The best LED face masks of 2026, tested and reviewed

Let's just be honest about this upfront: Wearing even the best LED face mask will make you appear both ridiculous and terrifying, like a Jetsons -era zombie out for Astro's blood. Of all the at-home anti-aging treatments I've tried in my two decades as a women's lifestyle editor, LED face masks were by far the most awkward.

Over 10 months, I tested six masks priced from $90 to $1,900, wearing each according to the manufacturer's instructions and evaluating comfort, fit, ease of use and visible changes in fine lines, skin texture and discoloration. During testing, I startled several members of my family — and once the cat — while wearing them. My husband started calling each mask "the face." Still, the strongest performers delivered subtle but noticeable improvements with consistent use.

That consistency is the catch. I didn't love wearing these devices, and I'm not convinced I would stick to the recommended schedule if testing them weren't part of my job. But red-light therapy , a form of photobiomodulation, has legitimate research behind it: Studies suggest that targeted red and near-infrared light (NIR) may stimulate collagen and elastin production and soften fine lines . "LED light therapy is non-invasive and leverages the natural healing and regenerative processes of the skin," says Dr. Melanie Palm , a board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon in San Diego.

Testing also made one thing clear: Spending more does not automatically get you a better mask. I found the greatest jump in quality between the $90 models and those around $300, with much smaller differences above that threshold. I found that soft silicone masks were generally more comfortable and adaptable to different face shapes than rigid plastic options. After comparing half a dozen models, these are the LED face masks I'd recommend.

The best LED red-light therapy face masks for 2026

How I tested LED red-light therapy face masks

I tested each individual mask for six weeks, with a two-week break in between. I rated them on:

• Results: Did I see a positive difference in my skin during the testing period?

• Ease of use:Was charging the battery simple? Could I work the device without always referring back to the instructions?

• Construction quality: Is it well designed for a variety of human faces? Did I feel safe wearing it?

• Comfort: Did the mask cause physical discomfort or pain? Did the straps get caught in my hair or irritate my skin?

• Value and affordability: Is the cost at least somewhat accessible for what it is?

I also made sure to make note of extras, like eye protection.

Other LED face masks I tested

• Shark CryoGlow LED Face Mask : Shark's wildly popular hard-plastic mask was not worth the hype for me.

• Light Salon's Boost LED Mask :While this costs $100 more than my top pick from Omnilux, its silicone was too stiff, and the fit was not as snug and comfortable. I would, however, highly recommend the Light Salon LED Collar for improving the appearance of crepey neck skin.

• Shani Darden by Déesse Pro's LED Light Mask :I also spent six weeks testing this mask, which worked well enough but was made of rigid, hard plastic, which I did not enjoy, especially for $1,900.

• Drx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro from Dr. Dennis Gross tops many best lists, but I found the $455 mask uncomfortable on my face and it did not seem worth the extra cash.

What to look for in an LED face mask

✔️ Clinical evidence and safety:"In general, look for brands with clinical studies to back their claims," says Dr. Omer Ibrahim , a Chicago-based board-certified dermatologist. Lower-priced masks from unfamiliar brands are widely available, but Ibrahim advises caution: "It's impossible to guarantee whether these are actually emitting light at the correct wavelengths or are even safe to use." Prioritize established manufacturers that disclose their devices' wavelengths, provide clear safety instructions and note any applicable FDA clearance.

✔️ Fit and materials:Experts I spoke with generally preferred soft silicone masks over hard plastic ones because they conform more closely to the face, helping the light reach the skin more evenly. I agreed: While most masks I tested were comfortable and easy to use, rigid plastic models felt more claustrophobic — like a grown-up hockey goalie in a kid's mask — and were often more expensive. They're also less accommodating of different face shapes and prominent features, and bulkier to store and pack for travel.

✔️ Blue or red light:LED masks use different wavelengths of light, though red and blue are among the most common. Red light is typically used to address signs of aging; research suggests it may support collagen production, improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of pores, fine lines and wrinkles. Blue light is primarily used for acne because it can target C. acnes , the bacteria associated with breakouts, and may help regulate sebum production. Because my primary concerns are related to signs of aging, I tested only masks with a red-light mode.

✔️ Price:At-home LED light therapy masks aren't cheap. When I first saw the $4,000 Artemis Mask — both its price and its appearance — I laughed out loud. But my testing showed that spending more doesn't necessarily get you a better mask. I tested models ranging from $90 to $1,900 and read hundreds of online reviews and about a dozen Reddit threads. I found the biggest jump in quality between the least expensive option and masks around $300; beyond that, the differences were far less noticeable.

LED face mask FAQs

How does LED light therapy work?

"An LED mask is a device that emits different colors and wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin at various depths. It is designed to treat a range of skin conditions such as inflammation, swelling, acne and signs of aging," says Palm. "LED masks can also stimulate collagen production and aid in the healing of minor wounds."

Red-light masks use targeted wavelengths to support collagen production and skin repair, but at-home treatment requires patience. "LED masks are effective as long as it they are used consistently and in accordance to listed directions," Ibrahim says. "At-home versions are not as powerful as in-office devices and may require more usage to see results."

Treatment schedules vary, though many masks call for 10-minute sessions per day, every day. After nearly 10 months of testing, I found that when used correctly, these suckers WORK.

What are the benefits of using an LED face mask?

Clinical studies suggest that red LED light therapy may help stimulate collagen and elastin production , reduce pore size and soften fine lines and wrinkles . According to the experts I spoke with, a full list of the benefits of using LED (specifically red-light) devices includes:

• Speeding up wound healing

• Reducing inflammation

• Reducing pore size

• Improving overall skin texture

• Improving skin laxity (bounciness)

• Reducing fine lines and wrinkles

• Improving hyperpigmentation

Are LED masks safe?

According to our experts, LED masks are generally safe for most skin types when used according to the manufacturer's instructions. People prone to melasma should consult a dermatologist first, since the light and heat may worsen the condition. Eye-safety guidance varies by device, so use any included eye protection and follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Even masks deemed safe for use without eye protection may cause headaches or eye strain in rare cases, depending on the light intensity and fit.

As for if there are any risks involved with LED masks, aside from exacerbating hyperpigmentation in some skin, LED masks can cause redness and swelling, especially if left on for too long. Always follow directions and always purchase from a reputable brand that has clinical studies backing it up.

Will LED masks give me a sunburn?

The spectrum of LED light does not include UV light, which is what damages skin. No, you will not get a sunburn from these masks, not even a tan.

Who should not use an LED mask?

LED light therapy isn't appropriate for everyone. "Those prone to hyperpigmentation or melasma [should not use an LED mask]. And those with photosensitive disorders like lupus," says Ibrahim. "It's just, again, a good idea to consult with a dermatologist before using an LED mask." People taking medications that increase photosensitivity should also speak with a dermatologist before purchasing or using one.

Meet our experts

• Dr. Melanie Palm , a board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon in San Diego

• Dr Omer Ibrahim , Chicago-based board-certified dermatologist

Update, Sept. 17, 2026: We checked all product prices and availability. Our No. 1 pick for the best LED face mask remains unchanged.

We received complimentary samples of some products and purchased others ourselves, but we reviewed all products using the same objective criteria.