Do Red Light Masks Really Work? Dermatologists Reveal the Benefits

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Within the domain of skincare devices, LED light therapy devices may seem somewhat daunting for beginners (some could even resemble characters from a horror movie), yet there’s good cause behind their growing popularity and accessibility lately. These home-use gadgets promise benefits ranging across multiple areas. skin concerns , eliminating the need for costly dermatological procedures.

If you have been intrigued by LED light therapy devices , particularly focusing on red light devices, we sought out dermatologists to explain how this technology functions on the skin and how incorporating one into your regimen might assist you in reaching your desired outcomes.

What does LED light therapy entail?

A light-emitting diode (LED) lamp produces various wavelengths of light, encompassing different hues within the visible spectrum, as explained by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Reshimi Kapoor. These wavelengths can deeply permeate the skin’s layers. According to Kapoor, "Various wavelengths infiltrate the skin to differing extents and trigger distinct biological impacts based on how far they go."

In the '90s, NASA started investigating the advantages of LED light therapy for wound healing, and since then, it has become a standard offering at numerous dermatology offices and beauty salons.

What advantages does LED light therapy offer for skin health?

What should you anticipate? According to Dr. Angela Lamb, who is a board-certified dermatologist, this kind of light therapy may offer skin benefits For various objectives, depending on your specific area of focus. Although a range of lighting options may be observed, our specialists indicate that red and blue light therapies are most frequently employed to assist with skincare issues.

According to the Cleveland Clinic Blue light primarily affects the top layer of skin, yellow light penetrates somewhat deeper, and red light reaches even greater depths, making it preferred by dermatologists for promoting collagen production. Continue reading to discover additional advantages of these different wavelengths.

Red light therapy

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Inflammation
• Collagen boost
• Hair loss

The red LED light has demonstrated an ability to activate the fibroblasts, which are cells involved in this process. collagen production, which might aid in lessening indications of photoaging and enhancing fine lines and wrinkles according to Kapoor. "The red light might also be instrumental in promoting wound healing, reducing inflammation, and enhancing improvement. hair loss. "

Blue light therapy

• Pimples and the bacteria responsible for their development
• Oil reduction

If you suffer from acne Blue light could be beneficial for your condition. According to both dermatologists, this hue of light helps with acne by decreasing oil production in the sebaceous glands and combating the bacteria responsible for acne.

Other LED light colors

• Green : Brightening
• Yellow : Redness

Although red and blue LEDs are the most prevalent choices for skincare applications, several alternatives do exist. Certain gadgets provide a setting that combines both blue and red light, aimed at addressing fine lines. and Acne. Nevertheless, Kapoor points out that although there is limited evidence, green light might aid in enhancing skin brightness, whereas yellow light could potentially assist in combating redness .

Approved by dermatologists and editors for LED light therapy devices

If you want to elevate your skincare regimen to the next level, we've compiled a list of dermatologist-and-editor-recommended LED devices. Alongside these, discover several popular gadget picks as well as hydrating serums and moisturizers worth purchasing.

LifePro VizaCure LED Facial Mask Light Therapy

VizaCure LED Facial Mask Light Therapy

• The VizaCure LED Facial Light Therapy Mask is available for $42.99. Amazon
• The VizaCure LED Facial Light Therapy Mask is available for $42.49. Lifepro Fitness

Product Specs

LED color options: Red, blue, amber | Good for: Delicate lines, blemishes, collagen, reddening | Use: One time each day lasting between 10 to 20 minutes

Associate editor Kamari Stewart She has been using—and enjoying—this budget-friendly LED mask for more than a year now. She finds it very user-friendly. The device offers several modes featuring various light treatments (such as blue, red, and orange), which she appreciates. She believes it provides excellent value for money. Additionally, she doesn’t have to recharge it frequently and is consistently impressed by its battery life,” shares Stewart.

Solawave 4-in-1 Facial Wand

4-in-1 Facial Wand

• 4-in-1 Facial Wand $169.00 at Ulta
• 4-in-1 Facial Wand $169.00 Solawave
• 4-in-1 Facial Wand $169.00 Amazon

Product Specs

LED color options: Red | Good for: Fine lines, acne, puffiness | Use: Up to three days per week

This small red light stick actually is a Shop GudangMovies21favorite, And Lamb mentions that she also adores this anti-aging tool. The brand claims that the gadget is a 4-in-1 device providing red light treatment, microcurrents, a soothing massage, and warmth. These features collectively claim to diminish fine lines, decrease facial swelling, and enhance the absorption of skincare products into the skin.

