<p>Here’s exactly how <a href=”https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a41409429/red-light-therapy/” target=”_blank”>red light therapy</a> works, for example: “The mitochondria in your cells soak up energy from red light to produce more energy in the skin, healing and repair damaged cells while promoting tissue and cell repair,” says dermatologist <a href=”https://www.bellaskininstitute.com/pages/dr-anna-guanche” target=”_blank”>Anna Guanche, MD</a>. <br></p><h3 class=”body-h3″>Which LED face mask is most effective?</h3><p>The answer simply depends upon what your skin needs and goals are. Here’s how facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon <a href=”https://derosaclinicplasticsurgery.com/dr-derosa#:~:text=Jaimie%20DeRosa-,Dr.,surgery%20at%20Harvard%20Medical%20School” target=”_blank”>Jaimie DeRosa, MD</a>, says that each light can benefit you:</p><ul><li> Red light helps smooth out wrinkles and boost <a href=”https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a19949658/collagen-powder/” target=”_blank”>collagen</a> production.</li><li><a href=”https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a21344594/blue-light-blocking-glasses/” target=”_blank”>Blue light</a> is great for eliminating acne-causing bacteria and reducing inflammation. </li><li>Yellow light helps with skin repair.</li><li>Green light treats <a href=”https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a19901232/what-is-hyperpigmentation/” target=”_blank”>hyperpigmentation</a>. </li></ul><p>And if you’re worried about the side effects of using a high-tech face tool at home, trust that many of the below are FDA-approved <em>and</em> dermatologist-recommended. While LED masks aren’t <em>inexpensive </em>(<em></em>their prices often range from $50 to above $1000) they’re definitely a better investment than racking up those pricey spa bills. </p><p class=”body-tip”><strong>Meet the experts: </strong>Dermatologist <a href=”https://www.shaferplasticsurgery.com/dendy-engelman-md-facms-faad/” target=”_blank”>Dendy Engelman, MD</a>, is a board-certified in New York City. Dermatologist <a href=”https://www.mdcsnyc.com/provider/brendan-camp-md” target=”_blank”>Brendan Camp, MD</a>, is double board-certified in dermatology and dermatopathology and practices in New York. <a href=”https://www.bellaskininstitute.com/pages/dr-anna-guanche” target=”_blank”>Anna Guanche, MD</a>, is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon based in Calabasas, California. <a href=”https://derosaclinicplasticsurgery.com/dr-derosa#:~:text=Jaimie%20DeRosa-,Dr.,surgery%20at%20Harvard%20Medical%20School” target=”_blank”>Jaimie DeRosa, MD</a>, is a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon and a professor of surgery at Harvard Medical School.</p><p>Ahead, check out the 13 best expert-approved LED light face masks and therapy tools for every skin type.</p>” />
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1
Most Versatile LED Light Therapy Mask
Project E Beauty LED Light Therapy Mask
1
Most Versatile LED Light Therapy Mask
Project E Beauty LED Light Therapy Mask
Pros
- Has more light settings than most masks
- Tones cheekbones
Cons
- Some say it’s uncomfortable
This versatile mask can do it all, says Dr. DeRosa. It comes with a whopping seven light modes: red, blue, green, yellow, purple, light blue, and white—all of which have different benefits. Some of them include increasing blood flow, improving pigmentation, and speeding up tissue metabolism. But it won’t just be your face reaping the benefits—it has a neck attachment, too.
Rave Review: “I paired this with my Nuderma high frequency wands and I saw a major change in my face for the better, of course. I used them both religiously literally almost six to seven days a week for a month or two. So, I saw a difference in my face pretty fast.”
| Target Areas | Whole face |
|---|---|
| Types Of Light | Red, blue, green, yellow, purple, light blue, and white |
| Mask Type | Hard mask with neck attachment |
| FDA-Approved | No |
| Additional Features | Wireless |
2
Most Affordable LED Light Therapy Mask
NUFR LED Light Facial Mask
2
Most Affordable LED Light Therapy Mask
NUFR LED Light Facial Mask
Now 18% Off
Pros
- Reviewers say it works quickly
- Affordable
- Comfortable to wear
Cons
- Some say it powers off while using it
This face mask comes with red, blue, and orange lights for a variety of skin needs. Plus, it’s lightweight, rechargeable, portable, and v easy to use, reviewers say—some even see a difference in their skin after just one week. For under $60, it’s a great value for all it has to offer.
