15 Best LED Light Therapy Face Masks in 2024, Reviewed by Experts

Publish date: 0001-01-01

I try beauty products for a living—the good, the bad, the life-changing. The most transformative ones I've tested are the best at-home LED face masks, a.k.a light therapy masks. These anti-inflammatory, aging-reducing, acne-fighting light therapy treatments—which were once only available under the practiced hand of a dermatologist—leverage blue light, red light, yellow light, green light, and on occasion, white light to target skin concerns in the short-term (an at-home session takes about 10 minutes) and the long-term.

The masks are an investment, sure. But if you plan on using one regularly, it's well worth it. Marie Claire talked to the experts, tested the top-rated versions, and combed through every beauty retailer to gather the best at-home LED face masks available to light up your skincare.

Marie Claire's Favorite LED Light Therapy Masks

Shop The Best At-Home LED Therapy Masks

The Best Overall At-Home LED Mask

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite™ FaceWare Pro

Deena Campbell, Beauty Director at Marie Claire, treats persistent hormonal breakouts with this device. "Every month I’m guaranteed to see one or two, but the blue light in Dr. Dennis Gross' LED mask is the truth," she says. "It targets the bacteria and reduced redness after five uses. I have to admit, the mask scared my toddler at first, but now I’m called, 'Superhero Mommy' and it's the best compliment ever."

FDA-Cleared: Yes

Light Modes: Red and blue

Usage: Three minutes per day

What We Love: Reviewers found it easy to use; has dual-action lights (red and blue); professional grade

What We Don't: Some reviewers found it bulky

Customer Review: "I've had this since December 2020 and absolutely love this product. I use as recommended every day for three minutes...it's on an automatic timer. I don't do botox anymore. I was definitely skeptical, but the proof is in my skin. It's also cleared up some acne that usually is a problem with my skin. Very well worth the price." — Sephora 

Best Comfortable At-Home LED Mask

Omnilux Contour Face

This mask from Omnilux (a brand that Dr. Reszko refers to as "one of the pioneers of light-based devices") is designed to fit the user's face better than most of the other options around. It straps on across the back of your head for a snug fit that will feel comfortable while you wear it for each of the 15-minute treatments. She also notes that Omnilux designs "office and professional-grade light sources," so every at-home spa night will feel expert-approved.

FDA-Cleared: Yes

Light Modes: Red and near-infrared

Usage: 10 minutes, 3-5 uses per week

What We Love: Comes with a head strap for comfortable wear; professional grade 

What We Don't: Needs to be plugged into the outlet during use; Some reviewers found it bulky

Customer Review: "I will never be without this mask! I use it four to five days a week and whenever I have a headache. Not only did it get rid of my fine lines and wrinkles, but it definitely got rid of any crepiness and sagging I had. It also made my skin clearer and brighter." — Omnilux

Best LED Face Mask for Redness

MZ Skin Light-Therapy Golden Facial Treatment Device

Like most LED masks, this fancy gold mask emits classic red and blue lights to address hyperpigmentation, visible signs of aging, and acne. But it also has a little something extra: It's designed to feature yellow and white light as well. What do those light frequencies do, you ask? Well, yellow wavelengths treat redness and increase circulation, and are great for anyone dealing with rosacea. White wavelengths, on the other hand, can help repair wounds to the skin, meaning this is an excellent post-treatment tool.

FDA-Cleared: Yes

Light Modes: Red, blue, yellow

Usage: Between 10-30 minutes, 2-3 times per week.

What We Love: Has a variety of lights; You can customize your treatment

What We Don't: Some reviewers found it bulky

Customer Review: "It is expensive, but once used more than about three times you have saved the amount you would have spent in a clinic. I love the fact it has the four color lights to choose from and a timer." — CurrentBody

Best LED Face Mask for Acne

LightStim for Acne

Whenever I sense that a juicy red pimple is going to take up residence on my face, I grab LightStim's handheld LED device. Its small and compact design makes it ideal for targeted treatment. Plus, it leverages blue light, which has been clinically proven to kill acne-causing bacteria, as well as red light, which can be beneficial for reducing inflammation. I promise that using this religiously will significantly reduce the lifespan of your pimple—and prevent new ones from popping up, too. 

