When it comes to the latest skin care products and beauty gadgets, it can be overwhelming to decide what’s actually worth it—and what’s simply a passing social media trend. Over the last few years, red light masks have surged in popularity (it seems like every celebrity has taken a selfie in one!). But are these LED masks really worth their hefty price tag?
Fun fact: LED is actually a technology developed by NASA, and the organization began studying its effects in promoting wound healing and generation in the 1990s. Over three decades later, dermatologists and skin specialists still use LED light therapy to help treat a range of skin issues, from acne to dull skin to wrinkles.
To determine the best red light masks (and if they’re actually doing favors for your skin), we consulted with Dr. Brendan Camp, MD, who’s double-board certified in dermatology and dermatopathology and sees patients at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in New York City. The good news? He says that red light masks can help improve the look and feel of your skin—but only if you choose a high-quality one and use it routinely.
“At-home red light therapy devices can offer health benefits to the skin, but the results may be temporary. The benefits of red light therapy may be boosted when coupled with other forms of therapy or following a regular skin care routine,” Camp says. “The frequency of use is dependent on each individual product. What all products share is that they need to be used consistently to be effective…It is important to have realistic expectations when using at-home red light therapy devices.”
Below are the best red light masks for radiant, more youthful-looking skin, according to Camp.
The 7 Best Red Light Therapy Masks
Though not technically a mask, this FDA-cleared red light device is ideal for treating the entire face (including lips). Camp says, “This handheld device uses wavelengths of amber, light red, dark red, and infrared to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”
Best for Glowy Skin
Omnilux Contour Face
This red light therapy mask is a cult favorite—and for good reason. Made from a soft, flexible silicone, it's comfortable to wear, and with regular use it can help stimulate collagen production, refine skin texture and tone, and even reduce acne.
Reviewers say: “I’ve only had this for about a week, and it has already reduced the redness and inflammation from my acne. Love it! Highly recommend. It’s so much cheaper than going to the med spa.”
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This skin care wand can help fade blemishes, reduce puffiness, and even help boost the effects of your serums and creams. “Recommended for use three to five times per week, this wand utilizes red light therapy, microcurrent therapy, facial massage, and therapeutic warmth to deliver an effective at-home treatment,” Camp says.
This VERANDA editor-loved mask can help boost collagen and elastin while also combating the effects of blue light from phones and computer screens. We love that you can bundle it with the red light neck enhancer for a chest-up glow.
Testers say: “I look forward to using my Higher Dose mask first thing in the morning when I wake up. I keep it next to my bed, and the relaxing warmth and gentle glow feel great (it's self-care with no work; I can just lay there!). Plus, I have dry, sensitive eyes, and this red light mask doesn't bother me at all!”
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Best for Anti-Aging
DRx SpectraLite™ FaceWare Pro
This mask is ideal for those who prefer a more structured feeling on their face. Plus, it features blue light, red light, and a combination treatment mode to target different skin concerns.
Camp says, “This full face treatment includes 100 LED lights in red mode and 60 LED lights in blue mode to address both anti-aging concerns like fine lines and wrinkles, as well as reduce inflammation and clear acne.”
The Qure Light Therapy Mask is ideal for those wanting a totally custom treatment plan. It offers combinations of blue, amber, red, deep red, and infrared lights, so it can target specific skin concerns in five different facial areas. Translation? You can treat a breakout on your chin and your crow's feet at the same time using the app on your phone.
Testers say: “I love how easy this mask is to use. It's totally hands-free, so I can multitask while I wear it, and only takes three minutes. As a busy mom, that's a major bonus!”
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This lightweight, flexible mask uses red light and near-infrared light to promote firmer, bouncier skin in as little as 10 minutes. Plus, it can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Testers say: “I was pleasantly surprised by how Bon Charge's Red Light Mask reduced the redness in my skin after just one use. Plus, the light therapy session only takes 10 minutes, making it a simple addition to my skincare routine that doesn't require much time. ”
What is red light therapy?
“Red light therapy employs the use of light-emitting diodes, or LEDs. Light energy at specific wavelengths is released from LEDs, which interact with skin cells to impact cellular function,” says Camp. He adds that red light therapy penetrates deeply into the skin and “is used most often for anti-aging benefits, such as improved collagen production and reducing inflammation.”
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What should shoppers look for in a red light mask?
For starters, a red light mask may not be the best fit for you. Camp notes that there are several types of LED therapy for skin care, including “handheld wands used for targeted treatments and masks that allow treatment of a larger surface area.”
Masks are ideal for strapping on and laying in bed or walking around the house, whereas a wand requires a bit more involvement. Wands can target specific areas (think: crow's feet or lips), whereas masks typically cover your whole face (and sometimes even your neck).
Camp says, “When in the market for a red light therapy device, choose a trusted brand, read reviews, and talk to friends before making a purchase.”
Are red light masks safe?
Camp says that red light therapy is generally considered safe. He adds, “It is important to maintain a proper distance of the device from the skin as recommended by the manufacturer to avoid heating the skin.”
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How do you clean a red light mask?
Camp notes that maintaining the upkeep and cleanliness of your red light mask or wand is crucial. He says, “Because at-home beauty devices are exposed to the skin, they need to be cleaned appropriately to prevent contamination.”
Always start with a clean, makeup-free face before using your red light mask. After your treatment, make sure your device is turned off and/or unplugged. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning, as they can vary from product to product, but typically wiping your mask with a clean, damp cloth should do the trick.
Meet Our Expert
Dr. Brendan Camp, MD, is double-board certified in dermatology and dermatopathology and sees patients at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in New York City.
Jaime Milan
Deputy Digital Editor
Jaime Milan (she/her) is the deputy digital editor for VERANDA, where she manages the brand's cross-platform digital strategy. She also writes and edits dozens of stories each month about design, architecture, gardening, jewelry, travel, entertaining, shopping, news, and trends. Prior to joining VERANDA, Jaime was a digital editor for over 10 years at national news and lifestyle brands and has written everything from in-depth packages and celebrity news to features and holiday gift guides. In her spare time, she can be found shopping at the antique store, cooking, gardening, or teaching her mini Australian Shepherd, Gumbo, new tricks. Follow her on Instagram at @jaimemmilan.
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