Rave Review: “It has three different lights and each one has a different function. My favorite was the red light. You can see an improvement in my skin already—you have to use it 20 minutes a day but it’s super comfortable, so it’s easy to use. I definitely recommend it.”
| Target Areas | Whole face |
|---|---|
| Types Of Light | Red, blue, and orange |
| Mask Type | Hard mask |
| FDA-Approved | No |
| Additional Features | Cordless |
3
Best LED Light Therapy Mask For Wrinkles
HigherDOSE Red Light Therapy Face Mask
3
Best LED Light Therapy Mask For Wrinkles
HigherDOSE Red Light Therapy Face Mask
Pros
- Improves cystic acne
- Softens fine lines
Cons
- Some say it’s not effective
Combining red and near-infrared LED light, this mask is high-quality, addressing issues of fine lines and wrinkle prevention with its more intense red light therapy, explains Dr. Parikh. Reviewers love how it has improved their cystic acne and smoothed out wrinkles. The infrared heat can help with redness and inflammation, too.
Rave Review: “I’ve been eyeing this mask for a long time and finally got one. I love the way it makes my skin feel and how quick and easy it is to use. My skin feels immediately fresher and rejuvenated after I use it. I was also impressed that it came with plug options for different countries, making it super easy to travel with.”
| Target Areas | Whole face |
|---|---|
| Types Of Light | Red |
| Mask Type | Flexible mask |
| FDA-Approved | No |
| Additional Features | Cordless |
4
Best LED Light Therapy Mask For Acne
LightStim Light Wand For Acne
4
Best LED Light Therapy Mask For Acne
LightStim Light Wand For Acne
Pros
- Kills bacteria-producing acne
- Speeds up recovery from acne scars
Cons
- Can feel warm after half an hour for sensitive skin
LightStim’s FDA-approved wand uses non-UV red light and blue light at the same time during treatment, and it specifically treats acne. “Blue penetrates the skin at a different depth and has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties,” says Dr. Camp. That makes it a great option for anyone with acne—since it’s FDA-approved, you can trust the device’s safety, too
Rave Review: “My esthetician recommended this for acne and I couldn’t be happier with it. I used it every night while my skin was breaking out, and since then I haven’t had any acne which is incredible because I’ve had acne for 15 years. I think this device really kills off all of the bad bacteria on your skin. I am amazed that I am no longer breaking out.”
| Target Areas | Anywhere |
|---|---|
| Types Of Light | Red and blue |
| Mask Type | Wand |
| FDA-Approved | Yes |
| Additional Features | Automatic shutoff and timer |
5
Best LED Light Therapy Mask For The Face And Neck
HXDZFX LED Skin Care Mask
5
Best LED Light Therapy Mask For The Face And Neck
HXDZFX LED Skin Care Mask
Now 33% Off
Pros
- High-quality
- Comes with a timer and auto shut-off feature
Cons
- Some say it’s uncomfortable
This seven-color LED mask will give you all the benefits of red, blue, green, yellow, purple, cyanine, and white light—which can range from increasing collagen production to reducing redness. Reviewers say the mask really reduced the look of their fine lines while firming skin. Plus, it comes with a neck mask to accompany the face one. For about $100, it’s a pretty solid deal—definitely less expensive than most facials, right?
Rave Review: “My wife uses it every night, and I can honestly say that I can see a big difference with her skin in just 90 days. She has some small acne usually (hormonal), but since she’s been using the mask, the marks are diminished, and the actual flare-ups of acne are less and less. Overall, I would give this thing five stars…the build quality is solid, my wife loves it, and I, a simpleton, can see some difference.”
| Target Areas | Whole face and neck |
|---|---|
| Types Of Light | Red, blue, green, yellow, purple, cyanine, and white |
| Mask Type | Hard mask with neck attachment |
| FDA-Approved | No |
| Additional Features | Timer and automatic shutoff |
6
Best LED Light Therapy Mask For Large Pores
Trophy Skin RejuvaliteMD Red Light Therapy
6
Best LED Light Therapy Mask For Large Pores
Trophy Skin RejuvaliteMD Red Light Therapy
Now 14% Off
Pros
- Shrinks pores
- Improves look of acne scars
Cons
- Some reviewers say it doesn’t last long
Women’s Health senior commerce editor Neha Tandon tested out this light tool on her dermatologist’s rec. Not only was it super easy to use, but it also shrunk her pores and reduced the appearance of dark spots and acne scars by using red light therapy.
