Skin Care

9 Best LED Face Masks, Reviewed by Dermatologists and Editors

We tested nearly two dozen masks, and these were our favorites.

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Light Modes: Infrared (880 nm), deep red (660 nm), red (630 nm), amber (605 nm), blue (415 nm)
Treatment Time: 3 minutes
Wireless: Yes
What's included: USB charging cable and eye-protecting goggles
Best for: Acne, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, tone and texture

Why we like it: This viral face mask first caught our attention back in April for its quick 3-minute treatment time (most other masks require a commitment of 10 minutes or more) You can conveniently control it with your smartphone to completely customize your treatment and target specific skin concerns. We were also drawn to its structured yet lightweight design which sits right up against the face.

What testers note: I've personally been using this face mask for almost nine months now. It’s entirely wireless and light enough to multitask, which is a must for me as a busy professional and mom of four small children. The quick, 3-minute treatment time is a huge bonus for me, too, since the combination of these two factors allow me to more seamlessly incorporate an LED face mask into my skin care routine—something dermatologists tell me is absolutely crucial if you expect to see any results. And even though a handful of eye doctors have reassured me that this kind of light therapy does not pose a danger to eyes, I do appreciate the built-in eye protection—hey, you can't be too careful. Collectively, all of this swayed me to put down my Omnilux and make the switch to Qure. Over the last nine months, I've seen a very gradual improvement in skin tone and texture. My skin looks glowier than ever, and people are constantly surprised when I tell them I'm in my late 30s. I'll take it!

Original image by Glamour contributor Brigitt Earley

2. Best Value: Silk’n LED Face Mask 100

Courtesy of brand
Brigitt Earley demonstrating the Silk’n Facial LED Mask

TL;DR: Lightweight; four different lights; easy to switch modes; results in just 2-3 weeks; good for rosacea; most affordable

Light Modes: Red (620 nm), blue (460 nm), infrared (850 nm)
Treatment Time: 10-15 minutes
Wireless: No
What's included: Controller and charging cords
Best for: Circulation, antiaging, acne, acne scars, rosacea

Why we like it: Most dermatologists will tell you that the results from LED face masks don’t happen quickly—usually four to six weeks of consistent use. But Silk’n says their data shows measurable results in just two to three weeks of use. And this is despite the fact that it's the most affordable mask we tested. We also like that it has 460nm of blue light rather than the more standard 415nm—great for those who are using light therapy to target acne.

What testers note: “I mainly use LED light therapy to help address my breakouts,” says commerce writer Alanna Martine Kilkeary, who uses the Silk'n LED Face Mask for about 10 minutes after her nighttime skincare routine. “After using it consistently over the course of nearly two months, I’ve already seen decreased breakouts, and less redness around my nose and on my chin (which are the areas most prone to breakouts for me),” she says. “While I’m still breaking out here and there, my pimples are a lot smaller and don’t linger around for as long. They’re easy to conceal and seem to shrink after I use this mask, so something tells me it’s working.” In

3. Most Flexible Mask: Omnilux Contour Face

Courtesy of brand
Original video by Glamour contributor Brigitt Earley

TL;DR: Comfortable and lightweight enough to wear while multi-tasking; straight-forward operation

Light Modes: Red (633nm), near-infrared (830nm)
Treatment Time: 10 minutes
Wireless: No
What's included: Rechargeable battery controller, power supply and plug adaptors, USB-C line to USB-A connector, carry bag
Best for: Fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, acne scars

Why we like it: The Omnilux LED face mask comes highly recommended by dermatologists. “It’s been shown to reduce visible signs of aging and redness,” says Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at Union Square Laser Dermatology in NYC. It's also a flexible mask that comfortably molds to your face. If you're looking for a men's LED face mask, Omnilux also carries a flexible silicone Omnilux Men device.

What testers note: Over the last few years, I have personally tested six different LED face masks—this was the first one I ever tried and it remained my go-to until I was introduced to the Qure, which I ultimately crowned my favorite due to the combination of convenience and results. Still, for those who prefer a flexible face mask, I found this one easy to operate via the power pack/remote that hangs down from the one side. It's very intuitive—you simply toggle it on and wait for the 10-minute treatment time to be up. On the downside, it lacks the versatility you get in other masks, since it only operates on red and infrared wavelengths. But if you want a competitively-priced LED device that’s comfortable enough to wear while relaxing or multitasking, this is it. It’s so lightweight and flexible that I’d wear it while packing my kids’ lunches in the morning. After three months of consistent use, I noticed my dry skin definitely looked more alive, and I had fewer fine lines in between Botox appointments.

4. Best for Dull Winter Skin: HigherDose Red Light Therapy Face Mask

Courtesy of brand
Jenifer Calle demonstrating the HigherDose Red Light Therapy Face Mask

TL;DR: Easy to use; comfortable fit; good for acne; comes with adapters for international travel

Light Modes: Red (630 nm), near-infrared (830 nm)
Treatment Time: 10 or 20 minutes
Wireless: No
What's included: Controller and charging cable, extra plugs for international outlets, eye goggles
Best for: Fine lines, wrinkles, inflammation, acne

Why we like it: This mask has 66 bulbs that work in 10- or 20-minute sessions, but one of its biggest standout qualities is the design. We love that it bends and has three straps—two on the side and one on top—so you can get a snug fit no matter your face shape.

What testers note: “I’m in my 30's now, which means I’m a lot more interested in skin care tools,” says Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle, who's been using this mask for the last six months. (Read her in-depth HigherDose review here.) “During the time, I used it about two to three times a week (the recommended amount is three times),” she says. “After only a few weeks of using the HigherDose mask, I noticed that my skin felt a lot smoother and softer, but the biggest result was that the hormonal acne around my chin and jawline during my period significantly improved.” Calle also likes how comfortable this flexible mask is. “It’s super lightweight and comfortable; you can move around once the remote is charged for a cordless experience,” she says. Plus she adds that the eye holes are easy enough to see out of, so she likes to wear the mask while doing chores in the morning. It also comes with extra plugs for international getaways, making it a travel-friendly option too.

Original image by Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle

5. Best LED Face Mask for Acne: Dr. Dennis Gross SpectraLite FaceWare Pro

Courtesy of brand
Andrea Navarro demonstrating the Dr. Dennis Gross SpectraLite FaceWare Pro

TL;DR: Superquick treatment; multiple modes; helps with fine lines and acne; FDA-approved

Light Modes: Blue (415 nm), amber (605 nm), red (630 nm), deep red (660 nm), and infrared (880nm)
Treatment Time: 3 minutes
Wireless: No
What's included: Universal USB charging cord, storage bag
Best for: Acne, antiaging, inflammation

Why we like it: This device puts a big emphasis on blue light and targeting acne—great for younger uses or those who experience hormonal acne. “It works better for inflammatory blemishes but it can help heal and restore all acne-prone skin,” says Jessica Weiser, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Weiser Skin MD, who uses this therapy in her office. It was also recommended by Dr. Brendan Camp, MD, a double-board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology, for its ability to address anti-aging concerns at the same time.

What testers note: “This mask is super straightforward, which is very important for an impatient person like myself,” says Glamour contributor Andrea Navarro. It’s entirely wireless, so there’s nothing hanging down from your face. You simply press the button on the top of the mask to toggle among the three different light settings: red, blue, or a combination. Navarro found it to be a highly effective mask, too. “During my first month I noticed significant improvements in my skin using it three times a week. There was a clear reduction in my acne, and after two months I noticed I was able to scrunch the fine lines on my forehead less—similar to the effect of Botox.” Glamour contributor Sarah Wu reviewed Dr. Dennis Gross Led Face Mask and called it, “ It's a derm visit, spa day, and photo op in one.”

6. Most Versatile LED Face Mask: Therabody TheraFace Mask

Courtesy of brand
Original video by Glamour contributor Andrew Freund

TL;DR: Includes massage therapy, cordless; three-minute segment option; FDA-cleared; good for dark spots and acne

Light Modes: Red (633), blue (415), infrared (830)
Treatment Time: 3-9 minutes
Wireless: Yes
What's included: Removable protective eye shields, display stand, charging cords and adapter
Best for: Fine lines and wrinkles, acne, tone and texture, firmness, tension

Why we like it: If you think of your time with your LED mask as a moment of self-care, this is one of the most relaxing. It has a trio of red, blue, and infrared light therapy, but also has 17 motors, located on the head straps, that gently vibrate at pressure points along the eyes, brow line, and scalp.

What testers note: “Each full treatment cycle lasts nine minutes–one minute shorter than most masks–which is divided into three-minute segments for each light mode, but I like that you can also opt for a quick three-minute session if you’re running low on time or just want to spot-treat,” says a Glamour reviewer who tested this model for three months. “It's a game-changer,” says TV host Andrew Freund, who has used it every morning for over a year. “I’ve noticed my skin tone to be much more even, my crows feet have diminished, and my skin feels much tighter all around. This thing is the fountain of youth!” He likes that it's easy to travel with, too. “I am constantly on the road traveling both domestically and internationally, but I will not go anywhere without my mask.” The built-in massage function is the icing on the cake, he says, noting it makes the whole experience all the more spa-like.

7. Best LED Face Mask for Antiaging: CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask

Courtesy of brand
Original video by Glamour contributor Brigitt Early

TL;DR: Glamour Beauty Award winner; used by Kim Kardashian; lightweight

Light Modes: Red (633nm), near-infrared (830nm), new deep near-infrared (1072nm)
Treatment Time: 10 minutes
Wireless: Yes
What's included: Removable protective eye shields, display stand, charging cords and adapter
Best for: Elasticity, fine lines, redness

Why we like it: We’ve extensively reviewed CurrentBody LED Face Mask, which was a winner in Glamour’s 2023 Beauty & Wellness Awards and earned a strong recommendation by Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at Union Square Laser Dermatology in NYC. And this September, the brand launched a new and improved Series 2. The upgraded mask now has a whopping 236 LED bulbs (compared to the original 132) in red, near-infrared, and new-to-the-mix deep near-infrared. It also has a whole new shape that offers a better, more snug fit on the face, particularly around the tricky lip and nose areas.

What testers note: “I was impressed by the long-term results," says Glamour senior beauty editor Ariana Yaptangco, who has tested multiple red-light therapy devices. "After just a month of using this mask, I noticed my skin looked smoother and more radiant." She also found it to be the most comfortable she's tried. “It was simple to adjust to get the right fit and stayed put while I was walking around," she says. “It was also the easiest to see out of (the red light didn't bother my eyes).” The one demerit? It doesn't have a timer, so while it does shut off automatically after 10 minutes, you can't tell where you are in the process (though that's pretty common among these devices).

8. Best With LED Neck Mask: Shani Darden by Déesse Pro LED Light Mask

Ben Cownie demonstrating the Shani Darden LED Face Mask

TL;DR: LED neck coverage; multiple modes; FDA-cleared; good for men; heavy; not wireless

Light Modes: Red (633 nm), blue (415 nm), near-infrared (830 nm)
Treatment Time: 10 minutes
Wireless: No
What's included: Neck piece, handheld controller
Best for: Antiaging, acne, hyperpigmentation

Why we like it: In addition to being jam-packed with 238 LED red, blue, and near-infrared light to address signs of aging and acne, this LED mask comes with a neck piece to help address skin sagging.

What testers note: Most LED face masks require four to six weeks of three to five treatments per week, but testers say they saw results after just three weeks. “Over the past few years I’ve definitely started dealing with ‘tech neck’ and have noticed some lines developing,” says our Glamour reviewer. “After each use my skin and neck feels tighter, not in the uncomfortable way, but more so in a snatched way that I love (it’s almost like that pulled-back-ponytail effect).” Adds Schwartz, “I couldn't adjust the straps tight enough for my smaller head, so unlike other masks I've tested, I had to sit still with this one to have it properly placed. It also pushed down on my eyes a bit, making it trickier to see. However, my husband, who has a bigger head, loved it and saw brightening benefits after a few uses. He also found the neck piece comfortable. After months of jump scares and making fun of me in my masks, he finally got the allure.”

9. Best With Multiple Wavelengths: Sun Home Saunas Radiant Face Mask

Courtesy of brand
Brie Schwartz deomonstrating the Sun Home Saunas Radiant Face Mask

TL;DR: Easy to use; five light modes; portable, comfortable

Light Modes: Blue, red, amber, near infrared (600-850 nm)
Treatment Time: 10-30 minutes
Wireless: No
What's included: Controller and charging cord
FDA clearance: Yes
Best for: Acne, antiaging, inflammation

Why we like it: This LED mask has an impressive amount of wavelengths—red, deep red, amber, near-infrared, and blue—that go deep on acne, prevent breakouts, and increase collagen production. Testers also appreciate the flexible design, telling us it not only made the mask comfortable to wear, but it also made it easy to clean and store, or travel with. The brand also has a 45-day risk-free return policy, which is a nice bonus for newbies who are on the fence about light therapy.

What testers note: “Simply fire up the power button, hit start, and let the default 10-minute timer do its thing—the automatic shutoff means I don’t have to worry about monitoring the clock,” says Glamour commerce director Brie Schwartz, who has combination skin. “The one demerit is that it’s not terribly easy to see out of the eye holes where a lot of the red light seeps through, so you kind of just have to sit there. I guess it’s a good excuse to relax, but I’d rather have the ability to read or do chores.” However, she adds, “I do believe I’ve seen an improvement in my complexion since I started using it.”

Related:

    All your LED face mask questions, answered

    How do LED face masks work exactly?

    “Numerous studies demonstrate that LED light therapy can aid in skin healing, improve chronic conditions like acne and rosacea, and enhance overall skin health,” says Viktoryia Kazlosukaya, MD, PhD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “That said, the results are often modest and gradual. It’s essential to set realistic expectations—LED masks are not a substitute for professional skincare, cosmetic procedures performed by board-certified dermatologists, or prescription medications. They are best viewed as a supplementary tool in a broader skincare routine.”

    The real talk: The glowing robot you put on your face isn't going to rewind the clock or solve all of your skin care woes. It takes a lot more than that, including a consistent routine that includes the right serums and moisturizers. But the best LED face mask can help boost beauty benefits in the long-run—again, with consistency. “If you’re patient and follow directions, you can achieve glowing skin on your schedule versus [visiting a dermatologist's office] weekly or biweekly,” says Margarita Lolis, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New Jersey.

    How exactly do these masks work? “LED (light-emitting diode) devices emit different light wavelengths that penetrate deep into the skin’s layers to activate a repair process that can help improve skin texture, tone, and elasticity, as well as reduce skin conditions like dark spots, acne, rosacea, hyperpigmentation (including acne scars), redness, appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and, psoriasis, explains Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.

    For best results, you want to look for wavelengths of red between 620-750nm, blue between 405-420nm, and infrared between 760-1400nm, says Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami. Consistent use at this level should produce results within about two months, she tells Glamour.

    What are the types of LED light therapy?

    These are the different LED light therapy color benefits:

    • Red-light therapy (620-750nm): Penetrates deeply into the skin, has anti-inflammatory, antiaging, and collagen-stimulating effects, can help to minimize fine lines and wrinkles
    • Blue-light therapy (405-420nm): Does not penetrate as deeply and has anti-microbial properties to target acne-causing bacteria, making it an effective form of acne treatment
    • Infrared, near-infrared, and amber light (760-1400nm): They can help reduce redness and even out skin tone from dark spots or hyperpigmentation. Amber light (which is included in red LEDs) can decrease sun damage as well.

    How fast can you expect results?

    The dermatologists we spoke to told us not to expect overnight results. Like all skin care products, they can’t be used haphazardly and still deliver. Even the best products aren't miracle-workers—results are cumulative. “Consistency, wavelength of light, use, and quality of the skin care device do matter,” says Dr. Chacon. With proper use (typically about three to five times per week), FDA-cleared devices that meet minimum wavelengths outlined by the derms we spoke to should produce results in about two months, she says.

    How to add an LED face mask in your skin care routine

    The great thing about LED masks is that they can be incorporated into your routine day or night—whatever best fits your schedule. The important thing is that your skin should be clean and dry. Use the mask before any other products (besides cleanser!). After your session, you can immediately follow with other skin care products, like serums and moisturizers.

    Are LED face masks safe for your eyes?

    If you've ever walked away from a mask session with blurry eyes, you may worry about this. But rest assured: “The use of at-home LED face masks is generally safe for the eyes,” says Michael Brusco, MD, FADCS, medical director and surgeon at Brusco Vision. “Most lights aren’t likely to damage the eyes, unless we are talking about ultraviolet light (UV) or staring at intense bright light (think of looking directly at the sun during a solar eclipse).”

    If your mask feels really bright or is creating a glare, it's generally more annoying than harmful, says Dr. Brusco, who suggests using eye drops to lubricate the eyes, since bright light can cause dry eyes. For those who have sensitive eyes, we also recommend narrowing in on a mask that offers eye protection, like our top pick.

    Are there any side effects to using an LED face mask?

    Jessica Weiser, MD, a dermatologist at Weiser Skin MD notes that a big pro of LED treatments is that FDA-approved devices, in particular, are safe and suitable for all skin types and tones and it’s rare to experience any side effects. “Additionally, LED and light therapy is thought to be safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding—a time when acne treatments are extremely limited,” she tells Glamour.

    How to clean LED face masks

    It’s important to clean the masks themselves (you can use alcohol or soapy water) to avoid contamination, says Dr. Camp. Gently wipe the surface of your mask with a soft cloth or cotton pad and some mild, nonalcoholic cleanser. Avoid harsh chemicals and moisture (no baths!). You’ll want to store your mask somewhere away from direct sunlight.

    Meet the experts: