LED face mask comparison chart
Other LED face masks we tested
Skin Gym Wrinklit LED Mask
Original video by Brigitt Earley testing the Skin Gym Wrinklit LED Mask
You generally have to spend hundreds of dollars for an LED face mask, but this shield from Skin Gym retails for less than $100 while still delivering the red and blue wavelengths dermatologists say you need to see results. The lightweight plastic mask sits on two arms that slip over your ears—much like sunglasses—so it doesn’t sit quite as close to the face as other options.
“I like how easy it is to operate. Simply press the power button,” says Earley. “Unfortunately, there’s no built-in timer, so you’ll have to set your own and then manually shut off the mask after the recommended 15 minutes.” It’s also quite a lengthy time commitment for daily use, so you may find yourself less inclined to use it.
Therabody TheraFace Mask
Original video by Andrew Freund testing the Therabody TheraFace Mask
If you think of your time with your LED mask as a moment of self-care, this is one of the most relaxing options. In addition to red, blue, and infrared light therapy, it features 17 motors along the head straps that gently vibrate at pressure points along the eyes, brow line, and scalp.
“Each full treatment cycle lasts nine minutes, divided into three-minute segments for each light mode, but I like that you can also opt for a quick three-minute session if you’re running low on time or just want to spot-treat,” says a Glamour reviewer who tested this model for three months. “It’s a game changer,” says another reviewer, TV host Andrew Freund, who has used it every morning for over a year. “I’ve noticed my skin tone is much more even, my crow’s-feet have diminished, and my skin feels much tighter all around. This thing is the fountain of youth!” He likes that it’s easy to travel with too.
That said, the mask is bulkier, heavier, and noisier than some other options, and the massage feature, while enjoyable, may not feel worth the trade-offs for everyone.
Sun Home Saunas Radiant Face Mask
Original video from Brie Schwartz testing the Sun Home Saunas Radiant Face Mask
This LED mask has an impressive number of wavelengths—red, deep red, amber, near-infrared, and blue—that go deep on acne, prevent breakouts, and increase collagen production, but we didn’t find it as comfortable as other flexible masks. The eye holes are on the smaller side and the light reflects into your eyes, making it hard to do anything but sit there with your eyes closed. For a comparable price, there are superior options.
Silk’n LED Face Mask 100
Original video from Will Cownie testing the Silkn LED Face Mask 100
Most dermatologists say you won’t see results from LED face masks for four to six weeks, but Silk’n says its data shows measurable results in just two to three weeks. We also like that, though it’s one of the more affordable masks we tested, this mask has 460 nm blue light rather than the more standard 415 nm—great for those with acne. Our tester, Will Cownie, who has acne-prone skin, saw noticeable improvement in the texture of his skin. “When I started using the mask, I was noticing some bumpy texture on my forehead. After a month of use, the bumps are gone,” he told Glamour. Unfortunately, though, in our experience, this LED mask occasionally faces stock issues.
Shani Darden by Déesse Pro LED Light Mask
Original video from Ben Cownie testing Shani Darden LED Face Mask
This LED mask is packed with 238 blue, red, and near-infrared lights to target signs of aging and acne—and it comes with a neck piece designed to help address skin sagging and fine lines. That said, it comes with a jaw-dropping price tag of $1,900—comparatively high, even with the included neck attachment.
“Over the past few years, I’ve definitely started dealing with ‘tech neck’ and have noticed some lines developing,” says Glamour reviewer Ben Cownie. “After each use my skin and neck feel tighter, not in an uncomfortable way, but more so in a snatched way that I love.”
Adds Schwartz, “I couldn’t adjust the straps tight enough for my smaller head, so unlike other masks I’ve tested, I had to sit still with this one to have it properly placed. However, my husband, who has a bigger head, loved it and saw brightening benefits after a few uses. He also found the neck piece comfortable.”
Frequently asked questions
How we tested red-light therapy face masks
We test red-light therapy face masks by surveying popular, well-reviewed devices and consulting dermatologists for their personal and professional recommendations. Our testing includes a wide range of FDA-cleared masks, and we do not prioritize brands we have affiliations with over others. Testers—men and women over 30 with different skin concerns—evaluate each mask for comfort, design, treatment time, and ease of use.
Because red-light therapy takes time to show results, we encourage testers to keep and use the masks consistently over several months (and ideally longer), giving us a clear picture of long-term performance and effectiveness. We also continuously test new and next-generation models to update this guide with fresh insights on efficacy, durability, and overall experience.
How do LED face masks work?
LED (light-emitting diode) masks use specific wavelengths of light that penetrate deep into the skin to stimulate natural repair processes, says Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. This can help improve skin texture, tone, and elasticity, while addressing concerns like acne (and acne scars), dark spots, rosacea, eczema, hyperpigmentation, redness, fine lines, wrinkles, and even psoriasis.
Do LED face masks actually work?
“Numerous studies demonstrate that LED light therapy can aid in skin healing, improve chronic conditions like acne and rosacea, and enhance overall skin health,” says Viktoryia Kazlosukaya, MD, PhD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “That said, the results are often modest and gradual. It’s essential to set realistic expectations—LED masks are not a substitute for professional skin care, cosmetic procedures performed by board-certified dermatologists, or prescription medications. They are best viewed as a supplementary tool in a broader skin care routine.”
