Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (2024)

Skincare enthusiasts devoted to regularly wearing one of the best LED face masks seem to have "secret" knowledge that few others do. Not only are their complexions always glowing, but evidence of fine lines or breakouts is almost nonexistent. While high-tech, light-up face masks might seem like an extra beauty luxury, there's proven science behind the trendy at-home treatment.

Shop the Best LED Face Masks

While some masks are targeted for specific skin concerns, like Dr Dennis Gross Skincare's acne- and wrinkle-fighting DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro, other LED favorites, like Ora's LED Light Energy Mask, offer a range of different light settings and wavelengths in one. “LED masks typically have different wavelengths and treatment modes, and they have different benefits,” board-certified dermatologist David Kim explains. “Blue light can help with acne, red light can help with inflammation, and near-infrared light can help with collagen stimulation.”

To help you narrow down your next device, find more of what editors and experts consider the best LED face masks below, along with more professional insights from Kim and board-certified dermatologists Julie Russak and Howard Sobel.

Best for Sensitive Eyes

Foreo FAQ 202

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Pros
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (8)Wireless
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (9)Lightweight
Cons
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (10)Over $500
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (11)Will need to treat your eyes separately

With eight different wavelengths, including near-infrared, and a snug fit that ensures even contact across your entire face, Foreo's FAQ 202 mask is the one to reach for if you want to tackle everything from fine lines to acne spots and collagen production. The open-eye design is also ideal if you have sensitive eyes, though that does mean you'll need to treat your under-eyes separately. It's wireless, lightweight, and the perfect mask to wear while doing chores around the house—or just watching TV.

Number of included LED bulbs: 600 lights in eight wavelengths

Best for: If you have sensitive eyes, the unique open-eye design of this lightweight mask will make the treatment more comfortable. The mask was also tested rigorously across 10,000 face shapes to ensure a perfect fit no matter what.

What reviewers are saying: "This might be my favorite Foreo product so far. The technology is incredible, I love that I don’t have to go to the salon and can get a treatment from the comfort of my own home. The LED wavelengths really work and the device is easy to use, it fits well while I’m doing my thing - cooking, reading, etc." —Amy B.

Best with Infrared Light

Therabody TheraFace Mask

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Pros
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (13)Includes vibrational therapy
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (14)Snug fit ensures great results
Cons
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (15)Head strap can mess up your hairstyle

Like any good LED mask, Therabody's version offers three wavelengths—red, blue, plus infrared—to tackle fine lines and acne while stimulating collagen production. But this mask goes further than any others we've tested with its impressive 648 medical-grade bulbs and soothing vibrational therapy, which allows for total relaxation. The strap goes around the back of your head for a secure fit, which gives the LEDs better contact with your skin, leading to impressive and transformational results.

Best for: Those looking for a secure fit with the added benefit of vibrational therapy for total relaxation

Number of included LED bulbs: 648 medical-grade LEDs with three wavelengths

What experts are saying: “This mask is bulkier than others on this list, but I like that it covers my whole face so I know it's really working. The strap on the back keeps it anchored securely to your head, and the soothing vibrational therapy is what sets it apart from any other LED mask. It's an immersive experience, and the results speak for themselves." —Jenna Rosenstein, beauty director

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Pros
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (17)Contours to the face
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (18)High concentration of LED lights
Cons
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (19)Some reviewers found the straps complicated

Russak recommends this viral mask from Omnilux, saying it “provides professional-grade red light—it’s important to ensure that you know what color LED it is, as each color corresponds to specific wavelengths.” In addition, the derm says, “Omnilux’s design is very ergonomic and provides even distribution to the face.”

Best for: Those looking for an easy-to-use mask that doesn't take up much space.

Number of included LED bulbs: 132 LED lights (two per bulb)

What reviewers are saying: “Pricey, but worth it! The only thing that has helped lighten my pregnancy melasma.” —Kareen

Most Viral

Dr Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro

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Pros
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (21)Treatment takes only three minutes
Cons
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (22)It's on the heavy side

This viral mask has both acne-fighting blue light and wrinkle-fighting red light, plus, it offers an effective treatment in three minutes. It’s one of our editors’ favorite picks.