I [Garlin] have been utilizing this product for almost two years now, and each time I use it, I see an improvement by the next day—my skin feels softer, appears brighter, and seems rejuvenated. Additionally, I appreciate how small and portable it is, making it convenient for traveling.

Solawave Eye Recovery Pro

Eye Recovery Pro

• Eye Recovery Pro $199.00 at Solawave
• Eye Recovery Pro $189.00 at Ulta
• Eye Recovery Pro $141.75 Nordstrom

Product Specs

LED color options: Mixture of red (including far-red and near-infrared wavelengths) | Good for: Delicate lines, creases, swelling | Use: Up to three minutes

The red-light therapy eye mask is yet another top pick from senior editor at Solawave. Jess Bender who began using it hoping to reduce the visible signs of aging around her eyes.

I’ve been using this light therapy eye mask on relaxing evenings at home to address certain concerns,” explains Bender. “Sure, it makes me appear somewhat like a whimsical superhero when worn. However, despite looking absurd, it does an impressive job combating swelling and tired skin within just a few minutes due to its multi-light technology integrated into the mask. The quick improvements have me quite excited about potential long-term benefits as claimed by the brand—specifically regarding the diminishment of fine lines.

NuFace Trinity+ Facial Contouring Device with Anti-Wrinkle Enhancement Attachment

Trinity+ Wrinkle Reducer Attachment

Trinity + Wrinkle Reducer Accessory $160.00 at NuFace

Product Specs

LED color options: Mixture of red, amber, and infrared colors | Good for: Fine lines, wrinkles| Use: Up to 180 seconds, repeated up to five times each week.

This microcurrent device The NuFace device now includes an add-on for red light therapy, a feature thatcommerce editor Vivien Moon absolutely loves. According to the brand, this accessory can be attached to the device and produces red, amber, and infrared lights aimed at reducing fine lines and signs of aging.

“I’ve owned this device for several years and appreciate how it helps me conserve space during travel while allowing me to maintain my skincare routine on-the-go,” explains Moon. “The sensor feature detects when it’s touching the skin and powers down otherwise, which is particularly beneficial for people who find the red light distracting when not focused on their face. Additionally, I enjoy using it on other parts of my body such as my neck and chest area.”

Editor's note: You'll require the NuFace Trinity+ device to utilize this attachment.

The BeautyBio GLO facial cleansing device comes equipped with blue LEDs.

GLOfacial Cleaning Device Featuring Blue LED Light

• GLOfacial Cleaning Device featuring Blue LED priced at $199.00 BeautyBio
• GLOfacial Cleaning Device featuring Blue LED priced at $199.00 Amazon

Product Specs

LED color options: Blue | Good for: Pimples, clogged pores, oily skin | Use: Up to twice weekly

The GloFacial device offers you an at-home spa experience. Sent to me by the BeautyBio crew, this gadget truly elevates the concept of being multifunctional. It effectively removes dirt and debris from your pores and uses LED blue light to target acne-causing bacteria—a technique endorsed by dermatologists as beneficial for preventing future breakouts. I incorporate this into my routine roughly every seven days, resulting in skin that appears radiant and clear post-treatment.

Therabody TheraFace Pro

TheraFace Pro

TheraFace Pro $359.10 at Amazon

Product Specs

LED color options: Red, blue, infrared | Good for: Delicate lines, blemishes, sunspots, elasticity issues, discomfort

Social editorial assistant Annie Shigo mentions that she has been utilizing this gadget for several months and is very pleased with the wide range of features it provides, including red light therapy, blue light treatment, a massage attachment, and microcurrent functionality.

"It truly serves as an all-in-one solution for all facial needs. During summertime, when I spend more time outdoors, I frequently utilize the red light therapy feature. This device offers an optimal focused dose of red light therapy; you only need a few minutes each day to glide over different areas of your face," explains Shigo.

LED Technology Breathes New Life into Light Therapy

Revive Light Therapy

• Revive Light Therapy priced at $399.00 LED Technologies
• Restore Light Therapy $399.00 at Amazon

Product Specs

LED color options: Crimson, azure, yellow, near-infrared across three modes | Good for: Delicate lines, blemishes, skin surface | Use: Three minutes per day

One of Lamb's favorites is this LED light panel, which she recommends for tackling acne effectively. Designed to be positioned close to your face, the panel combines red, blue, infrared, and amber lights across three distinct modes. An added advantage is that this device can also be utilized on areas like the neck and chest, not just the face.

