If your skin is crying for help but you're too tired to care, the best red-light therapy mask is the easiest fake-it-till-you-make-it hack around. You might have seen a wave of people on social media channeling their best Hannibal Lecter while wearing a red-light therapy device, like our top pick, the
Shark CryoGlow LED Face Mask ($350). They’re not sipping Chianti but instead claiming that the wrinkles and fine lines on their faces have disappeared with the help of red-light therapy. While there's nothing wrong with aging, the hype around these skin care devices made me want to investigate whether the technology behind them can actually improve your skin health.
You can't get the same effect with just any red LED from the hardware store. If the wavelength isn't strong enough, it won't penetrate your skin—sorry to the one TikToker sitting in front of a
chicken coop heat lamp. After talking to board-certified dermatologists and testing several at-home devices, I've rounded up the best red-light therapy masks for every sensitive skin condition, budget, and lifestyle.
Featured in This Guide
Updated June 2026: I refined our picks and added the Laduora Lumeo SkinLift 4D Current Red Light Therapy Kit to Honorable Mentions. Product information, specs, prices, and links were updated.
Best Overall
The
Shark CryoGlow is one of the best LED face masks on the market and is a great choice for newcomers, since it holds your hand through the process. There are two main programs to follow—Blemish Repair, which uses a combination of blue light (415 nm), infrared, and red LED (630-830 nm) for eight minutes, and Better Aging, which uses just infrared and red LED for six minutes. It’s recommended to follow one program daily for eight weeks, switching to the four-minute Skin Sustain program afterward to maintain the best results. It comes with a handy controller that counts down your time remaining and also tracks your progress, plus the mask has a party trick of cooling under-eye pads that can be used in combination with the LEDs or on their own, to soothe puffiness.
During my eight-week trial, I noticed my perioral dermatitis cleared up much faster than usual, and my skin looked plumper and more radiant. An aesthetician even scanned the layers of my skin beneath the epidermis before and after the program, revealing significantly less inflammation and pigmentation, as well as improved fine lines.
—Verity Burns
|Specs
|Number of LEDs
|160 tri-wick LEDS (480 light sources)
|Wavelengths (nm)
|Blue (415), Red (630), Near-Infrared (830)
|Irradiance
|73 mW/cm² for red light
|Usage
|4 to 15 minutes, 3 to 5 times per week
|Return Policy
|60 days
|Warranty Info
|2 years
Best Silicone
While the CurrentBody LED Face Mask Series 2 only offers red light, it features three wavelengths: red (633 nanometers), near-infrared (830 nanometers), and the standout deep near-infrared (1072 nanometers). CurrentBody says the deepest wavelength is designed to reach areas more prone to visible aging. On paper, it's a more comprehensive spectrum than what most competitors offer, which is typically a combination of only red and near-infrared.
It's made from flexible silicone and designed with a multiway strap plus a chin band that keeps it locked in place. I can stand up and even do a few chores without worrying about it sliding off my face. The attached remote has a little clip, too, so you don't have to carry it around while you multitask. It's also densely packed with 236 LEDs, which explains why it feels so bright. (If you plan to walk around, the removable eye inserts are a nonnegotiable.) After consistent use, I noticed subtle improvements in inflammation and overall skin texture, especially when my skin was stressed or irritated. Most importantly, its comfortable design makes it much easier to stick to a consistent routine.
|Specs
|Number of LEDs
|236 (110 Red, 110 Near-Infrared, 16 Deep Near-Infrared)
|Wavelengths (nm)
|Red (630), Near-Infrared (880), Deep Near-Infrared (1072)
|Irradiance
|30 mW/cm²
|Treatment Time
|10 minutes, 3 to 5 times per week
|Return Policy
|60 days
|Warranty Info
|2 years
Best for Quick Sessions
Even though this cordless, hard-shell mask makes me feel like a rose-gold Optimus Prime, it’s incredibly comfortable. The lights are dim enough around the eyes to let you see and move around easily, and the quick, three-minute automatic sessions fit effortlessly into a busy schedule. Additionally, the battery life is excellent—I used it almost daily for six weeks without needing to recharge, and I experienced no charging issues despite some online reports.
