There's a big trend right now for LED face masks, which promise to plump, rejuvenate and hydrate by using intensive light rays. But which ones actually work?
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If you told us five years ago that we’d be researching the best LED face masks, our first question would have been: “What’s one of those, then?” Relatively new to the mainstream, these frightening looking visors may appear part of a Halloween costume, but are in fact a NASA-developed, Navy Seal-adopted technique for repairing skin.
Sure, the Seals may have used LED to heal injuries rather than acne, fine lines and rosacea, but that doesn’t change the fact that these miracle wavelengths can make a big difference to the value of your face card.
Now, steady on: using an LED face mask as a form of acne treatment (or whatever other skin concerns you may harbour) doesn’t exempt you from the rest of your skincare routine. It’s still paramount that you keep using your moisturiser, night cream and — perhaps most crucially — SPF alongside any LED treatment you start up.
SKIP TO: What's the best LED face mask in 2024? | What is LED light therapy? | How does LED light therapy work? | What colour LED should I use? | What are the benefits of LED masks for men? | How long does it take to see results from an LED mask?
What's the best LED mask in 2024?
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As a pound-for-pound proposition, it's hard to look past CurrentBody's LED mask. Using a dual-light therapy, its quickfire sessions are primed to reduce the signs of aging while soothing other irritations. Suitable for all skin types, using this silicon mask is as simple as straping it on and relaxing for 10 minutes in its company.
This mask doesn't just look terrifying, it's got formidable power to match. With over 700 professional-grade bulbs that bathe your skin in therapeutic light, multiple LED colours and 6 light modes to quell concerns from acne to ageing, it's a spenny but sound investment for a lifetime of great-looking skin.
Not only does Barber Pro's onyx light therapy mask fit snugly on the face with a flexible design, it also packs five different wavelengths in one, all for under £200.
What is LED light therapy?
First thing: LED stands for Light Emitting Diode and is a form of light therapy that uses ultraviolet-free wavelengths. Initially, NASA developed it as a tool for experimenting with plant growth on shuttle missions. Later, the Navy Seals started to use it in order to regenerate damaged tissue more quickly. You can always trust the world of beauty to get in on such extraordinary inventions and thus: the LED light therapy face mask was born. Now, a growing number of aestheticians and at-home grooming gods and goddesses are picking up on the skincare benefits of red light therapy and its colourful siblings.
How does LED light therapy work?
LEDs emit wavelengths of light that penetrate the skin to tackle concerns at the cellular level. As Dr Glyn Estebanez of Prima Aesthetics tells us, “It's like plants absorbing sunlight to power photosynthesis and boost tissue growth – human cells can absorb light wavelengths to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin.”
Increased collagen and elastin rejuvenate the skin for a plumper, clearer and brighter complexion, as we find out from LED experts and The Light Salon founders Hannah Measures & Laura Ferguson. “LED is suitable for every skin type, and we’ve found men are particularly drawn to our treatments and devices because the only prep needed is clean skin and there’s no downtime.”
For the most effective treatment, consistent use of devices that emit wavelengths clinically proven to penetrate the skin (that’s at least 630nm for red LED lights and 830nm for near infrared) is essential. You’ll also want to look out for the number of bulbs on your prospective device – a higher bulb number indicates a higher-powered, more effective mask.
What colour LED should I use?
“The spectrum of light incorporates different colours which are able to target different skin concerns, from stimulating collagen which can reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles, to targeting bacteria to reduce breakouts,” says Dr Glyn. Red is the most popular colour used on at-home LED masks for its efficacy in treating a wide range of issues, but look out for masks with the below colour settings if there are specific conditions you want to address…
- Blue light (415 nm): Destroys acne-causing bacteria and regulates oil production to keep breakouts at bay
- Green light (520nm): Reduces hyperpigmentation, age spots
- Yellow light (570nm): Soothes skin and encourages lymphatic drainage of toxins, so can be safely utilised to recover from other procedures such
- Red light (630nm): Calms skin, reduces redness and general inflammation, accelerates wound healing and improves blood circulation. Softens fine lines and wrinkles as well as the reducing the appearance of blemishes and uneven skin tone
- Near Infrared light (830nm): Triggers collagen and elastin production for plumper, more youthful-looking skin
What are the benefits of LED masks for men?
Whilst LED treats concerns including fine lines, texture and pigmentation irrespective of gender, they’re particularly handy for tackling ingrown hairs, nicks and bumps that arise from shaving. As well as speeding up wound healing, “Red light targets and restores the skin’s surface, reducing inflammation and redness,” explain The Light Salon founders. “If you suffer from acne, rosacea or post-shaving irritation, this will really help to calm the skin. It’s also helpful in smoothing razor bumps and improving your overall texture.”
How long does it take to see results from an LED mask?
LED masks are non-toxic, non-invasive and easy to use, but to reap long-term results they do require diligent consistent use. Blue LED light can kill bacteria to reduce mild pimples in as little as one session, but for a reduction of deeper set concerns like fine lines and wrinkles, Dr Glyn says treatment is required at least 2 to 3 times a week for a minimum of 4 weeks to see results.
Armed with the facts, we set about testing the best LED devices on the market right now. Read on for the ones we found gave us the best results…
Shop GQ's edit of the best at-home LED face masks…
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1/16CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask
Pros: Flexible comfortable fit | Short auto timed 10min sessions | Easy to wipe clean
Cons: Has only one strap, so bottom of the mask doesn't fully mould to the chin- Type: Flexible silcone
- LED colours: Red and near-infrared
- Directions for treatment: 3-5x a week for 10mins a time
- Benefits: Reduces wrinkles, redness and fades discolouration for a more even skin tone
This multi-award-winning LED light therapy-powered mask has been clinically proven to reduce wrinkles by 35 per cent in just four weeks. Designed to promote visibly firmer-looking skin and tackle the onset of premature ageing, it's favoured by a raft of A-listers looking to get red-carpet ready. Combining anti-ageing red and near-infrared dual-light therapy to boost collagen production, it also calms redness and helps to even out skin tone, while also working deeper beneath the skin's surface to boost circulation, improve blood flow and supply a rush of oxygen to the skin cells. Made from a patented flexible silicone material that enables a more even “spread” of light to penetrate every area of the face, the device is suitable for all skin types and delivers both instant and long-term results – after a month, we saw visibly smoother skin with a healthy glow. £299. currentbody.com
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2/16Omnilux Men
Pros: Designed specifically for men | Short treatments | Flexible silicone design | Two adjustable straps
Cons: Expensive- Type: Flexible
- LED colours: Red & near-infrared
- Directions for treatment: Three to five 10-minute treatments per week
- Benefits: Reduces fine lines and inflammation, improves under-eye bags and corrects signs of ageing
Brace yourself, but you may be shocked to discover that men and women have different skin. Since most LED face masks are marketed to and bought by the fairer sex, that means they tend to be designed with that portion of the world’s populace in mind. That’s not the case for the Omnilux Men, which uses a lot of the same tech as the brand’s other bestselling creations while being engineered for thicker skin. Mercifully for first-timers, this mask is an absolute breeze to use with a flexible silicone design that moulds to your face while a mix of red and near-infrared lights go about their work in 10-minute increments. Although the Omnilux Men’s design is different, the anti-ageing effects it delivers are par for the LED face mask course once you’ve stuck with the treatment for four to six weeks. It’s a particularly good shout for anyone who prefers to fix up their facial hair with an electric shaver or razor, as it should provide some added protection against irritation and inflammation. For these reasons and the healthier-looking skin we ended up with, the Omnilux Men turned out to be our new favourite working from home companion, sitting on the office desk just waiting to be deployed in a spare moment between Zoom calls. £350.90. omniluxled.com
3/16Barber Pro Photon LED Light Therapy Mask
Pros: Flexible | Relatively affordable | Designed specifically for men
Cons: Doesn'f fully mould to chin- Type: Flexible mask
- LED Colours: Red, blue, yellow, purple and infrared
- Directions for treatment: 3-5 x per week, for 10, 20 or 30 minutes
- Benefits: Anti-ageing, acne control, blemish repair and skin brightening
A trailblazer widely acknowledged for kickstarting the sheet masking phenomenon, it was only a matter of time before Barber Pro would explore the advanced skincare benefits offered by LED technology. Its innovative Photon LED mask has been designed specifically for men (there are fewer of those than you would imagine) and is a safe and effective gateway into LED masking priced at under £200. Lightweight and user-friendly, it is made from high-quality silicone that is super comfortable during use, and has an ergonomic design to ensure a snug fit. Non-invasive and USB rechargeable, it uses 5-in-1 LED light technology to improve skin condition alongside more targeted concerns, leading to a brighter and more energised complexion. Featuring red (anti-ageing), blue (targets acne), infrared (pore refinement), yellow (brightening) and purple (inflammation) LED light therapy, benefits can be seen within two weeks of regular use, promoting cell metabolism and collagen regeneration. Suitable for all skin-types, it also features adjustable intensity levels and an automatic treatment timer. £195. At amazon.co.uk
4/16TheraFace LED Mask
Pros: Pre-set 9min sessions | Vibration massage therapy included | Removable eye shields | Cordless
Cons: Expensive | Recommends use 6 days a week- Type: Rigid
- LED colours: Red, blue and red+ infrared
- Directions for treatment: 6x a week for 9mins a time
- Benefits: Improves appearance of wrinkles, boosts skin elasticity, smoothes fine lines, reduces stress and evens skin tone
The beauty arm of massage gun innovator Therabody has arrived, and with it the brand's first LED mask. Simply designed with a pointed fits-all shape to accommodate the nose and an adjustable VR-like head strap, its design is more reminiscent of Clone Wars than the Silence of the Lambs. Within, things are not quite so simple. A whopping 648 medical-grade lights in red, blue and red+ infrared can be selected in pre-set cycles of nine minutes, with skin penetrating benefits working in combination with some reliable TheraBody vibration treatment if you so wish. An express, penetrative skincare treatment, choose this device for tightening the skin and doing away with age spots while indulging in some stress-relieving massaging while you're at it. £549. therabody.com
5/16Lightinderm LED Device
Pros: Skin tissue massage included | Prescribed by dermatologists in France
Cons: Not hands-free- Type: Handheld device
- LED Colours: Red, green, blue and infrared
- Directions for treatment: Daily, for 3 minutes
- Benefits: Covers everything from eye rejuvenation to lifting and acne breakouts, 3 x more effective than using traditional cosmetics and LED alone
This revolutionary grooming tech innovation is three times more effective and efficient than traditional cosmetics and LED alone because Lightinderm combines skin tissue massage within the device to achieve deep tissue regeneration. Developed by a leading Parisian hospital over several years and prescribed by a community of 60 French dermatologists, this handheld device boasts three synergistically combined stimulation modes: LED light, photo-active vegan-friendly serums and deep tissue massage. Unlike traditional tech devices, it recognises each skin has its own system, precisely treating skincare concerns and targeting focus areas such as wrinkles, sagging, pigmentation, acne and inflammation. Offering six programmes — Lift, Repair, Redness Relief, Brightening, Purity (blemishes) and a setting specifically for the eyes — it is even water resistant. The serum capsules used daily in conjunction with the gadget come in a pack of four, and have been precisely measured to keep you going for one month. £400. At johnbellcroyden.co.uk
6/16Current Body Eye Perfector
Pros: Targeted eye treatment | Four LED wavelengths | Comfort goggles included
Cons: Only treats your eyes, obviously- Type: Rigid
- LED colours: Amber, red, deep red and near-infrared
- Directions for treatment: Three minute treatments, six times per week
- Benefits: Targets eye crow's feet, eye bags and brown circles