HigherDose Red Light Therapy Facial Mask

Red Light Face Mask

• Red Light Facial Mask $349.00 at Amazon
• Red Light Facial Mask $349.00 HigherDOSE
• Red Light Facial Mask $349.00 at Sephora

Product Specs

LED color options: Red | Good for: Subtle lines, connective tissue, frame of mind | Use: Up to five sessions per week, each lasting for 10 minutes.

Commerce editor and producer Julie Ricevuto This red-light mask has such a snug fit that she can move about her house and juggle multiple tasks without it slipping off. She also notes significant improvements from using this device; her complexion appears more radiant and clear. Additionally, she enjoys applying a moisturizing mask following the LED treatment for an extra boost of care, as stated by Ricevuto.

Omnilux Contour Face Mask

Contour Face Mask

Contour Face Mask $395.00 at Omnilux

Product Specs

LED color options: Red | Good for: Subtle wrinkles, collagen, hyperpigmentation | Use: Up to five sessions per week, each lasting for 10 minutes.

This mask is incredibly popular and frequently runs out of stock (luckily, it’s available at the moment!). Moon mentions that this mask has turned into an essential component of her skincare regimen and appreciates the well-thought-out shape.

"Consistent use has led to noticeable enhancements in both my skin’s pigmentation and radiance. I chose this product due to its appropriate wavelength and ergonomic design, which ensures a comfortable fit and maximizes the benefits of the LED light therapy for my facial contours," explains Moon.

HigherDose Red Light Hat

HigherDose Red Light Hat

• HigherDose Red Light Hat priced at $449.00 Amazon
• HigherDose Red Light Hat priced at $449.00 HigherDOSE
• HigherDose Red Light Hat $449.00 Nordstrom

Product Specs

LED color options: Red | Good for: Enhanced circulation in the scalp, hair loss and fortification | Use: For 10 minutes daily

Kapoor suggests that red light may aid in addressing hair loss issues, and Ricevuto has been employing a red-light hat for tackling sparse hair. According to her, “Every evening, I wear my Higher Dose red-light cap with the aim of growing finer strands. What I love most about it is its user-friendliness; all I do is place the cap on my head, set the built-in timer which signals completion after ten minutes, and voilà! After utilizing it consistently for ten weeks, I’ve seen remarkable outcomes,” she shares.

JTAV Glow-Pro LED Mask

Glow-Pro LED Mask

Glow-Pro LED Mask priced at $525.00 at JTAV Clinical Skincare

Product Specs

LED color options: Red, blue, and bi-color light options | Good for: Subtle lines, connective tissue, pimples, redness | Use: For 10 minutes daily

One of Ricevuto's favorites is this device from JTAV. She mentions using it frequently and appreciates that it’s both wireless and portable. According to the brand, the mask provides red light therapy for anti-aging and collagen production, as well as blue light treatment for acne-prone skin. Additionally, it has an automated 10-minute shut-off feature to prevent excessive use.

A greater variety of LED light therapy devices

Solawave Bye Acne 3-Minute Zit Spot Treatment

Goodbye Acne 3-Minute Zit Terminator

• Farewell Acne 3-Minute Pimple Spot Treatment $69.00 Solawave
• Farewell Acne 3-Minute Pimple Spot Treatment $69.00 Ulta
• Farewell Acne 3-Minute Pimple Spot Treatment priced at $69.00 Amazon

Product Specs

LED color options: Red and blue combo| Good for: Acne, inflammation, hyperpigmentation | Use: For 3 minutes about breakouts

The editorially favored brand offers a gadget designed specifically to address your acne breakouts. The company claims that this targeted therapy device uses both blue and red lights to combat acne-inducing germs and reduce swelling. For best results, apply it to problematic zones for approximately three minutes.

Skin Gym Wrinkle Light LED Mask

Wrinklit LED Mask

• Wrinklit LED Mask priced at $99.00 Ulta
• Wrinklit LED Mask priced at $99.00 Dermstore

Product Specs

LED color options: Red, blue, and orange | Good for: Subtle wrinkles, blemishes, lackluster complexion | Use: From 15 to 30 minutes

Even though you may appear as a scientist, this light shield provides three different colored LEDs designed for anti-aging benefits, treating acne, and enhancing overall skin radiance. Customers rave about their positive outcomes. One Ulta reviewer commented, “After several weeks of use, my skin has undergone significant changes. Wrinkles have reduced, complexion has balanced, and acne flare-ups occur far less often. I highly endorse this product for those seeking better skin health from home instead of visiting a dermatologist.”