On the downside, the lightweight silicone strap constantly comes undone. I thought at first I may have assembled it incorrectly, but former WIRED reviewer
Medea Giordano had the same issue during her test. The shape and height of the mask (about 5 inches) also make it hard to fit in a drawer or smaller travel bag, compared with a flexible silicone mask. And, like other red-light masks I’ve tried, I have yet to notice a significant change in wrinkles or skin texture. However, I specifically tested the red-and-blue combination light setting for two weeks and did feel like I experienced a noticeable reduction in various blemishes. —Kat Merck
|Specs
|Number of LEDs
|100 (Red), 60 (Blue)
|Wavelengths (nm)
|Blue (415), Amber (605), Red (630), Near-Infrared (880)
|Irradiance
|60 mW/cm²
|Usage
|3 minutes, daily
|Return Policy
|30 days
|Warranty Info
|1 year
Best Handheld
Solawave makes what’s arguably the most recognizable handheld device, but it’s tiny, with a slim head that’s only a couple of inches across. The competing LightStim comes with a 3-inch surface comprising 72 LEDs for broader coverage and resembles a hand-held shower head.
One downside to the LightStim is that it is not cordless. While this means you never have to worry about charging it, it also means you are tethered to a 6-foot cord. After several days of grimly standing in front of the bathroom mirror next to an outlet, I gave up and connected the device to an extension cord, so I could sit on the couch and use the LightStim while watching TV.
It was here that I came to appreciate its full potential. The treatment time for each area is only three minutes, at which time the device will beep to let you know it’s time to move it to the next area. I found it took about 20 minutes for me to hit all areas of my face, which is twice as long as it would’ve taken with a mask, but after this period of time, it also gets quite warm. This made it feel therapeutic for areas of my neck, chest, and head, and even for sore muscles. I even once used it on one of my cats who came to sit on the couch, to positive effect. Despite its lightweight and simple design, the LightStim features four LED wavelengths, ranging from 605 nm amber to 855 nm infrared. A less expensive
acne version is also available, though it only has 35 LEDs. —Kat Merck
|Specs
|Number of LEDs
|72
|Wavelengths (nm)
|Amber (605), Light Red (630), Dark Red (660), Infrared (865)
|Irradiance
|65 mW/cm²
|Usage
|3 minutes per area, 3 to 5 times per week
|Return Policy
|30 days
|Warranty Info
|5 years
Best Spot Treatment
The Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Wand is a bestseller on TikTok. It has a single 630-nanometer red-light wavelength, and
former WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano found it quite relaxing to use. With vibration and warmth therapy thrown in with the light, it feels like a full spa experience. Two other WIRED testers also had positive results with skin tightening. One mentioned that the skin around her eye area looked firmer in just a few weeks of use. It also has a longer return window than some of our other picks, so you can always try this and have time to see if it works.
|Specs
|Number of LEDs
|14
|Wavelengths (nm)
|Red (630)
|Irradiance
|49.5 - 60.5 mW/cm2
|Usage
|3 minutes per area, 12 minutes per day, 3 to 5 times per week
|Return Policy
|60 days
|Warranty Info
|1 year
How I Test LED Devices
So far, I've tested 18 devices, each for a period of six to 12 weeks. Once I log my findings, I pass each device along to one of three additional testers, each with different skin types and signs of aging, to see how results vary.
I monitor changes in skin texture and tone, but effectiveness is only one of the factors I consider. I also judged ease of setup, fit, and comfort. I note product specifications, like the number of LEDs and whether the brightness feels tolerable or irritating. For cordless devices, I track how long they last on a single charge; for wired models, I evaluate how practical they are.
