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With the best red light therapy mask, one can effectively treat an array of skin conditions such as wrinkles, acne, fine lines, dark spots, and more. The futuristic devices nowadays are some of the most convenient, hands-free treatments on the market; experts say that a light therapy treatment via a comfortable siliconed mask or targeted spot treatment works well in tandem with your on-going skin-care routine. But, how exactly does the technology work? To find out, we reviewed the beauty tools on the market, parsed through the Vogue beauty closet, and sifted through dermatologist recommendations to curate this edit of the best LED face masks for various needs and skin types to supercharge your skin-care regimen.
Vogue’s Favorite LED and Red Light Therapy Masks
Featured in this article
- What is LED Light Therapy?
- Are LED face masks effective?
- What color light therapy do you need?
- Benefits of Light Therapy for Your Skin
- How to Choose an LED Face Mask
- Are LED Face Masks Safe?
- How often do you use an LED face mask?
- Do LED masks need to be FDA-approved?
- What is the difference between FDA-approved and FDA-cleared?
- Dermatologist Tips for Using an LED Face Mask
- How to Use an LED Face Mask
- Is LED light therapy good for you?
- How long does it take an LED face mask to work?
- Who should avoid using LED lights?
- How We Tested
- Meet The Experts
Best LED Face Mask: CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask
Love It | Leave It |
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Oft-recommended by dermatologists | It s wired, which can make it difficult to multitask. |
We also recommend the Currentbody Neck and Dec Perfector and Hair Growth Helmet if you re looking to shop multiple devices from the same brand. | Only one treatment setting |
Crafted from a flexible silicone designed to allow maximum amounts of light to penetrate the skin , Currentbody’s device is arguably the most-recommended red light face mask on the market right now. While the original device drew upon two light wavelengths, dermatologist Dr. Lauren Penzi previously shared in our Currentbody LED face mask review that this utilizes “132 LED bulbs—66 red (633nm) and 66 near-infrared (830nm) wavelengths that are diffused for complete skin coverage”—this new version utilizes 236 bulbs across three light wavelenghts. The red light, she continues, accelerates the production of new collagen and calm redness; while near-infrared works beneath the skin’s surface to boost blood circulation, bringing oxygen and nutrients to the cells. The deep near-infrared, on the other hand, targets deeper beneath the skin for optimal repair. “These varied wavelengths work together to boost collagen production, improve circulation, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles,” board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman previously said. Even Dr. Azadeh Shirazi is a fan of the Currentbody mask because it s FDA-cleared and designed with clinically-proven light wavelengths. “Our patients love how easy it is to use and requires just 10min 3-5 times a week,” she says. Speaking of patients, dermatologist Dr. Divya Shokeen recommends it to hers too: “ I actually see clinical significant improvement in hair growth in my patients when they use their LED light on the scalp as well.”
Through red-, near-infrared, and deep near-infrared–light, this face mask can boost collagen production and stimulate wound healing while improving skin texture, tone, and firmness. According to Currentbody, the device is clinically proven to reduce wrinkles by 30% in eight weeks.
Mask Type | Flexible silicone |
Skin Concerns | Fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, uneven texture, dullness |
Wavelengths | Three light wavelengths: red (633nm), near-infrared (830nm), and deep near-infrared (1072nm) |
Treatment Modes | One |
FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
Usage | 10 minutes, three to five times per week |
Wireless | No |
Controller | Yes |
Best Red Light Therapy for Face: Omnilux Contour Face
Love It | Leave It |
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Oft-recommended by dermatologists | It s wired, which can make it difficult to multitask. |
We also recommend the Omnilux Blemish Eraser (read more below) if you re looking to shop multiple devices from the same brand. | Only one treatment setting |
Fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, and redness are all concerns that the Omnilux Contour Face treats. “This is one of my favorite consumer-grade LED masks,” says board-certified nurse practitioner Vanessa Coppola. “Omnilux uses medical-grade, FDA-cleared wavelengths (633nm red and 830nm near-infrared), which are highly effective in stimulating fibroblasts and improving collagen synthesis.
