LED Face Mask FAQs:
Meet the experts:
| Name | Expertise |
|---|---|
| Laurence Newman | CurrentBody CEO. |
| Dr. Maryam Zamani | Dermatologist and founder of MZ Skin. |
| Dr Radmila Lukian | Dermatologist at Lucia Clinic. |
| Dr Jinah Yoo | Dermatologist at Dr Jinah Yoo Dermatology. |
| Dr Dan Belkin | US board-certified dermatologist. |
How do LED face masks work?
LED light therapy refers to the process of exposing skin to different wavelengthsof light which “stimulate collagen production and purify the skin”, Dr Radmila Lukian told us. The light emitted by your LED face mask is absorbed by your skin, and as the light wavelength increases, so does the depth of penetration.
Each different light type – usually represented by a different treatment mode in your device – stimulates a different response. This means every colour boasts different LED face mask benefits. LED light therapy “can help improve skin texture, reduce blemishes and hyperpigmentation, and even out skin tone,” as well as calm psoriasis, improve the general appearance of your skin and reduce visible signs of ageing.
What are the benefits of using LED face masks for skincare?
LED face masks have countless benefits, namely boosting collagen production in a bid to give structure, strength and elasticity to your skin. “LED light therapy have been proven to treat such a wide range of concerns over the past thirty years," CurrentBody's CEO Laurence Newman told me.
One study carried out in 2021, showed an improvement in atopic eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition) in both men and women after twelve weeks of phototherapy, while a small 2018 study found green light therapy to aid in fading melasma and hyperpigmentation. Elsewhere, the NHS has a few medical applications of LED light therapy, such as for treatment of wound healing. “Particularly, for chronic wounds such as diabetic ulcers or pressure sores,” Laurence said.
As for whether the effects of use will be permanent? “LED will always benefit skin and will help skin as long as you use it,” Dr. Maryam said. “Just like with exercise, you maintain your muscle mass and if you stop, then your muscle mass will diminish.Similarly, if you are using LED, you will see the benefit as you use that will decrease and stop after you stop using it.It gives you a new starting point.”
Which LED light colour is best?
“The colour of the LED light to use depends on your specific skin concerns,” Dr. Jinah Yoo told us.
| Colour | Use |
|---|---|
| Blue Light Therapy | A bacteria-fighting LED light. It triggers photochemical oxidation in order to kill acne-causing bacteria living on the skin. This makes blue light an excellent choice for those with pimples, eczema or rosacea. |
| Red Light | Stimulates our fibroblasts for cell renewal and ATP regeneration |
| Near Infrared Light | Has no colour but it can be used as an anti-inflammatory. |
| Yellow Light | The least common in at-home devices, working to revitalise the skin, reduce swelling and boost your skin's radiance. |
Can I use an LED face mask every day?
“It is generally safe to use an at-home LED face mask every day,” Dr. Lukian said, “but it's recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions and not overuse it. Using it for up to 20 minutes a day, three-five times a week is a good starting point.”
The LED used in at-home devices is much weaker than what it would be in-salon, and actually, the devices often undergo much more rigorous testing because they need to be safe enough to use without the presence of a professional. If you do have sensitive skin or notice irregular signs of damage, consult with a dermatologist.
How should I use my LED face mask within my normal skincare routine?
You don't need to put anything on your face before LED light therapy. Remove your makeup, use your normal cleanser and then make sure your skin is clean and dry.
What are the disadvantages of LED masks?
There are few disadvantages to LED face masks – but it's worth considering that prolonged use or improper handling can lead to dryness or irritation. It is essential to follow the guidelines laid out by the manufacturer of the mask you choose – and to consult with a dermatologist if you suffer from a specific skin condition. Elsewhere, the main drawback is the initial cost of quality LED face mask, which can be quite high.
What LED face mask do celebrities use?
Kim Kardashian famously gifted her friends with CurrentBody and Omnilux LED face masks for Christmas back in 2023 (they were found in those in those viral SKIMS-wrapped packages). Both of which come in under £400, pleasingly. "You can find me right here... Face, neck and hand red lights for the win!" wrote Kardashian via her Instagram Stories at the time. “I'm obsessed with these I gave them as gifts this year.”
Elsewhere, Victoria Beckham is known to use the Déesse Pro LED Mask, a luxury device that offers multiple light settings – including red, blue, and near-infrared – to address various skin concerns.
DÉESSE Pro LED Phototherapy Mask
After more skincare products? Shop the best jade rollers, the best ice globes, the best night creams, facial cleansing brushes or read our NuFace Microcurrent Device review. For more from GLAMOUR's Senior European Commerce Editor Sophie Cockett, follow her on Instagram @sophiecockettx.
