LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (2024)

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (1)

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Those robotic-looking light-up face masks you've seen people wearing on social media aren't just for likes and comments. The devices, inspired by in-office treatments, are LED face masks, and not only do they make for great (or scary?) photo opps, they rejuvenate skin in the comfort of your home. "LED face masks use light-emitting diodes to penetrate the skin at various wavelengths; this improves cellular performance," explains Lauren Berlingeri, cofounder and co-CEO of HigherDOSE. While in-office LED light therapy delivers more powerful strengths, at-home devices (ideally with wavelengths between 600 and 900 nanometers) offer subtle improvements and maintenance. These devices can come with several waves of light, the most common being blue and red LED light therapy. Each light offers different benefits. For what those are, keep reading.

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Do LED face masks work?

Yes! Dermatologists agree that LED face masks are effective as long as you're consistent and pairing them with a "robust skincare routine with actives and even in-office treatments," says Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist. "They are cherry on top to make change a bit more notable."

The types of LED light therapy

"Red light has anti-inflammatory and collagen-stimulating properties," says Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at the Shafer Clinic in NYC. "It helps minimize the appearance of pores and accelerate skin repair." Everyone can benefit from red light therapy.

Blue LED light, however, is ideal for oily and acne-prone skin types because it "eliminates bacteria, regulates oil production, and reduces acne," Engelman says. Blue light therapy is also helpful for treating eczema and psoriasis.

White light helps to reduce inflammation, tighten skin, and increase circulation. This beam's soothing properties are ideal as a post-operation treatment, Engelman says. There is also yellow light, which doesn't penetrate the skin as deeply as red or blue light but helps with boosting radiance and reducing swelling. Green light isn't as common in at-home devices, but can help reduce hyperpigmentation.

Are LED face masks safe?

Yes, they're generally safe for most users. "But those who are photosensitive should use caution or consult a dermatologist before using one," advises Engelman. Similarly, Ellen Marmur, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of MMSkincare based in New York City, says you should avoid these masks if you have melasma because the heat being so close to the skin can cause flair ups. That said, you don't need to avoid an LED device altogether, you just need a tool that doesn't sit directly on the face.

How to use an LED face mask

First, wash your face, then wear or sit in front of the LED device for the recommended time; most masks offer treatment times between three and 30 minutes long. "Follow up with serums and moisturizer directly after application to enhance absorption," says Engelman. "You can use an LED mask three to four times per week," she adds. Ahead, we gathered the best (and dermatologist-recommended) LED face masks to help you choose an option that targets your specific concerns.

1

Best LED Face Mask Overall

CurrentBody LED Face Mask

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (8)

Why We Love It
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (9)Lightweight
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (10)Offers full coverage
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (11)Optional eye inserts to make reading/watching TV easier
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (12)Clip on controller
What to Consider
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (13)It's a splurge

CurrentBody recently upgraded its original LED mask. The newest iteration of this FDA-approved device is still flexible, lightweight, and safe for all skin tones and types. However, thanks to its multi-way strap, controller with a clip, and chin strap, it makes it a lot easier to continue to do errands around the house. "I don't feel like I need to stop what I'm doing for 10 minutes, whether it's washing dishes, cleaning up, or scrolling on my phone," says Genesis Rivas, Oprah Daily beauty editor. "I also love knowing that my entire face and chin can reap the benefits." Engelman recommends this option because it intensely accelerates collagen production and increases blood circulation, making it perfect for reducing inflammation and signs of aging.

Coverage:Face and chin
LED Lights:Red, near-infrared, deep near infrared
Treatment time:10 minutes a day, 3 to 5 times a week

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (14)

Oprah Daily beauty editor, Genesis Rivas, wearing CurrentBody LED Face Mask.

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2

Most Secure LED Face Mask

HigherDose Red Light Face Mask

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (15)

Why We Love It
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (16)Secure design
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (17)Boosts collagen and elastin
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (18)Reduces redness
What to Consider
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (19)Figuring out how to put on the multiple straps can be tricky at first

Berlingeri and her cofounder and co-CEO, Katie Kaps, created this red light face mask to help reduce redness and rejuvenate skin. Besides LED, it also harnesses the power of near-infrared light therapy, which studies suggest may help "regulate the circadian rhythm to help with better sleep, mood, and hormonal balance," says Kaps. Additionally, the design features multiple straps to fit your head securely and is cord-free, so you don't have to worry about staying put while doing your treatment. "In the past, I've had great intentions to wear an LED mask regularly, but I'd forget or never make the time to stop and recline for the full treatment time. This mask, however, fits my face perfectly, which means I can multitask. I'll wear it as I watch a show, type, clean up, or get my children's attention," says Oprah Daily beauty director Kate Sandoval Box.