I also prioritize safety, checking for FDA clearance, automatic shut-off features, and overall durability of the design. To make sure you aren't just spending money willy-nilly, I also made sure to consult dermatologists and experts about which wavelengths of light and irradiance outputs have clinical backing, and what features to look for when shopping for a device.
Compare Top 5 LED Devices
|Product
|Number of LEDs
|Wavelengths (nm)
|Irradiance
|FDA-Cleared
|HSA/FSA Eligible
|Price
CurrentBody LED Face Mask Series 2 Dr. Dennis Gross SpectraLite FaceWare Pro LightStim for Wrinkles Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Wand
Honorable Mentions
HigherDose Red Light Therapy Face Mask for $349: This soft mask has a three-layer strap, with which makes it super comfortable, since you aren’t getting squeezed from the bands; it almost hangs around your head thanks to that top strap. It has both a 10-minute and 20-minute red-light option. Overall, I saw fine results from this mask with glowy skin and better acne treatment. There are complaints online that the wiring isn’t strong and can break easily within the first year, but HigherDose says that falls under the one-year warranty. —Nena Farrell Laduora Lumeo SkinLift 4D Current Red Light Therapy Kit for $215: The Lumeo combines red- and infrared-light therapy, microcurrent stimulation, serum infusion through low-intensity electroporation, and therapeutic massage into one device. I used it almost daily for over two months, gradually moving up intensity levels. When I was on the highest levels, red inflammation dots began appearing on my cheeks, so I scaled back to the lowest three settings, and I didn’t have any problems. I’m 32, have generally good skin without breakouts or acne, and I get the occasional botox, so I didn’t see super dramatic results with the lower settings. Although there wasn’t a noticeable decrease in wrinkles, my skin looked smoother and more radiant. At this low price, this facial wand is worth checking out if you’ve been curious about red-light and/or microcurrent treatments. —Molly Higgins Omnilux Contour Face Mask for $395: This flexible silicone mask is a similar style to the LED Esthetics face mask and almost the same price. Both masks have 132 LEDs and reach similar red-light levels—the Omnilux reaches 633 nm of red light to LED Esthetics' 630 nm, and both promise 830 nm of near-infrared light—but the Omnilux doesn't have a blue-light acne option. If that isn't a worry for you, this is another red-light face mask to consider that's also FDA-cleared with a 30-day return policy. iRestore Illumina Mask for $399: The Illumina has 360 medical-grade LED lights and three modes. Mode 1 combines red and infrared (635nm and 830nm, respectively), while Mode 2 combines red, infrared, and blue light. Mode 3 is a dedicated blue light setting (415nm) meant to kill off bacteria that can lead to acne—or, in my case, painful eczema. I found that Modes 2 and 3 did, in fact, minimize my pores, give me glowier skin, and kept my eczema from making an appearance. Results will vary, but I saw results in about a week. —Julia Forbes LED Esthetics Glotech Mask Pro for $319: The LED Esthetics Glotech Mask Pro includes both red-light therapy and blue light therapy that can help treat acne and better control your oil production. After about six weeks of consistent use, WIRED reviewer Nena Farrell didn't see much change in her facial lines, but she noticed a brighter complexion and has gotten more compliments on my skin. She also found that scabs and acne cleared up faster and didn't leave scars. After three months of routine testing, editor Kat Merck noticed a very subtle reduction of fine lines, but she says it's so subtle she questions it in certain lights. “On the plus side, my skin isn't worse,” she says, “so I feel like it does prevent further damage and wrinkles.” TheraFace Mask Glo for $300: I loved the original TheraFace Mask ($650), but with this new version, it’s hard to justify purchasing the original, which is almost double the price. My main issue with the latest model is that it has moved the vibration massage feature, which made the mask stand out, to the straps that go around your head. In the original, the vibrations were built into the mask itself, making it much more comfortable and soothing. The new version gives me a headache, so much so that I usually choose to skip the vibration mode during my sessions. Beyond that, it’s a solid mask. Jovs 4D Laser Light Mask for $719: This mask allows