On the flipside, these masks can get pricey, so it’s important to do your research and find one that will tackle your unique skin issues and make the investment worth it. If you do, the device will pay for itself, and see your skin through the hormonal acne caused by your period on up to the fine lines that can affect skin during menopause.
What to consider
The beauty of an LED mask as opposed to other light therapy tools is that they’re hands-free and can be used as part of a self-care moment of relaxation (with some power-packed skin benefits). These are the important features you’ll want to consider when purchasing the best LED face mask.
Light Color
Make sure you find the right light color for what you want to treat, says dermatologist Leah Ansell, MD. For example, blue light can treat acne, while red and near-infared light can diminish redness and rejuvenate your skin, minimizing fine lines and wrinkles, she adds. Additionally, green light helps with hyperpigmentation, age spots, and sun spots. In an ideal world, you’d purchase a mask that features several of these so you can use it for years to come.
If you can, take note of the number and quality of lights on the device, says Azadeh Shirazi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in La Jolla, California. (Not all devices list them, though.) The proven wavelengths include 415 nanometers (nm) of blue light, 630-680 nm of red light, and 830 nm of near-infrared light, she says. These units are used as the industry standard to guarantee that they can create biological change in the skin cells, adds dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD.
Type
Not all LED face masks as the same. Some are hard shell while others are more flexible—and therefore, may be more comfortable to wear. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what you’re more likely to use consistently (because remember: it can take anywhere from four to six weeks to see noticeable results, so you’re going to want a mask you can stick with).
Additional Features
This is where things get personal—in the best way possible. You’ll want to look for added bells and whistles that help the mask you purchase work seamlessly into your real life (because, again, you’re going to have to put in the time to see the results). If you’re fidgety, for example, and can’t commit to sitting still or laying down for 15 minutes straight, look for a cordless option. If comfort is king, look for adjustable straps and a padded interior.
How we chose
For two years, Women’s Health editors, including assistant love and life editor Addison Aloian, associate fashion and commerce editor Lily Wohlner, and editorial assistant Sabrina Talbert researched the bestselling, most popular, and top-rated LED face masks. They consulted with eight dermatologists and one plastic surgeon to get their recommendations, and then put them to the test. After extensive evaluations, we selected these six as the best LED light therapy masks for a wide range of skincare needs and budget preferences. It’s also worth noting that all of the masks on this list use FDA-cleared technology, an important consideration, according to Dr. Shirazi.
So, without further ado, here’s our list. Happy shopping.
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Best Overall
Therabody TheraFace Mask
Now 8% Off
Pros
- Uses vibrational technology to massage your face during your treatment
- Has more lights than any of the other masks we tried
Cons
- Has a hard shell, so may not be as comfortable to wear as other options
It should come as no surprise that the manufacturers of the revolutionary Theragun would change the game again when they entered the facial device market. This hard mask features three different wavelengths of light—red to stimulate collagen and firm skin, red plus infrared to boost circulation for a more even skin tone, and blue to battle acne-causing bacteria. So yes, this one is a bit on the pricey side, but it’s a lifelong purchase—you can use it through years of younger-you breakouts to whenever you first start to see the signs of aging.
Also worth noting is the fact that this mask features 648 medical-grade lights—more than most of the competition—and different modes to tailor the treatment to your unique skin needs (you can select the 9-minute preset option for results in as little as 12 weeks or one of the 3-minute treatments to tackle specific concerns). But one of the standout features is the inclusion of vibrational technology to give your face a relaxing massage around the eyes, brow bones, and scalp during your light therapy treatment. It’s a truly unique addition we haven’t seen in other options on the market. It’s also cordless—a major convenience since you don’t have to be stationary during the treatment—and comes with eye protection.
“I used this mask for several weeks and absolutely noticed a different in my skin during that time,” says Women’s Health beauty director Brian Underwood. “I used the nine-minute present treatment with the vibration, which leads your through three minutes of each light type. I felt like this was the best bang for your buck, and I noticed a huge brightness boost as well as far fewer breakouts. I usually have an odd spot or two on my face, but really didn’t notice anything while I was using this. I even did a few session with the lights off and just the breathing vibrations, which was so relaxing.”