Coverage:Face
LED Lights:Red
Treatment time:10 minutes, 3 to 5 times a week

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3

Best LED Face Mask with Multiple Light Treatments

Foreo FAQ 202 Wireless Silicone LED Face Mask

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (21)

Why We Love It
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (22)Offers multiple light therapy treatments
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (23)Wireless design
What to Consider
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (24)It's a splurge
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (25)There's a monthly fee to use some of the treatments

Here's a mask that offers multiple light treatments to rejuvenate skin. You get the option of red light to diminish fine lines and wrinkles, green light to brighten, blue light to target acne breakouts, purple light to help boost radiance, orange light to combat dullness, cyan light to calm stressed skin, and yellow light to reduce redness. The wireless design lets you choose and customize your treatments via the app you download to your smartphone. It's also made of a flexible and lightweight material.

"Once I figured out how to get the straps to fit my ample-sized head, it stayed put and I could go about my daily chores working, cooking, or doing my hair," says Holly Carter, Oprah Daily lifestyle contributing editor. " I’ve never seen a device with so many light options. I like to choose a cocktail of colors to create my own custom 15-minute treatment, and the app makes things super easy. The downside to be aware of is that you have to pay a monthly fee to unlock some of the pre-set treatments on the app."

Coverage:Face
LED Lights:Red, green, blue, purple, yellow, cyan, orange
Treatment time:15 minutes, 3 to 5 times a week

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (26)

Holly Carter, Oprah Daily lifestyle contributing editor, using the FAQ 202 Wireless Silicone LED Face Mask.

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4

Best LED Face Mask for Relaxation

Therabody TheraFace Mask

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (27)

Why We Love It
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (28)Gives a face and head massage
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (29)Offers red and blue light
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (30)Secure design
What to Consider
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (31)It's a little bulky to store

This 2024 Oprah Daily Beauty Award winner stands out for its ability to promote a glowing complexion and ultimate relaxation. Red, blue, and red + infrared wavelengths stimulate collagen production, fight acne-causing bacteria, and increase circulation—all as the device’s “micro-motors” give an incredible face and head massage (read: you’ll want to use it regularly). “There are no wires, so I can walk around and get things done while I treat my skin,” says Adam Glassman, Oprah Daily creative director. You can choose between nine-minute treatments (which is recommended for best results) or three minutes if you're in a time crunch.

Coverage:Face
LED Light:Red and blue
Treatment time:9 minutes, daily

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (32)

Adam Glassman, Oprah Daily creative director, wearing the Therabody TheraFace Mask.

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5

Best Flexible Design LED Face Mask

Omnilux Contour Face Mask

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (33)

Why We Love It
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (34)Flexible material
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (35)Comfortable to wear
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (36)Available in a version for men
What to Consider
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (37)Light can be very bright on eyes

This soft and flexible silicone material wraps around your face comfortably while the medical-grade red LED lights get to work on refining skin texture, stimulating collagen production, and offering a more even tone. The brand also came out with an LED face mask specifically for men, which typically have skin that is 25 percent thicker, for the same price. It offers the deepest penetrating wavelength to help with various concerns, including razor burn. That said, both masks have a secure design so if you need to clean up, do laundry, or put the kids to bed, you can do so while getting your daily dose of skincare.

Coverage:Face
LED Lights:Red
Treatment time:10 minutes, 3 to 5 times a week

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (38)

Glassman tidying up while wearing the Omnilux LED Mask for men.

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6

Best Red and Blue Light LED Face Mask

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (39)

Why We Love It
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (40)Delivers blue and red light therapy
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (41)Only three-minute treatment
What to Consider
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (42)Face straps could be more supportive

The chances of skin experiencing multiple concerns at the same time are high, which is why this face mask gives the option to turn on blue and red light therapy simultaneously. Blue light is great for targeting acne, while red light will reduce signs of aging and inflammation. Press once for red light, twice for blue light, and three times for a combined treatment. The best part? Treatment is only three minutes, and your skin appears visibly more radiant, smooth, and even after each use.

