Skincare routines used to revolve around a simple cleanse, tone, and moisturize, but these days, editors, skincare enthusiasts, and even dermatologists have us convinced that no regimen is complete without an LED mask.
In recent years, LED light — especially at-home devices — has gained the same level of attention as professional facials, and the anecdotal evidence is hard to ignore. Read the reviews of the hundreds of LED masks out there, and you’ll see people extolling their virtues for reducing fine lines and wrinkles, minimizing acne and acne scarring, and boosting overall radiance.
It’s impressive stuff. But what does the science say? Dermatologist Dr. Jonathan Kentley recently told R29 that LED devices often use specific wavelengths of light, such as red, near-infrared, and blue, depending on their intended function. When it comes to acne, there’s evidence that red and infrared light can be an effective treatment. It works by targeting oil-producing glands, nixing acne-causing bacteria, calming inflammation, and helping speed up the skin’s healing process.
Studies also show that red and infrared light from LED masks can activate the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin, which give skin its strength and suppleness. Then there’s blue LED light, which has also been used to treat acne, Dr. Kentley added, because it’s easily absorbed by acne-causing bacteria.
Unlike professional facials, though, there’s no need to book an appointment — you can use LED masks in the comfort of your own home, and some of the very best are available at the click of a button on Amazon. With that in mind, here are the LED masks the R29 beauty team swears by for glowing, supple, clear skin.
CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Face Mask: Series 1, $379.99
Take my word for it: this is one of the most comfortable red light face masks. Made from flexible silicone, it fits seamlessly against the skin without feeling hot, heavy, or suffocating. Sometimes, when I’m reading or watching TV, I have to remind myself that I’m wearing it. There’s even a multiway strap if you want to adjust the fit further.
Because it molds so closely to the face, the 236 LED bulbs — 110 red, 110 near-infrared, and 16 deep near-infrared — sit directly against the skin, helping to maximize results. The deep near-infrared is the standout wavelength, proven to support skin healing and stimulate collagen, the structural protein that gives skin its strength and suppleness.
I’ve been using mine for a year, and I’m convinced the fine lines under my eyes are less noticeable than when I started. It’s also great at calming inflammation — and as someone with acne-prone skin, I appreciate how quickly it brings down angry red bumps. Even better, it’s easy to clean: I just run an alcohol wipe over it, and I’m good to go.
FAQ 202 Advanced 8 Color Light Facemask, $799, $519.99
Not too long ago, I was at a beauty event when I noticed a group of editors crowding around something, gushing over it. When I got closer, I realized it was this LED mask, which features no fewer than eight wavelengths. Research suggests that near-infrared light can help repair damage and kickstart collagen production, while red and orange light are known to smooth skin texture.
There’s also blue light, often used to treat acne because it targets acne-causing bacteria, purple light, said to help minimize hyperpigmentation, and green light, thought to brighten dull skin. Editor friends who swear by it say consistency is key, and that it helps improve uneven skin tone and texture over time. They also appreciate the wider eye opening, which allows them to read and carry on with daily tasks comfortably. If aesthetics matter to you, it’s arguably one of the coolest-looking masks on the market — and this one comes with five hydrating sheet masks, too.
Shark CryoGlow LED Face Mask with Under-Eye Cooling, $349
Refinery29’s senior writer, Karina Hoshikawa, started using Shark’s LED Face Mask before her wedding last year and hasn’t looked back since. “It’s still one of the most effective steps in my entire beauty routine,” she wrote in a review, adding that it keeps her acne flare-ups at bay, boosts glow, and reduces inflammation and redness. Even better? “The full-face mask feels durable but is shockingly lightweight, making it one of the most comfortable I’ve tried,” Hoshikawa said. The cooling eye pads add an extra touch. It makes sense, then, that out of 770 Amazon reviews, 80% are five-star.
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