Do LED Face Masks Work? Here's What Dermatologists Have to Say

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Years ago, if you wanted to experience the latest and greatest in skincare technology, you’d have to make an appointment at a spa. But thanks to innovations like LED face masks, you can now use these devices to treat your complexion in the comfort of your own home (and in pajamas to boot).

Light therapy has generated a lot of buzz in the beauty realm in recent years. First came handheld devices, and now there are face masks that make at-home treatments even more convenient. But how do LED face masks work, and what are the potential benefits and risks of using one? We asked two dermatologists to shed some light on these skincare devices.

What is LED light therapy?

Dr. Loretta Ciraldo, MD, FAAD explains that LED is an acronym for “light emitting diodes.” The lights in an LED face mask are tiny and arranged in a grid-like formation. They do not get hot when applied to the skin, so the masks are comfortable to wear, even though they’re emitting intensely concentrated light.

Before putting on one of these masks, Dr. Jodi Logerfo, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC recommends first speaking to a skincare professional to determine how many treatments you should do. She advises that LED face masks should be used 2-3 times per week at most, and sessions should only last 20-30 minutes. It’s also important to have realistic expectations regarding results.

“The results you usually see with these treatments are mild. They aren’t a game-changer when it comes to fine lines, wrinkles, hair loss, etc.,” says Dr. Logerfo. “Although there are some studies regarding their benefit, they are not abundant, and we are not entirely sure how they work,” she says.

What potential skincare benefits do LED face masks offer?

According to Dr. Logerfo, there are five types of light therapy — red, blue, yellow, green, and infrared — all of which offer different skincare benefits. When shopping for LED face masks, the key is to find a device that caters to your complexion’s needs:

• Blue light therapy is best for acne-prone skin types, according to Dr. Logerfo. This type of light therapy targets bacteria and helps control oil production.

• Infrared light therapy should be used if acne scarring is present — it can also help heal sun damage and tighten the skin.

• Both red light and yellow light therapy have anti-aging benefits. “Red light increases circulation, decreases inflammation, and stimulates collagen, improving fine lines and wrinkles,” Dr. Logerfo says. She adds that yellow light “can penetrate deeper into the skin, assist in reducing redness, improve circulation, and help combat the signs of skin aging.”

• Green light therapy is your best option if you have hyperpigmentation, sun spots, or an uneven skin tone. This type of light therapy is meant to rebalance your complexion and brighten the skin.

What are the potential risks of using an LED face mask?

When used as directed, LED face masks are generally safe for most people to use.

“If there are any side effects, they are usually mild,” says Dr. Logerfo. However, you'll want to make sure you buy your skincare device from a reputable source and avoid no-name brands. “An LED mask or handheld device should be purchased from a reliable company and the masks should be labeled as ‘FDA approved.’”

As for who should avoid using LED face masks? Dr. Ciraldo warns that anyone with “open skin lesions or areas that have pus or are weeping” should not use light therapy, as it could delay the healing of open or infected areas on the skin.

“I recommend that you discuss this with your primary doctor, dermatologist, or aesthetician [before using LED face masks or any kind of light therapy device],” says Dr. Ciraldo.

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