8 best LED face masks of 2024, tested on different skin types
There’s no question that kicking your feet back and applying a face mask is the ultimate tribute to self-care. Whether you’re seeking a sheet mask, clay mask or modern-day LED face mask, you’ll be treating your skin to pure bliss.
However, the best LED face masks are hand-crafted with specific technology to bring benefits to the skin. According to multiple scientific studies, using an LED face mask is ideal for a variety of skin types and conditions, including mature skin to alleviate the look of wrinkles and acne-prone skin to minimize scarring.
Even better, using an LED light face mask can target more niche skin concerns like rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, redness, and hyperpigmentation. Some may cost a pretty penny but, with consistent use, your skin will thank you.
RELATED: Best anti-aging skincare products, per dermatologists
“LED face masks have tiny ‘bulbs,’ or diodes, that emit different wavelengths of light,” Margarita S.Lolis, MD, board-certified Mohs surgeon and cosmetic dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group, told the New York Post. “Each wavelength corresponds to a certain color. LED technology is found all around us, from computer monitors to outdoor lights. However, certain wavelengths, such as blue and red, are frequently used in dermatology because of their therapeutic effects.”
Ahead, you’ll find the best LED face masks that members of Post Want swear by, as well as options recommended by our team of board-certified dermatologists. To learn more about how these devices work. Check out our FAQ section.
Pros:
- Offers different settings to target specific problem areas
- Has a built-in, comfortable face strap
- Simple to integrate into your skincare routine
Cons:
- Price point may be unreachable for some
- Battery life could be improved
I’ve been a fan of Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare for a while (read: DDG lip plumper review), and the Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro has been a mainstay in my routine for quite some time.
Though a splurge, it helps target natural lines and wrinkles, firms skin, prevents acne flare-ups and reduce redness and irritation. Think of it as an Rx for your skin.
“This is an FDA-cleared device that contains both 100 red and 62 blue LED lights for a full face light emitting treatment,” Gloria Lin, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group who specializes in medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology, told The Post. “It may help with collagen production, acne, and redness, in addition to its anti-microbial properties since it contains both red and blue light.”
This LED face mask is a timed three minute treatment, so it is relatively short so could be easily added to a skincare routine. You’ll need to use is consistently to see results and it’s one of the best skincare devices worth dropping your hard-earned coin on. On my sensitive and dry skin, this LED face mask worked well.
Not to mention, it’s highly regarded as the best overall professional face LED mask, per Dr. Lolis. “It has you covered in that it can emit blue light, red light, infrared light, and amber light,” she adds. “It has 100 red LED lights, 62 blue LED lights, targets collagen production, reduces acne and increases smoothness, elasticity and even tone of your skin.”
You can use it in different light modes or in combination, too.
How to use: After cleansing, place device comfortably over the face, securing strap around head. Press and hold the power button for two seconds to turn it on, select light setting (red, blue, red + blue) and use for the programmed treatment time of three minutes. Remove device and follow with your moisturizer of choice.
Light mode: Red, Blue, Red + Blue | Good for: Lines and wrinkles, Skin firming, Preventing acne flare-ups, Reducing redness and irritation | Usage: Up to five times per week
Pros:
- Straps are adjustable, so the mask molds to your face
- The mask stays in place, and you can go hands-free during a treatment
Cons:
- You may have to wait a few weeks to see the results
- Some people may not react well to red light (sensitization test suggested)
“I’ve heard the Omnilux has been called the Rolls Royce of red-light devices, and now I understand why; the claims are pretty lofty — it’s said to reduce the appearance of pigmentation and redness,” Miska Salemann, commerce writer/reporter, shared after testing. “As someone who has continued dealing with redness throughout my adult life, this all sounds almost too good to be true.”
After only a week of using it, Salemann thinks she might be noticing less inflammation and more “amazing” skin. “I still need to wait a few more weeks to see the big-picture results. But so far, I couldn’t be happier with this device.”
“I love the fact that you can contour the shape of this mask to your face,” Salemann noted. “It fit snugly, without being overly restrictive or leaving lines. This also lets you go hands-free. It’s very multitasker-friendly. I was cleaning up my apartment while wearing it.”