The one downside is that this is a hard mask, meaning it can be a little cumbersome for certain folks. “I didn’t find it to be uncomfortable, per se, but I was definitely ready to take it off after the treatment,” says Underwood. “The adjustable straps were great and the fact that it’s cordless is a game-changer for me—I find it hard to sit still, even for 9 minutes. I didn’t use the eye protection—I found them to be awkward and a little uncomfortable.”
And though Therabody doesn’t specify the nanometers of light used, their multiple clinical studies have shown significant results, so you can trust that this one is actually effective.
Read more: Best Red Light Therapy Tools
| Target Areas | Full face |
|---|---|
| Types of Light | Red, Infrared, Blue |
| Type | Hard Mask |
| Additional Features | Adjustable head straps, eye protection, display stand, vibrational therapy |
Easiest To Use
MZ Skin LightMax Supercharged LED Mask
Pros
- Multiple lights to treat various skin conditions
- Streamlined treatment settings make this one easy to use
Cons
- Remote isn’t detachable during use
Though not equipped with many of the bells and whistles of our top pick, this MZ Skin mask comes highly recommended by plastic and reconstructive surgeon Jaimie DeRosa, MD because it also offers different types of light—red and blue— and multiple settings. The anti-aging mode helps firm your skin by stimulating collagen production with red light while the acne mode harnesses blue light’s anti-bacterial properties to clear skin. While it’s the priciest option on our list, the device is well-designed with a luxe vibe that will make you feel like you’re using a very high-end treatment.
During our testing, Women’s Health editors agreed this is a solid option. “Results pending on whether the mask does anything for my forming wrinkles and occasional pimples, but so far, it’s been a breeze to use,” says commerce editor Jasmine Gomez, who found that the mask required more time to set up than other options since you need to futz with the straps to get them to fit just right. Additionally, she says the mask is on the heavier side, so it’s an option you need to use while sitting or laying down, though the unique silicone design fits the face well (translation: you’ll feel like you’re getting full bathed in light).
All that being said, its biggest plus is its simplicity—the mask’s two settings are easy to figure out how to use.
| Target Areas | Full face |
|---|---|
| Types of Light | Red, Blue, Infrared |
| Type | Hard mask |
| Additional Features | Automatic shutoff and controller |
Most Comfortable To Wear
CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask
Pros
- Flexible fit makes this one very comfortable to put on
- Particularly suited to best address the visible signs of aging
Cons
- Some testers say the light is very bright, so brace yourself
This mask comes recommended by Dr. Garshick, who says it’s a great option for evening out texture. “Incorporating both red and near infrared light, this LED light therapy tool has been shown to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve the skin tone and texture,“ she says. Unfortunately, while it does contain the expert-recommended nanometers of light, there are several colors that are not included here, making it not quite as versatile as the others. But if tackling fine lines and wrinkles are your thing, this could work for you.
What really makes this one a standout, though, is how light it is—it feels practically weightless on. Plus, it’s made of a flexible material that conforms to skin for the most comfortable fit. It also has a remote control makes it super easy to adjust while you have it on.
But if the mask type seems is what you prefer, you’ll be happy to know that it improves the appearance of skin after just a few weeks. Some users even saw major improvements after about a month of use, reporting that their blemishes healed and their redness was reduced. BTW, this mask comes with a few celebrity endorsements, too: It’s loved by the likes of Halle Berry, Kourtney Kardashian, Kaley Cuoco, and more.
Now that’s saying a lot.
| Target Areas | Whole Face |
|---|---|
| Types of Light | Red, Near-Infrared |
| Type | Hard Mask |
| Additional Features | Remote control |
Most Time Efficient
Omnilux Contour Face
We’ve tested a lot of face masks, and this one is ideally suited to tackle lines and acne scars. It’s simple, but it gets the job done. However, if you want a tool with multiple light options, you may want to look into some of the other options, including our top pick. On the flipside, this mask is made of flexible silicone for a comfortable fit, and it’s ready to go as soon as you take it out of the box. It targets everything from hyperpigmentation and wrinkles to fine lines and redness.
