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The global LED face masks market size was valued at 289 million dollars in 2023, and it’s projected to reach 758 million dollars by 2032, celebrity facial aesthetics doctor Dr. Maryam Zamani told me before I appeared on BBC Radio 4’s Sliced Bread. As one of the buzziest skincare gadgets on the market right now, the programme was all about LED face masks and their efficacy, and this impressive stat helped me illustrate quite how much of a big deal they are.
The result of LED light therapy becoming mainstream, LED masks use red and near infrared LEDs (Light-Emitting Diodes) to target countless skin conditions. Dark spots, rosacea, eczema, acne and fine lines included.
Sofia Richie recently told TikTok that her red light therapy device (that’s the Lyma laser, FYI) is a vital part of her pregnancy skincare routine – and that it “transformed” her skin in “a week” – while Vasilios Tanis, makeup artist to Dakota Johnson and Sydney Sweeney, said both actresses prepped their skin with an LED face mask on the set of Madame Web. Victoria Beckham, Kourtney Kardashian and Chrissy Teigen have also all showcased their LED face masks in action.
With consistent use, there’s no doubt that the introduction of a light therapy treatment into your skincare routine will result in a glowing complexion. But with so many LED treatment masks on the market, it can be tricky to know where to start. Do LED face masks actually work? Which ones are board-certified? And, erm, are they safe for at-home use? We’ve got all the answers.
SKIP TO: What is the best LED face mask? | What is LED light therapy? | Are LED face masks good for your skin? | Are LED face masks safe to use every day? | What colour LED do I need? | How should I prep my skin? | What LED mask does Victoria Beckham use? | Full LED face mask reviews.
Investing in an LED face mask isn't like picking up a new retinol serum or moisturiser. They’re expensive – and not all face masks are created equal. So, we've consulted experts to ensure you don't invest in something which won't make a difference.
The Light Salon’s founders Hannah Measures and Laura Ferguson told me not to be fooled by a huge number of bulbs or multiple colours – if the wavelengths of light and the dose aren't correct, no matter how many bulbs there are, the mask won’t be effective.
“Clinically-proven wavelengths of light are key, they should be seen as the ingredients you look out for in your skincare, such as Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide etc that are known to make a difference to your skin,” they said. “The most clinically-proven wavelengths of light, 633 nanometers & 830 nanometers – these are clinically proven to make a difference to the skin’s hydration, wrinkles and firmness.”
Sophie Cockett, GLAMOUR Senior European Commerce Editor, testing CurrentBody's LED face mask.
Hattie Cotmore, GLAMOUR Associate Visuals Editor, testing the Magnitone Get Lit LED face mask.
As well as looking out for clinically-proven wavelengths of light, we call in each LED face mask to test it for size. We test each LED face mask for 30 days, over the course of one full skin cycle, and take before and after pictures.
Editors consider performance across four primary categories: results, safety (we ensure they’re FDA-cleared), research and the science behind specific claims, plus value for money. We’ll also consider functionality andfeatures like whether they’re wireless, have adjustable straps and come with eye protection, whether they're comfortable and whether they're portable.
GLAMOUR's favourite LED face mask – not least thanks to its impressive price point – is the CurrentBody LED Light Therapy Face Mask. The brand knows a thing or two about LED light therapy having also launched an LED hair growth helmet, LED neck mask, an anti-blemish LED mask and an LED facial mapping mask, but the OG gets our vote.
The Currentbody mask uses only clinically-proven wavelengths of light (the same as professional salon machines) to reach up to 4cm of skin tissue and stimulate the cells from within. According to Dr. Belkin, they use wavelengths of light that are evidence based, and the LED emits a very precise band of light in that wavelength – more precise than other LED devices on the market.
What's more, each of the wavelengths are diffused with patented Pillow Technology which enhances the distribution of LED wavelengths, thus ensuring complete and evenly-distributed skin coverage. Many other masks have pinpoint LED lights that will only target the areas that they're actually being shown on.
LED light therapy refers to the process of exposing skin to different wavelengths of light – including red and blue light – which “stimulate collagen production and purify the skin”, according to Dr Radmila Lukian. The light emitted by your LED face mask is absorbed by your skin, and as the light wavelength increases, so does the depth of penetration.
Each different light type – usually represented by a different treatment mode in your device – stimulates a different response. This means every colour boasts different skincare benefits. Generally speaking LED light therapy “can help improve skin texture, reduce blemishes and hyperpigmentation, and even out skin tone,” as well as psoriasis and other side-effects of inflammation. Elsewhere, LED light therapy can simply help to improve the general appearance of your skin and reduce visible signs of ageing.