A couple more things to note: Apparently, it’s normal for your skin to be a bit red after the treatment, but Salemann hasn’t noticed anything like that. Omnilux also recommends that you carry out a “sensitization” test on your inner arm before placing the light over your face and waiting to see if you experience any itchiness/redness.
“I think this is a great step for anyone who is new to red light therapy, and it makes me feel safer to know there is a way to test your skin’s reaction,” she concluded. While this isn’t the best FDA-approved LED face mask, it is the best that’s FDA-cleared. To learn more about what that means, hop down to our FAQ.
How to use: First, you have to charge the small controller button until three lights light up, then attach the controller to the mask. Place the mask on your clean face, using the straps to adjust it for a perfect fit. Press the button again and the mask immediately lights up. Turns off automatically after a 10-minute session.
Light mode: Red | Good for: Anti-aging, Pigmentation, Redness | Usage: Three to five times per week for 10 minutes
Pros:
- Easy directions and easy to use
- Lightweight
- Great device for beginners
Cons:
- You may have to wait a few weeks to see the results
- Unsure of the wavelength strength
“A few stressful months left my face looking dull and tired, so I decided to hop on the LED mask bandwagon,” Holly J Coley, commerce updates editor, shared. “I’ve tested a few out since I’ve been an editor and this is the one I’ve used the most.”
Price-wise, the Skin Gym Pink LED Face Mask is fantastic. It also offers the fundamentals: red light for anti-aging, blue for acne and orange to target dullness.
“A lot of these masks are heavy and hard to see through, so I like that the Skin Gym Face Mask has a more user-friendly design,” she said. “The eye portion is large enough to see clearly out of, and the mask itself is very light. It automatically shuts off after 20 minutes, so I put it on before I go to sleep (FYI, I’m a back sleeper).”
Coley noticed that her skin looked brighter and healthier after a month of consistent use. “While I don’t know how this would fare for those with more pronounced signs of aging, I think it’s a great beginner’s LED mask; ideal for men and women who want to get a jumpstart on upping their skincare game.”
How to use: Place on a clean face for 20 minutes, and then follow up with your skincare of choice.
Light mode: Red, Blue, Orange | Good for: Anti-aging, Acne, Dullness | Usage: 15-30 minutes per treatment
Pros:
- Clad with five wavelengths to toggle between different skincare concerns
- Comes with a 45-day risk-free return policy
- Comfortable to wear
Cons:
- One of the pricier LED Face masks in this roundup
- Unsure of the wavelength strength
“This LED face mask includes five wavelengths (red, blue, deep red, amber, and near infrared), but you cannot toggle between all five, as there are two modes with blue light as one and the other wavelengths combined in the other mode,” Lin said.
How to use: The device can be worn for 10-minute sessions for up to five times per week.
Light mode: Red, Deep-Red, Amber, Near-Infrared, Blue | Good for: Complexion, Collagen Production, Acne, Pigmentation, Redness | Usage: Three to five per week for 10 minute sessions
Pros:
- Clad with five wavelengths to toggle between different skincare concerns
- Comes with a 45-day risk-free return policy
- Comfortable to wear
Cons:
- Not recommended for darker skin types
Keen on anti-aging, the Solawave Wrinkle Retreat Light Therapy Face Mask is a renowned device that helps target full-face wrinkles and sun damage, offering an FDA-cleared solution to those who use it consistently.
“This is an upgrade from the previous Solawave red light wand since it’s hands free and contains blue light as well, to help with anti-aging and acne concerns,” Lin noted. “This only needs to be worn for 10 minutes for up to three times per week.”
Be sure to note that the company does not recommend its use for darker skin types. And if you’re looking for a LED mask that works for the neck as well, Solawave also has a best neck and chest LED Face mask.
How to use: Start with clean skin, then place the mask over your face, securing the strap around your head. Press and hold the power button until the lights turn on, and enjoy for 10 minutes.
Light mode: Red, Near-Infrared | Good for: Anti-Aging, Sun Damage | Usage: Three times per week for 10-minute sessions
Pros:
- Good for dark spots and anti-aging
- Multi-tasking product that helps with redness, pigmentation and acne
- Comfortable to sport and can be adjusted with an included remote
Cons:
- Extremely expensive price point
- Must be used consistently to see true results
While the Shani Darden Skin Care PRO LED Light Mask is one of the more expensive professional-grade options, it has 119 red, blue and near infrared lights.