FDA-Cleared: Yes

Light Modes: Blue, red

Usage: No more than three minutes per area on the face daily

What We Love: Good for acne; targeted treatment; compact shape and size 

What We Don't: You can't multi-task while using because the tool requires you to hold it in place.

Customer Review: "I purchased this a year ago and have been using it on and off and I can honestly say that this is a really good investment to make. I always reach for it when I get cystic or inflammatory acne and it really does help. It does help the acne go down and helps with the inflammation." — Revolve

Best Luxury LED Face Mask

Shani Darden by Déesse PRO LED Light Mask

If you want to recreate in-office results at home, and on a regular basis, there’s no better option than this luxe mask by Shani Darden. The blue and red lights target three concerns: aging, pigmentation, and acne. To see the best results, you’re going to want to sit with this mask four to five times per week. Editors' favorite part about this product, though, is that it doesn’t just target the face—it has a separate attachment to address your neck. 

FDA-Cleared: Yes

Light Modes: Red, near-infrared, blue

Usage: 10 minutes, 4-5 times a week

What We Love: Professional-grade; Customizable; Targets neck

What We Don't: Some reviewers found it bulky.  

Customer Review: "The mask is very comfortable and I immediately felt tighter and smoother skin after a few treatments. My favorite new thing at the end of my workday from home is to plop on my comfy chair and run the quick 10-minute light session. It's like a meditation and face rejuvenator all at once! I love the sense of a healthy glow to start my evening." — Shani Darden

Other LED Light Therapy Masks We Love

Best Eye LED Face Mask

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite LED EyeCare Max Pro

I'm a longtime fan of the Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro (peep above), so I was thrilled when the brand launched a device targeted specifically to the eye area. The contraption packs in 96 red LED lights, which means it's able to target the undereye, brow bone, crow's feet, and 11 lines. Like other devices, it's going to firm skin and reduce wrinkles. It's unique in that it has the ability to reduce the appearance of dark circles. 

FDA-Cleared: Yes

Light Modes: Red

Usage: Three minutes, daily

What We Love: Concentrated treatment; High concentration of lights 

What We Don't: Some reviewers said it feels heavy

Customer Review: "I am absolutely obsessed over this new LED eyecare max pro! I have a huge improvement in fine lines and wrinkles. My crows feet are fading away, it’s unbelievable how amazing this works after years of searching for a device that actually works I’m so impressed!!" — Sephora 

The Most Affordable LED Face Mask

Solaris Laboratories How To Glow 4 Color LED Light Therapy Mask

With blue, amber, green, and red lights within its design, this affordable face mask from Solaris Laboratories NY is multi-purpose at its core. With the flip of a switch, users have the ability to improve their circulation, treat acne, boost collagen, and bring a healthy glow back to anyone with a dull, tired appearance. Use this wireless LED mask three to five times a week for 15 minutes, and you're bound to notice results. Plus, since it’s so lightweight, you’ll find it easier than ever to indulge in self-care.

FDA-Cleared: No 

Light Modes: Amber, red, blue, green,

Usage: 15 minutes, 3-5 times per week

What We Love: Multi-beneficial; wireless

What We Don't: Not as powerful as others on this list.

Customer Review: "Highly effective! I notice a difference in my skin every time I use this product. I used it this morning and my skin was noticeably less red and appeared brighter and tighter. Compared to other similar products in the market, this is great value. Easy to use and good battery life." — Revolve

Fastest Acting LED Face Mask

FOREO UFO 2

This mini high-tech tool allows you to get a spa-like facial at home in only 90 seconds. All you need to do is apply a face mask or serum and press the on button. This tool uses red, blue, and green light to drive the actives in your skincare products that much deeper into your skin. I also have to give a shoutout to the FOREO app. While it's not necessary in order to use the tool, it can guide you on a customized facial journey. 