How to choose an LED face mask
When choosing an LED face mask, start by considering the light modes, design, and safety features.
Light modes: Most masks use red light or a combination of red and infrared, but some include blue or amber lights to target specific concerns. Common wavelengths and benefits include:
- Red-light therapy (620–750 nm): Penetrates deeply, reduces inflammation, stimulates collagen, and helps minimize fine lines and wrinkles
- Blue-light therapy (405–420 nm): Targets acne-causing bacteria with antimicrobial properties
- Infrared, near-infrared, and amber light therapy (760–1,400 nm): Helps reduce redness and even out skin tone, including dark spots and sun damage
Design: Masks can be structured and molded or flexible silicone. Structured masks may sit closer to the skin, while flexible masks are often lighter and more comfortable. Fully wireless designs are ideal, though some masks include clips to help offset bulky battery packs or controllers.
FDA clearance: Safety and efficacy are critical. All the masks on our list are FDA-cleared, a point emphasized by both the Mayo Clinic and the dermatologists we consulted.
How to use an LED face mask
When using an LED face mask, start by cleansing your skin thoroughly to remove makeup, dirt, and oil, and make sure it’s completely dry—any products left on the skin can interfere with light absorption. Fit the mask so it sits flush against your face, then turn it on.
Usage frequency and session length depend on the product’s instructions. Most masks recommend 10-minute sessions, though some can be as short as three minutes or as long as 20 minutes. After your session, you can immediately follow with your regular skin care products, like serums and moisturizers. There’s no required time of day—morning or evening works equally well.
Are LED face masks safe for your eyes?
Yes, red-light therapy face masks are generally safe for your eyes. “Most lights aren’t likely to damage the eyes, unless we are talking about ultraviolet light (UV) or staring at intense bright light (think of looking directly at the sun during a solar eclipse),” says Michael Brusco, MD, FADCS, medical director and surgeon at Brusco Vision in Washington, DC.
If the mask feels very bright or causes glare, it’s usually more annoying than harmful. If you have sensitive eyes, make sure to select a mask with built-in eye protection. And if you experience any dryness, Dr. Brusco recommends using eye drops.
Can you overdo it with an LED face mask, and are there side effects of using an LED face mask?
You can overuse an LED face mask, though any side effects and unlikely to be significant. “Overusing an LED face mask can lead to skin irritation, dryness, or sensitivity,” says Kristina Collins, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Austin, Texas. “While LED light therapy is generally safe for most skin types, excessive use—beyond the recommended frequency—does not necessarily yield better results.” Follow your product’s instructions, and if you experience burning, stinging, or redness, stop using the mask and consult a dermatologist.
How long does it take for LED face masks to work?
LED face masks generally begin to show noticeable results within three to four weeks of consistent use (consistency is the key word here). Initial improvements often include smoother skin texture and reduced acne inflammation. For more significant benefits, such as diminished fine lines and enhanced skin tone, it may take two to three months of regular treatment. Results will vary based on your skin type, the concerns you’re trying to address, and the quality of the device.
Who should not use LED light therapy?
Avoid using LED light therapy if you have any active inflammatory skin conditions or are immediately post-procedure from things like microneedling or laser resurfacing, says Meredith Price, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Grosse Pointe, Michigan. “I always advise caution to patients with melasma, as this is a light- and heat-sensitive condition. I’ve seen red-light therapy masks help melasma, and I have also seen them worsen it,” she says. “Most LED devices have not been assessed for safety in pregnancy and breastfeeding, so I advise avoidance during that time as well.”
Is LED light therapy safe for dark skin?
“LED masks are generally safe for dark skin,” says Asmi Berry, DO, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles. “Unlike lasers, LED light doesn’t target melanin, so there’s no increased risk of burns or hyperpigmentation for deeper skin tones.” She advises sticking with FDA-cleared, dermatologist-recommended brands, which tend to be more extensively tested on all skin types. “If you’re using an at-home mask, make sure it doesn’t get hot. For sensitive skin, too much heat or irritation could trigger inflammation, which in darker skin can sometimes lead to post-inflammatory pigment changes,” she says.
What is the most effective LED face mask?
The most effective LED face masks emit wavelengths of red light between 620 and 750 nanometers, blue light between 405 and 420 nm, and infrared light between 760 and 1,400 nm, says Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami. Consistent use (approximately three to five times per week) at this level should produce results within about two months, she says.
- Y. Claire Chang, MD, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at Union Square Laser Dermatology in NYC
- Margarita Lolis, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Hackensack, New Jersey
- Jessica Weiser, MD, dermatologist at Weiser Skin MD in NYC
- Joshua Zeichner, MD, board-certified dermatologist and associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City
- Kristina Collins, MD, board-certified dermatologist in Austin, Texas
- Brendan Camp, MD, double-board certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in the NYC area
- Michael Brusco, MD, FADCS, medical director and surgeon at Brusco Vision in the Washington, DC, area
- Meredith Price, MD, board-certified dermatologist in Grosse Pointe, Michigan
- Anna Chacon, MD, board-certified dermatologist in Miami
- Viktoryia Kazlosukaya, MD, PhD, board-certified dermatologist in New York City
- Asmi Berry, DO, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles
