If you're on the hunt for the best way to achieve that enviable skin glow, you've likely heard about the magic of LED face masks. These handy devices use various light wavelengths to tackle everything from breakouts to a loss of skin elasticity, making them a must-have for anyone striving for a plumper, more radiant complexion.
As we age, maintaining that coveted dewy look requires a bit more than just slapping on a moisturiser. Enter the multitasking LED face mask. With a spectrum of colours (most commonly red, blue and near-infrared), they can work wonders by boosting collagen production and zapping acne-causing bacteria.
But the top-tier LED masks don't stop there—they also tackle sagging, scarring and discolouration with highly precise wavelengths that could earn them a prime spot in your skincare arsenal. With so many to choose from though, finding your perfect match can feel overwhelming.
That's where Dr. Dan Belkin, double board-certified derm surgeon at the NY Dermatology Group, steps in to shed some light. In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know and reveal the perfect LED face masks for achieving clear, smooth and youthful skin.
So, which LED mask should you add to your skincare arsenal? Let’s find out!
What is an LED mask?
According to Dr. Belkin, LED masks work by delivering wavelengths of LED light to penetrate the skin at different depths to effectively combat acne, inflammation, deep wrinkles, collagen production and heal surface wounds. They work best as part of a well-rounded skincare regimen of in-clinic treatments, a thorough skincare routine and consistency. That’s why many dermatologists recommend using home use (but medical-grade) LED masks to support what they do in-clinic.
Hands free, pain free and utterly relaxing, LED masks are the way to go for some much deserved glow-inducing ‘me-time’ every week.
What to look for in an LED mask
When choosing an LED face mask, consider what you’re looking to treat and how you plan on using it.
The wavelengths: Acne prone skin would benefit from red and blue light; those more concerned with anti-ageing or inflammatory skin conditions (such as psoriasis) would benefit from red and near-infrared light, while those with hyperpigmentation, dullness and enlarged pores would benefit from green and yellow lights.
Tech specs: “It's really important if I'm recommending a device, that I know that the LED lights are extremely precise in certain evidence based wavelengths,” says Dr. Belkin. “And I know that to be true with the CurrentBody technology.” It’s also about the way LED lights are administered to the skin: CurrentBody uses something called Pillow Technology, where the LED diode is set back in a silicone casing, diffusing the light over whole portions of the skin. “So many other products have pinpoint LED lights that only target the areas that they’re actually being shown on.”
Best for Glowing Skin: LED Light Therapy Face Mask
The Vogue editor-approved LED mask for a naturally age-defying glow. Dr. Belkin has been a fan of our original LED Face Mask since its US launch in 2021 and has recommended it to his patients ever since.
“We know that red light at a wavelength of 633 nanometers can help collagen stimulation, wound healing, reduction in inflammation and redness.” Red light has been shown to ease inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea, eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis.
“Near-infrared light at 830 nanometers also causes collagen stimulation and a reduction in photoageing, including wrinkles, laxity and hyperpigmentation.”
It’s easy to use and requires only 10 minutes of your day 3 to 5 times a week. Studies have even shown that it reduces wrinkles by 35% in 4 weeks, making it the most effective LED light mask for anti-ageing.
Key specs: It delivers the same evidence based wavelengths as professional salon machines, and emits at an extremely precise band compared to other at home LED devices on the market.
Wavelengths: Red (633nm) and near-infrared (830nm)
Best for Clear Skin: Anti-Blemish LED Face Mask
According to the NY Dermatology Group, acne starts when tiny glands in the skin become clogged with an oily substance (sebum), causing bacteria to grow. The good news? This bacteria can be controlled with blue LED light. "There’s encouraging evidence that blue LED light can alter the microbiome of the skin to improve acne," says Dr. Belkin.
“Red light to reduce inflammation and blue light to kill bacteria”—together, they’re proven to be 36% more effective at treating acne than blue light alone. The Anti-Blemish LED mask acts as a complete acne solution—not just factoring inflammation and redness, but also getting rid of the acne bacteria.
Key specs: Use this mask for 10 minutes 3 to 5 times a week for 6 weeks, then give your skin a short break. You can start up again after a week or two.
Wavelengths: Red (633nm) and blue (415nm)
Best for Skin Clarity: 4-in-1 Zone Facial Mapping Mask
Looking for a way to revamp your complexion in just 10 minutes? This LED mask promises to reduce wrinkles, shrink pores, plump, brighten and calm your skin, giving you that enviable glow with minimal effort.
Hyperpigmentation can be caused by so many things that you “might have it without even knowing,” says Dr. Belkin. Melasma (usually caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy), sun spots aka freckles, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne bumps, eczema or other skin traumas can all be resolved with the 4-in-1 LED mask.
Red and near-infrared light’s anti-inflammatory and collagen building effects are well known, but this LED mask also uses deep red, green and yellow light for “reducing redness and healing time,” says Dr. Belkin. Perfect for spot-pickers and anyone craving a refreshed, radiant look!
Key specs: 4-in-1 is the most effective LED mask for hyperpigmentation, “which may take months or even years to naturally fade.” Better yet, it’s proven to be at least 109% more effective than any other mask on the market.
Wavelengths: Red (633nm), deep red (660nm), near-infrared (830nm), green (532nm) and yellow (590nm)
What’s the best way to use an LED mask?
“I’m always looking for ways to augment my in-clinic treatments using LED face masks at home,” explains Dr. Belkin. “And CurrentBody Skin make some of the best LED masks in the field.”
Use your LED light mask atop freshly cleansed, dry and product free skin to allow the light to fully penetrate. You can even couple your light mask with a CurrentBody Skin Hydrogel Face Mask when your skin is feeling extra dry, or just needs some TLC after a long day. Afterwards, continue with your skincare regimen as usual.
On side note, LED and Botox go hand in hand; with the ramped up collagen production only enhancing your tweakments for a fresher, more natural feel.
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