FDA-Cleared: Yes 

Light Modes: Full-spectrum lights

Usage: The pre-programed treatments last for between 90 seconds and two minutes, all of which can be found in the complimentary phone app, daily

What We Love: Fast-acting; multiple light options; cordless design

What We Don't: Can't multi-task while using because the device requires you to hold it in place.

Customer Review: "I'm a spa at home girl. I love winding down and sometimes starting my day with face/sheet masks. I even have a red light device. This just took all those different steps and combined it into one device. Another added plus is how much time it saves. I use the smart control setting so I can control how long I can use heat/red light. Then switch off the heat and go with green light. I usually use my UFO anywhere from four to six times a week. I’ve definitely noticed my face/skin looking more radiant, hydrated, and plumped. My complexion is also more even. One major difference I’ve noticed is my laugh lines are less noticeable." — Sephora

The Best LED Face Mask for Uneven Skin Tone

CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask

With Carey Mulligan, Kayley Cuoco, and Kristin Davis among this mask's fans, it shouldn't be a shocker that this product delivers big time results. Part of the efficacy is rooted in its flexible material, which ensures that the red and infrared lights hit and treat every contour of the face. As a result, it's more effective for improving skin tone, texture, and the appearance of fine lines. And because it features 132 powerful LED bulbs, it’s able to treat skin in only 10 minutes.

FDA-Cleared: Yes 

Light Modes: Red and near-infrared

Usage: 10 minutes, 3-5 times per week

What We Love: Form-fitting; easy to store; powerful

What We Don't: Doesn't have lights placed by upper lip or upper forehead

Customer Review: "I’ve been using light therapy for quite some time and this is the best mask I’ve come across. The bulbs are super bright, the mask is flexible and adjustable. Bonus is that once charged you can wear it anywhere without being tethered to a wall plug. I only wish it had blue light with it!!" — CurrentBody

The Fastest Working LED Mask

TheraFace Mask by Therabody

When TheraFace entered the LED face mask category, they did so with their own twist. Taking a cue from the percussive therapy attachment on their famed TheraFace, they made a point to incorporate the same vibrational therapy in their 648-light LED mask. Cleared by the FDA, it features red light, infrared light, and blue light to help with hyperpigmentation, acne, and reducing visible signs of premature aging. The brand promises results in just eight weeks, and it makes skincare easier than ever by including removable protective eye shields in its design.

FDA-Cleared: Yes 

Light Modes: Red and blue

Usage: Nine minutes, daily

What We Love: Effective

What We Don't: Some reviewers found it to be heavy

Customer Review: "The documentation claims you will see visible results in as little as 8 weeks for fine lines and wrinkles, but I can actually tell a slight difference in my 'crow’s feet' already. I never knew light and vibration could have such an impact. The mask is comfortable while wearing it and the included eye shield means you can still see and go about your business while wearing it if you so desire. For me, the vibrating massage is the absolute best part as it eases tension and even has helped with my headaches." — Neiman Marcus

Best Customizable LED Face Mask

Skin Gym Wrinklit LED Mask

Some days, you might notice your skin looks duller than usual. On those days, you wake up with a smattering of zits that have you running for acne spot treatments. Skin changes, but this mask will adapt to it. Its blue, red, and orange lights work to treat different conditions, and you can switch them depending on the state of your skin that day. Its blue, red, and orange lights all work to treat different conditions, and you can switch them depending on your complexion's status. It's also more affordable than many of the options on this list.

FDA-Cleared: No

Light Modes: Blue, red, and orange

Usage: 15-30 minutes, daily

What We Love: Dual-action lights; wireless;

What We Don't: Lights sit farther from the skin 

Customer Review: "I absolutely love this mask and that it comes with three different light options. I mainly use the blue and red lights. My breakouts, even hormonal ones, are much less frequent and heal so much faster without leaving discoloration. Areas that were previously discolored now look so much more even...The only downside is that the battery doesn't last long, so if my session gets interrupted I use a portable phone charger and plug the cord into that, then into my mask to charge while I use it." — Ulta 

Best Handheld LED Face Mask

SolaWave Advanced Red Light Therapy Skincare Device

If you’re new to LED therapy, ease into the practice with a handheld device like this multifunctional facial tool from SolaWave. With microcurrent, facial massage, and therapeutic warming functions, this easy-to-use design helps smooth the appearance of blemishes and fine lines with every session. It also minimizes breakouts, decreases puffiness and the appearance of dark circles, and stimulates facial muscles for tighter-looking skin. Bonus: It's portable and super easy to use around the house, on the go, or during travel.

FDA-Cleared: Yes 

Light Modes: Red

Usage: No more than three minutes per area of the face, daily

What We Love: Compact; easy to travel with.

What We Don't: Not as powerful; can't multi-task while using because the device requires you to hold it in space

Customer Review: "I am so thrilled that my esthetician told me about this...My skin looks healthier, my 11s are visibly reduced, and it's helped with my acne scarring too. I'm excited to see how the results continue to develop!" — Bluemercury

The Best LED Face Mask for Glow

HigherDose Red Light Face Mask

In addition to its popular infrared sauna blanket, HigherDose has a LED face mask in its buzzy lineup. It's crafted from medical-grade silicone with red and near-infrared light-emitting diodes on the interior to mimic low-level rejuvenating wavelengths found in natural sunlight. The result? A relaxing and warming boost to your skin (and mood), that enhances your natural glow. Perhaps the most enticing part here is that the mask, powerful as it may be, doesn't need to be plugged into a wall during use. 

FDA-Cleared: No

Light Modes: Red and near-infrared

Usage: 10 or 20 minutes, 3-5 times a week

What We Love: Comfortable to wear; cordless design 

What We Don't: Not as powerful as other options on this list; Has only one type of light

Customer Review: "I have been using the HigherDose red light face mask for a couple of weeks and I absolutely love it. Using it doesn't take long and I can already see the fine lines and laugh lines fading." — HigherDose

Best At-Home LED Mask for Lip Aging

CurrentBody Skin LED Lip Perfector

I’ve professed my love for this device in a dedicated review of CurrentBody's LED lip mask, so it’s only natural to include it on Marie Claire's best at-home LED masks list. The small but mighty tool is infused with both red and infrared light therapy to target signs of aging (read: fine lines), plump the lip area, and even tone. While it does take a minimum of four weeks to notice any results, and the full effect doesn’t kick in until eight weeks in, this treatment does work. You just need to make sure to treat the area for three minutes, day in and day out. 

FDA-Cleared: Yes 

Light Modes: Amber, red, near-infrared

Usage: Three minutes, daily

What We Love: Targeted treatment; easy to store

What We Don't: Some reviewers found it slightly uncomfortable to wear

Customer Review: "I have several other LED units, but jumped on this particular one due to its targeted zone. I have particular issues around my mouth. I have already noticed a plumping and firmness in my lips ,as well as improved skin around my mouth. I had a few breakouts (in spite of being over 60) and they healed overnight. I have not seen this happen in several decades. I have only been using this for a few weeks, and can't wait to see the continued effects." — CurrentBody 

Best LED Face Mask for Beginners

The Light Salon Boost Advanced LED Light Therapy Face Mask

While a big and sturdy LED mask has its benefits, you may not want to deal with such a bulky tool if you're pressed for space. That's where this flexible one comes into play. Not only does it lay nice and flat for storage purposes, but it also has the added benefit of adhering snugly to the skin. It features red and infrared light, which work together to powerfully improve blood circulation, treat damaged skin, and combat signs of aging.

FDA-Cleared: Yes 

Light Modes: Red and near-infrared

Usage: 10 minutes, 3-5 times per week

What We Love: Compact; reviewers found it comfortable to wear

What We Don't: Needs to be plugged into the wall 

Customer Review: "I was very skeptical seeing as its definitely on the more expensive side of skincare. This is has completely changed my skin. It leaves your skin feeling soft as soon as you take off the mask. This has helped with my acne in a way I didn’t imagine. Definitely worth the splurge. I can’t imagine not having this step in my daily routine." — Bluemercury 

MMS-Skincare MMSphere2Go

Going on an extended trip and don’t want to sacrifice skincare while you're gone? Beauty Writer Gabrielle Ulubay has the solution: a handy, portable LED face mask that packs right into your carry-on. "It comes in a convenient carrying case that both prevents it from getting damaged and makes it easy to grab and go," she says. "Plus, it includes nine distinct color settings: two shades of blue, three shades of red, and two shades of green, plus purple and amber. These allow the user to have a totally customizable experience that keeps up with all of their skincare needs, from acne to fine lines to hyperpigmentation and more.”

FDA-Cleared: Yes 

Light Modes: Red, blue, purple, green, yellow

Usage: 20 minutes, three times a week

What We Love: Editor-approved; comes in a travel case; convenient; lightweight

What We Don't: Doesn't fasten onto face

Customer Review: "Everything about my routine changed after I got pregnant. I struggle with both rosacea and acne and previously was using prescription meds, retinols, and laser treatments to keep it in check. Obviously I had to give up all these treatments except for my sphere. After 3 months of use I think it's helped my skin weather the hormonal storm! Even after my neuromodulators wore off my lines haven't returned. I still get the occasional pimple but it seems like they heal much faster and don't leave marks." -MM Skincare

How We Chose The Best LED Light Face Masks

Every at-home LED mask on this list has been specifically chosen by Marie Claire's Beauty Editor, Samantha Holender (yes, it’s me), Gabrielle Ulubay, Marie Claire's Beauty Writer, and Marie Claire's Beauty Director, Deena Campbell. Every one leverages LED technology that is clinically proven to deliver results, feels comfortable when being worn, and is highly rated by reviewers. While the *best* at-home LED light therapy mask for you will depend on your specific skin concerns, personal preference, budget, and skin goals, you’ll be able to find an option that delivers, ahead. For a more personalized recommendation or if you have any concerns, check with your board-certified dermatologist.

What to Look For in an LED Mask

Is LED Therapy Safe?

After years of avoiding the sun's UV rays in the service of healthy skin, treating your face with light can feel counter-intuitive. But facialists, dermatologists, beauty editors, and the American Academy of Dermatology all agree: Generally speaking, LED light therapy treatments are safe and effective, since they don't use UV rays.

A couple of caveats, however: You should be careful about using LED face masks alongside skincare that makes your face sensitive to light, like retinol or Accutane. "Prescription drugs, including antibiotics, diuretics, and even some over-the-counter medications such as St. John’s Wort can cause sensitivity to LED light therapy," explains Dr. Nakra. "Rare eye conditions including certain retinal diseases can be exacerbated by LEDs as well. If you are unsure, check with your doctor or dermatologist about whether your medication can cause light sensitivity (photosensitivity)."

You'll also want to exercise extra caution when it comes to blue light. "Using it longer than 20 minutes can cause pigmentation to worsen or appear," says Marie.

The Benefits of LED Therapy

At-home LED therapy devices are less powerful than the treatments you'd get at a dermatologist's office, which means you can use them safely, but it'll take longer to see visible results. The result you'll see, however, depends largely on the type of light therapy you're using. Most of the LED face masks on our list use either red (age-reducing) or blue light therapy (anti-bacterial) to treat several skin woes, but there are also different wavelengths—including white, yellow, amber, and green—that might be featured in your product. "Combining more than one wavelength helps you get the best results," says Marie. "Your skin is always changing, so it’s nice to have options."

Ahead, find detailed breakdowns of the benefits of the most LED light therapy colors with insight from our experts.

How to Incorporate LED Therapy Into Your Skincare Routine

You can use LED light therapy masks either in the morning or at night, depending on the results you’re looking for. Dr. Reszko says that using a LED face mask in the morning will improve your skin’s appearance by “increasing the glow and overall appearance of the skin.”

