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Let’s address the cherry-colored elephant in the room: Does red light therapy actually work? It’s a question I, for one, have pondered many times as I watch Hailey Bieber move through her beauty routine or see the praises of the best red therapy devices sung everywhere. Don’t get me wrong: Red light therapy (RLT) looks cool, and I have quite the collection of devices scattered across my bedside table and bathroom shelves. But are the red light therapy wands, red light therapy wands, and helmets all competing for my chargers actually doing anything, apart from casting an alluringly selfie-ready glow?
Vogue’s Favorite Red Light Therapy Devices
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The answer is yes, at-home LED therapy can work to improve skin health—and devices for home use even their advantages to professional treatments. But there is a caveat. “Whilst clinic LED treatments are both effective and popular, at-home devices are a much more cost-effective and convenient way of using LED,” says Laurence Newman, founder and CEO of Currentbody. “You can use it more consistently at home, resulting in better long-term effects on the skin.” That said, red light is an additional complexion aid—not an excuse to skip out on skincare. “Optimal at-home results will be achieved while combining light therapy treatments with a well-designed skincare routine,” says Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist.
Ahead, discover everything you need to know about red light therapy at home, and Vogue’s top picks for the devices that are worth their weight in wavelengths.
- What is it?
- The Benefits of Red Light Therapy
- How often should you use red light therapy?
- How quickly will you see results from red light therapy?
- Is red light therapy safe?
- How to Find the Best Red Light Therapy Device for You
- Do red light therapy devices work?
- Is there a difference between infrared and red light therapy?
- What skin types most benefit from red light therapy?
- Are home red light therapy devices worth it?
- What wavelength of red light should you use?
- Are at-home red light therapy tools as effective as in-office options?
- How We Tested
- Meet the Experts
Best Red Light Therapy Mask: CurrentBody Series 2 Mask
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Covers the entire face, with proven results from the brand s clinical studies | Some say the mask’s velcro straps don’t do a great job of holding it in place, especially when they try to move around |
Vogue-verified, CurrentBody’s original LED light therapy device—which launched in 2018—is internationally beloved by editors and celebrities alike. The flexible silicone device covers the entire face, and was clinically proven to reduce wrinkles by 35% in four weeks. The Series 2, launched this October, offers an upgrade on the cult-classic OG. “I love this new version of the device for its enhanced coverage and wearability,” Dr. Engelman says. “It features 236 LED bulbs that emit a combination of red, near-infrared, and deep near-infrared light. These varied wavelengths work together to boost collagen production, improve circulation, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.” The newer model was designed to comfortably fit a wider range of face sizes and shapes than the original product, and it contours to the chin as well as to the face. It’s also equipped with new, multiway straps, which make the new device ultra-secure (according to the brand, it will even stay on during a pilates class.)
| Device Type | Mask, flexible silicone |
| Best For | This offers anti-aging benefits including wrinkle reduction and cellular renewal. |
| Target Area | Face |
| Treatment Time | 10 minutes, three to five times per week |
| FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
| Specs | 236 lights across three light wavelengths: red (633nm), near-infrared (830nm), and deep near-infrared (1072nm), clip-on controller, optional eye inserts, USB-C charging cable |
| Wireless | Yes |
Best for Contour: Laduora Lumeo SkinLift 4D Current Red Light Therapy Kit
| Love It | Leave It |
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| Offers four therapies in one, quick and easy to use. | Some users report that the device can stop working after a short time. |
Why We Love It: When celebrities like Jenna Ortega want to hit the red carpet with intensely chiseled cheekbones, they throw a little Laduora Lumeo treatment into their glam session. Beloved by pro makeup artists, the device harnesses red light therapy, near-infrared light, and the patented 4D Infusion technology to snatch the face into sleek, contoured shape. Clinically proven to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, the device—a favorite of pro makeup artists—also lends a hint of the spa to one’s daily beauty routine. Its therapeutic massage is like a mini facial that boosts circulation for a fresh-from-the-treatment-table glow.