Editor Review: “After years of being told it wasn’t possible, I had fully debunked the myth that you can’t shrink your pores. I had really bad cystic acne all through my teen years and even late twenties, so once that cleared, I was left with a lot of acne scars and pit scars. I used this two or three times a week for about six months and got tons of compliments on my skin.” —Neha Tandon, Women’s Health senior commerce editor
| Target Areas | Whole face |
|---|---|
| Types Of Light | Red |
| Mask Type | Panel |
| FDA-Approved | Yes |
| Additional Features | Goggles |
7
Most Dermatologist-Recommended LED Light Therapy Mask
Dr. Dennis Gross SpectraLite FaceWare Pro
7
Most Dermatologist-Recommended LED Light Therapy Mask
Dr. Dennis Gross SpectraLite FaceWare Pro
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Improves rosacea
Cons
- Pricey
Dr. Sperling, Dr. Camp, Dr. Garshick, and dermatologist Sherwin Parikh, MD, co-founder of skincare brand A.P. Chem, all rave about this mask, which will help improve sun spots, age spots, and discoloration, while helping with current acne and future breakouts. It’s definitely pricey, but it’ll last for years, and it’s FDA-cleared.
“Using a combination of red and blue light, this mask works to support collagen production as well as reduce acne-causing bacteria and inflammation,” Dr. Garshick explains.
Editor Review: “I used to use the Trophy Skin LED mask when I needed some more intense treatment on my deep pit scars and open pores, but I now use this to enhance my glow and to kill dark spots before they become more permanent. When I get the occasional breakout, the red light helps to calm inflammation, too. I love getting into bed with this and a book, the heat feels really nice and soothing.” —Neha Tandon, Women’s Health senior commerce editor
| Target Areas | Whole face |
|---|---|
| Type Of Light | Red and blue |
| Mask Type | Hard mask |
| FDA-Approved | Yes |
| Additional Features | Wireless |
8
Best LED Light Therapy Mask For Plumper Skin
Solaris Laboratories NY How To Glow LED Light Therapy Mask
8
Best LED Light Therapy Mask For Plumper Skin
Solaris Laboratories NY How To Glow LED Light Therapy Mask
Pros
- Offers four types of light
- Reduces pigmentation and wrinkles
- Plumps skin
Cons
- No neck attachment
This multi-purpose mask, recommended by dermatologist Shari Sperling, MD, has four LED light therapy colors: red, blue, amber, and green. “Using NASA technology, it works to help visibly plump the skin and reduce signs of aging,” she says. It can also kill acne-causing bacteria and give your skin more of a glow—plus, it’s FDA-approved.
Rave Review: “I love this product so much already. I’ve used it about five times and I’ve already received so many compliments on the overall look of my skin. I use it for acne and bloating/lymphatic drainage.”
| Target Areas | Whole face |
|---|---|
| Type Of Light | Red, blue, amber, and green |
| Mask Type | Hard mask |
| FDA-Approved | Yes |
| Additional Features | Wireless |
9
Best LED Light Therapy Mask For Reducing Fine Lines
Currentbody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask
9
Best LED Light Therapy Mask For Reducing Fine Lines
Currentbody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask
Pros
- Makes skin glow
- Shrinks pores
Cons
- Some are bothered by how bright the light is
This FDA-cleared mask comes at the recommendation of Dr. Garshick, who recommends it for evening out texture. “Incorporating both red and near infrared light, this therapy tool has been shown to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve the overall appearance of skin tone and texture,” she adds. This one is also celeb-loved, by the likes of Halle Berry, Kourtney Kardashian, and Kaley Cuoco, per the site’s description. Nice!
