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LED light therapy has gained so much buzz in recent years—and now, many skincare brands are releasing their own version for consumers to use in their homes. Although many of us were once (and may still be) skeptical and even a bit nervous about trying LED masks outside of a professional’s office, there is something to be said about their versatility and effectiveness. Plus, you get the satisfaction of seeing results from just a few minutes of daily use.
Taking care of your skin is a worthy investment, and an LED mask is just the treat to help get you motivated. While many masks do sit at high prices, the benefits you’ll notice from use will far outweigh the cost—and you’ll likely need to visit your facialist a little less.
LED light therapy uses different wavelengths of light to address specific skin concerns such as signs of aging, acne, hyperpigmentation, and other woes. “Each color of light serves a different purpose. For example, red light boosts collagen production, making it great for anti-aging, while blue light kills acne-causing bacteria,” explains the Bare Necessities team. “These devices offer a non-invasive way to treat skin issues, and many LED devices now allow for at-home use with professional-level results.”
When choosing an LED mask, you must consider your skin type and specific concerns to find the best mask to address your needs. “The most popular commercially available types include red light, near-infrared light, and blue light therapy. As far as a ‘better’ option, I think the choice depends on your goals,” says Dr. Price. “If you’re looking to combat signs of aging like wrinkles and sunspots, red and near-infrared light would be a good choice. Blue light would be a good choice to help with an anti-acne routine. They can also be combined to help address multiple concerns at once.”
“LED face masks are safe, overall. It is best to choose one that is FDA-approved, and I prefer to keep my eyes closed and use eye shields to protect my eyes from the light,” says Dr. Price. “There is conflicting information on the use of light therapy for patients with conditions that are sensitive to light, such as melasma. In this case, it would be important to proceed cautiously, assess for worsening, and avoid any device that generates heat, as this can worsen melasma.”
Although many individuals find that LED masks remain gentle on the skin, every person’s complexion may react differently. So, if you have very sensitive skin or a skin disorder, consult a skin health professional before including LED masks in your skincare routine. Following usage guidelines is vital to avoid overuse, skin irritation, and potential safety mishaps.
If you’re too nervous to add LED masks to your regimen straightaway, you can always book a treatment with a professional at your local spa. For example, the skincare professionals at Houston-based Bare Necessities swear by using LightStim in many facial services. “It’s a versatile option that suits various skin types; a powerful combination of red and blue light therapy, perfect for reducing fine lines and acne,and excels for those looking to address aging, acne, or inflammation,” says Jenkins, who is also advanced LED light therapy certified. Plus, if you love LightStim, it’s available for at-home use at reasonable prices.
“It’s important to perform your treatment after washing your face but before putting on anything else, like skincare products,” notes Dr. Price. “If I am spending the extra time to do an LED treatment (the Omnilux is a quick 10 minutes), then I like to keep the rest of my routine streamlined.” Dr. Price’s favorite skincare pairing post-LED mask treatment is Daybird 4-in-1 Serum Skin Tint . Dr. Price mentions that this tinted sunscreen (available in three flexible shades) is her “go-to” because “it combines a moisturizer, mineral sunscreen (SPF 50), tint, and serum all in one step.” Daybird’s formula has niacinamide and bisabolol to help stimulate collagen and combat inflammation, which complements the results from the LED mask treatments.
As with any skincare product or treatment, the best way to achieve optimum results is by being consistent. “Regular use, combined with a healthy skin care regimen, can lead to noticeable improvements in skin texture and appearance over time,” says Griffin. “Also, consider pairing your LED therapy with other treatments, such as microneedling or biostimulator injections, for a more comprehensive approach to skin care.” Moreover, you can maximize the benefits of the LED mask treatments by following up with skin-quenching serums and moisturizers.