It’s also flexible, so it conforms to the skin better, allowing for more even light dispersion. I recommend this often to patients post-laser or microneedling to speed healing and optimize results.”The device utilizes red and near-infrared light to keep skin feeling firm and looking glowy with consistent use. How often should you incorporate it? Omnilux recommends three to five 10-minute treatments for four to six weeks.
Mask Type | Flexible, silicone mask |
Skin Concerns | Fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, redness |
Wavelengths | Two wavelengths of light (red 633nm and near-infrared 830nm) |
Treatment Modes | One |
FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
Usage | 10 minutes, three to five times per week |
Wireless | No |
Controller | Yes |
Best Eye Mask Light Therapy: Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite LED EyeCare Max Pro
Love It | Leave It |
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Convenient size for targeting the eye area specifically. | The silicone strap unwinds easily. |
We also recommend the Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro (read more above) if you re looking to shop multiple devices from the same brand. |
Making the case for targeted LED treatments is another stellar option by Dr. Dennis Gross—the EyeCare Max Pro. Worn as a sort of superhero-esque eye mask, the device promises to alleviate all your eye-care concerns, from crow’s feet to dark circles. “Focusing on the delicate eye area, this is great for collagen stimulation around the orbital region, which can be tricky to treat with traditional modalities,” Coppola explains. “The red light may help improve fine lines and crepey texture over time—[it’s] a great complement to neurotoxins like Botox when patients want to further enhance eye rejuvenation.” Per Dr. Sturm, just be sure to use as directed in order to reduce red light exposure to the eyes themselves.
The tools work through 96 red lights emitting diodes that penetrate the skin to boost collagen production. The result? Softened fine lines, improved elasticity, and more even skin tone. Using it is as simple as adjusting the silicone straps and placing it over your eyes onto clean skin—sitting through a three-minute session. Follow with your best skin-care face products as usual.
Mask Type | Eye mask |
Skin Concerns | Crow s feet, dark circles, puffiness |
Wavelengths | Four light wavelengths: amber (605nm), red (630nm), deep red (660nm), and infrared (880nm) |
Treatment Modes | One |
FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
Usage | Three minutes per day |
Wireless | Yes |
Controller | No |
Best Dermatologist Pick: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro
Love It | Leave It |
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Features red and blue lights to target wrinkles and acne | The silicone strap unwinds easily. |
We also recommend the Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite LED EyeCare Max Pro (read more below) if you re looking to shop multiple devices from the same brand. |
Easily one of the most well-known LED face masks on the market, and likely the one you ve seen dominating your TikTok feed, this option by Dr. Dennis Gross lives up to the hype; actress Rachel Zegler even whipped it out in her Vogue beauty secrets installment. As an acne-prone girl, it s my LED mask of choice thanks to the featured blue light therapy benefits. (The brand also has an eye mask to better target under-eye concerns.) “This mask is pretty powerful and offers both blue- and red-light therapy,” Dr. Palm notes. “The hands-free mask also sits flush against the skin, making it easy to use.” Coppola is also a fan of its design. “The firm, structured shape ensures consistent proximity to skin,” she says. “Patients often report more even tone and less redness after a few weeks of use. It’s FDA-cleared and offers great cumulative benefits when used regularly (three to five times per week).”
The mask offers three treatment modes—red light for signs of aging like dark spots and wrinkles, blue light for acne (in addition to the best acne treatments), and a combination of the two for multitasking—to rejuvenate skin in one three-minute treatment. Offering some of the widest light ranges on the market, Dr. Sturm recommends it because it “can treat the widest range of conditions by using blue light for acne, red for wrinkles and brown spots, near infrared for deep dermal collagen stimulation, and amber light to reduce inflammation.” And because it’s wireless, this is rechargeable, utilizing a USB port at the top forehead of the mask.
Mask Type | Mask with silicone strap |
Skin Concerns | Wrinkles, acne, uneven skin tone |
Wavelengths | Four light wavelengths: red (630 - 700nm), blue (400 - 470nm), infrared (800 - 1200nm), and amber (590nm - 630mm) |
Treatment Modes | Three |
FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
Usage | Three minutes per day |
Wireless | Yes |
Controller | No |
Best Affordable LED Face Mask: Skin Gym WrinkLit LED Mask
Love It | Leave It |
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Lightweight and comfortable to wear. | There’s no automatic shut-off feature so keep a timer handy. |
Cannot combine light wavelength modes |
An LED face shield is ideal if you’re not looking for the the mask fit flush onto the skin. With Skin Gym’s version, you simply place the arms over the ears (as you would sunglasses) so the device sits across the eyes with the shield a few inches from the face. It’s comfortable to wear—making it that much simpler to reap its benefits. In 15 to 30 minutes, the wireless mask offers red-, blue-, and amber-light therapy to reveal an unmatched glow, reduced redness, and improved acne-prone skin.
Mask Type | Shielded mask |
Skin Concerns | Redness, acne, dullness |
Wavelengths | Three light wavelengths: red (620nm to 750nm), blue (476nm to 495nm), and amber (590nm to 620nm) |
Treatment Modes | Three |
FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
Usage | 15 to 30 minutes |
Wireless | Yes |
Controller | No |
Best Customizable Treatment: Qure Q-Rejuvalight Pro LED Therapy Mask
Love It | Leave It |
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The app ensures you re using the right light wavelengths to achieve your goals. | The included eye protection googles are a little bulky. |
Five light wavelengths for various types of treatments. |
It’s no secret that targeted facial treatments can be the most effective. Forehead breakouts require a different regimen than say, crow’s feet under the eyes or dark spots along the cheek. These concerns, many of which can be alleviated with consistent LED light therapy, can be tackled simultaneously with Qure’s mask—which boasts unique, customizable features that allows users to personalize their treatment through an app.
Just place the mask over your face, turn it on, and open the app to select your treatment. There are two presets to choose from—Anti-Aging (which uses a mix of amber, red, deep red, and infrared light) or Anti-Breakout (which pairs blue and red light). Use these treatments across the entire face; or, select a combination along the five different facial areas—forehead, nose, temples, cheeks, and chin. (Think: Anti-Breakout for the cheeks and chin, then Anti-Aging for the other areas.) With consistent use, improved skin elasticity, smoothed fine lines, faded dark spots, and reduced inflammation are just a few of its results.
Mask Type | Mask with velcro strap |
Skin Concerns | Fine lines, wrinkles, acne, dullness, redness, inflammation |
Wavelengths | Five light wavelengths: red (630nm), Blue (415nm), Amber (605nm), Deep Red (660nm), and Infrared (880nm) |
Treatment Modes | Three |
FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
Usage | Three minutes per day |
Wireless | Yes |
Controller | No |
Love It | Leave It |
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The cryotherapy chill pads are an added bonus not found in any other LED mask on our list. | It s a bit heavy, so not best for someone interested in a more flexible mask. |
This has a well-rounded light wavelength assortment to treat various concerns. | Under eyes cannot experience light therapy treatment while wearing the chill pads. |
If cryo and LED light therapies had a baby, it would be Shark’s CryoGlow. Via the brand’s InstaChill Cold Technology, it offers a cooling feature designed to tighten and soothe the under-eye in a matter of minutes—it’s the only device of its kind on the market right now. This combination, Coppola explains, may enhance product absorption and reduce inflammation. “While the science behind cryo and LED together is still emerging, I like the concept—cooling can help calm post-procedure skin, and red light adds a regenerative boost,” she says. “I would use this as a relaxing, calming device post-serum application.”
It s worth noting that, you don t have to utilize the cooling feature on each wear. This feature comes via chill pads that can be clipped on or off below the eye holes. If you remove them, trust you re still getting an excellent treatment via a range of intelligent light wavelengths, across 160 tri-wick LEDS (480 light sources). “The Shark Beauty CryoGlow + LED Face mask uses FDA-cleared red, blue, and infrared light giving it the flexibility to treat a wider range of skin concerns including acne, wrinkles or brown spots,” says Sturm. “This infrared technology penetrates deeper in the dermis to improve deeper wrinkles and texture.”
Mask Type | Hard shell mask |
Skin Concerns | Acne, fine lines |
Wavelengths | Three light wavelengths: Blue (415nm), Red (630nm), Deep-Infrared (830nm) |
Treatment Modes | Four |
FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
Usage | Six to fifteen minutes per day |
Wireless | No |
Controller | Yes |
Best for a Glow: HigherDose Red Light Therapeutic Face Mask
Love It | Leave It |
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The silicone is comfortable to wear. | Only one treatment setting |
The head strap ensures the mask stays in place throughout wear. |
Achieving a natural glow is simple with HigherDose’s silicone LED mask, designed to fit seamlessly into an active lifestyle. “[This] has 132 LEDs to deliver red and near infrared wavelengths for a FDA-cleared full face anti-aging [device], making it a good treatment for a patient wanting to treat wrinkles, improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of brown spots and does not have acne concerns,” Dr. Sturm says. That said, Coppola considers it an excellent addition to any holistic beauty approach: “While it doesn’t claim medical-grade status, it does provide mood-boosting benefits as well, perfect for stressed-out skin or someone looking to combine self-care with skin rejuvenation.”
Powered by red and near-infrared light, this treatment can be performed for a minimum of 10 minutes three to five times per week to revive your complexion. Specifically, it uses infrared heat to quell inflammation and rebuild skin tissue in tandem with red light to stop redness and uneven skin tone in their tracks. This LED light therapy face mask is so good, it s even earned the approval of New York City-based dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman, who cited it as an essential step of her regimen.
Mask Type | Flexible, medical-grade silicone mask with head strap |
Skin Concerns | Fine lines, wrinkles, redness, dullness |
Wavelengths | Two light wavelengths: red (630nm) and near-infrared (830nm) |
Treatment Modes | One |
FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
Usage | 10 minutes, three to five times per week |
Wireless | No |
Controller | Yes |
Best Red Light Therapy Spot Treatment: Solawave Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand
Love It | Leave It |
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Seamlessly pairs four treatments into one. | Only one treatment setting. |
The wand is the perfect size to treat small areas of the face like the undereyes or around the mouth. |
Though it’s not a mask, the Solawave wand is one of our favorite LED light therapy tools. From myself to executive fashion director Lisa Aiken, Vogue editors have developed quite a penchant for the multi-purpose device. And as it turns out, the pros are also quite fond of it. “This is a great multitasker,” says Coppola. “While the LED coverage is smaller than a full-face mask, it’s a convenient, portable option for targeted treatment areas. It s ideal for travel or for someone newer to LED therapy who wants a starter device.”
The draw to the Solawave wand goes beyond its convenience; it pairs four treatments in one: red light therapy, microcurrent technology, facial massage, and therapeutic warmth. Here, the red light targets wrinkles, dark spots, sun damage, and blemishes for a youthful glow. Solawave recommends using the wand for five minutes, three times per week.
Mask Type | Wand |
Skin Concerns | Wrinkles, dark spots, inflammation, dullness |
Wavelengths | One light wavelength: red (630nm) |
Treatment Modes | One |
FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
Usage | Five minutes, three times per week |
Wireless | Yes |
Controller | No |
Best Tension-Relieving: Therabody TheraFace Mask
Love It | Leave It |
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The vibrational therapy is an added bonus not found in any other LED mask on our list. | The mask is made from a rigid polycarbonate which is heavier than others on this list. |
Three light modes to combat wrinkles, dark spots, and acne. |
At first glance, Therabody’s TheraFace mask might look like your ordinary LED mask. However, the brand took the technology up a notch by pairing light therapy with vibration therapy—an unexpected tension-relieving benefit that captured my attention. In my test of the device, I found that, yes, with consistent use, my skin felt firmer and bouncier thanks to the LED treatment, but what I most enjoyed was the gentle massage it offered, alleviating my jaw tightness and boosting relaxation. “Although eight weeks are recommended for the best results, I noticed that my skin was calmer and less congested after just a week,” Vogue contributor Deanna Pai wrote in her review. “Even a newfound zit on my chin came and went in a day or so with the help of this mask. I have yet to see a sharper jawline, but my skin does look more supple and smooth than it did—possible proof that my skin is getting its collagen-formation in order.”
The massage brings Therabody’s percussive massage expertise through 17 motors, located on the head straps, gently vibrating along the pressure points of the face and scalp. Skin, on the other hand, is treated through three light modes—red for wrinkles and dark spots, blue for acne, and red+infrared for firming. All this can be completed in a nine-minute treatment, cycling through each light wavelength, or in a three-minute session for one individual light wavelength.
Mask Type | Mask with protective eye masks (removable, made of medical-grade silicone) |
Skin Concerns | Fine lines, wrinkles, acne, dullness, inflammation, facial tension |
Wavelengths | Three light wavelengths: red, blue, and red+infrared, 17 QX-Micro Motors |
Treatment Modes | Three |
FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
Usage | 3 to 15 minutes per day, depending on the treatment |
Wireless | Yes |
Controller | No |
Best LED Light Therapy Mask for Inflammation: MZ Skin Lightmax Supercharged LED Mask 2.0
Love It | Leave It |
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This has a well-rounded light wavelength assortment to treat various concerns. | The mask can have an awkward fit based on facial size. |
What sets MZ Skin’s device apart from the rest is not just that it mimics an in-office treatment with Maryam Zamani, MD, but the FDA-registered mask has two different light settings to choose from. These two treatment modes inform who should use the device. The first is anti-aging—a combination of red and near-infrared to boost collagen production, reduce inflammation, and smooth wrinkles. The second is for treating acne via a combination of red and blue light wavelengths designed to rejuvenate skin while combatting acne-fighting bacteria. This combination makes it an excellent choice for someone interested in collagen production and boosting skin elasticity, while also addressing persistent breakouts.
Mask Type | Mask with adjustable strap |
Skin Concerns | Fine lines, wrinkles, acne, dullness, inflammation |
Wavelengths | Three light wavelengths: red (630nm), near-infrared (830nm),and blue (415nm) |
Treatment Modes | Two |
FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
Usage | 10 minutes, four times per week |
Wireless | No |
Controller | Yes |
Best Intensive Treatment: Déesse Pro LED Phototherapy Mask
Love It | Leave It |
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This has a well-rounded light wavelength assortment to treat various concerns. | Price may be too high for some consumers |
Despite its hard shell, the Déesse Pro LED Phototherapy Mask is surprisingly lightweight, held into place with a secure head strap and removable eye inserts for those who prefer a bit of cushion there. Clearly, the brand has put a lot of thought into addressing all the pain points around utlizing—and reaping the benefits—of an at-home light therapy mask. “This is a premium device with a higher price point, but it offers multiple wavelengths beyond just red and near-infrared, including blue and green,” Dr. Trempathi explains, which makes it versatile for targeting different skin concerns. “With 308 LEDs, it delivers excellent coverage and bulb density.”
According to Dr. Spearman, the Déesse Pro’s FDA-cleared professional-grade design makes it a great choice for those looking for a more intensive treatment—apt to target various problem areas like acne and signs of aging. These concerns are solved via six light therapy modes. If you want to use one singular wavelength—red to boost collagen and reduce wrinkles, blue to kill acne-fighting bacteria, green to diminish pigmentation—are available. There’s even a Rejuvenating Express mode for an intensified red light therapy session. Near-infrared, red, and blue lights come together to accelerate skin repair, whereas the last treatment mode dubbed “Calming” pairs blue and green lights to quell inflammation and redness. That said, this mask is best for someone whose skin concerns vary wildly, with the option for various modalities at their disposal.
Mask Type | Hard shell mask with protective eye inserts (removable, made with medical-grade silicone) |
Skin Concerns | Fine lines, wrinkles, acne, inflammation, redness |
Wavelengths | Four light wavelengths: red (630nm), blue (415nm), green (545nm), near-infrared (830nm) |
Treatment Modes | Six |
FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
Usage | 20 minutes, 2 to 4 times per week |
Wireless | No |
Controller | Yes |
Everything You Need To Know
What is LED light therapy?
