There was a time when my calendar and my bank account were both deeply committed to wellness. A monthly facial membership. A standing reservation at a red light and sauna studio. An expensive gym I had to justify going to.
And honestly, I loved every second of it. The rituals, the results, the feeling of doing something good for myself.
But over time… it added up. Fast.
So over the past few years, I’ve been testing. Trying. Swapping. Looking for ways to recreate some of those treatments at home without sacrificing results.
And while there are absolutely some things that can’t be replaced, think medical-grade lasers and in-clinic treatments, there’s a surprising amount that can.
What I’ve found is that having these tools at home doesn’t just save money, it makes consistency effortless. And consistency, more than anything, is what actually delivers results.
Here’s what officially replaced some of my most expensive monthly memberships. And if you’ve been thinking about investing in any of these, consider this your sign. BON CHARGE is currently running 25% off sitewide from April 2nd to April 8th with its Recharge Sale, which makes it the perfect moment to upgrade your routine.
Red Light Therapy
Red Light Mask
To no one’s surprise, red light masks are everywhere right now. (And yes, we recently covered what a doctor actually looks for in one, which you should absolutely read if you want the full breakdown.)
I’ve tested a handful, and the one from BON CHARGE has been my tried and true. I use it about five times a week, and it has genuinely transformed my skin. Clearer. Firmer. That subtle glow that makes you look like you’re doing something right, even when you’re not.
But here’s the part no one wants to hear: it’s not magic, it’s consistency.
You need at least three times a week to start seeing results. I noticed a real difference after about a month of actually sticking to it.
What makes this one stand out is the science behind it. It uses 630nm red light and 850nm near infrared light, two of the most studied wavelengths in photobiomodulation. These wavelengths work beneath the surface to promote a radiant complexion, improve skin elasticity, and help soften the appearance of fine lines over time.
And the ease of it matters. It’s lightweight, flexible, and completely hands free, so you can wear it while answering emails, making coffee, or winding down at night. No downtime, no disruption. Just a treatment that quietly works in the background of your routine.
Over time, what you start to notice isn’t just one big dramatic change, but an overall shift in your skin. Smoother texture, more even tone, and that healthy, rested glow that usually comes from a really good facial.
This is one of those devices where if you commit, it delivers.
SHOP THE RED LIGHT MASK HERE.
Red Light Therapy Blanket
When I first got this, everyone thought I had officially lost it. But after seeing what consistent red light did for my face, I wanted that same effect for my entire body.
We’ve covered this before, but this is what replaced those red light therapy beds at the spa for me. And honestly, I prefer it.
You’re fully wrapped inside, like a sleeping bag, so your body is getting direct, consistent exposure. With some of those beds, I was never fully convinced I was getting the same level of coverage.
I usually use it after a shower in the evening, especially post-workout. Throw on a podcast, put on music, and suddenly 20 minutes disappears.
This blanket uses 660nm red light and 850nm near infrared light, which are the most studied, effective wavelengths. You can adjust intensity, timing, and even use pulsed mode for deeper penetration.
It also unzips into two separate mats, so yes, you can share if you’re feeling generous. This is easily one of the best wellness investments I’ve made. And with their current 25% off sale, this is the moment to do it.
SHOP THE RED LIGHT THERAPY BLANKET HERE.
Max Red Light Therapy Device
If the idea of being zipped into a blanket isn’t your thing, this is your alternative.
The Max Red Light Therapy Device is more of a panel setup. You can stand it upright, lay it horizontally, or position it depending on what you’re doing.
It’s great for muscle recovery, skin, sleep, all the usual benefits, but what I like most is how flexible it is.
Sometimes I’ll use it after a workout. Other times, I’ll place it next to my bed and just run the red light at night. It creates this low, calming glow that actually helps me wind down.
Same key wavelengths here, 660nm and 850nm, so you’re getting the full spectrum of benefits.
It’s one of those quiet upgrades that starts to become part of your routine without you even thinking about it.
SHOP THE MAX RED LIGHT THERAPY DEVICE HERE.
Infrared Sauna Treatments
Infrared PEMF Sauna Dome
I used to go to a studio twice a week for infrared saunas and cold plunge sessions.
Again, amazing. Also… not cheap.
When I found the Infrared PEMF Sauna Dome, I was hesitant. It’s an investment. But I also knew that over time, it would pay for itself in both money and time.
And it has.
This combines far infrared heat, PEMF, red light at 660nm, and near infrared at 850nm, working together to support relaxation, provide post-workout comfort, supports the body’s balance and recovery systems, and provides a grounding experience as part of your recovery routine. Basically, everything you’re getting at a high-end studio, but at home.
I use it in the morning, then hop straight into a cold shower after. It completely resets my mood and energy for the day.
Also, and this might just be me, but I am a bit of a germophobe, so having my own setup where I know I’m the only one sweating in it just hits different. It’s easy, efficient, and actually makes me more consistent than I ever was driving to a studio.
And like the rest, it’s included in their sitewide sale, which makes the decision a little easier.
SHOP THE INFRARED PEMF SAUNA DOME HERE.
Rethinking the Way We Invest in Wellness
I’m not giving up facials, spa days, or in clinic treatments entirely because there is still something to be said about the experience, the expertise, and those higher powered treatments that simply cannot be replicated at home. But what has changed is how often I feel like I need them.
These devices have shifted my routine from something that was dependent on appointments and availability to something that actually fits into my daily life. There is no commute, no scheduling, no friction. Just consistency, which ends up being the real driver behind results.
And that’s the part I didn’t expect. It’s not just about saving money, although that is a very real benefit. It’s about having the ability to show up for these rituals regularly, in a way that feels easy and sustainable. When something becomes part of your everyday rhythm, you stop thinking of it as a treatment and start seeing it as maintenance. It turns wellness from something you occasionally invest in into something seamlessly embedded in your routine.
All material on The Chalkboard Mag is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health-related programs. This story is brought to you in partnership with BON CHARGE. From time to time, TCM editors choose to partner with brands we believe in to bring our readers special offers.