Up ahead, we share the best LED face masks that come recommended by renowned dermatologists and skincare professionals, plus some options we tested ourselves.
iRestore Illumina Face Mask
On Sale 38% off
“Red light face masks with more solid construction aren’t typically my go-to, but I find that the iRestore Illumina Face Mask is still super comfy, despite its lack of silicone. The mask is relatively lightweight for its construction and it can target both aging and acne-related concerns with red, infrared, and blue light that you can use individually or all at once in 10 minute sessions three to five times per week.” — Jessie Quinn, Contributing Commerce Writer
FSA Eligible: Yes
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Image Credit: Dr. Dennis Gross
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro
“I’m at the geriatric Millennial age where my skin hasn’t decided if it’s ready to proceed to the next aging milestone or continue to tap into the days of my youth with a glistening T-zone bedecked with blemishes. Fortunately, the DRx SpectraLite mask treats acne and signs of life’s wear and tear, A.K.A. aging, simultaneously with red and blue lights. If you only have one struggle (good for you), opt for the blue light to address acne or the red light to combat wrinkles and boost collagen for a smoother visage. I’m also a big fan of getting a ‘you look like you’ve had a one-hour facial’ glow in a speedy three minutes! I look forward to seeing the long-term results.” —Gabrielle Nicole Pharms, Contributing Writer
FSA Eligible: Yes
HigherDOSE Red Light Face Mask
“I have tested and owned several of the best red light face masks over the years and the Omnilux mask and this HigherDOSE Red Light Face Mask are my most-used (and loved). I wear this one when I’m working or need to get some chores done around my apartment and love that it has a top strap (in addition to side straps) to keep it in place and prevent it from sliding (something that most of my other masks don’t have). The mask is also made from an ultra-soft silicone material that feels flexible against the skin and doesn’t cause any irritation. This face mask—plus other HigherDOSE devices, such as the coveted sauna blanket—are FSA eligible, too, and if you buy it from Bluemercury, you’ll get it for 20% off, plus delivery in time for Christmas.” — Jessie Quinn, Contributing Commerce Writer
FSA Eligible: Yes
Image Credit: Omnilux
Omnilux Contour Face Mask
“My favorite LED mask is the Omnilux. It’s FDA-approved, comfortable to wear, combines red and near-infrared light, and does not generate significant heat (important to me as I do have melasma). They also have a version of the mask that incorporates blue light for acne-prone skin.” — Dr. Meredith Price, MD, FAAD
“This flexible mask provides a combination of red and near-infrared light. It helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, improves skin firmness, and promotes an even complexion. It’s great for anti-aging, firming, and brightening. It’s FDA-cleared and very comfortable on the face, neck, and decollete.” — Christina Hartmann Jenkins, L.E. and Owner, Bare Necessities Spa & Boutique
“I have several red light face masks in my arsenal but the Omnilux mask is definitely the one I reach for the most. I love how comfortable it is to wear, how long it keeps a charge for, and how much it makes my dry, dull skin glow. I also have the Omnilux Contour Glove and Omnilux Contour Neck & Décolleté mask—all of which are FSA eligible.” — Jessie Quinn, Contributing Commerce Writer
FSA Eligible: Yes
Image Credit: Walmart
Clara Red Light Therapy LED Face Mask
“If you want to gift a red light face mask this holiday season—or only have a little bit of FSA funds left—you can snag this one from Walmart for $99 and get it in time for Christmas, too. The Clara Red Light Therapy LED Face Mask might be a cheap red light therapy mask, but its results are comparable to its more expensive counterparts. I find it just as comfortable as the Omnilux and HigherDOSE masks, and it always leaves my skin with a nice glow after use.” — Jessie Quinn, Contributing Commerce Writer
FSA Eligible: Yes, but double-check with your FSA plan administrator
Sunlighten RED Light Therapy Mask
On Sale 17% off