Yes, LED face masks are good for your skin, particularly if you want to boost collagen production in a bid to give structure, strength and elasticity to your skin. “LED light therapy have been proven to treat such a wide range of concerns over the past thirty years," CurrentBody's CEO Laurence Newman told me.
One study carried out in 2021, showed an improvement in atopic eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition) in both men and women after twelve weeks of phototherapy, while a small 2018 study found green light therapy to aid in fading melasma and hyperpigmentation. Elsewhere, the NHS has a few medical applications of LED light therapy, such as for treatment of wound healing. “Particularly, for chronic wounds such as diabetic ulcers or pressure sores,” Laurence said.
“The colour of the LED light to use depends on your specific skin concerns,” Dr. Jinah Yoo said.
“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.”
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. If you do have sensitive skin or notice irregular signs of damage, consult with a dermatologist.
As for whether the effects of use will be permanent? “LED will always benefit skin and will help skin as long as you use it,” Dr. Maryam said. “Just like with exercise, you maintain your muscle mass and if you stop, then your muscle mass will diminish. Similarly, if you are using LED, you will see the benefit as you use that will decrease and stop after you stop using it. It gives you a new starting point.”
You don't need to put anything on your face before LED light therapy. It's best to use them on clean, dry skin. Remove your makeup then follow up with your normal cleanser – something soothing; non-aggressive.
You don't need to avoid skincare products after your session. In fact, using an LED face mask will make your skincare products more effective. Let your skin settle, before continuing with your normal skincare routine after the treatment: your serum, eye cream; face SPF.
“The power of light therapy goes beyond the face for The Light Salon,” the brand's co-founders, Hannah Measures said Laura Ferguson. “Our devices cover head-to-toe rejuvenation supporting hair loss, stress, sleep, as well as skin concerns.”
Victoria Beckham famously shared that she uses The Light Salon Boost Light Therapy Mask, one of GLAMOUR's top picks. It's the at-home version of the brand's in-salon Skin Health and Rejuvenation facial.
After more skincare products? Shop the best jade rollers, the best ice globes, the best night creams and the best facial cleansing brushes. For more from GLAMOUR's Senior European Commerce Editor Sophie Cockett, follow her on Instagram @sophiecockettx.
Why GLAMOUR loves it: Approved by Sydney Sweeney, the best LED face mask for skin brightening is CurrentBody's LED Light Therapy Mask – one of the most accessibly-priced LED face masks in this edit. “I have been using the CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Face Mask for the past three weeks now,” said, “and my skin has never felt so good," Neamh said.
It works by combining anti-ageing red and near infra-red light therapy to penetrate deep into the skin’s lower layers, delivering both instant and long term results – 95% of users reported plumper, smoother skin immediately. The CurrentBody mask is clinically proven to be at least 31% more powerful than other leading at-home LED masks, and it also uses Pillow Technology to amplify light distribution for maximum coverage - increasing effectiveness.
Need further proof? In-house research found it to reduce wrinkles by 35% in just four weeks, and it's actually the product that model and actress Suki Waterhouse credits for saving her skin over the past year. Suki told her Instagram followers “I always mention this mask when people ask me what I think are the core components for good skin.”
“I always wondered if it was worth the hype, but without a doubt it is," Neamh added. "It has an automated timer, which I love, and my skin feels clearer, tighter and more glowy.”
You can read our full review of the CurrentBody LED face mask here.
Why GLAMOUR Loves it: This is a medical grade, FDA-approved mask (which been developed by A-list dermatologist Dr Dennis Gross). It boasts 100 red (collagen stimulating) and 62 blue (bacteria-killing) LED lights which can be used either separately or together. So, if you have multiple skin issues that you're looking to target, this could be a good choice.
“As someone who’s prone to redness and irritation, my trusty Dr Dennis Gross LED face mask has been a staple in my skincare routine,” GLAMOUR's Denise Primbet said.
“Out of the three treatment options, I’ve been particularly loving the blue light mode, which has helped calm my rosacea and even out my skin tone. Above all, I enjoyed the cordless design, making it super easy for me to carry on with my day-to-day activities without having to stay next to the nearest plug. I've started noticing the improvement in my skin tone and texture about five weeks in, after having used it religiously once a week on my skincare reset days. The price will set you back a hefty £465, but trust me when I tell you that it’s well worth the investment.”
Cons: Nothing to note, except the slightly-inaccessible price.
You can read our full Dr. Dennis Gross LED mask review here.
Why GLAMOUR loves it: Created by one of London's best-loved Oculoplastic Surgeon and Facial Aesthetics Doctors, Dr. Maryam Zamani, it has five different coloured light settings to target almost all skincare woes. From reducing inflammation to boosting lymphatic flow. It's as good as everything else in her skincare range (where all products fuse intelligent, largely natural ingredients).