| Device Type | Wand |
| Best For | Smoothing and lifting the skin |
| Target Area | Face and neck |
| Treatment Time | Three minutes, three to five times per week |
| FDA-Approved | No |
| Specs | Red light therapy (630 nm), near-infrared light (850 nm), 4D Current Infusion (patented waveforms for targeted toning) |
| Wireless | Yes |
Best Spot Treatment: Solawave Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Lightweight, travel-friendly, four-in-one device | Only covers a small area of the face at a time, treatment time may feel long |
A Vogue editor favorite, Solawave’s four-in-one device handily smooths fine lines and wrinkles, brightens dark circles, and boosts serum absorption in just a few minutes with consistent use. All the while, it delivers a depuffing face massage, which boosts circulation. “This handheld, travel-friendly device is a fantastic tool that combines red light therapy, galvanic current, massage, and warmth to address a range of skin concerns,” Dr. Engelman says. “The galvanic current works to tone and firm the face while reducing puffiness for a brighter and smoother complexion. Plus, the vibration massages serums into the skin barrier to enhance absorption.”
| Device Type | Wand |
| Best For | Suited for all skin types, the wand targets fine lines and wrinkles, crow’s feet, dark circles, and blemishes. |
| Target Area | Face |
| Treatment Time | Three minutes per region |
| FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
| Specs | 7 LEDs across one light wavelength: red (630nm), wireless |
| Wireless | Yes |
Best K-Beauty: Medicube Age-R Booster Pro
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| The multitasking device has six modes and is simple to use. | It focuses on the superficial layers of the skin, so results may not be particularly long-lasting. |
Made TikTok-famous with help from celebrities like Hailey Bieber—who used the six-in-one device in a buzzy “Get Ready With Me” video a couple of years ago—Medicube’s K-beauty sensation piqued the curiosity of Vogue’s senior beauty shopping writer, Kiana Murden. Before testing the much-hyped product, Murden checked in with dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman, who echoed Bieber’s sentiments. “I love the Medicube Age-R Booster-H,” Dr. Engelman told Murden. “I use it nightly for five minutes all over my face—super easy, painless, and efficient.” With five colors of LED light, including red to promote elasticity and green to plump fine lines and wrinkles, the product’s main claim to fame is its ability to enhance product absorption and create the glass-skin glow that’s a hallmark of the best K-beauty products. And how does it do this, you may ask? “The Medicube Age-R Boosteer-H works by generating electro-passageways through electrical stimulation, allowing your products to penetrate the skin more deeply,” Dr. Engelman said. “According to clinical studies by the brand, this device increases skin permeability by 490%, allowing for better product absorption, amplifying the benefits of your skin care and helping skin become healthier and more glowy.”
| Device Type | Wand |
| Best For | Enhanced product absorption, elasticity, plumping fine lines and wrinkles |
| Target Area | Face |
| Treatment Time | Five to 10 minutes, one to three times per day |
| FDA-Approved | No |
| Specs | Five LED colors, Age-R app with step-by-step instructions, USB charging cable |
| Wireless | Yes |
Best for Neck: Currentbody Skin LED Neck and Dec Perfector
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Treats often neglected areas on the neck and chest, lightweight, easy to use | Some users report difficulty making returns |
Currentbody’s lightweight device wraps comfortably around the neck and the decolletage, where its red and near-infrared lights stimulate collagen production and give the skin a smoother, more youthful appearance. “So many of my patients are focused on their face, but I always remind them we can’t ignore our neck and chest,” board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nicole Ruth says. “CurrentBody’s neck and chest mask is lightweight and comfortable. You can use it while sitting in bed reading or catching up on emails.” Dr. Engelman adds: “This is a targeted device for the neck and chest area, which is often neglected from sun protection, causing accelerated aging. It uses red light at 633 nanometers and infrared light at 830 nanometers to stimulate cell renewal for firmer and tighter skin.”
| Device Type | Neck and decolletage device |
| Best For | The anti-aging device has been clinically proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkles in just four weeks. |
| Target Area | Neck, chest |
| Treatment Time | 10 minutes, four times per week |
| FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
| Specs | 50 LEDs across two light wavelengths: red (633nm) and infrared (830nm), controller |
| Wireless | No |
Best for Blemishes: Omnilux Blemish Eraser
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Equipped with two wavelengths of light | Not recommended for those on Accutane or with photosensitivity issues |
For stubborn pimples, look no further than the Omnilux Blemish Eraser. The disc-shaped version of the aforementioned Contour Face, this device excels at hyper-targeted treatments that clear up the complexion in a flash. Using two wavelengths of light—one red and one blue—the mini device comes with a hydrocolloid patch. Infused with salicylic acid and green tea to decongest the pores and sweep impurities from the surface of the skin, the patch sticks to the device, which is then applied to the face. Is this the pimple patch of the future? Perhaps, just perhaps.
| Device Type | Patch |
| Best For | The device treats acne, inflammation, and redness making it an excellent hi-tech spot treatment. |
| Target Area | Blemishes |
| Treatment Time | 10 minutes, four times per week until the blemish is gone |
| FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
| Specs | Two wavelengths: 415nm (blue) and 633nm (red), set includes 14 hydrocolloid patches |
| Wireless | Yes |
Best for Hair Growth: Currentbody LED Hair Growth Helmet
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Easy to use, stimulates hair growth, thickens existing hair | May be too delicate for travel |
Said to increase the rate of hair growth by 128% in as little as 12 weeks, Currentbody’s LED-studded helmet was designed to elicit a lusher mane. The high-tech helmet is embedded with red lights that emit wavelengths of 620 to 660 nanometers. These wavelengths are no accident: They’ve been clinically shown to stimulate hair follicles, tame inflammation, and lower levels of the hormone dihydrotestosterone, which can cause hair thinning and loss. To use the helmet, simply strap it on for 10 minutes a day. Vogue contributor Danielle James tested the helmet for six months and reported: “Within 6 weeks, I noticed less shedding. By week 8, the overall health of my hair improved: It looked shinier, stronger, and just felt better. By week 20, I noticed new growth. I believe I would have seen it sooner if I’d used the device daily.” Nicole Ruth, DO, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York, adds: “As a dermatologist, I love the CurrentBody LED Hair Growth Helmet for its evidence-based use of red light therapy to stimulate hair follicles and prolong the anagen, or growth, phase of the hair cycle.” She confirms that with consistent use, the device can improve hair density and thickness in patients with androgenetic alopecia or diffuse thinning. “It offers a safe, non-invasive adjunct to topical and systemic treatments,” she concludes.
| Device Type | Helmet |
| Best For | Speeding up hair growth, thickening existing hair |
| Target Area | Scalp |
| Treatment Time | 10 minutes |
| FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
| Specs | FDA cleared, protective base, emits red light at 620 to 660nm, USB powered, available in two sizes |
| Wireless | Yes |
Best Attachment: NuFace Trinity+ Red Light Wrinkle Reducer Attachment
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| The attachments firms the skin, but also boosts circulation for an instantly visible glow. | It is not compatible with all NuFace devices, only the Trinity+ Smart Device. |
It’s no secret that the NuFace Trinity+ is beloved among Vogue editors, celebrities, and industry insiders alike—and after all, what’s not to love? The skin-care classic lifts, firms, and tones the skin to keep it alluringly contoured and glowing just so, and this wrinkle-reducing attachment simply amplifies its powers. “This offers more clinical support, particularly for facial toning via microcurrent and collagen support via red LED therapy,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jane Yoo, MD. “It utilizes 633 nm red LED for collagen stimulation and fine lines.” She adds that the device is also FDA-cleared to support microcurrent claims and has some published studies behind it. For those looking for more dramatic lifting, “This can be an effective adjunct for in-office procedures for patients to do at-home maintenance when used consistently,” Dr. Yoo adds. She recommends pairing it with radiofrequency or ultrasound treatments, microneedling, or injectables.
| Device Type | NuFace attachment |
| Best For | Targeting crow’s feet, smile lines, and forehead wrinkles |
| Target Area | Face |
| Treatment Time | Three minutes per treatment area twice a day |
| FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
| Specs | One light wavelength, red (633nm) |
| Wireless | Yes |
Best Red Light Therapy Panel: Celluma Home
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Relieves pain in muscles and joints, works all over the body | The panels are large, making storage tricky in small spaces |
Celluma Home’s LED device offers full-body benefits thanks to its large light panels. On the face, it uses red and near-infrared wavelengths to smooth fine lines and wrinkles; on the body, it can also help with wound healing and relieve pain in muscles and joints. “This unique device has been FDA-cleared for not only aging skin but also for pain such as arthritis and muscle strains. It can be used on various parts of the body for accelerated recovery.” Though its panels are large, the device also lends itself to on-the-god use—it’s surprisingly easy to stow in luggage or bags.
| Device Type | Panel |
| Best For | Wound healing, anti-aging, and pain relief. When used on the face, the corded panel is positioned onto two face rests. It can also be placed directly onto the shoulders, the lower back, or any other area calling for pain relief. |
| Target Area | Targeted areas along the face and body |
| Treatment Time | 30 minutes per day |
| FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
| Specs | 236 LEDS (plus 4 green indicator lights) across three light waavelengths Blue (465nm), red (640nm ), and near-infrared (880nm) |
| Wireless | No |
Best Multipurpose: Therabody TheraFace PRO
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Relieves tension, comes with three percussive attachments | Some report that the device’s vibrations are somewhat loud |
Want your light therapy with a side of percussive massage? Therabody’s TheraFace Pro is just for you. “This FDA-approved device helps with skin toning using microcurrent and tension-reducing, circulation-boosting facial massage,” medical aesthetician Audrey Matney previously said. It does so via a few handy attachments that fit interchangeably on the wand base. Attach the LED ring for a red, blue, or red + infrared light therapy treatment—which can also be utilized simultaneously with one of the percussive cones to relax facial muscles. Switch these out for the microcurrent wand to sculpt and tone; or, the cleansing ring to wipe away dirt and impurities.
| Device Type | Wand |
| Best For | Excellent for those who want the benefits of light therapy paired with other treatments, the TheraFace Pro is a dream multipurpose tool. |
| Target Area | Face |
| Treatment Time | 8 minutes |
| FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
| Specs | LED Light Therapy Ring featuring three light wavelengths: red (633nm), blue (415nm), and infrared (830nm), three percussive attachments, microcurrent ring, deep cleansing ring |
Best Full-Body Panel: Sunlighten Red Light Therapy Panel
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Performs more than 20 treatments, treats the whole body in one sitting | The panel’s large size may make it difficult to store |
A red light therapy panel is excellent for those looking to treat the entire body in one sitting. Of the best, Sunlighten’s is an editor favorite. Lined with 200 lights framed in a handcrafted eucalyptus wood, this is a sleek yet powerful means to meeting your beauty goals. The device works via an app that offers over 20 guided treatments designed for red light therapy users of all levels from beginner to intermediate. Of course, there s a targeted skin-care treatment; but also options for those seeking muscle recovery, reduced inflammation, improved energy, better sleep, immune health, and reduced cellulite—making recommendations for different durations and positions to achieve the best results. “As a board-certified internist with a focus on whole-body longevity, I recommend the more comprehensive, stronger, and deeper level of treatment from a red-light therapy panel,” Dr. Amanda Kahn told Vogue contributor Emily Orofino in her test of the device. Plus, this features both red and near-infrared lights for deeper repair. “This allows the light to target not only the skin but also underlying tissues, muscles, and joints by enhancing blood flow, aiding in nutrient delivery, reducing inflammation, and further promoting healing," Lisa Chevalier, PA-C and founder of So-Vous Medical Spa in New York previously said.
| Device Type | Panel |
| Best For | This is best for not only skin rejuvenation, but full body healing—from reducing inflammation to muscle recovery and better sleep. |
| Target Area | Full Body |
| Treatment Time | 5–15 minutes |
| FDA-Approved | No, FDA-registered |
| Specs | 200 LEDs (100 red, 100 near infrared), 35”H x 11”W x 2.76”D in size, 22 pounds in weight, includes protective goggles, a remote control, and a power cord, and pairs with an app |
Best Handheld: LightStim for Wrinkles
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Customizable treatment options, ideal for spot treatments | Those with ultra-sensitive skin may experience redness or irritation with prolonged use |
Embedded with 72 LED lights that emit wavelengths of light red, dark red, infrared, and amber, this handheld device treats wrinkles everywhere on the face—including the forehead, crow’s feet, and lips. “LightStim is the OG red light wand and stands out for its FDA-cleared technology and customizable treatment options,” says Bassiri-Tehrani. “It uses a range of wavelengths to penetrate different skin layers, targeting fine lines and wrinkles to improve firmness and elasticity with regular use. It’s also a great option to help target trouble areas because it’s a wand.” Dr. Corey L. Hartman, a board-certified dermatologist based in Birmingham, Alabama, also signs off on the device. “LightStim for Wrinkles is a favorite of many patients and I like it as a spot treatment because you can it use in key areas of concern,” he says. “The device can help reduce pore size, firm and tone skin, and increase skin’s elasticity for a more youthful, refreshed appearance. Plus, the LED light helps stimulate the production of collagen and elastin for an ongoing benefit.”