Coverage:Face
LED Lights:Red and blue
Treatment time:3 minutes daily

7

Best LED Mask for Face and Neck

Shani Darden Skin Care PRO LED Light Mask

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (43)

Why We Love It
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (44)Has a neck attachment
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (45)Combines red and blue light therapy
What to Consider
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (46)It's a splurge

Shani Darden is a celebrity esthetician who concludes every facial with a powerful LED treatment. This LED face mask was inspired to give you the same level of care in the comfort of your own home. It's a splurge because it delivers the highest dose of red, blue, and near-infrared light therapy in wavelength combinations that support collagen production and reduce the look of blemishes, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. It also comes with a neck attachment to care for skin below the chin.

Coverage:Face and neck
LED Lights:Red and blue
Treatment time:10 minutes, daily

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8

Best LED Mask Spot Treatment

Riki Loves Riki Miracle LED Therapy Patch

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (47)

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (48)

Why We Love It
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (49)Reduces acne blemishes
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (50)Easy to travel with
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (51)Targeted treatment
What to Consider
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (52)Need to repurchase adhesives

Think of this spot treatment LED mask as a pimple patch on steroids. It targets acne and inflammation in six minutes using red and blue light. Stick it onto your face using the double-sided adhesive strip. (Peel one side of the strip and apply to the treatment area, then peel off the other side and stick on the device). Press the button and start your treatment. The device comes with 40 tape patches in small and large sizes and a rechargeable case.

Coverage:Over blemish
LED Lights:Red and blue
Treatment time:6 minutes whenever you have a pimple

9

Best Wireless LED Face Mask

Skin Gym Wrinklit LED Mask

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (53)

Why We Love It
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (54)Affordable
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (55)Wireless
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (56)Offers red, blue, and orange light therapy
What to Consider
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (57)Some reviewers say it isn't the most comfortable to wear

If you're new to LED face masks, this accessible low-intensity device is a great entry-level option. It's a budget-friendly price compared to other options and it offers a variety of light therapy treatments to target your specific concerns. Choose red light to minimize common signs of aging, blue light to reduce acne-causing bacteria, or orange light to revitalize a dull-looking complexion. The wireless design also makes it great for multitasking.

Coverage:Face
LED Lights:Red, blue, orange
Treatment time:15 minutes, 3 to 5 times a week

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10

Best Budget LED Face Mask

Ora LED Light Energy Mask

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (58)

Why We Love It
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (59)Affordable compared to other options
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (60)Offers several light therapies
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (61)Great for beginners to LED
What to Consider
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (62)Lights aren't very strong

Available for only $75, this LED face mask is a steal (though it's important to note that the lights aren't as strong as some pricier options). Still, you get seven different light therapy modes, including red, blue, yellow, and green. "Yellow light helps clear toxins and stimulate the lymphatic system," says Azza Halim MD, a multi-specialist physician. This mask has got you covered whether you're looking to soothe, plump, tighten, or repair.

Coverage:Face
LED Lights:Red, blue, green, yellow, purple, white
Treatment time:20 minutes, 3 to 5 times a week

11

Best LED Mask for Neck and Chest

Solawave Neck & Chest Rejuvenating Kit

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (63)

Why We Love It
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (64)Softens lines and creases
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (65)Lifts and firms
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (66)Flexible device
What to Consider
  • LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (67)For best results, it's recommended to use with the LightBoost Cream

Your neck and chest are an extension of your face, and deserve the same TLC. These areas don't have as many oil glands and are thinner than the rest of your body, and therefore age faster, Jeanine Downie, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Image Dermatology previously told Oprah Daily. Fortunately, this neck and chest LED mask can help firm, lift, soften lines, and even out the skin tone. Use it with your Solawave face mask (which we love) or any other LED device for full coverage.

Coverage:Neck and chest
LED Lights:Red
Treatment time:10 minutes

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How We Chose the Best LED Face Masks

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (68)

Our beauty team is dedicated to finding you the best of the best formulas. We spoke with experts to learn about LED face masks, how they work, and got their go-to recommendations. We also researched and tested top-rated and brand-new formulas that hit the market to help you find the best products out there.

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (69)

Genesis Rivas

Genesis Rivas is the Beauty Editor at Oprah Daily, where she covers hair, makeup, skin, nails, and more. Before joining the Oprah Daily team, she wrote for several publications, including InStyle, Real Simple, and Shape. When she’s not testing, researching, and writing fun and educational beauty content, you can find her dancing and eating her way through New York City. Follow her on Instagram or TikTok

LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (2024)
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