The 12 Best LED Face Masks 2023
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These derm-loved devices are a skincare secret weapon.
If you follow anyone on Instagram or TikTok with even a passing interest in skincare these days, you've probably encountered an LED face mask on your feed. They may give off big slasher-movie energy, but these masks actually offer FDA-cleared technology for reducing wrinkles, clearing acne, and more.
Although LED light therapy is often conducted by dermatologists and aestheticians, thanks to these effective at-home options, you can keep the energy going—literally—at home. Keep reading for 12 of the best LED face masks of 2023, plus more details on the technology from Julie Russak, dermatologist and founder of Russak Dermatology Clinic in NYC.
Russak recommends this viral mask from Omnilux, saying it "provides professional grade red light—it’s important to ensure that you know what color LED it is, as each color corresponds to specific wavelengths." In addition, the derm says, "Omnilux’s design is very ergonomic and provides even distribution to the face."
What the Reviews Are Saying:
“Pricey, but worth it! The only thing that has helped lighten my pregnancy melasma.” —Kareen
This viral mask has both acne-fighting blue light and wrinkle-fighting red light, plus, it offers an effective treatment in three minutes. It's one of our editors' favorite picks.
What the Reviews Are Saying:
“My new favorite beauty tool!! I am so happy to have found this amazing product. It’s so easy to use nightly, the three minutes fly by fast! It’s lightweight and comes with a bag to put it in when not in use. My husband and I each use it nightly and have seen fabulous results, we are blown away!” —KimberlyTuck
Remember the mask worn by Lily Collins on Emily in Paris? Literally this exact model. Even better, you can get it with an optional neck piece.
What the Reviews Are Saying:
“I hate that I love this so much because it is an investment. I have tried multiple cheap LED face masks and I probably have spent equal to this one on all of the prior masks purchased. Save your time and energy and just get the nice one from the beginning. My skin glows and looks flawless when I use this religiously every night.” —Amy
This visor-looking mask emits three types of light—red, blue, and amber, the latter of which is shown to help with cell turnover.
What the Reviews Are Saying:
“Great after showering and relaxing in bed before sleep! So convenient that this mask is clear so I can see and move around while wearing it. The mask itself is also designed so beautifully!” —Hyelim
Inspired by the celeb facialist's signature Rose Quartz Goddess Facial, the LED mask is also embedded with real rose quartz for an extra soothing experience.
What the Reviews Are Saying:
“This is so comfortable and I love it so much. It’s pretty too and my husband doesn’t make fun of me wearing it like he did my other one which was heavier by the way and not as comfortable. Love the zen energy of the crystals too with the LED lights. Makes me want to actually use it! Thank you Angela for this.” —Andrea
Kim Kardashian, Kelly Rowland, and Shay Mitchell are just a few of the celebs that have been seen in Shani Darden's multitasking—if yes, pricey—mask.
What the Reviews Are Saying:
“This is so worth the money. This is a professional grade LED mask that's used at an esthetician's office. I use the blue light to target acne. I use the green light for brightening and dark spots/hyperpigmentation. The red light for fine lines and wrinkles and collagen production.” —luvlyJ
If you've ever wanted to channel your inner X-Men while you reduce wrinkles and puffiness, this mask is the way to do it. And fear not if you have sensitive eyes, it comes with little goggles to wear during the treatment.
What the Reviews Are Saying:
“I have only had the LED eye perfector for about three weeks now and I can honestly say I have already noticed a difference with my skin around my eyes. The skin is brighter and smoother and more lifted.” —Sue
Higher Dose may be more known for their (excellent) infrared blankets, but they have an equally great LED face mask too. Made from medical-grade silicone, it's super flexible, and the cordless design makes it great for wearing around the house (or for travel).
What the Reviews Are Saying:
“I absolutely LOVE this mask. I felt a difference in my skin after the first time I used it, and now that I have used it multiple times I really feel it. My skin is so soft and my skincare seems to be absorbing more into my skin. I haven't seen a difference in my fine lines yet, but I definitely see a difference in my skin.” —Yvonne
With 66 LEDs, this lower-grade mask is still effective for both red and blue light, but not quite as intensive as some other masks on this list. And let's face it, the print is a fun twist from the horror film vibes of some other LED masks.
What the Reviews Are Saying:
“I bought this for my 14 year old to help with acne and she loves it! I can’t believe how much better her skin looks after just a few weeks of using it. The best part is I don’t have to remind her to use it!” —Becca
This mask has every color of the rainbow: red and blue, of course, plus yellow (for skin texture), green (for soothing), purple (for scar repair), and white (for firming).
What the Reviews Are Saying:
“I like this LED mask. It's lightweight, easy and fun to use, very versatile for treating skin and conditions and it's quick. The only thing that's weird that it doesn't say on the instructions is that it turns off automatically after about 10 mins of use.” —Maddie
First of all, it's adorable. But this cutie pink mask also has red, blue, and yellow light to address wrinkles, acne, and dullness, respectively.
What the Reviews Are Saying:
“This beauty led mask has complete functions, with each light corresponding to each effect. It is very convenient to use and easy to operate. After a few days of continuous use, my skin feels smooth and delicate, and the fine lines are also reduced.” —Serena33
This mask also has seven colors of light to address different skin concerns, and a detailed remote for maximum customization. Plus, the brand says you'll see results in just three 10-minute treatments.
“Low-level light therapy, or LLLT, with red or near-infrared light is known as ‘photobiomodulation,’” explains Russak. “Recent studies have shown multiple positive effects and uses in medical and cosmetic areas.” For example, says the derm, “It has been shown to enhance mitochondrial ATP production, a.k.a. increasing energy inside the cells, cell signaling and growth factor synthesis, and decreased oxidative stress leading to lifting and tightening lax skin and the reduction of lines, improved wound healing and a decrease in acne.”
So, what does that mean in non-scientist speak? Serious anti-aging, without needles, knives, or lasers. In addition, the derm says LED can address other skin issues: “It also has been shown to have promising results in treatments of multiple skin diseases such as sclerosis of the skin, psoriasis, precancerous lesions, and numerous other uses,” says Russak.
Nearly everyone can use LED masks (and trust us, once your friends and family sees yours, they'll want to). “Because photobiomodulation is not based on heat production, it can be used on all skin types,” says the derm. “The efficacy depends on the number of LEDs and optimization of wavelength with red and near-infrared wavelength.” However, there are some exceptions. If you’re under 18, pregnant, or breastfeeding, you should avoid LED light therapy, as it has not been sufficiently tested.
For more than 150 years, Harper’s BAZAAR has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.
Lindy Segal is a beauty writer and editor. In addition to regularly contributing to BAZAAR.COM, she also writes for Glamour, People, WhoWhatWear, and Fashionista, among other publications. She lives in New York City with her Chihuahua mix, Barney.
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