| Device Type | Wand |
| Best For | The wrinkle-taming device was designed for maturing skin. |
| Target Area | Face, body, neck, hands, etc |
| Treatment Time | Three minutes per target area |
| FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
| Specs | 72 LEDs across four light wavelengths: amber, light red, dark red and infrared, |
| Wireless | No |
Best Clinically Reviewed: OmniLux Contour Face
| Love It | Leave It |
|---|---|
| Comfortably fits most face shapes, can relax muscles while providing skincare benefits | Doesn’t treat acne |
Another Vogue favorite, this device targets skin-care concerns ranging from fine lines and wrinkles to redness and dark spots, using two wavelengths of light: Red 633 nm and near-infrared 830 nm. “I like the Omnilux Contour Face red light device,” Hartman says. “It’s on the pricier end, but the contour shape fits nearly everyone comfortably and enables the red light to reach all around the face for maximum efficacy. The device is FDA-cleared for use and Omnilux backs up the claims with strong, clinically reviewed and published research.” As for how to optimize use, Bassiri-Therani explains that “For effective skin rejuvenation, the ideal red light wavelength falls between 600 to 700 nanometers,” elaborating that 630 to 660 nm targets the skin s upper layers, promoting collagen and elastin, while wavelengths around 850 nm penetrate deeper, helping with muscle relaxation and circulation improvement.”
| Device Type | Mask, flexible silicone |
| Best For | This effectively targets fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots, and redness. |
| Target Area | Face |
| Treatment Time | 10 minutes, three to five times per week |
| FDA-Approved | Yes, FDA-cleared |
| Specs | 132 LEDs across two light wavelengths: red (633nm) and near-infrared (830nm), rechargeable battery controller, adjustable head strap |
| Wireless | No |
Everything You Need to Know
What is red light therapy?
“Red light therapy is a treatment that exposes skin to low levels of red or near-infrared light (most devices utilize 630 to 700 nm wavelength of light),” says board-certified dermatologist Blair Murphy-Rose, MD. “Red light has been shown to reduce inflammation in the skin and to stimulate fibroblasts to produce collagen, which can reduce and prevent wrinkles and can improve skin texture.”
“Unlike UV light which is associated with skin cancer and premature and accelerated aging, LED light is the visible spectrum of light which can have benefits in the skin,” says New York-based dermatologist Dr. Whitney Bowe, MD. “The longer the wavelength (i.e. red light), the deeper the penetration into the skin. Red LED lights induce changes in the skin through a process known as photo-biomodulation, which doesn’t require injury or trauma.”
The healing benefits of the treatment were first noted in the late 1980s, the hypothesis furthered, somewhat accidentally, by NASA. (NASA scientists who worked under the red and blue LEDs used to mimic photosynthesis for potato growth noted that wound healing, namely that of cuts and scrapes on their hands, seemed to be occurring more quickly.)
Now, red light therapy is a commonplace treatment in medi spas and living rooms alike. “LED (“light emitting diode”) therapy is used in-office with other complementary treatments like microneedling, chemical peels, or laser treatments,” says Bowe. “It’s a noninvasive treatment that shouldn’t involve any heat.”
What are the benefits of red light therapy?
As noted by Murphy-Rose, regular use of red light therapy reduces inflammation and ramp up both collagen production and collagen density, leading to improved skin texture and reduced wrinkles over time. The treatment has also been used to treat pattern hair loss and alopecia and to reduce body fat.
