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Within the domain of skincare devices,
LED light therapy devices
may seem somewhat daunting for beginners (with some resembling characters from horror movies), yet their growing popularity and accessibility in recent months are not without cause. These home-use gadgets promise benefits ranging across multiple areas.
skin concerns
, eliminating the need for costly dermatological procedures.
If you have wondered about LED light therapy,
devices
, particularly with regards to red-light devices, we consulted dermatologists to explain how this technology affects the skin and how incorporating such a device into your regimen might assist you in achieving your targeted 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 penetrate deeply into the skin’s layers. According to Kapoor, “Each wavelength penetrates the skin to differing degrees and triggers distinct biological responses based on how far they go.”
In the ’90s,
NASA
started investigating the advantages of LED light therapy for promoting wound healing, and subsequently, it has become commonplace in numerous dermatological offices and cosmetic spas.
What advantages does LED light therapy offer for skin care?
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 issue. Although you may encounter different types of lighting, our specialists indicate that red and blue light therapies are most frequently employed to aid with skincare concerns.
According to the
Cleveland
Clinic
Blue light specifically affects the top layer of skin, yellow light penetrates somewhat deeper, and red light reaches even greater depths, making it particularly favored 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 that might aid in lessening indications of photoaging and enhancing
fine lines and wrinkles
according to Kapoor. “The red light might also have an impact on 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 acne-causing bacteria.
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 devices 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 and yellow light could assist in combating
redness
.
Approved by dermatologists and editors for LED light therapy devices
For those aiming to elevate their skincare regimen, we’ve compiled a list of dermatologist-and-editor-recommended LED devices. Alongside these, discover several popular gadgets as well as nourishing serums and moisturizers worth purchasing.
LifePro VizaCure LED Facial Light Therapy Mask
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, flusheness |
Use:
One time each day lasting between 10 to 20 minutes
Associate editor
Kamari Stewart
She has been utilizing (and enjoying) this budget-friendly LED mask for more than a year, noting that it’s user-friendly. The device offers various settings featuring distinct light treatments (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 lasting power,” 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 at
Solawave -
4-in-1 Facial Wand $169.00 at
Amazon
Product Specs
LED color options:
Red |
Good for:
Delicate lines, blemishes, swelling |
Use:
Up to thrice weekly
This small red light wand turns out to be
Shop favorite,
And Lamb mentions that she also adores this anti-aging tool. The brand claims that the gadget serves four purposes: providing red-light treatment, applying microcurrents, giving a mild massage, and generating warmth. These features collectively claim to diminish fine lines, decrease facial swelling, and enhance the absorption of skincare products into the epidermis.
I [Garlin] have been utilizing this item 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 overall. Additionally, I really 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 our 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. “Is it making me appear like a superlazy hero with the mask on? Definitely! Despite looking absurd, it does an impressive job combating swelling and lackluster skin within just a few minutes due to the various forms of light therapy integrated into the design. The quick improvements have piqued my interest in what lasting benefits the company claims it provides—especially regarding the diminishment of fine lines.
NuFACE Trinity+ Facial Contouring Device with Anti-Aging Attachment
Trinity+ Wrinkle Reducer Attachment
Trinity+ Wrinkle Reduction 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, five days each week
This
microcurrent device
From NuFace, there’s now an add-on for red light therapy, a feature that commerce editor Vivien Moon absolutely loves. According to the brand, this accessory connects to the device and releases red, amber, and infrared lights aimed at diminishing fine lines and age-related marks.
“I’ve owned this device for several years and truly appreciate how it helps me conserve space during travel while allowing me to maintain my skincare routine wherever I am,” explains Moon. “The sensor detects when it’s touching the skin and powers down otherwise, which is perfect for people who find the red light distracting when it isn’t 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, black spots, oily skin |
Use:
Up to twice weekly
The GloFacial device offers you an at-home spa experience. The BeautyBio crew provided me with this gadget, and it truly elevates the concept of being multifunctional. It clears out all the dirt clogging up your pores, and the LED blue light specifically tackles acne-causing bacteria—dermatologists claim this could aid in preventing future breakouts. I incorporate this into my routine roughly every seven days, and my skin appears radiant and fresh afterward.
Therabody TheraFace Pro
TheraFace Pro
TheraFace Pro $359.10 at
Amazon
Product Specs
LED color options:
Red, blue, infrared |
Good for:
Subtle wrinkles, blemishes, skin discoloration, elasticity issues, discomfort
Social editorial assistant
Annie Shigo
mentions that she has been utilizing this gadget for several months and is thrilled with the wide range of features it provides, including red light therapy, blue light treatment, a massage attachment, and microcurrent functionality.
“Essentially, this place offers every solution you might desire for your facial needs. During summertime, when I spend more time outdoors exposed to sunlight, I frequently utilize the red-light therapy feature. The device provides an optimal dosage of red light therapy; all it takes is a few minutes each day as you gently glide it across your face,” explains Shigo.