The versatility is the biggest pro of this LED face mask. Use red light for rejuvenation and reducing inflammation, blue light to reduce the appearance of acne, green light for calming pigmentation and broken capillaries, and the yellow for soothing and improving lymphatic flow.
Why GLAMOUR loves it: Take the OG CurrentBody LED face mask, then supercharge it, and you're left with the new 4-in-1 Zone Facial Mapping Mask. It wasn't crowned our best overall due to the slightly less-accessible price point, but a very comprehensive and impressive piece of kit either way. Clinically proven to increase skin clarity, luminosity and brightness, this flexible LED mask uses five precise wavelengths within four targeted treatment modes.
You can choose from the zone facial mapping treatment mode, anti-ageing, brightening or restoring, but the complete zone facial mapping treatment mode is the one that peaked our interest. Different zones target different areas of your face through different wavelengths of light: red, deep red and near-infrared are emitted around the forehead, jowls and around the mouth to plump and press fine lines, green and near-infrared targets the eye area to fade hyperpigmentation, dark circles and eye bags, and yellow focuses on the most spot-prone areas of the face to help reduce facial redness. Think: your cheeks, nose and chin.
It's also worth mentioning that as with the original, the 360 LED bulbs are diffused with patented pillow technology for complete skin coverage. This basically means that you receive even coverage across the skin's surface, with no gaps left.
Why GLAMOUR loves it: This LED face mask has an adjustable head strap for comfort, and utilises 432 LED lights to deliver a plethora of brightening, clarifying and smoothing benefits. Red, purple and black lights target visible signs of skin ageing, while the blue light detoxifies the skin. Elsewhere, sensitive skin types will benefit from yellow LEDs which refresh the appearance of lacklustre skin with a radiant glow.
The price is accessible, it's comfortable to wear and you can mix the coloured lights across the course of the week to reap multiple benefits.
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Why GLAMOUR loves it: A new release from CurrentBody and the first LED face mask on the market specifically designed to help with mild acne, this model uses blue light to eliminate bacteria and breakouts, and red light to calm redness and soothe irritation. Blue light is emitted at 415nm, and red LED light at 633nm, which is a combination clinically proven to be more effective than blue light alone. 132 LED lights are spread evenly across the face (almost 50% less than the facial mapping mask, FYI) diffused with the same patented pillow technology as CurrentBody's other two devices so you never miss a spot.
Why GLAMOUR loves it: Not only does this face mask feature lights of eight different wavelengths, but you can connect with the FAQ™ app to personalise your LED wavelength colour, activate or disable near-infrared and set your treatment time.
There are 600 different points to ensure full-face coverage. It's made from 100% body-safe silicone, free from phthalates and BPA’s. The non-slip headband makes the mask feel really secure and comfortable during use – enough that you can wander around the house and crack on with your chores, should you wish. There are eight clinically proven different wavelengths to target a range of skincare concerns from fine lines to hyperpigmentation and blemishes.
Why GLAMOUR loves it: First came the Theragun massage gun and then the Theraface Pro. Now, Therabody, the global pioneer in wellness technology, has released an LED face mask that is clinically proven to reduce signs of aging, firm skin and increase radiance. Need proof? An objective clinical study of 31 participants between the ages of 39 to 64 found that after 12 weeks, TheraFace Mask improved the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, firmed skin and reduced sagging, smoothed texture, increased luminosity and radiance, lightened dark spots, and revealed radiant, healthy skin. The mask boasts 648 Red, Red + Infrared and Blue LED lights which is three times more than the leading competitor.
Not only is this LED face mask wireless, incredibly comfortable to wear and genuinely effective (more on that later), but it's the only LED face mask in this edit which also harnesses the benefits of vibration therapy at the very same time. Yep: there are three different vibration settings which each help to ease facial tension, boost circulation and ~relax~ you. It's also worth noting that it comes with eye shields to protect your eyes during use.
Why GLAMOUR loves it: Using 132 medical-grade red and near-infrared LED lights, the Omnilux LED face mask is clinically proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, reduce the appearance of pigmentation and redness, and generally promote healthier, younger-looking skin.
It's easy to use for five, 10-minute treatments per week for four-six weeks. It's also flexible, which makes it comfortable to wear, and it comes with a rechargeable battery controller, power supply and plug adaptors, USB C line to USB A connector, head straps and carry bag.
Why GLAMOUR loves it: Brought to you by Lily Earle, this LED face mask actually uses the same near-infrared LED technology studied by NASA for its unique healing effects.
It's suitable for all skin types and uses a mixture of both pink and red LED lights to stimulate collagen production and reduce the appearance of age spots and pigmentation - plus blue light to reduce breakouts.