you to adjust the infrared level, with three levels you can choose between (plus different time lengths). The highest level promises 1064 nm long-wave light, but I didn’t see a difference between using that and lower levels. The highest level did make me hot and sweaty, so it was certainly more powerful, but I didn’t see better results that would make me recommend investing in this mask over more affordable options. —Nena Farrell Solawave Wrinkle Retreat Pro LED Face Mask for $399: This soft silicone mask packs four light wavelengths to support collagen production and treat signs of aging. I didn’t see any major changes in my fine lines, and I often have to wrap it super tight on my head to keep it from slipping. It often leaves temporary marks on my face. The Solawave is popular thanks to TikTok, but I’d rather splurge on our more comfortable top pick from CurrentBody, or spend around the same amount on the Shark Cryoglow for its cooling features. —Nena Farrell UKLash LED Dual Light Pro-Therapy Face Mask for $310: This soft mask stands out with its securing style, which has big loops to sit over your ears and then a strap connecting those loops to tighten it. It makes it one of the more secure soft masks to wear, though I still prefer the CurrentBody and HigherDose for comfort and security. It has 112 medical-grade LEDs that shine red light at 630 nm and near infrared light at 830 nm. I like that this mask doesn’t overpromise and delivers on what it says it’ll do. I wouldn’t say I saw fine line changes (and I usually don’t, but I suspect my 33-year-old lines are ones these masks can’t fix), but I did see a nice skin tone. I was especially impressed since I was testing it while training for a dance performance that had me sweating multiple times a week, but I didn’t get any sweat breakouts. —Nena Farrell
LED Neck & Décolleté Masks to Consider
LED Esthetics Glotech Collar for $316: LED Esthetics notes that you should wear the mask in conjunction with its proprietary serums, which I skipped to avoid confounding the results. Instead, I moisturized afterward with Oil of Olay Regenerist moisturizer, as instructed. After 30 days of daily use (the manual suggests continuing as desired afterward), I didn't notice any reduction in my two deeper neck wrinkles. However, the mask is remarkably easy to use, and long-term results may take more time. It includes two strap sizes. The palm-sized battery lasts for two 10-minute sessions and recharges quickly via USB-C. It has fewer LED bulbs and only one setting, which worked well for my sensitive skin but might be a drawback for some. —Adrienne So Solawave Neck & Chest Rejuvenating Mask for $349: While this mask is fairly comfortable, it can take a little finagling to secure it around your neck. It is easy to use, but I didn't see results on any of my necklines. The rechargeable battery also doesn't last long, and I charge this neck mask more often than the LED face masks I use. It's also harder to tell when it dies on you since it's around your neck rather than on your face. —Nena Farrell
Avoid These
LED Esthetics Glotech Minis for $183: Skip these, especially if your skin is reactive. At first glance, these Glotech Minis look like they're designed to target your under-eyes, but they can technically be used anywhere: chin, smile lines, even above your brows. They emit red and yellow light and promise visible results after four weeks of daily nine-minute sessions. In theory, they're meant to be a convenient, travel-friendly LED option. In practice, they're more trouble than they're worth. The patches rely on adhesive stickers to stay in place, which is a total nightmare for anyone with sensitive skin. My eczema flared after one use, and peeling it off only made it worse. Even beyond that, the fit is awkward. The MemoryContour design doesn't really hug your face, so you'll likely find yourself pressing or lying still just to keep them from sliding off. It's a clever concept with poor execution. Pro by Déesse Pro for $1,700: This is a hard-shell LED mask with six treatment modes and four light wavelengths. The lights are intensely bright; even with the included tanning-bed-style goggles, I had to keep my eyes shut. It requires a power outlet, and the cord is short, so don't expect to be walking around. It's not particularly comfortable, either. At $1,700, it's one of the priciest options out there, and it doesn't even come with a display stand or storage case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Red-Light Masks Work?