“LED stands for light emitting diode, a light source that shines on (and penetrates into) the skin,” Dr. Jennifer MacGregor previously told Vogue. Blue, red, and near-infrared are the most common: “The light penetrates into the skin and affects gene expression and cellular function leading to a variety of effects in the skin that are only partially understood.” All that said, she emphasizes that red light therapy really works. “How it works and how much it works is related to the target indication, wavelength of light used (affects depth of penetration and action), how much power the light source has, and how long (duration) the light is used on the skin.”
Are LED face masks effective?
“Studies suggest that LED light therapy masks can benefit the skin,” board-certified dermatologist Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose says. “Depending on the device and wavelength of light, benefits include treating acne, promoting collagen production, preventing signs of aging including fine lines and wrinkles, decreasing inflammation, and reducing hyperpigmentation, among others. Results vary depending on the device, wavelength, consistency of use, and individual skin qualities.”
According to Murphy-Rose, data suggests that LED light therapy can work to promote hair growth, too. “The mechanism is believed to be light induced increase of blood flow supporting nutrient delivery, increased ATP generation to stimulate hair follicle cells, and decreased inflammation, which promotes growth and deters loss,” she explains. “Data suggests red and near infrared light therapy in the range of 630-700nm and 810-850nm as the best for supporting hair growth.”
Benefits of Light Therapy For Your Skin
According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Melanie Palm, the treatment works through different wavelengths of LED light to penetrate the skin at different depths to effectively combat acne, inflammation, swelling, signs of aging, collagen production, rosacea, and even minor wounds. Keep in mind that these work best to supplement a well-rounded routine of in-office treatments, a thorough skin-care routine, and consistent use.
What color light therapy do you need?
Choose the light therapy color based on your desired results. “For example, someone with acne-prone skin might consider adding bacteria-killing blue-light therapy into their blemish-fighting skin-care routine, which would already include steps like cleansing, toning, and using topical acne-fighting serums formulated with retinol or AHAs/BHAs,” advises Dr. Palm. Below, more on the benefits of the most popular light therapy wavelengths.
Red: Red light is the most popular wavelength—“often used for anti-aging benefits as it has been shown to stimulate collagen production as well as decreasing inflammation, promoting healing and improving circulation,” per Murphy-Rose.
Infrared: “Near-infrared light has similar benefits as red light therapy but penetrates deeper into the skin,” Murphy-Rose continues. It is often considered a more powerful treatment for wrinkles and skin elasticity.
Blue: Blue light is a solid acne treatment as this light wavelength has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which kills acne-causing bacteria.
Yellow: “Yellow light is thought to help reduce redness, inflammation, and irritation,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mina Amin.
What is the most effective LED light wavelength?
The most robust data comes from studies of red (620-750nm), infrared (760-1400nm), and blue (450-495nm) light therapies, according to Murphy-Rose.
What’s the difference between LED and red light therapy?
“LED and red-light therapy are both light-based treatments, but they serve different purposes and work in distinct ways,” explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Pooja Rambhia. “LED (Light-Emitting Diode) therapy encompasses a spectrum of monochromatic lights of different wavelengths each targeting specific skin concerns; for example blue light (470-480nm) targets acne-causing bacteria.” Whereas, red light—a specific type of LED therapy—uses concentrated red wavelengths (630 – 700nm) (or near-infrared light) to penetrate deeper into the dermis, where it stimulates mitochondrial activity, essentially powering up our cells’ energy centers “to reduce inflammation, increase cell regeneration, help healing properties, repair tissue, increase circulation, and relaxation,” board-certified dermatologist Dr. Noah Gratch explains.
What is the difference between red light therapy at-home verses an in-office treatment?
Rambhia explains that the key differences between at-home and in-office red light therapy lie in the devices’ power, precision, and treatment protocols. “Professional in-office devices typically deliver higher energy outputs and more concentrated wavelengths, allowing for deeper penetration and potentially more efficient results in shorter treatment times,” she says. “In-office treatments benefit from medical supervision and precise calibration of treatment parameters for each patient’s specific needs. At-home devices, while more convenient and cost-effective for long-term use, generally have lower power outputs and may require longer or more frequent sessions to achieve similar results.” This is because they’re designed with consumer safety in mind, meant to be used without professional guidance, in order to avoid potential skin damage.
The two treatments differ in specs as well: “Red light therapy at home is measured in irradiance, whereas in the office it is measured in nanometers,” Gratch notes. “Treatments at home can range from 10 to 30 minutes, whereas treatments in the office are shorter and can last 10-20 minutes. Red light therapy in the office tends to be more powerful and results are much faster. However, there is a difference in cost–red light therapy at home tends to be more cost-effective than in-office treatments.” Lower costs means that more people can experience the benefits—in our perspective, a worthwhile trade-off. To maximize the benefits of your at-home treatment, use it as often as your routine allows—during your morning get-ready session, amidst busy computer work, or even an at-night Netflix viewing. The results are cumulative!
How to Choose an LED Face Mask
When you choose an LED face mask, consider what you’re looking to treat and how you plan on using it.
- LED Light Wavelengths: “Acne-prone individuals would benefit from blue light; those more concerned with anti-aging or psoriasis would benefit from red-light therapy; and those with hyperpigmentation or minor scarring would benefit from green light,” Dr. Palm says, noting that one should ideally use the mask three to four times per week for best results. She instructs us to avoid harsh or over-exfoliating products while using LED; rather, reach for gentle, moisturizing salves.
- Technical Specs: Skin concerns and type of LED light aside, the technical specs can also be helpful in understanding which mask is for you. Someone interested in multitasking, say cleaning your space or getting some work done, while masking might appreciate a lightweight, cordless device. Someone who is interested in a mask for targeted areas of the face, like the eyes or miscellaneous dark spots, might gravitate toward a smaller gadget like a wand.
- Eye Protection: Those with sensitive eyes may benefit from an LED mask featuring removable eye shields that can help limit the strain during your wear. Additionally, these goggles add a bit of padding to the orbital bone, alleviating any additional discomfort.
- Wireless: Do you plan on multitasking during your ten minute-plus light therapy session, or will you be sitting still in a spa-like position? Understanding your schedule, and the reality of IRL usage, can also help inform which mask you choose. Realistically, someone keen on multitasking should pick a wireless option that does not require wielding around a cord or controller, whereas someone more still could care less. In our experience, it s a minor, but relevant bit to consider.
- Warranty: When purchasing, just take a look at the warranty options for your mask of choice. Like any skin-care device, this tool is an investment you surely want to get fixed or even replace if something goes wrong. Consistent use, after all, is required to improve how skin looks.
Are LED face masks safe?
While the advanced LED lights might feel intimidating, Dr. Palm explains that light therapy is considered safe with very little risk of side effects or overdoing the treatment; just opt for an FDA-cleared device, follow the instructions, and watch for any signs of irritation.
How often should you use an LED face mask?
Dr. Amin recommends using an LED face mask three to five times per week for at least 12 weeks to see best results. But of course, specific instructions vary depending on your chosen device. “Choose a reputable brand and follow manufacturer guidelines for best use,” Dr. Murphy-Rose adds.
Do LED masks need to be FDA-approved?
“LED face masks don’t technically need to be FDA approved to be sold, but I usually recommend choosing one that is FDA cleared or approved to make sure it has been reviewed for safety and effectiveness,” Dr. Spearman states. “Using a cleared or approved product helps reduce the risk of irritation or harm and increases the chances of getting actual skin benefits.” To be safe, all of the devices on our list here are FDA-cleared for at-home use.
What is the difference between FDA-approved and FDA-cleared?
Per Dr. Spearman, FDA-cleared means the device has been found to be similar to another product already on the market and considered safe for use, a common label given to at-home skincare devices. “FDA approved means the product has gone through more advanced testing and clinical review, which is typically reserved for higher risk medical products,” she says. "So while both are regulated by the FDA, ‘cleared’ is more common for beauty devices, and “approved” generally applies to more serious testing.”
Dermatologist Tips for Using an LED Face Mask
Dr. Spearman s first tip is that consistency is key. “For best results, it’s important to use the device several times a week, following the timing instructions closely, usually around ten minutes per session,” she continues. “Overusing the mask can cause irritation, so it’s best to stick to the recommended routine. I also recommend combining LED treatments with a solid skincare routine, like using sunscreen during the day and a good moisturizer or serum. Lastly, choosing a mask that fits your specific skin goals, like red light for anti-aging or blue light for acne.”
