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Better skin without putting on pants? That's the beauty of the best red light therapy masks, which deliver LED light therapy in the form of convenient, at-home skin-care devices. With the press of a button, you can get the benefits of LED—which range from reducing acne to quelling inflammation—in your own home, no appointment necessary. With that being said, keep in mind that these LED treatments aren't as powerful as those you can find in office, and since they're not regulated by the FDA, the quality and results can vary.
You may associate red light with LED, but many devices offer a variety of LED light frequencies—red, blue, and infrared or purple being the most common—to address additional skin-care concerns and layers of the skin. A quick intro for those unfamiliar: LED stands for "light emitting diode," meaning it emits wavelengths of light in the visible spectrum. "At the cellular level, energy from the light gets absorbed by mitochondria," says Michelle Park, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Washington Square Dermatology in New York City. Mitochondria, as you may or may not remember from biology class, is the powerhouse of the cell and provides energy to fuel cell functions.
By providing light to the mitochondria, an LED treatment "triggers biochemical reactions that ultimately lead to beneficial effects on the skin, such as fibroblast proliferation and collagen production," Dr. Park explains. Fibroblasts are cells that produce connective structures like collagen and elastin, which serve as the scaffolding within skin—so increasing their numbers can translate to more of those important fibers and, in turn, smoother, firmer skin.
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: Shark Beauty CryoGlow Cooling + LED Face Mask, $350
- Best for Wrinkles: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro, $455
- Best Vibrating: TheraBody TheraFace Mask, $599
- Best for Hyperpigmentation: HigherDose Red Light Face Mask, $349
- Best for Eyes: Currentbody LED Eye Perfector, $249
- Best LED Light Options: Foreo FAQ 202 Red Light Therapy LED Face Mask, $799
- Best for Acne: Omnilux Mini Blemish Eraser, $95
Check out our FAQs for a detailed breakdown of LED and how it works, or keep scrolling for the best LED face masks that we tested and can say with our full chests are worth the investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the benefits of LED lights?
- What are the different types of LED Lights?
- How often should you use an LED mask?
- Who should avoid using LED lights?
- Meet the dermatologists
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Best Overall: Shark Beauty CryoGlow Cooling + LED Face Mask
Why it's worth it: Our editors can’t stop talking about Shark Beauty’s CryoGlow Cooling + LED Face Mask: Multiple staffers are obsessed with its cooling undereye pads, which calm inflammation and soothe tired, puffy undereyes (hence the “cryo” in the name). Its LED light features are just as impressive. You can enjoy four different treatments that target acne, aging, puffiness, or all of the above at the same time, thanks to strategic combinations of red, blue, and infrared light intended to target your concerns.
The design of this mask is not only less clunky than most non-flexible masks, but it’s also one of the most comfortable, non-slip masks we’ve ever tried. It has an overhead strap to securely stay on your head without moving or shifting, and features cushiony eye pads that block out red light from your peripheral view, too—so you can comfortably watch TV or check your email while you wear it (or just chill).
Tester feedback: “No matter how my skin-care routine de la nuit may look, I’ll never skip my Shark Beauty CryoGlow Cooling + LED Face Mask—I simply feel incomplete without using it as the precursor to my beauty sleep,” says commerce writer Jennifer Hussein. “I always keep the cooling eye pads on to soothe my chronically puffy undereyes, and the lights feel warm and comforting on my sensitive, usually inflamed skin. I’ve been using it for nearly a month now and have noticed that my usual rosacea patch on my cheek isn’t as red as it usually is.”
For shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis, the results have been enough for her to ditch her old LED mask. “This is the coolest beauty technology I’ve ever tried—bold statement, I know. I’m not lying when I say I’m obsessed with it. I use the acne setting along with the under-eye cooling plates nightly and have seen improvement in acne, hyperpigmentation, and any puffiness under my eyes,” she says. "Plus, it lays on my face so comfortably—a major plus for these bulky masks.”
Skin it's best for: all, including sensitive skin | Use time: 4-15 minutes, depending on treatment | Power source: wireless | Auto-shut off?: yes | Product highlights: undereye cooling pads, four pre-set treatments based on skin-care concerns, light-blocking eye pads, adjustable slip-proof head strap
Best for Wrinkles: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro
Why it’s worth it: A 2023 Best of Beauty Award winner, the FDA-cleared (that's the US Food & Drug Administration, by the way) Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro stands out for its three different forms of LED light—red and blue light therapy, as well as a purple option that combines both—allowing you to address acne, signs of aging, or both.
Many board-certified dermatologists, including Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Toronto, recommend this device for its collagen-boosting (and, therefore, firming) abilities and light offerings. “Light therapy, specifically a device that uses both red and infrared light, is the easiest way to promote collagen production at home,” she says. “It combines infrared and two forms of red light, as well as amber and blue light for comprehensive treatment of signs of aging, redness, and acne.” The hands-free, cordless design—which stays put via an adjustable head strap—combined with a short, three-minute treatment makes it convenient to work into your daily routine.