We're all for specialism in grooming. You wouldn't use a hand cream as a substitute for lip balm or a nose hair trimmer to fine-tune your beard, hence Current Body's Eye Perfector is a precision-tooled means to lessen the effects of crow's feet and eye bags. Since the eyes are one of the first areas of your body to show signs of ageing, you could consider this your first line of defence in an ongoing battle to achieve George Clooney's middle-age charm. While the Eye Perfector won't do much to give you a Hollywood-worthy smile, it's well-specced in terms of its LED capabilities with four wavelengths supported. To wear the thing, just strap it on like a pair of turbo-charged swimming goggles and sit in place for a refreshingly short three minutes, which will be enough to stimulate your skin's production of collagen. For an even more effective treatment, consider using the Eye Perfector in conjunction with a serum or eye mask. £189. currentbody.com
7/16Cellreturn Platinum LED Mask
Pros: Targets skin sagging | Also for use on the neck | Beautiful
Cons: Very expensive- Type: Rigid mask
- LED Colours: Red, blue and pink + NIR
- Directions for treatment: Daily, for 20 minutes (or 9 minute Fast Mode)
- Benefits: Prevents wrinkles, acne and blemishes, improves the appearance of hyperpigmentation and skin redness, minimises the look of pores, skin laxity and sagging
The strongest LED brand on the market permitted for home use, Cellreturn’s Platinum device is the first LED mask for use on the face and neck simultaneously. Using Korean, NASA-derived technology (it’s actually the #1 skin treatment mask in Korea), it was created by Lily Earle, daughter of beauty giant Liz Earle MBE, and is suitable for all skin-types. Offering four different modes with red, blue and pink LED wavelengths, it penetrates deep below the skin surface and accelerates cell processes too. Safe and effective, the patented wireless mask features an unprecedented 1,026 lights and activates fibroblasts to increase collagen synthesis and tackle the visible signs of ageing. The red mode combines near infrared (NIR) with Red Wavelength (RWL) to improve skin density, hydration and elasticity. The blue wavelength is brilliant for treating acne and blemishes by controlling sebum production (the best mode for problem skin), whilst the pink mode reduces inflammation and calms the complexion. For daily use 20 minutes at a time, though there is also a nine-minute fast mode if you are up against it. £1,948. cellreturn.co.uk
8/16Foreo UFO 3 LED Device
Pros: Hydrates in addition to traditional LED benefits
Cons: Not hands-free- Type: Handheld silicone device
- LED colours: Full spectrum (8 colours), including NIR
- Directions for treatment: Up to twice daily (morning and evening), for 90 seconds
- Benefits: Deeply-hydrates, brightens and reduces the appearance of wrinkles
A major player in the grooming tech arena, one Foreo device is sold every 10 seconds. The UFO 3 — a more advanced and updated version of its bestselling UFO 2 handheld gadget — has been designed to instantly brighten and deeply hydrate dull and dehydrated skin, like a long glass of water for thirsty complexions. Clinically-proven to increase skin moisture levels by 126 per cent in just two minutes, the immersive skin-tech tool also reduces the appearance of wrinkles in just one week when used on a daily basis. The device uses three technologies: cryotherapy, which stimulates collagen production, deep-tissue thermo therapy, sending near infrared wavelengths to gently heat and soften the skin to help infuse mask ingredients into the deepest layers, and T-Sonic massage, which gently relaxes facial muscle tension points to boost circulation. A full spectrum LED light therapy of eight colours, including NIR, also improves the signs of ageing at a cellular level. 100 percent waterproof and ultra-hygienic, the puck-like device is to be used in combination with targeted sheet masks on one of 8 pre-set tailored treatments. £289. At lookfantastic.com
9/16Déesse PRO LED Phototherapy Mask
Pros: Very effective | Express treatment modes available | Secure straps | Easy to operate
Cons: Uses a wall plug-in power supply | Pricier model- Type: Rigid
- LED colours: Red, blue, green & near-infrared
- Directions for treatment: Use for up to 20mins 2x a week for a course of 4 weeks, then once a week thereafter
- Benefits: Six treatment modes in one device, quickly reduces size and duration of breakouts, leaves skin feeling plump and brighter