“Red light therapy is thought to promote collagen synthesis in the dermal layer of the skin and help to dial down inflammation in the skin,” says Bowe. “The light interacts with the skin to stimulate regeneration, healing, and repair of skin cells and supports our healthy collagen production and skin elasticity.” These benefits can be applied to scarring, fine lines, and acne, too, though the latter is commonly treated with blue light.
“In clinic, benefits range across skin rejuvenation (collagen production, fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation) right through to healing (using near-infrared light),” says Laurence Newman, Founder and CEO of CurrentBody. The dialing down of inflammation has more benefits than simply reducing redness: When used on certain areas of the body, phototherapy (aka light therapy) may help to reduce pain and soreness and even heal deeper tissues.
How often should you use red light therapy?
Frequency and duration of red light exposure depend on the “what” and “where” of your red light therapy device. “In-office red light devices are significantly more powerful than the devices you can get at home, and the at-home devices that are FDA-cleared are safer and more effective than the ones that are not FDA-cleared,” says Bowe. “When we are referring to at-home devices, I recommend patients stick with regular use (daily or 3-4x/week) for at least 6 weeks to give the device a chance to work.” Bowe goes on to note that skin-firming results can require up to three months of a regular red light routine.
How quickly will you see results from red light therapy?
While benefits like improved signs of photoaging and collagen boosting may take a few months, red light can calm inflammation in a single 10-minute session—the dermatologist-recommended span of exposure.
Are there any risks with red light therapy?
Red light therapy is generally considered a safe and effective method for all skin types, but there are a few common sense caveats. Step one: close your eyes.
“If you’re keeping your eyes open, the light can cause damage,” says Bowe. Next, your red light device, nor your skin, should never be hot, or even warm. “If the wavelengths of light are creating heat, that can trigger pigment producing cells in your skin to pump out more melanin, so you want to be especially cautious that it isn’t emitting heat if you are prone to hyperpigmentation.”
Murphy-Rose adds that it’s best to chat with your medical provider prior to using red light if you have any conditions that make you more photosensitive or take medications that increase your photosensitivity. And before you buy that pricey device, make sure it’s been properly vetted. “I would always recommend doing your research before investing in an LED device,” says Newman. “Not all LEDs are made the same, it’s very important to check that your device operates at the correct wavelengths to offer the results you are looking for and has been tested for safety.”
Still, the non-invasive treatment is largely side effect-free. Whether you opt to treat skin conditions in-spa or try light treatment at home, the positive effects of red light therapy are worth your time and dollar direction.
How to Find the Best Red Light Therapy Device for You
Interested in giving red light therapy a try? When choosing the best device for you, Ruth says “you should consider factors such as wavelength, power output, and treatment-area coverage of the device.”
“Opt for a device with wavelengths between 630 and 850 nanometers, as these wavelengths have shown optimal penetration for skin rejuvenation,” she says. And of course, a stamp of approval from the Food and Drug Administration never hurts. “I instruct patients to look for FDA-cleared devices to ensure safety and efficacy,” Ruth notes.
Do red light therapy devices work?
“With continued red LED treatments, clients can trust that their skin will look firmer and they will have a more even tone and texture,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dennis Gross. So the devices work, but how? “LED works just like any other topical ingredient,” says Gross. “Our skin cells have receptors for LED, meaning light will enter the skin cell, connect to a unique LED receptor, and trigger the body to convert light energy into cellular energy. With red light devices, the red LED enters the fibroblast cell and stimulates collagen production—the key to healthy, younger-looking skin—and diminishes fine lines and wrinkles.” Gross adds that red LED also increases circulation and decreases redness, reducing inflammation and hyperpigmentation with consistent use.
Is there a difference between infrared and red light therapy?
“The main differences between infrared and red LED light are visibility, wavelength length, and depth of penetration,” Gross explains. “Infrared light is invisible and has a longer wavelength than red light. This allows it to penetrate deeper into the body and facilitate wound healing and cellular repair.” On the other hand, red light is visible, and—because it has a shorter wavelength—it targets the skin’s surface. “Red LED increases cellular energy to stimulate fibroblast growth factors to boost collagen synthesis,” Dr. Gross continues. “It also decreases matrix metalloproteinases activity, which is what breaks down collagen.” Generally speaking, red light therapy utilizes 630 to 700 nm wavelength of light, whereas near-infrared uses 800 to 1200 nm of light.