LED Technology Breathes New Life into Light Therapy
Revive Light Therapy
-
Restore Light Therapy $399.00 at
LED Technologies -
Revitalize with Light Therapy for just $399.00 at
Amazon
Product Specs
LED color options:
Crimson, azure, golden yellow, near-infrared across three modes |
Good for:
Delicate lines, blemishes, skin texture |
Use:
Three minutes per day
One of Lamb’s go-to choices is this LED light panel, which she recommends for addressing acne effectively. Designed to be positioned close to your face, this device combines red, blue, infrared, and amber lights across three distinct modes. An added advantage is that this panel can also be utilized on areas like the neck and chest, not just the face.
HighDose Red Light Facial Device
Red Light Face Mask
-
Red Light Facial Mask $349.00 at
Amazon -
Red Light Facial Mask $349.00 at
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 product; her complexion appears more radiant and smoother. Additionally, she likes to apply a moisturizing mask following the LED treatment for an added boost of care, according to Ricevuto.
Omnilux Contour Face Mask
Contour Face Mask
Contour Face Mask $395.00 chez
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 tends to sell out frequently (luckily, it’s available at the moment!). Moon mentions that this mask has turned into an essential component of her skincare regimen and appreciates its well-thought-out shape.
Moon mentions that when worn consistently, she observes enhanced pigmentation and radiance in her complexion. She chose this product due to its appropriate wavelength and ergonomic design which ensures a comfortable fit. This allows for optimal exposure to the LED light therapy tailored precisely for her facial structure, boosting her confidence in achieving better results.
HigherDose Red Light Hat
HigherDose Red Light Hat
-
HigherDose Red Light Hat priced at $449.00
Amazon -
HigherDose Red Light Hat $449.00 at
HigherDOSE -
HigherDose Red Light Hat priced at $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 effectively address hair loss issues. Ricevuto has been utilizing a red-light cap for tackling sparse hair. “Every evening, I wear my Higher Dose red-light cap with the aim of growing finer strands,” she explains. Her top preference regarding this product is its user-friendly design; simply place the cap on your head, set the built-in timer which signals completion at ten minutes, and you’re finished. After consistently wearing it over a period of ten weeks, her outcomes have exceeded expectations!” notes Ricevuto.
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 wrinkles, collagen, pimples, irritation |
Use:
For 10 minutes daily
One of Ricevuto’s go-to choices 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 for anti-aging and collagen boost, as well as blue light for tackling acne-prone skin. Additionally, it has an auto shut-off feature after 10 minutes to prevent excessive use.
More LED light therapy devices
Solawave Bye Acne 3-Minute Zit Spot Treatment
Goodbye Acne 3-Minute Pimple Spot Treatment
-
Goodbye Acne 3-Minute Pimple Spot Treatment $69.00
Solawave -
Farewell Acne 3-Minute Pimple Spot Treatment $69.00
Ulta -
Goodbye Acne 3-Minute Pimple Spot Treatment $69.00
Amazon
Product Specs
LED color options:
Red and blue combo|
Good for:
Acne, inflammation, hyperpigmentation |
Use:
For 3 minutes about breakout strategies
The editorially favored brand offers a gadget designed specifically for tackling acne spots. The company claims that this targeted therapy device uses both blue and red light to combat acne-causing germs and reduce swelling. For best results, apply the device to problematic zones for about three minutes at a time.
Skin Gym Wrinkle Light LED Mask
Wrinklit LED Mask
-
Wrinklit LED Mask priced at $99.00
Ulta -
Wrinklit LED Mask $99.00 at
Dermstore
Product Specs
LED color options:
Red, blue, and orange |
Good for:
Delicate lines, blemishes, lackluster complexion |
Use:
From 15 to 30 minutes
Even though you may appear as a researcher, this light shield provides three different colored LEDs designed for anti-aging benefits, treating acne, and enhancing skin luminosity. Customers rave about their positive outcomes. One Ulta reviewer commented, “After several weeks of use, my complexion has undergone significant improvement. Wrinkles have reduced, my skin color looks more uniform, and acne flare-ups occur far less often. I highly endorse this product to those seeking better-looking skin without visiting a dermatologist.”
Red Light Face Wand 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, patchy complexion, lackluster skin |
Use:
Several times per week
This red-light therapy facial wand simplifies skincare with its user-friendly design, aiding in enhancing skin complexion, diminishing signs of fine lines and wrinkles, and lifting the overall contours of your face. The ergonomic shape allows for smooth gliding over your entire face without much effort. Simply grasp it and glide it gently over your skin; there’s no need to push any buttons to get started. And here’s another plus: reportedly, noticeable improvements can be seen within just fourteen days according to the manufacturer.
Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite EyeCare Max Pro
DRx SpectraLite EyeCare Max Pro
-
DRx SpectraLite EyeCare Max Pro $199.00 at
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 exceptional skincare benefits. The brand claims that this red-light therapy eye mask offers comprehensive coverage—addressing wrinkles around your eyes, those pesky lines above your eyebrows known as “elevens,” and the delicate under-eye region. Additionally, it’s designed without wires, making it easy to carry around, complete with an adjustable headstrap for a snug fit.
Shark Beauty CryoGlow LED Facial Mask
CryoGlow LED Face Mask
-
The CryoGlow LED Face Mask costs $349.99.
