunately is often experienced with a traditional massage. While I love the customization and a quiet room, I still have a soft spot for personal touch. Moving forward I plan to engage in traditional massages (I am a sucker for spa amenities), but when my extroverted ways get the best of me, a robot massage will be a worthy alternative.

Welcome to What I Learned, Maire Claire’s monthly report on the most transformative treatments, devices, and innovations in aesthetics. Here, our editors candidly share their biggest takeaways post-procedure. 

I’m one of the 14 million lucky individuals to have rosacea. For the uninitiated, rosacea is a skin condition that causes redness, and, occasionally, acne-looking bumps across the cheeks, nose, and forehead. There’s no cure or explanation for why flares happen (love that, really) and the rough texture ebbs and flows. I’ve tried my best to avoid my triggers: direct sunlight, spicy foods, and my personal favorite, heat. I’ve gradually learned how to placate my often angry skin with an assortment of ice rollers, prescription creams, and even the occasional antibiotic. 

Still, as a beauty editor, I will volunteer as tribute for just about any treatment that claims to be a fix—even when it sounds a little hokey. Cut to: Facialist Madalaina Conti telling me that she has gold beads from Australia that will re-magnetize my skin’s energy field and reduce my redness. Like I said: I’ll try anything. 

Called Qi, the professional treatment, which combines acupuncture philosophy and the study of the skin’s static magnetic fields (more on that, below), is thought to serve as a big reset button for your skin. It’s entirely low risk, so despite my skepticism, I powered through two treatments and a few at-home touch-ups. The results were shocking. So much so, that I can’t stop staring at my before-and-after photos. Everything I learned from the treatment—including why it gave me the best sleep of my life—ahead. 

The Treatment, Explained

Understanding how Qi works requires an understanding of both static magnetic fields and acupuncture. 

At baseline: A static magnetic field is created when a group of magnets or charges attract a certain force. When you place a static magnetic field onto live tissue (in this case, human skin), it’s clinically proven to speed up wound healing, increase cell communication, and help repair and reset damaged skin (Just look at this 2012 clinical trial for proof).

Acupuncture on the other hand utilizes pressure points to trigger certain parasympathetic reactions. “There are three acupuncture points, the yintang, which is between the brow, conception vessel 24, which is above the lip, and governing vessel 26, which is below the lip,” explains Conti. “When you’re stimulating these three points, you’re putting the body back into the parasympathetic rest and repair mode. There are bladder points between the eyes, which can flush inflammation, there’s the stomach eight point by the hairline, which is good for lifting, or spots in front of the ears that can help with drainage.” 

The so-called magic of Qi happens when the founding properties of static magnetic fields and acupuncture meet. The gold beads that make up the magnetic field are strategically placed on acupressure points to help an individual reach their skin goals. 

The Benefits

When the magnets have stimulated both the targeted acupressure points and created a magnetic field, the benefits of the treatment begin. “This is giving your skin a hard reset and putting it back into balance so you're actually able to repair the skin. It’s able to non-invasively perk up your cellular communication and have those cells function better,” explains Conti. “It evens out your oil secretions and water production, it builds volume, it smooths texture, and releases inflammation, which is the biggest benefit.”

The Cost

Qi isn’t necessarily a widely offered treatment—you’ll have to do some serious research to find a provider in your state. Prices will naturally vary depending on location and other modalities used during your facial, however you’re typically looking at a couple of hundred dollars. If you want a more toned down version of Qi, you can purchase an at-home kit for $160. 

The Aftercare

“There's really no downtime with this,” says Conti. “The only thing I would say to avoid is a heavy duty workout where circulation will be moving through your whole body.” She also recommends sticking to simple, hydrating skincare and skipping any exfoliants for at least a few days post-treatment as the skin is extra absorbent during this time. 

What I Learned

Ahead of my appointment, I did a pretty decent amount of research into acupuncture’s ability to increase skin health and static magnetic field’s connection to cell communication. The studies are there, so I genuinely wasn’t super skeptical about Qi’s efficacy. I'm a big believer in science. That being said, I know first hand how finicky rosacea can be, so despite my deep dive into medical journals galore, I remained in the believe-it-when-I-see-it camp.