We get it, this is no small sum to invest in a LED mask, but can you really put a price on feeling confident in your skin? Easily the highest-powered device on this list, Déesse Pro’s 770 bulb face mask is as close as you’ll get to a clinical treatment at home and effectively alleviates concerns from acne to eczema and ageing skin. With six modes spanning everything from ‘brightening’ and ‘calming’ to ‘anti-ageing’ and ‘purifying’ this mask leaves no condition untouched, and with the option to edit treatment time in 5-minute increments, it’s easily tailored to busier schedules. As for the results, they’re as impressive as you’d expect – the mask easily flattens razor bumps and pimples within days of use, and has shown promising improvements to stubborn dark marks in just two weeks of testing. We'll be putting it through its paces for the full course, but so far, it's worth every precious penny. £1,440. At cultbeauty.com, niche-beauty.com & dessepro.com
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10/16Dr Dennis Gross DRx SpotLite Blemish Remover
Pros: Targeted LED application | Shrinks inflammation and bumps | Quick treatment time
Cons: only treats small areas compared to full face masks- Type: Portable
- LED colours: Red and Blue
- Directions for treatment: 3 mins daily on the affected area
- Benefits: Reduces size and duration of breakouts, lessens redness and blemishes
Easy-to-use, portable and battery-operated, Dr Dennis Gross’ SpotLite Blemish Remover is an on-the-spot acne-fighting treatment device designed (unlike a full-face mask) to specifically target localised flare-ups. Using clinically proven blue and red LED technology to help clear and prevent future breakouts, blue light penetrates just below the skin’s surface to combat acne-causing bacteria, while red light goes deeper into the skin to help cool down inflammation, sensitivity and redness. When combined, this LED duo also help flatten blemishes and treat post-acne dark spots and scarring. Use daily for three minutes and expect to see results within a week. Also works wonders for anyone who suffers from congested pores. £58. At lookfantastic.com
11/16FAQ Anti-ageing silicone LED face mask
Pros: Eight colour wavelengths | Flexible fit | App included
Cons: Expensive- Type: Flexi-fit silicone mask
- LED Colours: Full spectrum (8 colours), including NIR
- Directions for treatment: 3-5 x per week, for 5-15 minutes
- Benefits: Stimulates collagen production, reduces wrinkles and sun spots, calms inflammation and brightens the complexion
FAQ is a new Swiss biotech brand under the Foreo umbrella. Its top of the range 202 flexi-fit silicone mask has been designed to mould to your facial contours like an ultra-light and transparent second skin, allowing for an optimising and even coverage of light. Wireless with an open eye design, it features full spectrum LED wavelengths including NIR, and connects via an app to access pre-programmed facial treatments. With 600 lights placed in optimal locations, the anti-ageing gizmo ensures that the LED wavelengths penetrate the skin evenly. The eight different wavelengths tackle everything from wrinkles to blemishes, hyperpigmentation to redness and a reboot for dull, lacklustre skin tone. The device, which supplies thousands of LED pulses per second, gently warms the skin to temporarily dilate pores, so the LED can do its thing more efficiently. Ultra-hygienic, wireless and featuring a non-slip headband to keep it in place as you move around, it helps to fade expression lines in 6-12 weeks and leads to a healthier-looking and brighter complexion. £719. currentbody.com
12/16Sensse Energy LED face Cleanser
Pros: Affordable | Uncomplicated | Provides a deep clean of pores
Cons: Battery needs charging often- Type: Facial cleansing and massaging device
- LED colours: Red, blue and purple
- Directions: Use daily or as needed
- Benefits: Deeply cleanses skin targeting bacteria with blue LED, can be used to tighten skin with the bioelectric mode
Easy to add to your existing grooming regimen, this LED-powered facial cleanser is the device of choice for the man after a convenient upgrade to his skincare routine. Assisted by high-frequency vibrations, it takes all the hard work out of your daily ablutions – simply apply face wash and let the silicone hairs thoroughly cleanse your pores. Whilst it doesn’t have as many bulbs as high-powered LED masks, its precise strip of light allows for targeted treatment of spots, fine lines and blemishes. A solid introduction to LED light therapy, our skin felt refreshed and revived after the first use, plus palpably firmer after using the bioelectric current-powered chrome tip. £49.99. At lookfantastic.com
13/16Silk'n LED Face Mask
Pros: Secure straps | Automatic and manual treatment settings | flexible for a comfortable fit
Cons: Difficult to wipe clean- Type: Flexible
- LED colours: Blue, red, yellow, purple
- Directions: Use once every three days for 10 minutes for the first week and gradually increase following the included treatment plan
