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These LED red light therapy masks promise smoother, brighter, clearer skin at home. From the cult-favorite Ulike ReGlow to luxe picks by Shani Darden and Dr. Dennis Gross, these are the best LED masks to try now.
What began as a NASA experiment to speed up wound healing in space has since taken a detour through dermatology clinics and landed—fashionably—in the beauty cabinets of skincare enthusiasts everywhere. Light-emitting diode therapy, or LED for short, has evolved from its clinical roots into one of the most buzzed-about technologies in at-home beauty. With promises of brighter, firmer, clearer skin in just ten-minute sessions, it’s no wonder that these sleek, glowing face masks have gone from sci-fi novelty to bathroom staple.
But as with any beauty category experiencing explosive growth, not all devices are created equal. Some focus on targeted treatment, others offer all-over rejuvenation. Some are high-powered tools developed with medical experts, while others are more about form than function. We tested the most popular LED masks on the market and narrowed down the nine that truly deliver on their glow-up promises.
What is LED light therapy and why does it matter?
According to dermatologist Dr Jonathan Kentley, LED technology causes a process in the skin photobiomodulation (PBM). When the skin absorbs the light from the LED mask, it triggers cellular changes. “This allows new blood vessels and skin cells to be formed, along with more collagen and elastin,” he told the BBC. “PBM has also been used to treat acne as it has anti-inflammatory effects and reduces the amount of oil in the skin.”
LED light therapy uses low-level light to stimulate skin cells. Red light targets collagen production and reduces inflammation; blue light combats acne-causing bacteria; yellow light helps reduce redness, and near-infrared penetrates deeply to assist with healing. Originally developed to speed up tissue repair for astronauts, it is now widely used in dermatology for rejuvenation, firming, and acne treatment.
Are at-home LED masks safe?
Generally, yes—when used as directed. Most quality devices are FDA-cleared, meaning they meet safety standards for at-home use. Experts recommend avoiding prolonged exposure, wearing protective eyewear if advised, and not using LED devices on broken skin. Those with photosensitive conditions or who are taking medications that increase light sensitivity should consult a physician.
Do LED masks actually work?
Clinical studies support the benefits of LED therapy for improving skin tone, reducing fine lines, and managing acne. While professional in-office devices tend to be more powerful, consistent at-home use has been shown to produce visible improvements over time. For best results, dermatologists recommend pairing masks with proper skincare and sun protection.
Potential risks and how to avoid them
Most risks are mild and preventable. These can include temporary redness, dryness, or irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin. Using the mask too frequently or for longer than recommended can increase these side effects. Follow manufacturer guidelines and discontinue use if discomfort occurs.
How often should you use an LED mask at home?
Most experts suggest starting with three sessions per week and working up to five to seven times per week, depending on your device and skin goals. Each session typically lasts between ten and twenty minutes. Overuse doesn’t necessarily improve results and can cause irritation.
Tips for safe and effective LED mask use
Use the mask on clean, dry skin. Avoid layering active ingredients like retinoids or AHAs before a session. Stick to consistent usage and monitor your skin’s reaction. If irritation develops, reduce frequency or pause use. Always apply sunscreen during the day, as LED therapy can make skin more photosensitive.
The best red-light therapy masks, at a glance
Best Overall: Ulike ReGlow LED Face Mask, $349
Best for Variety of Skin Concerns: Qure Q-Rejuvalight Pro Red Light Therapy Mask, $379
Best for Multi-Wavelength Treatment: Ulike ReGlow LED Face Mask, $349
Best for Acne: Dr. Dennis Gross SpectraLite FaceWare Pro, $455
Best for Mature Skin: Omnilux Contour Face, $395
Most Comfortable: HigherDose Red Light Face Mask, $335
Best for Massage: Therabody TheraFace Mask, $605
Best Handheld: Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Facial Wand, $169
The best LED red light therapy masks, by the numbers
The best red-light LED therapy masks
Whether you’re addressing acne, wrinkles, or dullness, there’s a Red Light LED therapy mask for every skin condition and every budget.
Ulike ReGlow LED Face Mask
Dealing with acne, fine lines, redness, or dull skin? This Ulike LED Face mask is designed to handle it all — making it a great pick for households with different skin concerns. Whether you’re struggling with breakouts or looking to smooth signs of aging, the Ulike ReGlow delivers results for everyone.