Wohlner agrees. “I just plug it in while I’m laying in bed and lets it do its thing for 10 minutes—that’s all you need to get the job done, which is a shorter time span than other masks on our list that typically require 20-30 minutes for use,” she says.
She also raves that the mask works wonders on her skin. “I use this device three times every week and I’ve seen results super quickly—my skin looks clearer and brighter and it has an overall glow like I’ve never experienced.” As someone who has dark marks and acne scars, Wohlner says the masks makes a difference in the severity of these imperfections if you commit to using your mask a few times a week.
Something to note, though: be super gentle with this one. The lights can easily break if you apply too much pressure when using it. It’s also prone to breaking if it’s stored incorrectly.
| Target Areas | Whole face |
|---|---|
| Type of light | Red, Near-infrared |
| Type | Flexible silicone mask |
| Additional Features | Rechargeable battery controller, head straps |
Most Dermatologist-Recommended
Dr. Dennis Gross SpectraLite FaceWare Pro
Pros
- Sturdy construction makes this mask long-lasting and durable
- Improves multiple skin conditions
Cons
- Mask is very rigid so it may not fit all face types
Dermatologists Shari Sperling, MD, Dr. Parikh, Dr. Camp, and Dr. Garshick all rave about this mask, which improves sun spots, age spots, and discoloration while helping with current acne and future breakouts. “Using a combination of red and blue light, this mask works to support collagen production as well as reduce acne-causing bacteria and inflammation,” Dr. Garshick explains.
While this product has the potential of being the best overall pick, the price is on the higher side. Plus, since this is a hardshell mask, it’s less likely to fit on different face shapes. For those who prefer a hard mask, the adjustable strap in the back can make for a more comfortable experience.
One user says she has been loyal to the Trophy Skin LED mask for a few years, first buying it to treat her deep pit scars and open pores. She adds that she still wears the mask because she has seen improvements in her skin, and because it helps to calm any inflammation during her occasional breakouts.
| Target Areas | Whole face |
|---|---|
| Type of Light | Red, Blue |
| Type | Hard mask |
| Additional Features | Wireless |
Best Value
Qure Light Therapy Mask
Pros
- Connected smartphone app allows you to customize your treatment
- Features multiple light and treatment settings
Cons
- Tricky to figure out how to insert the eye protection at first
Ok, $350 isn’t exactly cheap, but Qure’s mask is the least expensive option on our list by a few bucks, and if you’re on the hunt for a mask that checks all of the boxes (who isn’t?!), here’s your answer. In addition to two types of red light—red and deep red—for anti-aging benefits, the mask also boasts infrared, amber, and blue lights to deal with acne, fine lines, sun spots. Select your skincare concerns, and a compatible smartphone app will customize a treatment plan just for you. The icing on the cake? Treatment time is only three minutes for all plans—among the fastest of all the devices we tested.
In our evaluations, testers loved the structure of the mask, which sits squarely on the face so it won’t need to be constantly readjusted (an annoying feature of some of the others we tried). That being said, our testers told us it isn’t heavy or cumbersome. “This mask is lightweight, and fit my face perfectly, making me feel like I was reaping the most benefits,” says Earley.
On the downside, the customization component overly complicated things, says beauty writer Erica Metzger, who tested this mask for Women’s Health for three weeks. “In theory, the smartphone app is cool and useful—and some people will probably really enjoy this feature—but I found tinkering with it to be too time consuming and defeated my favorite aspects of simplicity and speed,” she says. “Also, I want full-face anti-aging, so the regular setting works just fine.” Read her full review to get all the deets.
Also, it’s a little tricky to get the eye protection into the mask at first (even after reading the directions, Metzger inserted the removable eye protection in the wrong way), but a quick tutorial video solved the problem.
| Target Areas | Full face |
|---|---|
| Type of Light | Red, Deep Red, Blue, Amber, Infrared |
| Type | Hard mask |
| Additional Features | Compatible smartphone app, eye protection, adjustable straps |
Are LED face masks effective?
