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9 Best LED Face Masks I’ve Tested Over Six Years
What is LED light therapy and how does it work?
According to Dr Radmila Lukian, LED (or light-emitting diode) therapy refers to the process of exposing skin to different wavelengths of light – where light is absorbed by the mitochondria which triggers a variety of responses. For example, the stimulation of the production of collagen, increased circulation, and tissue repair. All of these response indirectly result in plumper, clearer and younger-looking skin. LED light therapy “can help improve skin texture, reduce blemishes and hyperpigmentation, and even out skin tone,” as well as calm psoriasis, improve the general appearance of your skin and reduce visible signs of ageing.
And the benefits of LED aren’t just skin-deep. The absorption of light energy can also reduce inflammation and stimulate the release of growth factors – hence why LED light therapy can purportedly help with hair growth and brain function.
Different wavelengths penetrate the skin at different depths, targeting different cells and chromophores (molecules which absorb light at particular wavelengths and reflect colour as a result). If you choose the wrong wavelength, you will not target the correct chromophore.
What colours of light therapy are available?
Several colours of light therapy are available, where each colour correlates to the visible light spectrum and has a different effect on the skin. “The colour of the LED light to use depends on your specific skin concerns,” Dr. Jinah Yoo told me. Red, near infrared and deep infrared have the greatest scientific backing, followed by blue, then yellow.
Elsewhere, “green has some early-stage studies to support it – largely in skin brightening (or whitening as it is referred to in China and other APAC territories) – while purple has nothing to back it up,” Laurence said. But, “I’m always a little wary of masks with too many colours – the science just isn’t there to support the wavelengths and more often than not, the brand is spending more on getting a variety of coloured LED rather than making sure that the LEDs are of the highest quality.”
| Colour: | Clinically-proven effective wavelength: | Use: |
|---|---|---|
| Red Light | 630-700nm | The most popular, red light stimulates our fibroblasts for cell renewal, increased collagen production, reduced inflammation and enhanced circulation. For wrinkles, fine lines and wound healing, red light is your girl. Look for LED masks which emit red light at between 630-700nm (preferably 633nm) for efficacy. |
| Near Infrared Light | 700-850nm | Near infrared light has no colour, but can penetrate even deeper into the skin and layers of tissue and muscle in comparison to red light. It helps with reducing inflammation, wound healing and pain relief. Get a mask which emits near-infrared at 830nm. |
| Yellow Light | 570-590mm | The least common in at-home devices, yellow light can reduce redness and swelling, and speed-up heeling time. It compliments red LED therapy and can be beneficial for those with sensitive skin. |
| Blue Light Therapy | 405-420nm | A bacteria-fighting LED light. It triggers photochemical oxidation in order to kill acne-causing bacteria living on the skin. This makes blue light an excellent choice for those with pimples, eczema or rosacea. |
Are LED face masks safe for all skin tones?
Yes. “It is generally safe to use an at-home LED face mask every day,” Dr. Lukian said, “but it’s recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and not overuse it. Using it for up to 20 minutes a day, three-five times a week is a good starting point.” That said, it is essential to follow the guidelines laid out by the manufacturer of the mask you choose – and to consult with a dermatologist if you suffer from a specific skin condition, have sensitive skin, or notice any irregular signs of damage.
The LED used in at-home devices is much weaker than what it would be in-salon, and actually, the devices often undergo much more rigorous testing because they need to be safe enough to use without the presence of a professional. Contrary to popular belief, LED face masks are safe for eyes. Dr Elizabeth Hawkes explains that light varies in many different ways, from X-ray, to UV to LED; often, blue light from screens is confused with LED, but they operate at very different wavelengths. It’s important to look for a mask that has been cleared for safety (CE for Europe/UK) – but if it has been, and it operates at the exact wavelength we state, it’s safe and not operating on a different wavelength that is potentially dangerous for eyes.
Similarly, you can’t get sun damage from an LED face mask. “Sun exposure is down to UV light which is a completely different spectrum of light from LED,” Laurence said.
Does red light help with anti-ageing?
Ageing is natural and beautiful, and you should try – as much as you can – to embrace the fine lines and wrinkles that come with a long and full life. That said, should you wish to reduce the appearance of ageing to feel more confident, an LED face mask is a good place to start. Red light therapy powers the production of collagen and elastin – both considered to be the foundations of youthful skin. Increased collagen and elastin can increase elasticity, smoothness and skin density if you use your mask consistently.
What should I use before red light therapy?
Before starting your LED treatment, you should remove makeup, use your daily cleanser and then pat your skin dry. “The beauty of LED is that it can be used alongside your existing skincare routine, Laurence said. “So my recommendation is always to stick with what you know works best for you.” Once you’ve used your LED mask, apply your facial serum and moisturiser.
“If you’d like to add something new, then I would always go for hydration. A really good small-molecule hyaluronic acid is top of my list for post-treatment.”
You can also use LED face masks alongside botox or other invasive procedures. “It works really well to aid healing and speed up recovery,” Laurence added. Many dermatologists actually recommend red light to help treat the skin after an invasive treatment, and we know it is perfectly safe to use alongside botox and fillers.
How to clean an LED face mask
How to clean your LED face mask will differ depending on which LED mask you’ve purchased and what your mask is made from. Most masks in this edit need you to steer clear of using an alcohol-based cleaning substance, or anything containing harsh chemicals, as they could break down the silicone your mask uses. Check the instructions that come with your LED face mask for full details, and consider using a damp microfibre cloth to wipe your mask down after every use. Generally speaking, you should be using your face mask on clean, dry skin – so it shouldn’t require anything too strenuous. Oh, and never submerge your mask in water.