From Acne to Inflammation, These 14 LED Face Masks Address Every Skin-Care Need
LED face masks are among the buzziest beauty gadgets of the moment — and for good reason. The skin-care technology is a one-stop shop to address multiple concerns, not to mention a key tool in prevention.
As Dr. Shereene Idriss, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Idriss Dermatology in New York City, explains, these masks utilize "light-emitting diode (LED) technology to emit specific wavelengths of light that penetrate the skin at varying depths," resulting in benefits like creating a more even skin tone, "stimulating collagen production, reducing inflammation and preventing breakouts."
While the benefits speak for themselves, for first-time users or non-skin-care enthusiasts, it can be tricky to navigate the market and narrow down which LED face mask is the most effective. According to Dr. Idriss, understanding the different light colors — most commonly, red, blue and green — and the skin-care goals they address can make all the difference.
Red-light therapy, for example, "is the best for targeting fine lines," as it deeply penetrates the skin, helping stimulate collagen production as well as promote wound healing, she says. Blue LED face masks are ideal for addressing acne due to the light's antibacterial properties. As for green-light therapy, it "targets melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, and helps to fade dark spots, age spots and other forms of hyperpigmentation," Dr. Idriss shares.
Routine use of LED face masks takes little to no effort considering most are rechargeable and designed for cordless, hands-free treatment. (In an increasingly WFH world, sticking to a daily treatment routine is even easier.) While each manufacturer has its own set of directions, on average most devices are intended for use up to three times a week for 10 to 15 minutes, according to Dr. David Kim, a board-certified dermatologist who works alongside Dr. Idriss at her New York City practice.
But high-tech or not, not all LED face mask are created equal and results aren't guaranteed. A models' "efficacy may vary depending on factors such as the specific wavelengths of light used, treatment parameters and individual skin characteristics," Dr. Idriss warns.
LED face masks can also get costly — when choosing what to invest in, shoppers should look for clinical data-backed technology, wavelengths and what skin-care experts use in their own practices. On top of looking for FDA approval, Shani Darden, esthetician, skin expert and founder of Shani Darden Skin Care, advises prioritizing LED face masks "that combine red-light treatment with other color wavelengths" for optimal results.
She continues: "It is also crucial to pick an LED light mask with enough power to deliver the clinically proven dose of light. 630 nanometers is the most recognized and widely used wavelength that has been clinically proven to heal and rejuvenate the skin by its ability to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin in the dermis of the skin."
Ahead, we've rounded up 14 LED masks to address a variety of skin concerns — at a variety of different price points. Keep scrolling to see (and shop) them all.
Angela Caglia Skincare Crystal LED Face Mask, $495, available here
Project E Beauty Lunamask Pro LED Light Therapy Face Mask, $140, available here
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro, $455, available here
Shani Darden by Déesse PRO LED Light Mask, $1,900, available here
CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Face Mask, $380, available here
DMH Aesthetics Light Field, $190, available here
LED Esthetics Glotech Mask Lite, $299, available here
Higher Dose Red Light Face Mask, $349, available here
The Light Salon Boost LED Mask, $495, available here
MZ Skin Light Therapy Golden Facial Treatment Device, $740, available here
SolaWave Wrinkle & Acne Clearing Light Therapy Mask, $399, available here
Therabody TheraFace Mask, $599, available here
Zutta LED Mask, $399, available here
Qure LED Light Therapy Mask, $329, available here
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