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The Battle of Zit Zapper Devices: Zeno vs ThermaClear

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The zit zapper products Zeno and ThermaClear both work by emitting heat to treat pimples. Both are handheld devices and are used by pressing the tips directly to the affected area. To better understand how these devices work, read on.

According to the manufacturer of Zeno, the device works by inducing a heat shock response from acne-causing bacteria, resulting in its self-destruction and the eradication of acne. It is equipped with a biocompatible tip that transfers heat into the skin follicle. Zeno makers have asserted that the device adjusts to the heat absorption of the user, so it doesn't burn the skin.

ThermaClear, a device practically similar to Zeno, works by emitting controlled pulse of heat to neutralize pimple-causing bacteria. The makers of ThermaClear claim that the device can be used for a mere two seconds on each pimple to get the desired results.

Comments from users

For Zeno

"If you have sensitive skin like I do, you have to be VERY careful about Zeno. The heat, as advertised, can come close to burning your skin. While this may work to kill bacteria inside, the heat alone can do major damage to you sensitive skin."
Excerpt from a customer review on acne.org

"Works like a dream. It doesn't hurt, put it up to a zit, and after two and a half minutes, the pain is completely gone and zit starts to fade. The only reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 is its high cost."
Excerpt from a customer review on amazon.com

"I have had good success with this device as long as I use it as soon as I see a pimple coming on. It prevents those nasty under the surface zits from forming."
Excerpt from a customer review on makeupalley.com

"All I can say is Zeno sucks...It is definitely not worth all the money I payed for it...Don't buy this product!!!"
Excerpt from a customer review on folica.com

For ThermaClear

"Works well, in just a few days. The "zap" does take a little getting used to...Very happy with this product."
Excerpt from a customer review on amazon.com

"It actually will speed up the healing time if you catch the pimple early but otherwise I didn't notice that much of a difference for already existing pimples."
Excerpt from a customer review on amazon.com

"I've had my Thermaclear for almost a year and it's AWESOME! They say replace the tip due to normal wear and tear, but unless you scratch it up you don't even need to replace it."
Excerpt from a customer comment on bellasugar.com

"I liked the results I got with Zeno, but I wouldn't mind trying Thermaclear, especially since it has 2 different settings."
Excerpt from a customer comment on bellasugar.com

Our opinion

Effectiveness - Both have negative and positive feedbacks. ThermaClear has less number of reviews but more positive feedbacks. Zeno has more number of reviews, 50-50 on the positive and the negative. We cannot absolutely say that ThermaClear is more effective despite having more positive comments since there aren't a lot of sites that offer evaluation reports on this product. So we're going to play it safe and say that each product's efficacy is a case to case basis.

Price - ThermaClear is cheaper. It also does not need constant changing of tips so you wouldn't spend as much as you would with Zeno.

Convenience - This is where ThermaClear outranks Zeno. The former only requires two seconds per treatment, while the latter needs two-and-a-half minutes per process. That's a lot of time saved for ThermaClear users (if we hold true to our claim that no product can claim an edge when it comes to effectiveness, then this criteria tips the balance in favor of ThermaClear). Both are easy-to-carry devices. However, the more frequent need for Zeno's tip to be changed gives a few more plus to ThermaClear.

Looks - Not that it really matters, but we do love the look of Zeno!

Our verdict

We give the edge to ThermaClear. Primarily because it's cheaper and requires less treatment time. However, some might find that Zeno works better for them, while others might find that ThermaClear is the more effective product.

Our Rating

Zeno - (two stars)
ThermaClear - (four stars)

Click here to buy Zeno

Click here to buy ThermaClear

Company information

Zeno is from Houston, Texas-based medical technology company, Tyrell Inc., while ThermaClear is made by medical products firm Therative Inc. of Livermore, California.

Directions for use

Both devices are used through direct contact of the heat-emitting tips with the pimple. The devices give off beeps when the process is done. Upon purchasing the products, a user manual is included to guide the user on the details of how to use the devices.

Price

Zeno - between $129 and $200 depending on the model
ThermaClear - $149.95

Return Policy

30 day money back guarantee for both products