However, using a LED device at night will “calm down skin inflammation resulting from daily exposure to skin irritants like pollution, especially in people with sensitive and rosacea-prone skin," she says.

Regardless of when you decide to wear your device, remember that consistency is key if you want to see results. Use the face mask of your choice roughly three to five times a week for around 10 minutes.

How Long Does it Take to See Results From LED Therapy?

Like most skincare solutions, it will take some time before you see the substantial long-term effects of using an LED light therapy mask at home. Dr. Reszko asserts that “most clinical improvement of the skin is noticeable after four weeks of treatment with three sessions per week.”

Meet the Experts

Dr. Anetta Reszko MD., PhD.Clinical Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College and an Assistant Attending Dermatologist at New York Presbyterian Hospital

Dr. Resko is a board certified dermatologist and a fellow of The American Academy of Dermatology, The American College of Mohs Surgery and The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. Her practice in Manhattan is focused on early skin cancer detection and treatment and laser surgery. As a respected leader in the science of the skin, Dr. Reszko has published multiple scientific research articles and reviews and has contributed to leading publications in the fields of dermatology and dermatologic surgery. Her mission from day one has been to enhance the overall skin health in every patient through a whole-body dermatological approach to the skin with a focus on skin cancer awareness, treatment, and education. 

Tanuj Nakra, MD, FACS Double Board-Certified MD, FACS and Co-Founder of AVYA Skincare

Tanuj Nakra, MD, FACS is a double board-certified facial & ophthalmic plastic surgeon who has practiced at TOC since 2008. He was born in London, England, and raised in St. Louis. He completed residency and fellowship training at UCLA. After his medical training, Dr. Nakra served on the UCLA faculty and established private practices in both Beverly Hills and Santa Barbara before moving to Austin. He has been consistently recognized as a Top Doctor by Austin Monthly, Texas Monthly, Castle Connolly, and Who’s Who in Medicine for over the past decade. Dr. Nakra serves as Clinical Faculty at the Dell Medical School at UT-Austin, and is the Fellowship Director of an accredited American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS) Fellowship. He has been an invited keynote speaker at major conferences around the world, training other surgeons in the latest techniques, including his own signature cosmetic procedures. Dr. Nakra has authored over 70 peer-reviewed scientific articles and has had numerous grant-supported research projects in the field of reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. He has served on the Executive Committee of the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery, and the Board of Directors of the Cosmetic Surgery Foundation, as well as the President of the Austin Ophthalmology Society. With his scientific expertise in facial aesthetics, he co-founded AVYA Skincare, a medical-grade Ayurvedic skincare brand.  He also recently co-founded Global Cosmetic Surgery, an international medical educational platform.

Erica Marie Los Angeles-Based Esthetician

Skin health guru Erica’s decade’s worth of experience working as an esthetician and makeup artist has shaped her foolproof, fuss-free beauty philosophy.   She believes that curating thoughtful, streamlined skincare regimens for her clients is key to achieving effortless natural beauty and an overarching sense of empowerment, confidence and well-being.  As someone who loves the outdoors and being active, Erica recognizes the link between health, wellness and beauty and embraces a holistic approach that puts equal emphasis on both an inner and outer glow. Erica honed her talent and channeled her passion under the tutelage of celebrated Los Angeles esthetician Gina Mari after having spent years as a makeup artist.  Acknowledging that the optimal canvas for makeup is clear, toxin-free skin, Erica gained invaluable experience working on a myriad of skin types with a range of needs, while learning from the industry’s top beauty mavens. In 2019,  Erica launched her business EM SKIN, bringing a Beverly Hills medical spa sensibility to the South Bay where clients can always expect highly bespoke, transformational treatments that cleanse, hydrate, detox and sculpt using state of the art machines, the latest technologies, and medical and science-based products.  Stepping into her intimate, beach-meets-chic studio is an experience that is simultaneously spirit lifting, skin firming, and anti-aging.  Erica offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of Hermosa beach that calms both the mind and the skin, while delivering game-changing results far glowier than any filter can produce. 

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