Yes, the right types of LED (light-emitting diode) can
have a positive effect on the skin. Former WIRED editor Verity Burns tested Shark CryoGlow's red-light therapy with the help of a clinician who scanned the surface of her face using Observ 520x's analysis machine before and after her eight weeks of testing. The before-and-after scans showed that her skin—particularly on her cheeks—was smoother, plumper, and brighter, and showed improvement in inflammation on her forehead, chin, and under her eyes.
Unfortunately, not everyone will see results from red or blue light therapy, and this might contribute to the suspicion around these skin care devices and whether they work. You won't know until you try, though you should talk to your dermatologist to see what they recommend based on your skin type. Be sure to also correctly implement it into your routine (more on this below).
I also recommend making sure the device you're considering is FDA-cleared.
FDA clearance means the FDA has cleared the device for marketing and that it's safe to use. There's a 510(k) or Premarket Notification process they go through to get it. You can check the database to see what's FDA-cleared. Note that it's not the same as FDA approval, which is a higher standard that requires more testing and research.
Topical retinoids, like over-the-counter retinol and prescription tretinoin, can also
treat wrinkles and texture by slowing the breakdown of collagen and increasing skin cell turnover. Both retinol and LED devices typically take several months to show results, but retinoids come with more side effects, such as increased breakouts and sometimes flaky, burning skin.
What Are the Benefits of Using an LED Face Mask?
Research shows that certain light can have benefits for skin rejuvenation. Red-light therapy commonly uses wavelengths in the 630 to 660 nanometer range, with the lowest effective wavelength around 600 nanometers. It can penetrate the dermis and boost collagen production, according to
Abigail Waldman, clinical director of the Mohs and Dermatologic Surgery Center at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. (Collagen and elastin are proteins produced by fibroblast cells in the middle layer, under your epidermis.)
Near-infrared red lights are commonly between 800 and 1,400 nanometers. These penetrate deeper into the skin and are used mostly for healing and reducing inflammation. A study
funded by NASA discovered that high-intensity red and near-infrared light significantly sped up healing in oxygen-deprived wounds in rats and boosted the proliferation of skin, bone, and muscle cells from mice and rats. NASA also supplied LED devices to the US Navy to treat training injuries. Those who used the LEDs had a 40 percent improvement in musculoskeletal injuries and 50 percent faster healing for lacerations over the control group.
Blue light, on the other hand, is typically 405 to 420 nm to penetrate the epidermis (the top layer of skin) and kill acne-causing bacteria. “It also reportedly helps to regulate oil production and reduce inflammation, leading to clearer skin,” says
Shoshana Marmon, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor of dermatology at New York Medical College.
There are other lesser-known LED lights, such as green, yellow, and purple; red and blue LEDs are the most backed by clinical studies.
How Do I Use an LED Face Mask?
Follow the directions for the specific device you're using, but in general, you'll want to wash and dry your face and use the mask before applying any skin care products. LED therapy devices should have a set treatment time, usually between three and 10 minutes. Use it for the full time unless it feels uncomfortable. After, apply your skin care products as normal, focusing on hydration (serums and moisturizers), especially if you're prone to dryness. Do not use these masks longer than indicated in their directions.
While you can use red-light therapy and retinoids in your skin care routine, Waldman doesn't recommend using them simultaneously, as it can increase the chance of irritation. She also notes that while there's no reason to believe red light could be harmful if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, there isn't much research involving pregnant people, so you should consult your physician first.
How Often Should I Use an LED Face Mask?
LED light therapy face masks don't work for everyone, but consistency is crucial if you want to try it. Follow manufacturer guidelines for best use, but most deermatologists recommend using an LED face mask three to five times per week for up to 12 weeks to see results.
Meet the Experts
<small>Source: Wired</small>