Rave Review: “I absolutely love this LED mask and use it religiously as I genuinely feel it is making a difference to my fine lines and my skin has never looked better. I also find it hugely relaxing which is an added bonus!”
| Target Areas | Whole face |
|---|---|
| Types Of Light | Red |
| Mask Type | Hard mask |
| FDA-Approved | Yes |
| Additional Features | Remote-controlled |
10
Best All-Inclusive LED Light Therapy Mask
Foreo UFO 2
10
Best All-Inclusive LED Light Therapy Mask
Foreo UFO 2
Pros
- Has LED light, thermotherapy, cryotherapy, and T-Sonic pulsations
- Can be used with serums and other skin products
Cons
- Some say it doesn’t work too quickly
Don’t be fooled by how tiny this gadget is—it packs a serious punch and comes with the glowing recommendation of Dr. Garshick. Yes, it has LED light options (eight, in fact), but it also provides heat to stimulate blood flow, cryotherapy to soothe redness, and T-Sonic pulsations for a facial massage. This one’s great if you want an all-inclusive spa moment right at home.
Rave Review: “This product is a must-buy if you are not a person who likes to go out for facials. It’s a time-saver, plus it gives you an instant glow. I have used it for my acne. The blue light works wonders.”
| Target Areas | Anywhere |
|---|---|
| Types Of Light | Red, blue, green, yellow, purple, cyanine, and white |
| Mask Type | Device |
| FDA-Approved | No |
| Additional Features | App-controlled, heat, cryotherapy, and T-Sonic pulsations |
11
Best LED Light Therapy Mask For Eczema, Rosacea, And Acne
Skin Gym Wrinklit LED Mask
11
Best LED Light Therapy Mask For Eczema, Rosacea, And Acne
Skin Gym Wrinklit LED Mask
Pros
- Improves overall complexion
- Makes wrinkles fade
Cons
- Some reviewers say it doesn’t work too quickly
Recommended by Dr. Parikh, Dr. Camp also says that this mask is a good budget-friendly full-face treatment that employs red, blue, and orange light to improve the overall complexion. Some benefits include improving acne and redness while smoothing out fine lines. Reviewers say it’s helped with eczema, rosacea, and acne while giving skin a radiant glow.
Rave Review: “This LED mask has complete functions, with each light corresponding to each effect. It is very convenient to use and easy to operate. After a few days of continuous use, my skin feels smooth and delicate, and the fine lines are also reduced.”
| Target Areas | Whole face |
|---|---|
| Type Of Light | Blue, orange, and red |
| Mask Type | Hard mask |
| FDA-Approved | No |
| Additional Features | Wireless |
12
Most Luxurious LED Light Therapy Mask
MZ Skin LightMax Supercharged LED Mask
12
Most Luxurious LED Light Therapy Mask
MZ Skin LightMax Supercharged LED Mask
Pros
- Adds a glow to your skin
- Reduces inflammation and redness
Cons
- Pricey
Last but not least, Dr. DeRosa recommends this pink mask, which offers medical-grade treatment with red and blue light options. You can set it to two different modes: The anti-aging mode helps firm your skin with collagen production, and the acne mode uses anti-bacterial properties to clear your skin. It’s pricey, but the FDA-cleared device is designed to plump and firm skin while reducing hyperpigmentation quickly and effectively.
Rave Review: “For a long time, my main concern has been deep static lines, so I jumped on the chance to try this new device which promises to stimulate collagen synthesis with the use of the red light. I can vouch for the fact that it does work to relax them, but it takes consistency of using it for over a month. Within days, however, my husband commented on a new glow to my skin. For that alone, this mask is worth it.”
| Target Areas | Whole face |
|---|---|
| Types Of Light | Red and blue |
| Mask Type | Hard mask |
| FDA-Approved | Yes |
| Additional Features | Automatic shutoff and controller |
13
Best LED Light Therapy Mask For Irritated Skin
Angela Caglia CrystalLED Face Mask
13
Best LED Light Therapy Mask For Irritated Skin
Angela Caglia CrystalLED Face Mask
Pros
- Helps acne
- Reduces fine lines
Cons
- Expensive
Dr. DeRosa recommends this pretty Insta-ready mask. If you want to build collagen, clear acne, help your skin’s elasticity, and smooth out wrinkles—while feeling like you’re in a fancy spa—step right up. At just under $500, it’s probably best for those who are really ready to ~invest~ in their skin. With red and blue lights, the FDA-approved mask works to tone and soothe irritated skin while diminishing the appearance of fine lines.