Tester feedback: "When I started using the Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro about six months ago, I didn't have high hopes because, to me, topical treatments can do way more way faster than LED lights—but boy, was I wrong," Trakoshis says. “Since I've started, I've seen improvement in the elasticity in my skin (thanks to the blue light) and the acne flare-ups I'm prone to (shoutout to the red light). The device even offers purple light therapy, a combination of both lights, to tackle wrinkles and pimples.”
Tester feedback: "I tested this after a long flight and found that it helped with both my hormonal breakouts and with the effects of jetlag, plane air, and sheer exhaustion," says Allure contributor Deanna Pai. “And, since I have a kid, the three-minute treatment time was a major plus. My only gripe is that compared to other models, like the Therabody, this mask doesn't cover my temples—and since my crows' feet are only getting deeper, it's a bit of a miss for me.”
Skin it's best for: all | Use time: 3 minutes | Power source: wireless | Auto-shut off?: yes | Product highlights: FDA-cleared, three treatment modes, adjustable head strap
Best Vibrating: TheraBody TheraFace Mask
Why it's worth it: TheraBody is known for its percussion-powered massage guns, which knead and melt tension in your muscles, so it's little surprise that the brand would apply the same benefits to the TheraFace Mask. Along with 648 LED lights total that emit red, infrared, and blue light, this device employs a subtle vibration to massage pressure points on the scalp and face, reduce stress, and enhance circulation. Depending on the setting you choose, the treatment can last anywhere from three to nine minutes. For a more concentrated treatment—or if you want something a step up from vibrations—try the TheraFace Pro, which offers microcurrent, percussive therapy, and LED light attachments.
Tester feedback: "The vibrations are my favorite feature and really make this device stand out—there's nothing like a 10-minute head massage to wind down after a long day of staring at screens," says commerce editor Sarah Han. "I'm bad at consistently using devices but always find an excuse to use my TheraFace. I also really like the protective eye shields because they feel like added protection against the lights—so I feel better scrolling on TikTok while the mask does all of the work."
Skin it's best for: all | Use time: 3 or 9 minutes | Power source: wireless | Auto-shut off?: yes | Product highlights: FDA cleared, LED-only or LED + Vibration, three vibration modes (Continuous, Breathing, and Wave), 17 proprietary QX-Micro Motors, removable protective eye shields (medical grade silicone), storage stand
Best for Hyperpigmentation: HigherDose Red Light Face Mask
Why it's worth it: Unlike other LED light therapy masks, the HigherDose Red Light Face Mask pairs red LED light therapy with near-infrared light to reduce redness and pigmentation, stimulate collagen production, minimize the appearance of fine lines, encourage healing, and even boost your mood. (Think of it as sunlight, but without the heat or UV radiation.) The medical-grade silicone mask is easy to clean, and you can choose between 10-minute or 20-minute treatment sessions. Use this before applying sunscreen in the morning or after cleansing your skin before bed, since SPF can prevent the light from delivering results.
Tester feedback: "I like how flexible and lightweight it is compared to TheraFace—if I need to do chores around the apartment, I'll slide this on and get to work," Han says. "The back straps are super sturdy and ensure everything stays in place without tugging on my skin or hair. I also like that there are 10- and 20-minute modes—if I've had a particularly stressful day, I'll go up to 20 minutes, and I notice my skin looks less dull after the longer session."
Skin it's best for: all, especially mature or dull | Use time: 10 or 20 minutes | Power source: wireless | Auto-shut off?: yes | Product highlights: two programming options, medical-grade silicone
Best for Eyes: Currentbody LED Eye Perfector
Why it's worth it: Clocking in at a mean three minutes per treatment, Currentbody's LED Eye Perfector is your shortcut to less defined 11 lines, brow furrows, or crow's feet—or if you don't care for a full mask, this is perfect. This compact device boosts collagen production via four LED wavelengths—amber (605 nm), red (633 nm), deep red (660 nm), and near-infrared (830 nm)—to provide its collagen-boosting benefits at different levels of the skin. The brand says you can use up to six times a week so it's the perfect post-work ritual to refresh and soothe your eyes.
Tester feedback: "I have a full-face LED mask, but this eye mask is perfect when I don't have time for a long treatment," Pai says. "In just three minutes, it targets my crows' feet and brightens my dark circles. Plus, the hands-free design makes it incredibly convenient."
Skin it's best for: all, especially mature | Use time: 3 minutes | Power source: wireless | Auto-shut off?: yes | Product highlights: four LED wavelengths, device stand
Best LED Light Options: Foreo FAQ 202 Red Light Therapy LED Face Mask
Why it's worth it: The Foreo FAQ 202 Red Light Therapy LED Face Mask is undeniably a splurge, but a worthwhile investment for your skin nonetheless. Its 600 red LED lights—which is nearly double most of the other picks on this list, by the way—will perk up your complexion, leaving it brighter and firmer. This flexible-fit silicone mask looks like something out of sci-fi and acts like it, too, considering it molds to your face to evenly emit its red LED lights along all of your contours without creating “hot spots,” or uneven light distribution, which can happen with other flexible masks.
Tester feedback: “As an LED mask rookie, I really like using the Foreo FAQ 202 mask,” says commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann. “Everything runs through a pretty user-friendly app, and I love that you can pick a 15-minute treatment that cycles through different light colors based on your skin concerns. I definitely notice a slight brightening effect afterwards, and I'm excited to maintain a routine with it because consistent use really matters with at-home devices like these.”
Skin it's best for: all skin types | Use time: 5-15 minutes | Power source: wireless | Auto-shut off?: yes | Product highlights: flexible silicone fit, slip-proof headband, 600 red LED lights, 5 pre-programmed treatments
More LED Masks We Love
Best for Acne: Omnilux Mini Blemish Eraser
Why it's worth it: The targeted answer to full-face LED devices, the Omnilux Mini Blemish Eraser is an LED mask for specific breakouts; its small, compact size allows it to zap acne-causing bacteria and precisely treat inflamed pimples or breakouts. The light therapy device includes both blue and red LED lights, as well as hydrocolloid patches (a.k.a. pimple patches) that grip the device to your skin, making it effectively hands-free. "I like that Omnilux has red light for anti-inflammation and infrared for collagen production," says David Kim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Idriss Dermatology in New York City. The included hydrocolloid patches offer zit-shrinking properties, too, since they're infused with salicylic acid and green tea extract.
If you want to go all-out, Dr. Kim recommends the Omnilux Contour Face for skin rejuvenation, which employs both red and near-infrared lights. "It's flexible to fit your face shape and size," he notes.
Skin it's best for: acne-prone, congested skin | Use time: 10 minutes | Power source: wireless | Auto-shut off?: yes | Product highlights: silicone material, comes with 14 hydrocolloid patches (with salicylic acid and green tea), FDA-approved
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of red light therapy masks?
It depends on the light color—the most commonly used lights in LED masks are red, infrared (which can’t be detected by the human eye but is felt as heat), and blue. "Red and near-infrared are great for wound healing and increasing collagen production to improve skin texture, tone, and firmness," says Dr. Park, who notes that those with rosacea and redness may also take advantage of their anti-inflammatory properties. Meanwhile, "blue light is used for acne, as it targets the bacteria that causes acne," Dr. Park notes.
What are the different types of LED Lights?
"[Red light therapy can] stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation, and increase blood circulation, so it is primarily used for [fine lines and wrinkles] and wound healing," Sejal Shah, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, previously told Allure. (In other words, it's ideal for addressing signs of sun damage.)
Blue LED lights, meanwhile, are often used as an in-office acne treatment, as they're able to kill the bacteria on breakout-prone skin types. Green light can address hyperpigmentation and dark spots as well as brighten skin. While there are other lesser-known LED light colors, such as yellow and purple, red and blue LED are backed up by clinical studies, which is why you can often find them alone or even paired together in these beauty tools.
How often should you use a LED mask?
Your LED mask will come with a recommendation for how long (and how often) to use it to see and maintain results. Generally speaking, though, Dr. Park says that you can usually notice a difference if you use an LED mask three to five times a week for 10 minutes at a time. But again, she says, "You should check the manufacturer's recommended usage of your particular mask."
Who should avoid using LED lights?
People with heart disease and those who are pregnant and breastfeeding should check with their doctor before using at-home skin-care devices, LED lights included. And for LED light masks in particular, you should skip them if you have "a seizure disorder, epilepsy, or a condition that causes sensitivity to light like lupus or migraines triggered by light," says Dr. Park. She also recommends passing on them if you take a photosensitizing medication like doxycycline or isotretinoin, both of which can be prescribed for acne.
Otherwise, these gadgets don't have serious side effects.
Meet the dermatologists
- Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Toronto
- Michelle Park, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Washington Square Dermatology in New York City.
- Sejal Shah, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at SmarterSkin Dermatology in New York City.
- David Kim, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Idriss Dermatology in New York City and founder of Lightsaver.
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We are particularly discerning when writing about skin-care devices. This is because of the increased risks and, in many cases, the high price points, that accompany at-home dermatological tools and devices.
To narrow down the best red light therapy masks, each LED mask undergoes extensive testing and must be approved by a senior member of our beauty team prior to appearing in Allure. Additionally, our editorial team consults board-certified dermatologists and cosmetic chemists about the science behind product claims and independently reviews any studies cited by brands. Testers consider performance across four primary categories: efficacy, safety (including ease of use), research and the science behind specific claims, as well as product value. To learn more information on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it's never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
Interested in learning more about at-home devices? We've got you:
- The Best Microcurrent Devices Are Like a Rewind Button for Skin
- 13 Best Face Massagers to Upgrade Your At-Home Facials
- 9 Skin-Care Devices Dermatologists Actually Use at Home
Done reading? Now, watch Sydney Sweeney's 10-minute beauty routine for sensitive skin:
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