“My Sunlighten Red Light Panel (also FSA eligible!!) is probably one of my most-used wellness devices. I have it set up in my bedroom and quite literally roll out of bed and onto my meditation pillow for a moment of zen every morning. But it’s not very portable, so I love that Sunlighten just introduced its RED Light Therapy Mask, too. This one is different from the others in my rotation because it features more of a shield-like design. It also has way more colors to choose from, including red, blue, yellow, and green lights, which target a variety of skincare concerns related to aging and acne, or you can turn it to the green light for relaxation. The mask also features five modes ranging from three to eight minutes, plus three intensity levels.” — Jessie Quinn, Contributing Commerce Writer
FSA Eligible: Yes
Image Credit: Dermstore
FaceGym Lightwear LED Face Mask
“For a more tailored experience, I love using the FaceGym Lightwear LED Face Mask. This device syncs with the FaceGym app and allows you to target specific areas such as the forehead, eyes, nose, and cheeks. It also combines red, near infrared, and blue light, so you can use it to target signs of aging as well as any acne breakouts that might creep up.” — Jessie Quinn, Contributing Commerce Writer
FSA Eligible: Yes
Image Credit: Solawave
Solawave Wrinkle Retreat Light Therapy Face Mask
On Sale 20% off
“I recommend the Solawave Wrinkle and Acne Clearing Light Therapy Mask, which provides a 10-minute treatment with both red and blue light. The flexible silicone construction makes it comfortable and well-fitting, and it’s lightweight, so it’s easy to wear.” — Dr. Hadley C. King, MD, FAAD
“I swear by Solawave everything. And, while the viral face wand is definitely worth the hype, I prefer the hands-free face mask for its comfort and convenience. Compared to some of the other masks out there, this one has shorter session times, which are great for busy work weeks. And, if you shop right now, you can take advantage of the Solawave BOGO sale, which means you can get a second mask—or another device—for free with purchase.”— Jessie Quinn, Contributing Commerce Writer
FSA Eligible: Yes
Image Credit: FOREO
“I loved how buttery my skin felt after my first initial wear of the FOREO FAQ 202 mask . Before indulging in the treatments, I prepped my skin with the recommended FAQ P1 manuka honey primer, which I’m convinced helped my skin have such a hydrating glow and smoother texture.
I especially appreciated how the mask sculpted impeccably to my face since most LED masks tend to have a more structured mold to fit slimmer, oval-shaped faces (I have full cheeks and a round face). The mask also comes with access to the brand’s FAQ Swiss app with pre-programmed treatments that can simultaneously target areas of concern such as hyperpigmentation and breakouts.
However, I wasn’t a fan of the paid subscription. You must commit to a paid monthly subscription to unlock certain app features, such as the more tailored pre-programmed treatments. You must also download the app because it requires registering your mask before first-time usage. After dropping $800, it would be nice to be offered a free year’s subscription or a three-month trial period as an incentive, right?! Other than the mandatory app, this mask is flawless and has an advantage over most other brands in that it fits perfectly, even if you don’t have a svelte, almond-shaped face structure.”—Gabrielle Nicole Pharms, Contributing Writer
FSA Eligible: Yes, but double-check with your FSA plan administrator
Image Credit: CurrentBody
CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask
“This flexible silicone mask uses red and near-infrared light to even skin tone, target hyperpigmentation, and reduce redness.” — Christina Hartmann Jenkins, L.E. and Owner, Bare Necessities Spa & Boutique
CurrentBody’s Skin LED Light Therapy Mask has 236 LED bulbs that offer three different wavelengths: red, near-infrared, and new deep infrared. It was also tested on thousands of faces to ensure optimal coverage and comfort, resulting in a flexible liquid silicone shape that can perfectly adhere to a range of face sizes.
FSA Eligible: Yes
Image Credit: Celluma Home.
“This FDA-cleared mask delivers red, blue, and near-infrared light to promote collagen production and reduce wrinkles, making it a favorite for mature skin.” — Christina Hartmann Jenkins, L.E. and Owner, Bare Necessities Spa & Boutique
If you’ve ever experienced a professional facial, they may have used LED light therapy during your session in a similar way to how the Celluma Pro operates. It doesn’t sit directly on the face, but instead hovers slightly above on facial rests. It can also be positioned on other areas of the body, such as the neck and back, to help with muscle aches.
FSA Eligible: Yes