What skin types most benefit from red light therapy?
“Nearly every skin type can benefit from red light therapy,” Hartman says. “Even patients with skin conditions like eczema and rosacea can find relief from symptoms as red light can help reduce skin inflammation. Acne-prone skin benefits greatly from red light therapy too, as the light can reduce sebum production, which is one cause of acne, plus reduce the appearance of current inflammatory breakouts.” Those with mild to moderate fine lines and wrinkles will also find red light therapy beneficial, Hartman says, as red light promotes collagen and elastin production.
“Red light therapy can benefit a range of skin types but is especially helpful for those with aging or sensitive skin,” Bassiri-Therani adds. “People with sensitive skin often tolerate red light therapy well, as it’s non-invasive and generally soothing.”
Brooke Jeffy, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Scottsdale, Arizona, cautions: “Those with more darkly pigmented skin may rarely experience worsening of hyperpigmentation and should stop treatments if occurring.”
Are home red light therapy devices worth it?
“If you plan to use your red light therapy device consistently, it can definitely be worth the investment due to its effectiveness,” Dr. Engelman says. “With its multi-functional benefits, red light therapy allows you to target several skin concerns at once. This is a great investment for those who aren’t able to regularly visit a dermatologist for in-office treatments. While professional red light therapy sessions will offer stronger results more quickly, a high-quality at-home device can provide similar benefits over time, making them a more affordable and effective alternative. There are many high-quality devices available at various price points, so you can find one that fits your budget.” However, it pays to be discerning. “I highly recommend choosing an FDA-approved or clinically tested device to ensure safety and optimal results,” Dr. Engelman says. “Cutting corners on quality could lead to skin irritation or subpar outcomes, so it’s important to invest in a reputable and science-backed option!”
Hartman has a similar philosophy. “At-home red light therapy devices are worth the cost, especially if paired with in-office light therapy treatments and other procedures,” he says. “I typically recommend a joint approach of at-home and in-office options to patients, especially those with more moderate to severe concerns. Patients with moderate to severe concerns would likely find some improvement with at-home devices, but more improvement with treatments under the care of a dermatologist.”
What wavelength of red light should you use?
According to Hartman, “The ideal range is between 630 nm and 680 nm. This range has shown the most benefit in research to stimulate the cellular process within the skin to help boost the production of collagen and elastin, ease fine lines and wrinkles, and reduce inflammation.”
Are at-home red light therapy tools as effective as in-office options?
“Red-light-therapy tools for home use can be beneficial for maintaining skin health, but they’re not quite as powerful—or as effective—as in-office treatments,” says Dr. Kristina Collins, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Austin, Texas. “Clinical devices used in dermatology offices typically emit red or near-infrared light at higher wavelengths and intensities, allowing for deeper penetration and more measurable collagen stimulation.”
That said, she stresses that consistency is key. “At-home tools can still yield noticeable improvements in fine lines, texture, and overall radiance, especially with regular use over time,” Dr. Collins notes. She explains that at-home devices are ideal for maintenance between professional treatments, and they also come in handy as an entry point for those looking to support skin aging or inflammation at home. “Just keep expectations realistic,” she says. “Results [with at-home RLT devices] tend to be more gradual and subtle than what you d get from professional-grade devices.”
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 insight on the industry’s standout products; ones 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 red light therapy devices, 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 Experts
- Dr. Michael Bassiri-Therani, MD, is a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon based in New York City.
- Dr. Whitney Bowe, MD is a board-certified dermatologist and scientist based in New York and the founder of Dr. Whitney Bowe Beauty.
- Dr. Kristina Collins, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs micrographic surgeon based in Austin.
- Dr. Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic in New York City.
- Dr. Dennis Gross, founder of Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare, is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon based in New York.
- Dr. Corey L. Hartman, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama.
- Dr. Brooke Jeffy, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Scottsdale, Arizona.
- Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist seeing patients in New York and the Hamptons; she’s also the founder of Skincare Junkie.
- Laurence Newman is the founder and CEO of CurrentBody.
- Dr. Nicole Ruth, DO, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York.
- Dr. Jane Yoo, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist, Mohs surgeon, and clinical instructor based in New York.