That said, I’ll cut to the chase: I believe it. My biggest takeaways from the treatment, ahead.  

The Treatment Itself Is an Odd Sensation

I’ve had my fair share of facials—it’s a very welcome occupational hazard. My face has been slapped, my skin has been nearly burned off, and every machine in existence has made my muscles twitch. Still, nothing is comparable to Qi. It’s entirely painless, which is a huge positive, but the pressure certainly creates a weird sensation.

It starts out pretty standard: Makeup gets removed, and then a little gentle exfoliation and facial massage comes into play. Then it's time for the Qi application. Conti first applies the Qi Beauty Intense Oil, which is soothing in its own right, to act as an adhesive for the magnets. It gets swiped on with a fan brush and then the 24-carat gold magnets are strategically placed on the skin. 

I was able to feel the magnetic force forming and was acutely aware when a pressure point was activated. I’d liken the experience to that of a weighted blanket—but on your face. It takes around 15 minutes from start to finish to apply the beads, at which point they sit for roughly another 20 minutes on the skin. I wouldn’t say that I necessarily felt anything—except relaxed. 

It’s Amazing for Rosacea

Qi is a generally agreeable, non-invasive facial that’s well suited for everyone, particularly those who struggle with rosacea (that would be me) and acne. I arrived at Conti’s with a pretty active flare and noticed a decrease in the redness on my cheeks directly after the treatment. 

“The number one thing this is going to do is flush inflammation. If you’re struggling with redness or have an overactivity of circulation or heat in the face, it will balance it out,” says Conti. That said, the full extent of the redness reducing results will not take effect until day two or three. By then, my skin looked as even-toned and non-irritated as I can remember—and it stayed that calm for a solid month. It didn’t feel as sensitive to products or reactive to the weather. I genuinely can’t recall a time when a product or even a prescription cream had such a profound effect on my skin’s chronically red state. “It's getting your skin to be more regulated and balanced so that it has more immunity to defend and heal itself,” adds Conti. 

The Beads Are Gold for a Reason

I’ll be honest: At first I thought the beads were painted 24K gold purely for aesthetic reasons. It turns out, there's a purely scientific explanation. “Gold has a very high antioxidant property,” explains Conti. “So when you're placing the beads on the skin, that gold alchemy is getting transferred to the skin.” It’s that transfer that actually changes the beads from gold to copper throughout the course of the treatment. 

Pro tip: Don’t throw the beads away after your treatment. Clean them, grind them up, and put them in the soil of any plants you keep at home. The nutrient-dense composition will encourage your plants to grow. “My plants grow like crazy and nothing goes to waste,” notes Conti. 

It Put Me Right to Sleep

When I initially entered Conti’s studio, she informed me that I might get a little sleepy from the treatment. I didn’t think anything of it. I can power through two Benadryls need be, so a little facial wasn’t going to put me to sleep. Cut to: I was falling asleep at my desk and had the best, 12-hour night sleep. My first session, I attributed the drowsiness to a coincidence, but when exhaustion hit me like clockwork following my second treatment, I realized Conti’s word of caution was entirely legitimate. 

The reason being: The yintag acupuncture point, which is targeted with gold beads positioned between the eyebrows, is famed for inducing deep relaxation, meditation, and yes, sleep.

Keep Up With Results

“You'll notice a nice reduction in redness off of the initial session, but the results are cumulative,” says Conti. “The more you do it, the more the cells are gonna repair and then the results will start to last you longer.” Ideally, you’ll have a professional treatment once a month, but you can keep up with your Qi from the comfort of your home using a take-home kit. The beads stick right onto your acupuncture pressure points. Apply the stickers to dry skin before bed and don’t take them off until morning. 

I’ve been doing this at home every few days following my initial appointment and am convinced it’s extended the longevity of my results.