How to Use an LED Face Mask
Generally speaking, your chosen light therapy treatment should be used atop clean, dry skin. So, use the best face wash—we love the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Gentle Facial Cleanser—or, give skin a midday refresh with micellar water before you begin your light therapy treatment by following the instructions on your mask or wand. Once complete, follow with face serums carefully chosen to your concerns—perhaps a vitamin C serum in the morning or a retinol at night—eye cream and barrier-strengthening face cream by Chanel or Avène.
How long does it take an LED face mask to work?
Reiterating Dr. Spearman s aforementioned point about consistency, how long it takes to see results is certainly dependent upon usage as directed. “LED face masks don’t work overnight, but you can start seeing small changes like reduced redness or smoother skin within a few weeks,” she says. “More visible improvements, like better skin texture, fewer breakouts, or reduced fine lines, typically take about four to eight weeks of consistent use. Continued improvement usually happens with long term use over a few months.”
Who should avoid using LED lights?
LED therapy is generally considered safe, though there are a few exceptions, according to Coppola.
- Photosensitive Conditions: “Anyone with photosensitivity disorders (like lupus or porphyria) or who experiences light-induced migraines should avoid LED devices unless cleared by their provider.”
- Certain Medications: “If you re taking medications that increase light sensitivity (like isotretinoin, doxycycline, or certain anti-seizure drugs), LED therapy can cause adverse skin reactions. Always check with your prescribing doctor first.”
- Pregnancy: “Although there’s no strong evidence of harm, I advise pregnant patients to consult with their OB-GYN before starting any new light-based therapy.”
- Active Skin Infections or Rashes: “Avoid using LED masks over active cold sores, open wounds, or inflamed skin conditions like eczema flare-ups. Wait until the skin barrier is intact.”
- Eye Conditions: “If you have a history of glaucoma or cataracts, you should not use LED therapy without consulting your ophthalmologist first, particularly with eye treatments,” Sturm adds.
As always, consult your physician or provider with any questions.
How We Tested
When we test and review a product, we take a holistic approach to deliver well-rounded product recommendations. First, we lean on Vogue s vast network of experts—from board-certified dermatologists to celebrity estheticians—to gain professional acumen on the industry s standout products, ones these specialists would actually use on their clients. We pair their expertise with our editorial best practices to curate the thoughtful edits you read on our site.
As it relates to LED face masks, we selected the best based on the following characteristics after at least 30 days of testing: light wavelengths, treatment types, comfort, and additional benefits offered. To do this, we paired our own personal tests of each formula with expert guidance and reviewer insights to determine which we would recommend to you.
Meet The Skin-Care Experts
- Dr. Mina Amin is a Los Angeles-based dermatologist at California Dermatology Specialists.
- Vanessa Coppola, APN-C, FNP-BC, is a board-certified nurse practitioner, aesthetic expert, and founder of Bare Aesthetics Medspa Wellness in New Jersey.
- Dr. Noah Gratch is a board-certified dermatologist, serves patients from throughout Manhattan, Commack and Plainview, NY at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology Cosmetic Surgery.
- Dr. Jennifer MacGregor is a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist with fellowship training in cutaneous laser surgery and dermatologic procedures.
- Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist seeing patients in New York and Newport Beach; she’s also the founder of Skincare Junkie.
- Dr. Melanie Palm is a San Diego-based, board-certified dermatologist, fellowship-trained dermatologic cosmetic surgeon, and founder of Art of Skin MD.
- Dr. Pooja Rambhia is a board-certified dermatologist with specialized fellowship training in cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery.
- Dr. Azadeh Shirazi is a California-based board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology.
- Dr. Divya Shokeen is a California-based board-certified dermatologist at the Ocean Skin and Vein Institute.
- Dr. Dara Spearman is a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Radiant Dermatology Associates practicing in Fort Wayne, IN.
- Dr. Angela Sturm is a Texas-based double board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in facelifts and rhinoplasty.
- Dr. Prem Tripathi is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon and CEO of Bay Hills Plastic Surgery.