- Benefits: Can tackle ageing, skin texture, fine lines, acne-causing bacteria and inflammation
Giving the standard LED face mask a more comfortable refresh, Silk’n’s LED mask is closer to the feeling of a second skin, rather than being a more rigid, structured mask that can feel uncomfortable to wear. Incorporating four different colours of LED light – red for anti-ageing, blue for acne, yellow for smoothing and softening and purple for reducing inflammation – it also gives you the option of manually focusing on one style of treatment, or using an automatic setting that gives you a timed dose of each colour. Conveniently incorporating straps on both the top and middle of the mask, you can also move around freely in it while it works, meaning you needn’t worry about setting too much time aside for it. But set the time aside you absolutely should – when we tried it, we saw an impressive reduction in hormonal cystic acne that's notoriously difficult to treat. Coming in at under £200, it's an affordable option for happier, healthier skin. £150. At amazon.co.uk
14/16Bondi Body LED Light Therapy Mask
Pros: Flexible | Four colour wavelengths
Cons: No eye shields- Type: Flexible silicone mask
- LED colours: Red, blue, yellow and purple
- Directions for treatment: 3-5 x per week (evenings), for 10 minutes
- Benefits: Reduces redness, fine lines, sun damage and acne breakouts
This flexible silicone face mask from award-winning Aussie brand Bondi Body (best known for its laser hair reduction tech), has been engineered to brighten skin, correct uneven tone, and help improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Delivering salon-quality LED technology in one at-home device, it uses four colour wavelengths — red, blue, yellow and purple — to penetrate deep beneath the surface of the skin. Red light helps reduce inflammation and is great for stimulating collagen production and blood circulation. Blue light treats acne, scarring and excess oil production by inhibiting the skin’s oil glands and stopping breakouts in their tracks, also killing the bacteria inside pores to discourage blackheads. Yellow light is a radiance booster, by creating movement in the top layers of the skin cells, whilst purple light (a combo of red and blue lights) tackles the appearance of age spots and hyperpigmentation. £249. bondi-body.co.uk
15/16MZ Skin Light-Therapy Golden Facial Treatment Device
Pros: Multiple LED colours available to treat several skin issues
Cons: Takes a while to see results- Type: Rigid
- LED colours: Red, blue, green, yellow and white
- Directions for treatment: 2-3x a week at up to 30mins a time
- Benefits: Plumps, purifies and soothes skin
Better known in Hollywood as “The Eye Doctor”, London-based aesthetician Dr Maryam Zamani is the driving force behind the celebrated MZ Skin brand and its game-changing multifunctional LED mask designed for at-home use, promoting optimised skin transformation. It offers five different coloured light therapy treatments: red to refine, plump and strengthen the skin; blue to balance and purify; green to brighten the complexion; yellow to soothe, reduce redness and inflammation; and white to repair the skin and reduce sensitivity. Start with ten minute sessions, building to 30 minutes at a time, and by using the device two to three times per week, optimum results will be seen after one month. £500. At net-a-porter.com & currentbody.com
16/16Skin Gym WrinkLit LED Mask
Pros: Fully wireless | Relatively affordable | 3 LED colours in one
Cons: Inflexible design- Type: Rigid
- LED colours: Red, blue and orange
- Directions for treatment:
- Benefits: Treats acne, ageing skin, rosacea and dullness
Skin Gym, the LA-based wellness brand celebrated for its use of ancient beauty techniques and materials to inspire contemporary holistic beauty tools, has gone all techy on us. Introducing, the brand’s first LED light therapy mask. In fact, it's the brand's first product to really embrace advanced technology. A wireless powered mask you can use anywhere (although whipping it out for a quick session in Starbucks might raise a few eyebrows), it uses three forms of light therapy, blue, which is great for acne prone skin, red to combat redness and ageing concerns and orange for dull, lacklustre skin that just needs a bit of a pick-me-up. Also proven to stimulate elastin and help regulate oil production, it's very easy to use; choose your desired light setting and power on for 15 to 30 minutes. £100. At beautybay.com