Why GLAMOUR loves it: Designed with improving a multitude of skin concerns – from improving blood circulation to reducing wrinkles and stimulating collagen growth – in mind, there are 90 LED lights on this mask which omit at different levels to cover each of the aforementioned skin concerns.
An impressive four wavelengths are included to rejuvenate skin: red and blue – to boost collagen and banish acne – plus lesser-known yellow and purple to brighten and reduce blemishes.
In terms of comfort, it's made from silicone making it light and easy to wear. Plus, it comes with a remote control which you can pop in your pocket and carry on with your chores. Or sit back.
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Why GLAMOUR Loves it: Unlike many other LED face masks in this edit, this LED face mask – which allows you to give light therapy a go without spending over £100 – is worn like a pair of glasses, as opposed to attaching to your face with elasticated head straps. This makes it a lot more comfortable for most users, and ensures you can continue with chores, reading or making a cuppa while wearing it.
“I started using the red light in my routine at least four times a week,” Hattie said of her testing period. "Magnitone recommend taking photographs throughout use as the easiest way to track your skin's changes.
“For me it was when I was applying my make-up that I felt the changes the most. My foundation seemed to be gliding over my face more easily than usual. The texture of my skin was more even. I didn't feel particularly ‘glowy’ as I had hoped, although I did get some compliments on how my skin was looking – so I persisted.
“Overall, I do feel like my skin is looking a little brighter, but I think this LED mask needs prolonged use to really reap the benefits. I'm going to keep on using it regularly and monitor my skin over a longer period of time.”
You can read our full Magnitone Get Lit LED Face Mask review here.
Why GLAMOUR loves it: Going above and beyond, this LED face mask features 770 medical-grade LEDs at four different wavelengths – and across six different settings. You can switch between 'Anti-Ageing Mode' (red light at 630nm) which stimulates creation of elastin and collagen, 'Anti-Ageing Express Mode' (red light at 630nm) – a higher intensity of the former, 'Purifying Mode' (blue light at 415nm) – an anti-bacterial treatment that helps to prevent acne spreading, 'Brightening Mode' (green light at 520nm) for addressing dark spots, 'Post Procedure Mode' (near infrared light at 830nm with red light (630nm) and blue light (415nm)) – to boost circulation, accelerate healing and help prevent scarring and 'Calming Mode' (blue light (415nm) and green light (520nm) – to soothe irritation and calm inflammation.
Why GLAMOUR loves it: Both Alexa Chung and Victoria Beckham swear by this LED face mask, agreeing that your complexion looks brighter, tighter and smoother from the very first 10-minute use.
It emits a combination of clinically-proven red 633nm and near-infrared 830nm wavelengths to boost collagen production, elastin production, toxin removal and circulation.
It's easily portable (perfect for taking on holiday), and has been made from soft and flexible silicone which makes it one of the most comfortable to wear in this edit. It's also fitted with global adaptors, so it’s always ready, no matter where you are in the world.
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Why GLAMOUR loves it: Another release by GLAMOUR-Approved Dr Maryam Zamani, the Minipro Eyeconic™ LED hydrocolloid patches attach can be applied to the skin to emit light at depths that have been clinically proven to trigger a healing response in the dermis. A great choice for crow's feet, dark circles and find lines around the eyes, they can also be left on the skin following treatment for further hydration of the under-eye area.
Why GLAMOUR loves it: Approved by Sofia Richie, the Lyma Laser is the world’s most powerful at-home beauty device, and according to the brand, 100x more powerful (!) than any other LED device on the market. It works by slowing down both intrinsic and extrinsic ageing: intrinsically, directing skin cells to recharge, regenerate and repair rather than die off, and extrinsically, instructing skin cells to produce more proteins to fight free radicals. Less free radicals means more collagen and elastin = better looking skin.
According to Lyma, “Most lasers work by controlled thermal injury. They inflict thermal damage to tissue to stimulate collagen production, leaving skin feeling sensitive and needing downtime. The LYMA Laser works completely differently. It uses low level laser therapy, or near infrared laser light, a technology borrowed from the medical industry where it is used to treat issues from rebuilding cartilage to healing tendons. This light is extremely powerful, able to penetrate deep beneath the skin completely safely and effectively. Operating at 500mW power at the 808nm wavelength, the laser can reach not only the deepest layers of the skin, but also the fat and muscle tissue underneath.”
Why GLAMOUR loves it: Rio's energising faceLITE™ LED face mask is FDA approved for minimising the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The red and near infrared light wavelengths are clinically proven to stimulate natural collagen and elastin production in the skin cells. This treatment only takes 10 minutes to transform lacklustre complexions, restore radiance, increase bounce and generally improve the appearance of skin. Some reviewers actually stated that it was near-identical to the much-loved CurrentBody LED face mask.
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