Absolutely, experts say. “They work by sending light waves deep into the skin barrier to trigger intracellular reactions, which vary based on the wavelength of light used,” says dermatologist Dendy Engelman, MD. The benefits depend on the color of the light because each will penetrate the skin at different depths, adds Dr. Camp.
Here’s exactly how red light therapy works, for example: “The mitochondria in your cells soak up energy from red light to produce more energy in the skin, healing and repairing damaged cells while promoting tissue and cell repair,” says dermatologist Anna Guanche, MD.
Are LED face masks safe?
Yes, they’re generally safe for most users, says Dr. Engelman. “LED light therapy is not an invasive treatment, and when done properly, the risks are minimal,” she continues. A 2018 study in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology points out that this treatment has an “excellent” safety profile, Dr. Ansell adds. While they’re safe to use on the skin, there’s some concern about damage to the eyes with these lights. So, it’s a good idea to wear goggles to help protect them.
Individuals who are photosensitive or have connective tissue conditions should either skip LED light therapy or approach it with caution, advises Dr. Ansell. For those of you that can use one, Dr. Engelman suggests wearing it for 15 to 30 minutes a few times a week, but it’s crucial to refer to your specific mask’s instructions for the recommended time.
What are the types of LED light therapy?
Most at-home red light therapy devices come with several waves of light, the most common shades being red and blue. However, all shades have different benefits. DeRosa breaks it down:
- Red light helps smooth out wrinkles and boost collagen production.
- Blue light is great for eliminating acne-causing bacteria and reducing inflammation.
- Yellow light helps with skin repair.
- Green light treats hyperpigmentation.
How do you use an LED face mask?
“The best way to use an LED light therapy mask is on clean skin,” says Dr. Engelman. After washing your face in the morning or at night, set your mask to the proper wavelength, then put on goggles. Comfort is key, so feel free to adjust any straps and align yourself with the cushioning (if your mask has any) before using it. Post-use, finish the rest of your skincare routine, she says. And definitely use it before applying retinol, says Dr. Shirazi.
What are the benefits of using an LED face mask?
Dr. Guanche says that the red-light therapy feature in these devices is especially helpful. “Studies have found that red light therapy helps with photodynamic therapy to treat some skin cancers and conditions, such as psoriasis and acne, as well as provide anti-aging benefits,” she says. They’re, of course, not as strong or fast as in-office LED light therapy, but they’re a more affordable and easy at-home option, especially if people want to extend the results of in-office treatments, Dr. Engelman adds.
Meet the experts
- Marisa Garshick, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist.
- Dendy Engelman, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist.
- Brendan Camp, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist.
- Anna Guanche, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon.
- Sherwin Parikh, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist.
- Shari Sperling, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist.
- Leah Ansell, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist.
- Azadeh Shirazi, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist.
- Jaimie DeRosa, MD, is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon.
Sabrina is an editorial assistant for Women’s Health. When she’s not writing, you can find her running, training in mixed martial arts, or reading.
Lily Wohlner is the Associate E-Commerce Editor of Women’s Health. An expert in recommending the best products to add-to-cart, she knows what it takes for a product to receive a solid five stars (especially when it comes to beauty!). Starting her career as a freelance makeup artist, Lily has since moved to the editorial world, where she has generated content for brands including Oribe, NewBeauty, Dermstore, SkinStore, and LOOKFANTASTIC. When she’s not zenning out with a pore-clearing mask, the Lower East Side dweller is cheffing up a new recipe with her roommate or thrifting for the perfect pair of blue jeans. Follow her on Instagram.
Brian Underwood is the beauty director at Women’s Health. He is an award-winning journalist with more than 15 years of experience covering beauty and lifestyle for several national media outlets and previously served as beauty and wellness director at Oprah Daily. His work has appeared in Woman’s Day, Life & Style Weekly, Good Housekeeping, and many more. He also serves as a member of the Skin Cancer Foundation’s gala committee and lives in New York City with his daughter.
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