Its sleek, hard-shell design isn’t just stylish, it also offers built-in eye protection while delivering powerful results. Using four types of light: red, blue, yellow, and near-infrared, the mask helps:
- Clear acne
- Smooth fine lines
- Boost glow
- Soothe redness
The 360° mirror-reflection technology and 272 LED beads provide up to 77% more light coverage than typical flat-panel designs, ensuring even treatment in every session.
Co-developed with photomedicine expert Dr. Michael R. Hamblin, former Harvard Medical School associate professor, this FDA-cleared and SGS-certified device is safe for sensitive skin and breastfeeding users. In clinical trials, 96.9 percent of users reported smoother, firmer skin within four weeks.
It’s easy to fit into your daily routine; just ten minutes a day for visible results at home.
And with its lowest price of the year during Prime Day, now’s the perfect time to try it.
TheraFace Mask by TheraBody
TheraBody’s TheraFace Mask offers a more elaborate sensory experience with added vibration and massage functions. It features 648 medical-grade LEDs delivering red, blue, and infrared light. This high-density grid ensures strong irradiance, while the mask’s structured frame helps distribute the light evenly across facial contours.
What sets it apart is the inclusion of heat and massage elements, which can further soothe the skin and improve product absorption. It’s a solid pick for those who want more than light therapy in their regimen, though its higher price tag puts it squarely in the luxury device category.
Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro
This instantly recognizable device has developed a cult following, largely thanks to its glossy, Iron Man-style aesthetic and dermatologist-designed technology. It uses 100 red LEDs and 62 blue LEDs to address both aging and acne in just three minutes per session.
Backed by clinical trials from the brand, the mask delivers improvements in skin tone, texture, and clarity within two weeks. It’s hands-free and rechargeable, though some users note that the fit isn’t snug for all face shapes. Still, it remains a popular pick for those seeking a dermatologist-founded option with a strong brand reputation.
CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask
This flexible silicone mask molds to the contours of the face, allowing for close contact and improved light penetration. It uses red and near-infrared light to stimulate collagen, calm inflammation, and even out skin tone.
Endorsed by aestheticians and featured in skincare routines of celebrities like Renée Zellweger, the mask offers visible results with regular use. It also benefits from a more pliable design, which makes storage and travel easier than some of its bulkier counterparts.
Omnilux Contour Face
Omnilux’s at-home version of its professional light therapy devices features a soft, lightweight silicone build and a red and near-infrared light combo. With 132 LEDs spaced to mimic clinical standards, the Contour Face is known for helping firm skin and improve luminosity.
It’s also FDA-cleared and fits comfortably thanks to adjustable velcro straps. Users typically wear it for ten minutes, three to five times per week, and see benefits over the course of six weeks.
MZ Skin Light-Therapy Golden Facial Treatment Device
For those who want their skincare to look as luxe as it feels, the MZ Skin mask doesn’t disappoint. Designed by Dr. Maryam Zamani, the gold-tinted mask delivers five light settings — red, blue, green, yellow, and white — each targeting different concerns from pigmentation to inflammation.
Though heavier than some options, it’s designed for spa-grade results at home. With its luxe finish and multifunction light spectrum, it appeals to users looking to invest in something striking and science-backed.
SolaWave Bye Acne LED Light Therapy Spot Treatment
Not quite a full-face mask, this handheld pen-like device is better suited for targeted blemishes than overall rejuvenation. It uses red and blue light, along with low-level microcurrents and therapeutic warmth, to zap spots before they erupt.
Its portability and price point make it a good supplement to a broader skincare routine, especially for those prone to hormonal breakouts or stress-related blemishes.
Foreo UFO 2
Technically a masking tool rather than a light therapy mask, Foreo’s UFO 2 uses LED light along with T-sonic pulsations and thermal therapy to infuse sheet masks deeper into the skin. It features eight LED light colors, each with a specific skin function, from brightening to clarifying.
The device pairs with Foreo’s app and works with custom-fit masks. While it’s not a traditional LED face mask, it offers a multi-sensory, fast-track alternative for those craving both ritual and results.
Shani Darden by Déesse Pro Mask Next Generation
At the highest end of the LED category, this luxury-grade mask retails for $1,900 and boasts a medical-grade build with 770 LEDs across six wavelengths. Developed with celebrity esthetician Shani Darden, the mask addresses multiple skin concerns including elasticity, acne, pigmentation, and redness.
Its price reflects both the power and prestige of the device, which is often seen in backstage prep routines during fashion week or on the vanities of A-list clients. For serious skincare devotees with the budget to match, this is the Rolls Royce of red light.
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