Red Light Face Wand by Bon Charge

Red Light Face Wand

Red Light Face Wand priced at $99.95 Bon Charge

Product Specs

LED color options: Red | Good for: Subtle wrinkles, inconsistent complexion, lackluster skin | Use: Several times per week

This handheld red light facial device simplifies skincare with its user-friendly design, enhancing complexion, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and lifting the overall contours of your face. The ergonomically shaped tool glides effortlessly over your skin for comprehensive coverage without needing to push any buttons. Simply grasp it and move it gently across your features to initiate treatment. Plus, according to the manufacturer, noticeable improvements can be observed within only fourteen days.

Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite EyeCare Max Pro

DRx SpectraLite EyeCare Max Pro

• DRx SpectraLite EyeCare Max Pro $199.00 Sephora
• DRx SpectraLite EyeCare Max Pro $199.00 Nordstrom

Product Specs

LED color options: Red | Good for: Delicate wrinkles, shadowy rings, swelling | Use: For three minutes daily

No, this isn’t a cape for a caped crusader, yet it could bestow upon you extraordinary skincare benefits. The makers claim that this red-light emitting eye mask offers comprehensive coverage all around your eyes to address wrinkles at the corners, between your eyebrows (those pesky elevens), and beneath your peepers. Additionally, it’s wireless and compact, featuring an adjustable strap designed to hold it firmly in place over your face.

Shark Beauty CryoGlow LED Facial Mask

CryoGlow LED Face Mask

• The CryoGlow LED Face Mask is available for $349.99 at Ulta
• The CryoGlow LED Face Mask is available for $349.99 at Shark

Product Specs

LED color options: Red, blue, infrared | Good for: Delicate lines, blemishes, swelling | Use: Either eight or 15 minutes based on the specific treatment.

Recently, Shark entered the skincare market with the introduction of their innovative CryoGlow LED mask. This product elevates LED masks to a higher standard. It features not just red, blue, and infrared LEDs, but also includes adjustable cool-down settings designed to reduce puffiness beneath the eyes.

Skincare products suitable for use with LED devices

When using an LED device for skincare, dermatologists recommend focusing on products rich in moisture and avoiding those containing retinols, exfoliants, or elements that boost sensitivity to light. In this list below, we've gathered moisturizers and serums featuring nourishing, hydrating components.

Effective Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Hyaluronic Acid Serum

• Hyaluronic Acid Serum priced at $5.98 at Amazon
• Hyaluronic Acid Serum priced at $6.00 Good Molecules
• Hyaluronic Acid Serum priced at $6.00 Ulta

Product Specs

Size: 1 oz. | Key ingredients: Hyaluronate, glycerin

Many LED "activation serums" contain hyaluronic acid. For those seeking an economical choice to use alongside their device, the Good Molecules serum costs just $6. An Amazon user commented, “Having sensitive skin usually means most serums irritate me, but this one works wonderfully. It applies smoothly, dries quickly, and leaves my skin appearing both moisturized and soft. After approximately a week of usage, I'm beginning to notice excellent outcomes.”

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

• Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 $9.90 The Ordinary
• Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 $9.90 at Ulta
• Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 $9.90 Sephora

Product Specs

Size: 1 oz. | Key ingredients: Hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, hyaluronate, glycerin

This popular serum from The Ordinary is a favorite among several Shop GudangMovies21 editors, including me. I always turn to this product for prepping my skincare routine before using LED masks. It includes ceramides, which help keep my skin feeling moisturized and supple.

E.l.f. Skin Holy Hydration! Facial Moisturizer

Holy Hydration! Face Cream

• Wow Water! Facial Moisturizer $12.97 Amazon
• Miracle Moisture! Facial Lotion $12.97 Walmart
• Wow Water! Facial Moisturizer $13.00 Ulta

Product Specs

Size: 1.8 oz. | Key ingredient: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamides

This highly hydrating cream is perfect for getting your skin ready for red light therapy due to its blend of hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. It’s suitable for both daytime and nighttime usage, which makes it an excellent addition to your daily skincare routine, according to the brand.

Solawave Renew Complex Serum

Renew Complex Serum

• Renew Complex Serum priced at $20.80 can be purchased here. Solawave
• Renew Complex Serum priced at $32.00 Amazon

Product Specs

Size: 1 oz. | Key ingredient: Hyaluronic acid, aloe vera

Solawave provides what they call an "activating serum" for use with their red-light devices. Since incorporating this into my routine with the Solawave facial wand, I have really enjoyed how refreshed and hydrated my skin appears. The inclusion of aloe vera in particular adds a very calming effect that I appreciate.