“It also has a neck attachment and is touted to help with loose skin and tech neck,” Dr. Lin says. “The sessions are 10 minutes long.”
How to use: After cleansing and thoroughly drying face and neck, apply the mask. Then, select your desired mode and remove after 10 minutes.
Light mode: Red, Blue, Near-infrared | Good for: Anti-Aging, Loss of Firmness, Pigmentation, Redness, Acne, Dark Spots | Usage: n/a
Pros:
- Excellent for acne-prone skin, rosacea and eczema
- Doesn’t need to be plugged in
- Flexible silicone shape makes it one of the most comfortable
Cons:
- Price point may be unreachable for some
- Not as “multi-tasking” as some others on this list
Enter the CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask, a cutting-edge, comfortable-as-ever LED face mask that’s specially designed to target wrinkles. First this, then your best wrinkle cream.
“The sessions are 10 minutes, but this one should be used three to five times per week in order to see results,” Lin recommends, flagging the CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask as a viable option to purchase. “Its flexible design helps with fit on the face, but there are no lights on the upper lip or upper forehead areas.”
Impressively, it doesn’t need to be plugged in during the treatment. While a splurge, it’s one of the best in the biz to help smooth out your skin’s lines. Check out this LED face mask’s before and after pics to see improved wrinkles if you don’t believe us. Impressive. We’d also like to add that the LED face mask reviews for this are also fantastic.
How to use: Cleanse your skin and pat dry. Attach the mask, then adjust the strap around your head. Then, switch on, sit back and relax for your 10-minute treatment.
Light mode: Red, Near-infrared | Good for: Wrinkles, Skin-Brightening, Firmness and Texture | Usage: n/a
Pros:
- Fair price point compared to some others on this list
- Targeted application to help with specific acne problem areas
- Targets both anti-aging and acne
Cons:
- Not an LED face mask you “wear,” though not a dealbreaker
As a cute handheld device, the LightStim for Acne works well for targeted treatment.
“Let’s just say if a giant cyst rears its ugly head on my chin, I like to pick up this wand and treat it with both blue and red light to kill the bacteria and also reduce the inflammation,” Lolis noted, sharing her love for this less-than-$200 device.
How to use: Place the light gently on the skin and hold it in place; the device will beep after three minutes. If desired, close the eye nearest to the light. Move the device to a new area. Repeat until you’ve treated all desired areas. Use your LighStim no more than three minutes per area, once daily.
Light mode: Red, Blue | Good for: Acne, Anti-Aging, Blackheads, Cystic Acne | Usage: Three minutes per session, daily
How We Tested
Ahead, find the testing criteria the Post Wanted team used when testing each model, considering both first impressions and month-long testing:
- LED Light Colors: Different colors target different skin concerns. Common colors include red to help stimulate collagen production and reduce fine lines, and blue to target acne.
- Wavelength: Effective LED therapy typically uses specific wavelengths within the color spectrum. For instance, red light is often effective around 600-650 nm.
- Number of LEDs: More LEDs can mean more even and effective light coverage. Masks with a higher number of LEDs may provide better results.
- Comfort and Fit: The mask should be comfortable to wear for the duration of your treatment. Look for adjustable straps or flexible materials to ensure a good fit.
- Price and Warranty: Higher prices often reflect better technology, but this isn’t always the case. Make sure the mask comes with a warranty or guarantee in case of defects.
An FAQ on LED Face Masks
Ahead, our team of board-certified dermatologists answers commonly asked questions on how to use an LED face mask, their benefits and more.
How do LED face masks work?
First things first — let’s best understand how these skincare devices work before investing in one.
“LED or light emitting diode masks send wavelengths of light into the deeper layers of skin,” Lin tells The Post. “Originally only available in dermatologists’ offices, now these smaller home units are becoming increasingly popular. Compared to the more powerful in office treatments, the LED masks may have modest results and require more sessions; however, they can be a helpful adjunct to a good skincare regimen if used consistently.”
Most masks require 10 to 20 minutes per session and are meant to be used two to four times per week depending on the manufacturer.
How do LED face masks differ from traditional ones?
Aside from the fact that they are really fun to use and make for many Instagram worthy selfies, LED face masks tend to be stronger and more powerful. According to Lolis, traditional face masks use ingredients applied topically on the skin, however there are many variables.
“Optimal penetration and efficacy really depends on your skin barrier, the pH of your skin, the concentration and formulation of the active ingredients of the masks,” Lolis adds. “WIth LED face masks, an energy source (the light) penetrates the skin to a known depth and triggers well researched cellular reactions.”
What’s more, traditional face masks are not high-tech devices and generally can be adjusted to fit all face shapes. “The LED masks are made from materials like silicone or plastic, so there may be some variation with fit and comfort,” Lin explains. “There’s a higher risk of contact dermatitis or irritation with traditional face masks due to the chemicals and preservatives, and they typically cannot be used for multiple sessions.”
What are the benefits of using an LED face masks?
While more research needs to be done about LED face masks benefits, there is some evidence to support the use of red and blue light. “Red light can be anti-inflammatory and stimulate collagen and elastin production since it has deeper penetration while blue light with its antimicrobial properties can be useful to treat acne,” Lin says.
Ahead, Lin explains the latest scientific reasoning behind each color light therapy:
- Yellow: Yellow is thought to increase circulation and decrease redness in conditions like rosacea. White may be helpful for wound healing and could potentially be used post treatment to hasten the healing process. It may also be beneficial for those suffering from seasonal affective disorder.
- Green: Green light may decrease the redness seen in rosacea and combat hyperpigmentation by preventing excess melanin production.
- Purple: Purple — a combination of red and blue lights — may increase cell regeneration and improve the appearance of acne scars, as well as treat active acne.
- Orange: Orange light is a combination of red and yellow light, so it may also help to increase circulation and may help with anti-aging. Near infrared penetrates even deeper and may be helpful for cellular regeneration.
Are LED face masks FDA-approved?
“The use of light therapy itself is FDA-approved,” Lolis notes. “Most LED face masks are FDA cleared, but it is always important to double check.”
If your LED face mask is FDA-approved, this means that they have undergone the 510(k) process through the FDA, which is used most often to review medical devices. “The standards are not as rigorous as products that require FDA approval,” Lin explains. “FDA cleared devices often do not have large clinical trials to support their effectiveness and safety but are thought to be similar in their technology and purpose to other existing products on the market.”
How to use an LED face mask, step-by-step
First and foremost, always follow the directions on your particular LED face mask. We outlined a dermatologist-recommended routine for you to use as your next cheat sheet:
- Gently cleanse your face to remove any impurities.
- Once your skin is dry, apply the LED device on your face and use as directed. According to Lolis, most treatments last as long as 20 to 30 minutes and are recommended to be used two to three times a week.
- Make sure not to use the face mask longer or more times per week than instructed. If there is discomfort or worsening of any skin condition, then the LED mask should be discontinued.
According to Lin, it’s important not to use any oils or other occlusive products on the face as this can affect the penetration of the light emitting therapy. “Depending on the brand, it may require different treatment times,” she adds. “It can be used either in the morning or at nighttime. Results take time and require consistent use. There may be some temporary erythema or redness afterwards that should subside within an hour.”
You may need to start off using the mask for small increments of time and build up to a full treatment depending on the device, too.
Is there anyone who shouldn’t be using an LED face mask?
“Patients have a history of seizures or migraines may be triggered by bright lights,” Lolis says. “Furthermore, some patients who take photosensitizing medications such as antipsychotics or antibiotics should avoid using an LED mask.”
Additionally, LED face masks have the potential to worsen conditions like melasma, hyperpigmentation and certain eye diseases. “The use of these products should be discussed with a doctor prior to using,” Lin notes. “In addition, these are not tested in pregnant women, so it should be avoided in this population.”
This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest and greatest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what’s truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria’s latest conquests include reviewing the viral Korean beauty brand, Cosrx, and testing dermatologist-recommended acne cleansers. Victoria has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.
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