10 Best Red Light Therapy Devices We Tested, Approved by Dermatologists
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The best red light therapy devices aren’t just part of a trend anymore—they’re officially a skin care staple. Dermatologists vouch for their ability to reduce inflammation and redness, and even combat signs of aging over time with consistent use. But since most at-home options cost a few hundred dollars (or more), it’s fair to wonder: Which ones are actually worth your money?
Over the past two years, Glamour editors and testers have tried over 20 of the most talked-about at-home red light therapy devices—from LED face masks to helmets, panels, and wands—focusing on those that are FDA-cleared or dermatologist-recommended. During testing, we evaluated everything from treatment time and ease of use to visible improvements in brightness, firmness, and overall skin clarity, and our top overall pick was easily the Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Wand. Recommended by dermatologists, this compact device combines red light therapy with facial massage, gentle warmth, and galvanic current to help skin care products absorb more effectively. It’s also more affordable than many of its high-end competitors at under $180. But if you’re after something else—maybe a hands-free treatment, a red light therapy device for hair growth, or even a portable panel—we found a handful of other options that genuinely live up to the hype.
The best red light therapy devices, at a glance
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Best Overall: Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand
- What we love: Portable; adjustable head; delivers multiple skin benefits simultaneously; great for spot treatments
- What could improve: Takes a long time to treat entire face and neck; only red light
True to its name, this little pen-size device—recommended by three dermatologists—bundles four skin treatments into one multitasking magic wand: In addition to the red light, it offers “galvanic current for better skin-care-product absorption, gentle and therapeutic warmth to soothe skin, and facial massage to boost radiance,” says Margarita Lolis, MD, a board-certified dermatologist. She says the rotating head is a big bonus, too, since it allows you to more effectively pass over the contours of your face, providing direct contact with the light.
In our Solawave review, Glamour senior beauty editor Ariana Yaptangco describes the device as “very user-friendly,” adding, “I notice an immediate difference in puffiness and lift after using the Solawave wand. In the morning it really helps drain my face of any fluid buildup from overnight.” It does take 12 minutes, which may feel like a long time to manually run a wand across your face, but we like how easy this device is to store, plus appreciate the portability. Toss it in your cosmetics case and bring it wherever you go.
Best LED Face Sculptor: Skin Gym LitLift LED Facial Tool
- What we love: Combines massage and LED therapy; easy to use; delivers instant results
- What could improve: Easy to accidentally hit the power button while using
Skin Gym’s compact tool contours to the face and neck while combining four technologies: LED light therapy, heat, EMS (electrical muscle stimulation), and vibration. The heat, EMS, and vibration help boost circulation, while red and blue LED lights target texture and tone. (Use red for antiaging and redness; blue for acne-prone skin.)
“I use upward motions to sculpt my neck, jaw, and cheekbones—and the results are pretty instantaneous,” says Glamour contributor Emily Tannenbaum, who tested the device for over a month. “The heat was definitely noticeable but not too strong, and I comfortably used the tool for a full three minutes on each side of my face. While I definitely saw the promised glow, I was most impressed by the way it contoured my jaw.”
Best Red Light Therapy Panel: ReVive Light Therapy Lux dpl IIa LED Full Face Wrinkle & Acne Treatment Panel
- What we love: Versatile; quick treatment time; easy to store and doesn’t take up a lot of space; red and blue light
- What could improve: It should sit directly on skin, which can be a little challenging, depending on the area
Unlike LED face masks that contour to your face, this full-face panel opens like a book and can be used on multiple areas of the body, including the neck, chest, and even your arms. Really, you can use it anywhere you can hold it in place for about three minutes. There aren’t any straps to contend with and you don’t need a ton of space like with other full-body panels. Still, it delivers four different wavelengths of light (deep red, red, amber, and blue) to help address a variety of skin health concerns, from fine lines to breakouts.
“The best thing about this red light therapy device is that it’s versatile—it can be used on different areas of the body,” says Glamour tester Charlotte Twine. “I’ve been using ReVive’s device on my décolletage to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, which have accumulated there since I turned 50. After a few days, I do see that the area’s roughness looks slightly smoother, but I’m happy to keep using it for a few weeks to watch for more improvements, especially when used in conjunction with serums and moisturizers.”
Best for Acne: Omnilux Blemish Eraser
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- What we love: Compact; portable and easy to use; targets acne on face and body
- What could improve: Covers a tiny area
Red light therapy devices can be useful for acne, as they help minimize inflammation, discoloration, and redness. This neat blemish eraser does just this by eliminating bacteria and reducing excess oil and sebum. It has both a red and blue light: The red works to calm skin and reduce redness, while the blue neutralizes blemishes.
“I have particularly stubborn acne on my chin that creeps up during that time of the month like clockwork. To help mitigate the uneven texture and inflammation, I’ve been using this blemish eraser for the past few weeks and have already seen a difference in the tone and clarity of this area. I like to first use the red light to help get rid of discoloration, then I follow with the blue to soothe the skin. This device is quick and easy to use, and I love how compact and tiny it is too. This one is definitely becoming an integral part of my acne-fighting routine,” says Glamour’s Kilkeary.
Best for Hair Growth: Laduora Duo 4-in-1 Pod Based Scalp & Hair Care Device
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- What we love: Portable; easy to use; feels nice and soothing
- What could improve: A bit pricey
If you’re struggling with thinning hair, know that there are options out there to help thicken strands that go beyond just shampoos and scalp serums. Enter: this scalp and hair care device that combines microcurrent, red light, and therapeutic warmth to stimulate hair growth. You can also attach serum pods to help detoxify the scalp, and soothe irritation and itchiness.
“I’ve struggled hair thinning around the crown of my head for the past year now, so I’m always looking to level up my hair growth routine with just about anything. I’ve been using this device for a couple of months now and am pleased to report that I’ve noticed a difference in the growth in this area—I actually have a handful of baby hairs cropping up. I’m excited to keep using this one,” says Glamour’s Kilkeary.
Best for Hyperpigmentation: Silk’n Titan MultiPlatform
- What we love: Four intensities for comfort; three-in-one beauty tool; two treatment heads for different areas of the face and neck; good for wrinkles
- What could improve: Long treatment time
For those who really want to target hyperpigmentation and dark spots, Silk’n makes a handheld device that combines three technologies: bipolar radiofrequency, which heats up the deeper layers of the skin and helps increase collagen and elastin production; near-infrared, which also penetrates the skin to boost collagen and elastin; and red light to improve blood circulation and enhance tone and texture. It comes with two treatments heads: one smaller and more precise for hard-to-reach areas such crow’s feet, eye bags, mouth wrinkles, nasolabial lines, and tear troughs; and a larger magnetic one that lets you cover more surface area in places like the cheeks, forehead, neck, or other areas of the body.
“You do have to use a conductor gel (the brand sells its own, but you can use any clear water-based gel) and treatment time is rather lengthy at 15 minutes per area, but I love the warm and slightly tingly sensation you get while using the device. I noticed an immediate lift to my face, particularly around my eyes,” says Earley.
Best Luxury: CurrentBody LED Hair Growth Helmet
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- What we love: Full scalp coverage; hands-free design
- What could improve: Hard to store
This helmet-style device stood out for its smart, user-friendly design and full-coverage LED treatment. It delivers 660 nanometers of red light across the entire scalp, working to stimulate follicles, boost circulation, and support thicker, stronger hair over time—without the need to keep moving a device around.
It is on the bulkier side, which makes the helmet harder to store than handheld units, but its ergonomic fit and soft silicone lining make it surprisingly easy to wear. “Even the full 10-minute sessions felt manageable, since I could walk around and multitask without any slipping or shifting,” says Earley. “After a month of consistent use, I’ve noticed a slight boost in hair density and even an improvement in my scalp’s overall health. It doesn’t get oily as quickly, and I’ve had fewer bumps and clogged follicles than normal.”
Best for Scalp Health: Foreo Faq 301 LED Hair Strengthening Scalp Massager
- What we love: Compact and cordless; waterproof; quick treatment time
- What could improve: Using the included serum may make hair a bit greasy
If you’re dealing with hair thinning or shedding—or just want to show your scalp a little extra love—this waterproof, palm-size massager uses a combination of red LED light and Foreo’s signature T-Sonic massage to boost circulation, break up buildup, and enhance the absorption of hair serums or oils. We love that it’s entirely cordless, rechargeable, and designed to fit comfortably in your hand. It’s also waterproof, so you can use it in or out of the shower.
“I’ve never used an LED tool for my scalp before, so I was a little apprehensive before testing this out, but I ended up loving it,” says Glamour commerce writer Alanna Martine Kilkeary. “It has a powerful vibration that’s almost like a massage for your scalp. You can make it a little more or less intense as you please. The red light is superbright and feels warm upon contact. I didn’t find that my hair and scalp were irritated during use, which I appreciated. As to whether it made my hair grow over the past couple weeks? The jury is still out. I haven’t noticed a huge difference, though my hair is a little bit thicker around my crown and I am seeing some baby hair growth.” PS: Before purchase, check out our Foreo coupon code for up to 50% off.
Best for Sleep: Helight Red Light Therapy Sleep Device
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- What we love: Very compact and portable; shuts off automatically; the company makes a version for kids too
- What could improve: Takes about three hours to charge
Helight Sleep might be small enough to fit in your palm, but it’s surprisingly powerful when it comes to helping you wind down. According to the brand, the cordless, travel-friendly device emits pure red light at a wavelength of 630 nm to signal to your brain it’s time to relax and fall asleep. You just turn it on, close your eyes, and let the light do its thing. It glows for 14 minutes, then gently fades out over the next 14 for a full 28-minute wind-down cycle.
“It basically fits in your palm, so I had no trouble bringing it in my carry-on on a recent trip, and it somehow made my hotel room feel even more luxe and relaxing,” says Earley, who notes it also tucks easily into the drawer of her bedside table when she’s using it at home. “I was also pleasantly surprised that the colored light didn’t bother me. I fell asleep easily and stayed asleep. The first night I used it, I didn’t even wake up to go to the bathroom, which is rare for me.”
Best Red Light Therapy Face Mask: Shark Beauty CryoGlow Cooling + LED Face Mask
- What we love: Four treatment modes; the only red light device with cryotherapy; controls are easy to use
- What could improve: Bulky; battery life is more limited than some other options
Shark, already known for innovation in the beauty tech space (hello, viral FlexStyle), is now stepping into the world of light therapy products with this brand-new launch. While its design looks structured at first glance, we found it to be surprisingly comfortable, thanks to thoughtful touches like forehead padding, silicone eye shields, and adjustable straps for a more customized fit.
What really sets this red light mask apart, though, is its built-in undereye treatment that delivers a cryotherapy cooling sensation. “It helped revive my puffy eyes in just five minutes one morning after not getting enough sleep,” says Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle, who’s been testing the device for a few months now. “In terms of the LED face mask treatment, I used red, blue, and purple light. It was nice to have the blue LED light as an option during my monthly hormonal breakouts—I felt like I didn’t break out as much as I normally do. I also really appreciate that it tracks all my sessions. For example, I know that I have over two dozen red light therapy sessions, then I look for any signs of improvement there—and I have! My skin texture is a lot more smooth and radiant after consistently using it for the past three months.” If there’s any downside, it’s the device’s battery. We found it didn’t last as long as some other options, and a full charge takes about three hours.
How we tested
What we looked for
We scanned the market for the most popular and well-reviewed at-home red light therapy devices of all types, plus polled dermatologists to see which ones they recommend to their own patients and even use themselves. Then we asked both men and women over the age of 30 with various skin concerns to put more than a dozen FDA-cleared devices to the test.
Our testers evaluated each product’s design and noted any standout features, plus considered attributes like ease of use and treatment time. And since it takes time—months!—for measurable results, we asked each tester to continue using their device over the course of the year to better evaluate efficacy.
Of course, we are consistently trying any updated at-home devices or new models—like the latest hair-growth tool from Laduora, which we think is one of the more unique options to hit the market in the past year. We will continue to update this article to include more concrete testing notes as time passes. We also created a red light therapy comparison chart to map out the specs of how each holds up against one another.
Editor’s note: September 2025 Update: We have removed the Solaris Laboratories Intensive LED Therapy Hair Brush because—although it gave us a nice massage and volume right after use—it didn’t thicken our hair the same way that other devices on this list did. We also added the Omnilux Blemish Erase in our quest to find the best red light therapy device to help tame and calm our acne.
Frequently asked questions
What is red light therapy?
Red light therapy, sometimes called RLT, is a noninvasive low-level laser that uses red and near-infrared light therapy to penetrate deep into the skin, triggering a cellular repair process that can reduce inflammation, accelerate wound healing, and even help reverse visible signs of aging, says Sejal Shah, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of SmarterSkin Dermatology in NYC.
Beyond its rejuvenation and antiaging potential, this type of laser therapy is especially beneficial for those with acne-prone or sensitive skin. Its ability to calm inflammation can lead to fewer breakouts, less redness, and a more even skin tone over time. The light energy may even help fade post-acne marks. And since it doesn’t involve harsh topicals, it’s also a great pregnancy-safe option for people who need to avoid common blemish treatments like retinoids or salicylic acid.
Is at-home red light therapy really worth it?
While red light therapy at home isn’t as powerful as the medical-grade machines found in dermatology offices, they can still offer noticeable benefits—if you’re consistent and realistic with your expectations. At-home use takes longer to achieve results, but if you’re patient and follow directions, you can achieve glowing skin on your own schedule, says Margarita Lolis, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Hackensack, New Jersey.
Yes, clinical studies on at-home red light therapy are still somewhat limited, but the devices can improve skin issues when used regularly—ideally three to five times per week—and as part of a well-rounded skin care routine that includes cleansing, moisturizing, and targeted treatments like serums, says Dr. Lolis. With consistent use, many users begin to see results, such as improved tone and texture, in as little as two months.
Are there any side effects to red light therapy?
Red light therapy isn’t associated with any side effects—even in those with sensitive skin, says Azadeh Shirazi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of AziMD Skincare in Southern California. The one exception? “If you have melasma, then any light therapy can potentially worsen your pigmentation,” says Dr. Shirazi.
Is at-home red light therapy safe for your eyes?
At-home LED face masks are generally safe for the eyes, Michael Brusco, MD, FADCS, medical director and surgeon at Brusco Vision, tells Glamour. If your mask feels really bright or is creating a glare, it’s generally more annoying than harmful, he says. For those who have more sensitive eyes or have lingering concerns, look for a mask that offers eye protection, like our top pick. You can also use eye drops to lubricate the eyes immediately following red light treatment, since bright light can cause dry eyes, says Dr. Brusco.
What should you look for in a red light therapy device?
FDA clearance: All of the red light therapy devices on our list are FDA-cleared—an attribute that both the American Academy of Dermatology, as well as the dermatologists we spoke to, said was highly important for both safety and efficacy.
Design: Red light devices come in many shapes and forms, from LED face masks (structured or flexible silicone) to handheld wands to panels (some of which are full-body) to headbands or caps for hair loss. For your face, we found that masks are the most convenient and comfortable, but we did appreciate the versatility of wands and panels, since they can be directed at your face or your body.
Light modes: Start by looking for a red light device that operates at 620 to 750 nanometers for anti-inflammatory and antiaging qualities, and collagen production. If you have other skin care concerns, like acne, you may want to look for a device that has additional modes. The two most popular are blue light therapy (405 nm to 420 nm), which does not penetrate as deeply but has antimicrobial properties to target acne-causing bacteria, and infrared-light therapy (760 nm to 1400 nm), which can help reduce redness and even out dark spots and hyperpigmentation, or skin conditions like rosacea.
Can red light therapy help hair growth?
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT), like red light, can stimulate hair follicles by increasing ATP production (a.k.a. your cell’s “energy”), reducing inflammation, and helping prolong the hair-growth phase, says Alan Bauman, MD, a board-certified hair-restoration physician at Bauman Medical. “It’s well supported by research and is one of the most effective noninvasive tools for hair regrowth.” Clinical studies echo this sentiment, suggesting that red-light therapy at wavelengths of 650 nanometers can support hair growth for some people.
How often can you use a red light therapy device?
Determining how often you should use your red light therapy device fully depends on the results you’re looking for. Most devices suggest biweekly use, while some, especially those that promote hair growth, recommend daily treatments. If you’re unsure about how often you should use yours, it’s best to check with your board-certified dermatologist or trichologist.
Meet the experts
- Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at Union Square Laser Dermatology in NYC
- Sejal Shah, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of SmarterSkin Dermatology in NYC
- Margarita Lolis, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Hackensack, New Jersey
- Azadeh Shirazi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of AziMD Skincare in Southern California
This smart LED device stands out for its app-connected design, which lets you schedule and track treatments to make sure you stay on top of things—key for results. It’s also impressively versatile, using a range of light wavelengths, including red, deep red, blue, amber, and infrared, to target everything from breakouts to fine lines. It’s completely wireless, quick to use (just three minutes), and easy to work into a busy routine, making it one of the more convenient models we tested. We also like that, unlike some other similar light-emitting diodes, it comes with goggles in case eye health is a concern.
We’ve tested both the original and the updated CurrentBody LED device, which nearly doubles its red and infrared light output and includes a new deep near-infrared wavelength for stronger, more targeted results. The flexible design now wraps around the chin to sit closer to the skin (also key for results). It also has a very solid head strap and clips to your clothes for easy access and convenience.
Made from medical-grade silicone, the HigherDose red light device stood out for comfort and convenience. It’s lightweight, mostly cordless (with a small remote), and easy to wear while multitasking. “It fits very comfortably—I can even lie down on my couch wearing it,” says Glamour’s Calle. After six months, she noticed fewer hormonal breakouts and smoother skin: “My skin looks a lot smoother after three weeks of consistent use.”
Omnilux Contour Face, $395
Made from flexible silicone, the Omnilux contours comfortably to most face shapes and is easy to operate via a simple remote. It runs on two wavelengths and takes just 10 minutes per session. It’s a staple for Glamour editor in chief Samantha Barry, who says, “I use it every day religiously.… Even putting it on my scalp and chest on the weekends. It’s so easy to use and charge.”
Though red light gets most of the spotlight for hair growth, blue light can be a valuable addition, especially if you struggle with scalp irritation, excess oil, or buildup. This LED brush uses both wavelengths, along with gentle sonic vibration, to stimulate and calm the scalp, creating a healthier environment for hair to grow.
“The blue light technology on this one was really soothing,” says Glamour’s Kilkeary, who tested this one for about a month. “After a few uses, my scalp felt and looked pretty calm and irritant-free.” The thick, widely spaced prongs help the light reach the scalp more effectively, and the tool is intuitive to use. “I like that it’s lightweight and the prongs were thick, making it easy to get in between hairs and all parts of the scalp,” Kilkeary adds.
Designed specifically for the delicate eye area—one of the areas of the face that’s most prone to signs of aging—these adorable LED eye patches use red and near-infrared LED therapy to smooth fine lines, boost collagen and elastin, and reduce puffiness and dark circles. The FDA-cleared devices are completely hands-free and come in a sleek, rechargeable case that makes them both portable and easy to store. “I love how convenient these are,” says Earley. “The little case that charges them is highly portable, and you get so much use out of a single charge. They also stick to the face incredibly well via the hypoallergenic, medical-grade stickers. I’ve even exercised with them on (seriously!), and they didn’t budge.”
Red Light Therapy Devices Comparison Chart
Comparing the devices
| Product | Why it stands out | What could improve | Treatment area | Light modes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solawave 4-in-1 Red Light Therapy Wand | Portable; adjustable head; delivers other skin benefits simultaneously | You have to manually work your entire face and neck; only red light | Face or body | Red |
| Silk’n Titan MultiPlatform | Four intensities for comfort; three-in-one beauty tool; two treatment heads | Long treatment time | Face | Red, infrared |
| Foreo FAQ 301 LED Hair Strengthening Scalp Massager | Compact and cordless; waterproof; quick treatment time | Using the included serum may make hair a bit greasy | Head | Red |
| Helight Red Light Therapy Sleep Device | Very compact and portable; shuts off automatically; the company makes a version for kids too | Takes about three hours to charge | Body or face | Red |
| Shark Beauty CryoGlow Cooling + LED Face Mask | Four treatment modes; the only red light device with cryotherapy; controls are easy to use | Bulky; limited battery life | Face | Red, blue, and deep infrared light |
| CurrentBody LED Hair Growth Helmet | Full scalp coverage; hands-free design | Hard to store | Head | Red |
| Solaris Laboratories Intensive LED Therapy Hair Brush | Two wavelenths; lightweight and compact; travel-friendly | Can only be used on dry hair | Head | Red, blue |
| Skin Gym LitLift LED Facial Tool | Combines massage and LED therapy; easy to use; delivers instant results | Easy to accidentally hit power button | Face | Red, blue |
| Metamorphosis LED Light Facial Device | Portable and easy to store; sticks to the face very well; case holds charge for a long time | Stickers should be replaced after each use | Undereyes | Red |
| ReVive Light Therapy Lux dpl IIa LED Full Face Wrinkle & Acne Treatment Panel | Versatile; quick treatment time; easy to store | It should sit directly on skin | Face or body | Deep red, red, amber, blue |
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