Best for: Those looking for a mask that offers both acne and anti-aging benefits but is also streamlined in its functionality

Number of included LED bulbs: 100 red LED lights and 62 blue LED lights

What reviewers are saying: “My new favorite beauty tool!! I am so happy to have found this amazing product. It’s so easy to use nightly, the three minutes fly by fast! It’s lightweight and comes with a bag to put it in when not in use. My husband and I each use it nightly and have seen fabulous results, we are blown away!” —KimberlyTuck

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Best for a Collagen Boost

Qure Red Light Mask

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Pros
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (24)FDA-cleared
Cons
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (25)Some reviewers said the battery doesn't last long

I've been using this hands-free mask for about two months and have been pleased with the results. My skin has a nice glow and feels less sensitized overall. I've mainly used the red light function for collagen stimulation, but deep red, infrared, blue, and amber options are also used to target different skin concerns.

Best for: With five light wavelengths, it can help with circulation (infrared), wrinkles and redness (deep red), collagen and firmness (red), sun damage and pigmentation (amber), and acne (blue).

What the reviewers are saying: "Did my research and know this mask hits on all the right categories that are important for an effective LED mask to combat redness, fine lines and acne. Easy to wear and comfortable." —Cristina S.

Best for Face and Neck

Currentbody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask Face and Neck Kit

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Pros
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (27)Optional neck piece helps soften neck lines and wrinkles
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (28)Contours to the face and neck
Cons
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (29)Over $500

Remember the mask worn by Lily Collins on Emily in Paris? It's literally this exact model. And even better, you can get yours with an optional neckpiece.

Best for: Those who want a high-powered LED mask that doesn't take up space, and offers results in just four weeks.

Number of included LED bulbs: 132 bulbs

What reviewers are saying: “I hate that I love this so much because it is an investment. I have tried multiple cheap LED face masks and I probably have spent equal to this one on all of the prior masks purchased. Save your time and energy and just get the nice one from the beginning. My skin glows and looks flawless when I use this religiously every night.” —Amy

Best Lightweight

HigherDose Red Light Face Mask

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Pros
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (31)Great for travel
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (32)Forms to fit your face
Cons
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (33)Longer treatment time than other masks

HigherDose may be well-known for its (excellent) infrared blankets, but the brand has an equally great LED face mask, too. Made from medical-grade silicone, the mask is super flexible, and the cordless design makes it great for wearing around the house (or for travel).

Best for: Those looking for a flexible mask with optional neck and chest add-ons.

Number of included LED bulbs: 66 LED bulbs

What experts are saying: “I'm a big fan of this streamlined LED mask, mainly because of how simple it is to target multiple breakouts at once. And since it has a cordless design, I can slip its battery into the pocket of my jeans or robe without being tethered to a wall." —Tiffany Dodson, associate beauty commerce editor

Best Splurge

Shani Darden by Déesse Pro Pro LED Light Mask

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Pros
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (35)Includes neck accessory
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (36)High wattage concentration
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (37)Celebrity esthetician-approved
Cons
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (38)Over $1,000

Kim Kardashian, Kelly Rowland, and Shay Mitchell are just a few of the celebs who’ve been seen in esthetician Shani Darden’s high-tech, multitasking mask. The FDA-cleared device aims to minimize acne, dark spots, and wrinkles at the same time.

Best for: Those who want a high-tech mask with a detachable neckpiece and a remote control for ease of use.

Number of included LED bulbs: 238 LED lights

What reviewers are saying: “This is so worth the money. This is a professional-grade LED mask that's used at an esthetician’s office. I use the blue light to target acne. I use the green light to brighten and dark spots/hyperpigmentation. The red light for fine lines and wrinkles and collagen production.” —luvlyJ

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Most Versatile

Ora LED Light Energy Mask

Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (39)

Pros
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (40)Features a number of light settings to address different concerns
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (41)Affordable price point
Cons
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (42)Some reviewers say battery life fades quickly

Ora's LED Light Energy mask uses just about every color of the rainbow: Red and blue, of course, plus yellow to address skin's texture, green for soothing, purple for scar repair, and white to firm skin.

Best for: Those who want a relatively inexpensive option to try out LED therapy in different light wavelengths.

Types of light options included: Red, blue, yellow, green, purple, white

What reviewers are saying: “I like this LED mask. It’s lightweight, easy and fun to use, very versatile for treating skin and conditions and it’s quick. The only thing that’s weird that it doesn’t say on the instructions is that it turns off automatically after about 10 mins of use.” —Maddie

Best for Eyes

Dr Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite EyeCare Max Pro Device

Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (43)

Pros
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (44)Hands-free
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (45)Under $200
Cons
  • Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (46)Some reviewers say the device does not help minimize dark circles

If you’ve ever wanted to channel your inner X-Men while reducing wrinkles and puffiness, this mask is the way to do it. It’s designed to boost collagen production while treating crow’s feet, the dreaded elevens, your under-eye area, and more in three minutes flat.

Best for: Those looking to target crow's feet and skin around eyes.

Number of included LED bulbs: 96 red LED lights

What the reviewers are saying: "Obsessed with this newest self-care product. I’m in my 30s and haven’t seen TOO many wrinkles, but I’m excited to have this help with anti-aging. My boyfriend has more wrinkles and is using it now too! It fits so comfortably on the face, and I love the three-minute automatic shut-off timer." —Pinkerbel

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Meet the Experts

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  • Dr. David Kim is a board-certified dermatologist at IDRISS Dermatology in New York City.
  • Dr. Howard Sobel is a Clinical Attending Cosmetic Dermatologic Surgeon at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.
  • Julie Russak is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Russak Dermatology Clinic in New York City.

What is LED light therapy?

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LED stands for light-emitting diode. Think back to science class, and how each color light emits a different wavelength. "Light-emitting diodes' most popular wavelengths are red or blue light," explains Sobel. "They work by readily being absorbed into the skin targeting different cells depending on its wavelength."

More specifically: "The red light can reduce fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating the fibroblast. Additionally, they can reduce inflammation, increase blood circulation and stimulate wound healing," explains Dr. Sobel. On the other hand, "blue light can kill acne causing bacteria (p.Acnes) and decrease oil (sebum) production in the sebaceous gland."

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How often should you use LED face masks?

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Kim explains that results from the best LED masks not only depend on the frequency of use but also the brand itself. "Typically you should use it three times per week for at least two months to see some results," he says. Sobel adds that you should see an immediate skin glow after your first use.

Who are LED face masks best for?

Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (50)

Nearly everyone can use LED masks (and trust us, once your friends and family see yours, they’ll want to). “Because photobiomodulation is not based on heat production, it can be used on all skin types,” Russak says. “The efficacy depends on the number of LEDs and wavelength optimization with red and near-infrared wavelength.” There are some exceptions: If you’re under 18, pregnant, or breastfeeding, you should avoid LED light therapy, as it has not been sufficiently tested.

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More LED skincare options from our editors:

Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (51)

  • The Best Acne Light Therapy Devices to Zap Stubborn Breakouts
  • The Best Red Light Wands for Smoother, Brighter Skin in a Flash
  • The Best Red Light Therapy Devices Skin Experts Love
  • The Best Red Light Therapy Neck Devices, According to Experts

Why trust Harper’s Bazaar?

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For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.

Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (53)

Lindy Segal


Lindy Segal is a beauty writer and editor. In addition to regularly contributing to BAZAAR.COM, she also writes for Glamour, People, WhoWhatWear, and Fashionista, among other publications. She lives in New York City with her Chihuahua mix, Barney.

Which LED Mask Is Right for You? (2024)
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