With the increasing availability of at-home LED face masks, it’s clear that the concept of masking has expanded exponentially. What was once almost exclusively an act of spreading a viscous substance of some sort on your face for a few minutes has evolved to include sheet masks conveniently pre-soaked in face serum; and in what feels like definitive proof that we live in the future, face masks now come in goo-free LED formats that promise even bigger results than their messier counterparts.
So what exactly do LED face masks do that those regular overnight treatments can’t? LEDs are light-emitting diodes, which are devices that emit light of varying wavelengths, explains board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology and associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. And although you’ll find LED technology in everything from computer monitors to street lights, LED light has been used in dermatology for cosmetic reasons. “The most common wavelength is red light, which is thought to have anti-inflammatory and collagen-stimulating effects in the skin,” Dr. Zeichner explains, noting its benefits for fine lines and wrinkles.
Our top picks:
- Best Overall: Dr Dennis Gross SpectraLite FaceWare Pro, $455
- Best Budget: Skin Gym Wrinklit Heart LED Mask, $99
- Best for Fine Lines: Shani Darden by Déesse PRO LED Light Mask, $199
- Best for Acne: ORA LED Light Energy Mask, $75
- Most Spa-like Experience: Angela Caglia CrystalLED Face Mask, $495
In addition to red light, many masks can also emit antimicrobial blue light, “which may help reduce the acne-triggering bacteria on the skin, helping to improve inflammatory acne,” says Bay Area board-certified dermatologist Kaveri Karhade, MD. Infrared, near-infrared, and amber light are also options in LED treatments, thanks to their ability to help even tone and reduce redness.
These in-office alternatives have become go-to treatments for celebrities like Victoria Beckham and Kourtney Kardashian—and thanks to a range of price points, they’re becoming a fave for non-famous folks, too. “Many at-home masks purport to have these same benefits from the ease and comfort of one’s home, without having to deal with the inconveniences of visiting a doctor’s office,” says Dr. Karhade. Ready to get glowing? Below, you’ll find a dozen of the most highly reviewed LED face masks at a variety of price points.
All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Courtesy of brand
Dr Dennis Gross SpectraLite FaceWare Pro
It’s hard not to feel like a superhero while wearing the Dr. Dennis Gross SpectraLite FaceWare Pro mask. Regardless of your skin concerns, this FDA-cleared device has got you covered with 100 red LED lights and 62 LED blue lights to encourage collagen product, smoothness, even tone, and less acne. Feel free to use it in red mode, blue mode, or in combination.
Specs: 630 – 700nm red light, 400 – 470nm blue light, 800 – 1200nm infrared light, 590nm – 630mm amber light, multiple modes, cordless, automatic shut-off, FDA-cleared
Pros: Super-quick three-minute treatment, multiple modes, adjustable fit
Cons: Expensive (get ready to see that a lot)
What reviewers say: “I noticed a difference in my forehead wrinkles immediately after the first treatment. I prefer setting 3 which tackles wrinkles and acne. My skin is looking amazing and I’m only using it once a day.” — Joanne, reviewer at Dermstore
Save when you shop the best LED face masks with these Dermstore promo codes.
Courtesy of brand
Angela Caglia CrystalLED Face Mask
The Angela Caglia Rose Quartz Crystal LED Mask combines two skin care treatments into one: crystal superstar rose quartz and LED lights (132 total red and blue lights to be exact). Not only is it pretty to look at, but it offers a line-smoothing, firming, tone-evening experience that feels especially spa-like.
Specs: 630nm red light, 465nm blue light, USB C to USB A connector, automatic shut-off, FDA-cleared
Pros: Comes with a travel-friendly pouch, both blue and red light modes
Cons: Expensive
What reviewers say: “I really love how comfortable this mask is and the features (crystals) and of course the color!!!! It’s easy to use I saw results pretty quickly and the wide mouth is great in the morning for my coffee lol! I only wish it had a strap or something on the bottom part I find myself holding it closer to my skin but I still love it. I feel like Angela is a genius!” —Randi B., reviewer at Saks Fifth Avenue
Save when you shop the best LED face masks with these Saks Fifth Avenue promo codes.
Read More
Marci Robin