Rave Review: “I was not a believer but bought it anyway and I have been shocked! The blue light has helped my blackheads. The red light has given my skin a glow. My husband even noticed!”
| Target Areas | Whole face |
|---|---|
| Types Of Light | Red and blue |
| Mask Type | Flexible mask |
| FDA-Approved | Yes |
| Additional Features | Automatic shutoff and controller |
How Our Team Chose The Best LED Face Masks
For two years, Women’s Health editors, including our editorial assistant Addison Aloian and senior e-commerce editor Neha Tandon researched and tested the bestselling, most popular, and top-rated LED face masks. Our team consulted nine dermatologists and then evaluated thousands of customer reviews and ratings to narrow down the 13 best items for a wide range of skincare needs and budget preferences.
Are LED light therapy face masks effective?
Yes. “LED masks can be extremely effective at addressing a variety of skin concerns, including premature aging, acne, hyperpigmentation, and more,” says Dr. Engelman.
Dr. Guanche says that the red-light therapy feature in these devices is especially helpful. “Studies have found that red light therapy helps with photodynamic therapy to treat some skin cancers and conditions, such as psoriasis and acne, as well as provide anti-aging benefits,” she says.
They’re, of course, not as strong or fast as in-office LED light therapy, but it’s a more affordable and easy at-home option, especially if people want to extend the results of in-office treatments, Dr. Engelman adds.
What should you look for in an LED light therapy face mask?
There are a few things to consider before buying an LED light therapy face mask, experts say.
- Brand: Look for masks from reputable brands or producers. “These are safer, more effective, and will have gone through safety and efficacy testing,” says Dr. Engelman.
- Testing: Do some research on the mask’s efficacy and their clinical trials as well before purchasing, she recommends.
- FDA-Approval: “It’s best to look for an FDA-cleared device with some peer review clinical data to back it up,” says dermatologist Azadeh Shirazi, MD.
- LightColor: Make sure you find the right light color for what you want to treat, says dermatologist Leah Ansell, MD. Blue light can treat acne, while red light can diminish redness and rejuvenate your skin, minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, she adds.
- Wavelength: Take note of the number and quality of lights on the device, says Dr. Shirazi. The proven wavelengths include 415 nanometers (nm) of blue light, 630-680 nm of red light and 830 nm of near-infrared light, she says.
- Comfort: If you want to add it into your routine pretty regularly, you’ll want to make sure it’s comfy and easy to use. “These considerations will allow you to have a better experience using the mask,” Dr. Engelman adds.
Are LED light therapy masks safe?
Yes, they’re generally safe for most users, says Dr. Engelman. “LED light therapy is not an invasive treatment, and when done properly, the risks are minimal,” she continues. A 2018 study in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology pointed out that this treatment has am “excellent” safety profile, Dr. Ansell adds. While there’s some concern about damage to the eyes with these lights, it’s a good idea to wear goggles to help protect them.
However, those who are photosensitive or have connective tissue conditions skip LED light therapy or do it with caution, Dr. Ansell says.
Most masks should be worn between 15 and 30 minutes a few times a week, Dr. Engelman adds, but you should check your specific mask’s instructions for its recommended time. Lastly, it’s important to look for an FDA-approved mask, Dr. Engelman and Dr. Ansell add.
What’s the best way to use an LED light therapy mask?
“The best way to use an LED light therapy mask is on clean skin,” says Dr. Engelman. After washing your face in the morning or at night, set your mask to the proper wavelength, then put on goggles and use it for the recommended amount of time. Post-use, finish the rest of your skincare routine, she says, and definitely use it before applying retinol, says Dr. Shirazi.
She recommends wearing the mask for 10 to 20 minutes three times a week, but again, check the instructions on the specific mask you buy, as it differs for each one.
Addison Aloian (she/her) is an editorial assistant at Women’s Health. When she’s not writing about all things pop culture, health, beauty, and fashion, she loves hitting leg day at the gym, shopping at Trader Joe’s, and watching whichever hockey game is on TV. Her work has also appeared in Allure, StyleCaster, L’Officiel USA, V Magazine, and Modern Luxury Media.
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