LED Face Masks Editors and Dermatologists Say Are Worth the Investment (2024)

Those robotic-looking light-up face masks you've seen people wearing on social media aren't just for likes and comments. The devices, inspired by in-office treatments, are LED face masks, and not only do they make for great (or scary?) photo opps, they rejuvenate skin in the comfort of your home. "LED face masks use light-emitting diodes to penetrate the skin at various wavelengths; this improves cellular performance," explains Lauren Berlingeri, cofounder and co-CEO of HigherDOSE. While in-office LED light therapy delivers more powerful strengths, at-home devices (ideally with wavelengths between 600 and 900 nanometers) offer subtle improvements and maintenance. These devices can come with several waves of light, the most common being blue and red LED light therapy. Each light offers different benefits. For what those are, keep reading.

Do LED face masks work?

Yes! Dermatologists agree that LED face masks are effective as long as you're consistent and pairing them with a "robust skincare routine with actives and even in-office treatments," says Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist. "They are cherry on top to make change a bit more notable."

The types of LED light therapy

"Red light has anti-inflammatory and collagen-stimulating properties," says Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at the Shafer Clinic in NYC. "It helps minimize the appearance of pores and accelerate skin repair." Everyone can benefit from red light therapy.

Blue LED light, however, is ideal for oily and acne-prone skin types because it "eliminates bacteria, regulates oil production, and reduces acne," Engelman says. Blue light therapy is also helpful for treating eczema and psoriasis.

White light helps to reduce inflammation, tighten skin, and increase circulation. This beam's soothing properties are ideal as a post-operation treatment, Engelman says. There is also yellow light, which doesn't penetrate the skin as deeply as red or blue light but helps with boosting radiance and reducing swelling. Green light isn't as common in at-home devices, but can help reduce hyperpigmentation.

Are LED face masks safe?

Yes, they're generally safe for most users. "But those who are photosensitive should use caution or consult a dermatologist before using one," advises Engelman. Similarly, Ellen Marmur, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of MMSkincare based in New York City, says you should avoid these masks if you have melasma because the heat being so close to the skin can cause flair ups. That said, you don't need to avoid an LED device altogether, you just need a tool that doesn't sit directly on the face.

How to use an LED face mask

First, wash your face, then wear or sit in front of the LED device for the recommended time; most masks offer treatment times between three and 30 minutes long. "Follow up with serums and moisturizer directly after application to enhance absorption," says Engelman. "You can use an LED mask three to four times per week," she adds. Ahead, we gathered the best (and dermatologist-recommended) LED face masks to help you choose an option that targets your specific concerns.

CurrentBody recently upgraded its original LED mask. The newest iteration of this FDA-approved device is still flexible, lightweight, and safe for all skin tones and types. However, thanks to its multi-way strap, controller with a clip, and chin strap, it makes it a lot easier to continue to do errands around the house. "I don't feel like I need to stop what I'm doing for 10 minutes, whether it's washing dishes, cleaning up, or scrolling on my phone," says Genesis Rivas, Oprah Daily beauty editor. "I also love knowing that my entire face and chin can reap the benefits." Engelman recommends this option because it intensely accelerates collagen production and increases blood circulation, making it perfect for reducing inflammation and signs of aging.

Oprah Daily beauty editor, Genesis Rivas, wearing CurrentBody LED Face Mask.

Berlingeri and her cofounder and co-CEO, Katie Kaps, created this red light face mask to help reduce redness and rejuvenate skin. Besides LED, it also harnesses the power of near-infrared light therapy, which studies suggest may help "regulate the circadian rhythm to help with better sleep, mood, and hormonal balance," says Kaps. Additionally, the design features multiple straps to fit your head securely and is cord-free, so you don't have to worry about staying put while doing your treatment. "In the past, I've had great intentions to wear an LED mask regularly, but I'd forget or never make the time to stop and recline for the full treatment time. This mask, however, fits my face perfectly, which means I can multitask. I'll wear it as I watch a show, type, clean up, or get my children's attention," says Oprah Daily beauty director Kate Sandoval Box.