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 new CryoGlow LED mask. This innovative product elevates LED face masks to a higher standard. It features not just red, blue, and infrared LEDs, but also offers adjustable cool-down settings designed to reduce puffiness around the eyes.
Skincare products suitable for use with LED devices
When using an LED device for skincare, dermatologists recommend focusing on moisturizing components and avoiding anything intense like retinols, exfoliants, or products that boost light sensitivity. Here’s a selection of hydrating moisturizers and serums that align with these guidelines.
Effective Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Hyaluronic Acid Serum
-
Hyaluronic Acid Serum priced at $5.98 available here
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 of these LED-activated serums contain hyaluronic acid. For those seeking an economical choice to use alongside their device, the Good Molecules serum comes in at just $6. An Amazon user noted, “With sensitive skin, most serums irritate me, yet this one works wonderfully. It applies smoothly, dries quickly, and leaves my skin appearing both moisturized and silky. After approximately a week of usage, I’m noticing excellent outcomes.”
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
-
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 $9.90 at
The Ordinary -
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 $9.90 at
Ulta -
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 $9.90 at
Sephora
Product Specs
Size:
1 oz.
| Key ingredients:
Sodium hyaluronate, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, glycerin
The popular serum from The Ordinary is favored by several Shop editors, including me. I rely on this product for prepping my skincare routine before using LED masks. It includes ceramides which help keep my skin moisturized and supple.
E.l.f. Skin Holy Hydration! Facial Moisturizer
Holy Hydration! Face Cream
-
Miracle Moisture! Facial Cream $12.97
Amazon -
Wow Water! Facial Moisturizer $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 works well as a primer before undergoing red light therapy due to its blend of hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. It’s suitable for daily application morning and evening, according to the manufacturer.
Solawave Renew Complex Serum
Renew Complex Serum
-
Renew Complex Serum for $20.80 at
Solawave -
Renew Complex Serum priced at $32.00
Amazon
Product Specs
Size:
1 oz.
| Key ingredient:
Hyaluronic acid, aloe vera
Solawave provides an “activating serum” designed 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 looks. The inclusion of aloe vera also adds a very calming effect.
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 priced at $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
As claimed by the manufacturer, this moisturizing serum aids in minimizing hyperpigmentation and imparts radiance to your complexion. When combined with the advantages offered by an LED mask, these features ensure that your skin appears and feels its optimal self.
Solawave LightBoost Face & Neck Nourishing 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
Solawave recently expanded its skin care line with even more creams and serums to use with red light devices. The brand says this face and neck cream is packed with anti-aging and hydrating ingredients, including peptides, collagen, ceramides, and more. Plus the cream’s LighBoost technology helps boost the effects of your red light devices, per the brand,
Belif The True Cream MoistureBomb
The RealCream Hydrating Bomb
-
The Real Cream Moisturizing Bomb $37.99 at
Amazon -
The Real Moisture Bomb Cream $38.00
Sephora -
The Genuine Cream Moisture Bomb $38.00 at
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. A number of Shop editors, including me, were recommended this brand by experts, and it has become an essential part of my nightly regimen’s last step, just prior to applying a mask or using a facial wand.
The Start Overnight Repair Niacinamide Cream
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 commerce writer
Emma Stessman
She expresses her satisfaction with this cream for her dry skin. “This product is incredibly rich and hydrating; just a small amount makes a noticeable difference. Additionally, since I have sensitive skin, I appreciate how mild yet effective the formulation is,” notes Stessman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which items should I steer clear of when utilizing LED light therapy devices?
Dermatologists advise to avoid using products that will make you sensitive to light such as retinol or retinoids, and harsh exfoliants.
What are the side effects of LED light therapy devices?
Kapoor states that LED light therapy is considered safe; nonetheless, certain individuals might encounter minor side effects such as redness, swelling, dryness, and itching.
What is the proper way to utilize LED light therapy devices?
It varies based on your usage needs, but according to experts, you should adhere to the guidelines provided with the equipment. Most suggest utilizing it approximately three to four times each week.
“As advised, various devices used for treating acne require several minutes of use each week, similar to anti-aging wands. However, facial masks should be applied for extended periods,” according to Lamb.
Adding an LED device to your skincare regimen is straightforward. As per Kapoor, you should apply it following the cleaning of your skin. Both professionals indicate that you can continue using your preferred skincare items alongside it, like moisturizers or antioxidants. Nevertheless, they advise steering clear of strong exfoliants, along with retinols and 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 consulting with a healthcare provider if you have an existing eye condition or are using medication that increases sensitivity to light.
Although 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.
Mount Sinai Dermatology. -
Dr. Reshmi Kapoor, MD
is a board-certified dermatologist and the owner as well as the founder of
Brooklyn Dermatology
In Greenpoint, which is located in Brooklyn, New York.
How we chose
Our selection of LED light therapy skincare devices was informed by interviews with leading dermatologists and input from Shop editors. For our other choices within this category, we relied on authenticated customer feedback and overall brand credibility.
The editing team at our shop has been utilizing the chosen LED devices regularly and every week for as long as one to two years.
This piece was initially released on