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops Serum

Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops Serum

• Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops Serum $35.00 Sephora
• Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops Serum $35.00 Kohl's
• Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops Serum $35.00 Glow Recipe

Product Specs

Size: 1 oz. | Key ingredient: Niacinamide, watermelon, hyaluronic acid

The company claims that this moisturizing serum can aid in minimizing hyperpigmentation and make your complexion glow. Combined with the advantages of using an LED mask, these features ensure your skin appears and feels its optimum.

Solawave LightBoost Facial and Neck Enriched Cream

Rich Cream for Face & Neck LightBoost

• LightBoost Face & Neck Rich Cream $33.80 Solawave
• LightBoost Face & Neck Rich Cream $52.00 Ulta

Product Specs

Size: 1.69 oz. | Ingredients : Peptide, ceramide, collagen

Recently, Solawave has broadened its skincare range by adding additional creams and serums designed for use alongside their red-light equipment. According to the company, this facial and neck moisturizer boasts an array of anti-aging and hydration components such as peptides, collagen, ceramides, among others. Additionally, the product features LightBoost technology which purportedly enhances the benefits derived from using red-light gadgets.

Belif TheTrueCream Moisturizing Bomb

The RealCream Hydrating Bomb

• The True Cream Moisturizing Bomb priced at $37.99 is available here. Amazon
• The Real Moisture Bomb Cream $38.00 Sephora
• The Genuine Cream Moisture Bomb $38.00 Ulta

Product Specs

Size: 1.69 oz. | Ingredients : Peptide, ceramide, squalane

Dermatologists previously recommended This moisturizer stands out due to its thick consistency which surprisingly feels light when applied. It was recommended to me and several other Shop GudangMovies21 editors, since then it has become an essential part of my nightly regimen, used right before applying a mask or facial wand.

The Starting Point Revitalizing Niacinamide Overnight Moisturizer

Restorative Niacinamide Night Cream

• Restorative Niacinamide Night Cream $54.00 Amazon
• Restorative Niacinamide Night Cream $54.00 Sephora

Product Specs

Size: 1.7 oz. | Key ingredients: Hyaluroset complex, niacinamide, bakuchiol

Shop GudangMovies21commerce writer Emma Stessman She expresses her admiration for this cream due to her dry skin. “This product is incredibly rich and hydrating; just a small amount makes a noticeable difference. Plus, since I have sensitive skin, I appreciate how mild yet effective the formulation is,” remarks Stessman.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which items should I steer clear of when utilizing LED light therapy devices?

Skin experts recommend steering clear of items that can increase your sensitivity to sunlight, like retinol or retinoids, along with strong exfoliating agents.

What are the potential adverse reactions from using LED light therapy devices?

Kapoor indicates that LED light therapy is considered safe; nonetheless, certain individuals might encounter minor symptoms such as redness, swelling, dryness, and itching.

What is the proper way to utilize LED light therapy devices?

It varies based on your specific use case, and experts advise closely following the device’s guidelines. Most recommendations suggest using it approximately three to four times each week.

As suggested by Lamb, for treating acne, various devices typically require several minutes of use each week. Similarly, anti-aging wands have comparable recommendations. However, facial masks should be used for extended periods.

Integrating an LED device into your skincare regimen is straightforward. As per Kapoor, you should apply these devices post-cleansing. Both professionals agree that you can continue using your preferred skincare items like moisturizers or antioxidants alongside this method. Nonetheless, they advise steering clear of strong exfoliants or retinols/retinoids, because these substances may increase your skin’s sensitivity to light.

Is LED light therapy suitable for everybody?

In general, both dermatologists concur that short-term usage of LED light therapy is considered safe for the majority of individuals. However, Kapoor advises seeking medical consultation if you have an existing eye condition or are using drugs that increase sensitivity to light.

Even though she describes it as a "fairly secure" technique, she points out that some minor side effects might occur, including redness, swelling, dryness, and itching of the skin.

Meet the experts

• Dr. Angela Lamb, MD She is a board-certified dermatologist located in New York City and presently serves as the Vice Chair of Clinical Operations at Mount Sinai Dermatology.
• Dr. Reshmi Kapoor, MD is a board-certified dermatologist, as well as the owner and founder of Brooklyn Dermatology In Greenpoint, Brooklyn, New York.

How we chose

Our choice of LED light therapy skincare devices was informed by conversations with leading dermatologists along with endorsements from Shop GudangMovies21 editors. Additional selections were made using validated customer feedback and brand credibility.

The editors at our GudangMovies21 shop have been regularly utilizing the chosen LED devices on a weekly basis for as long as one year or even longer.

The article was initially posted on GudangMovies21