Oprah Daily beauty director, Kate Sandoval Box, wearing the HigherDose Red Light Face Mask.

Holly Carter, Oprah Daily lifestyle contributing editor, using the FAQ 202 Wireless Silicone LED Face Mask.

This 2024 Oprah Daily Beauty Award winner stands out for its ability to promote a glowing complexion and ultimate relaxation. Red, blue, and red + infrared wavelengths stimulate collagen production, fight acne-causing bacteria, and increase circulation—all as the device’s “micro-motors” give an incredible face and head massage (read: you’ll want to use it regularly). “There are no wires, so I can walk around and get things done while I treat my skin,” says Adam Glassman, Oprah Daily creative director. You can choose between nine-minute treatments (which is recommended for best results) or three minutes if you're in a time crunch.

Adam Glassman, Oprah Daily creative director, wearing the Therabody TheraFace Mask.

This soft and flexible silicone material wraps around your face comfortably while the medical-grade red LED lights get to work on refining skin texture, stimulating collagen production, and offering a more even tone. The brand also came out with an LED face mask specifically for men, which typically have skin that is 25 percent thicker, for the same price. It offers the deepest penetrating wavelength to help with various concerns, including razor burn. That said, both masks have a secure design so if you need to clean up, do laundry, or put the kids to bed, you can do so while getting your daily dose of skincare.

Glassman tidying up while wearing the Omnilux LED Mask for men.

The chances of skin experiencing multiple concerns at the same time are high, which is why this face mask gives the option to turn on blue and red light therapy simultaneously. Blue light is great for targeting acne, while red light will reduce signs of aging and inflammation. Press once for red light, twice for blue light, and three times for a combined treatment. The best part? Treatment is only three minutes, and your skin appears visibly more radiant, smooth, and even after each use.

Shani Darden is a celebrity esthetician who concludes every facial with a powerful LED treatment. This LED face mask was inspired to give you the same level of care in the comfort of your own home. It's a splurge because it delivers the highest dose of red, blue, and near-infrared light therapy in wavelength combinations that support collagen production and reduce the look of blemishes, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. It also comes with a neck attachment to care for skin below the chin.

Think of this spot treatment LED mask as a pimple patch on steroids. It targets acne and inflammation in six minutes using red and blue light. Stick it onto your face using the double-sided adhesive strip. (Peel one side of the strip and apply to the treatment area, then peel off the other side and stick on the device). Press the button and start your treatment. The device comes with 40 tape patches in small and large sizes and a rechargeable case.

If you're new to LED face masks, this accessible low-intensity device is a great entry-level option. It's a budget-friendly price compared to other options and it offers a variety of light therapy treatments to target your specific concerns. Choose red light to minimize common signs of aging, blue light to reduce acne-causing bacteria, or orange light to revitalize a dull-looking complexion. The wireless design also makes it great for multitasking.

Available for only $75, this LED face mask is a steal (though it's important to note that the lights aren't as strong as some pricier options). Still, you get seven different light therapy modes, including red, blue, yellow, and green. "Yellow light helps clear toxins and stimulate the lymphatic system," says Azza Halim MD, a multi-specialist physician. This mask has got you covered whether you're looking to soothe, plump, tighten, or repair.

Your neck and chest are an extension of your face, and deserve the same TLC. These areas don't have as many oil glands and are thinner than the rest of your body, and therefore age faster, Jeanine Downie, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Image Dermatology previously told Oprah Daily. Fortunately, this neck and chest LED mask can help firm, lift, soften lines, and even out the skin tone. Use it with your Solawave face mask (which we love) or any other LED device for full coverage.

Our beauty team is dedicated to finding you the best of the best formulas. We spoke with experts to learn about LED face masks, how they work, and got their go-to recommendations. We also researched and tested top-rated and brand-new formulas that hit the market to help you find the best products out there.