9 Best At-Home Light Therapy Devices For Glowing Skin

LED light therapy devices, like at-home masks, may seem futuristic, especially with their resemblance to robots on Instagram. However, beyond their appearance, these tools offer various skin benefits. They can enhance skin elasticity and collagen production while diminishing acne and redness.

If you’re intrigued by LED light therapy but unsure where to begin, keep reading. We’ll delve into its benefits and offer guidance on selecting the right device for you.

Below, find a list of top LED light therapy tools available for purchase to elevate your beauty routine.

What is LED Light Therapy?

LED light therapy utilizes light emitting diodes to shine different wavelengths of light onto the skin, affecting gene expression and cellular function. This treatment offers various benefits for the skin, such as killing bacteria, addressing sensitivity, uneven skin tone, and stimulating collagen and elastin production for anti-aging effects.

LED devices come in different colors, with blue targeting acne, green and yellow for sensitivity and uneven skin tone, and red for collagen stimulation.

Popular LED light therapy tools include face masks and portable wands, which can help improve skin appearance and health.

9 Best At-Home Light Therapy Devices

1. Foreo UFO 2

The Foreo UFO 2 is a high-end at-home light therapy device designed to rejuvenate the skin. It utilizes red and blue light therapy to target various skin concerns such as inflammation and puffiness. The device is handheld and offers a quick 90-second treatment duration, making it suitable for beginners and experienced users alike. To achieve optimal results, additional Foreo UFO-activated masks are required.

Pros:

1. Advanced red and blue light therapy technology.
2. Quick 90-second treatment time.
3. Handheld design for ease of use.
4. Long-lasting battery requiring only a single charge throughout the testing phase.

Cons:

1. Additional purchase of Foreo UFO-activated masks necessary for optimal results.
2. Limited to targeting specific skin concerns addressed by red and blue light therapy.
3. May require commitment to an eight-week testing period for noticeable results.
4. Initial investment may be relatively high compared to other skincare devices.

2. Solawave Bye Acne

The Solawave Bye Acne device is a compact handheld solution designed for targeted relief of breakouts and acne-related concerns. It utilizes a combination of blue and red light therapy to effectively target acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation, promoting clearer skin over time.

Pros:

1. Powerful spot treatment solution for breakouts and acne.
2. Visible reduction in blemish size reported by users during testing, indicating efficacy.
3. User-friendly design ideal for beginners, simplifying the process of incorporating light therapy into skincare routines.
4. Compact and portable, suitable for travel.
5. Effectively fades acne dark spots over time.

Cons:

1. Relatively high price point compared to some similar devices.
2. Limited to targeted treatment; may not address all acne concerns comprehensively.
3. Effectiveness may vary depending on individual skin type and condition.
4. Some users may find the device too small for treating larger areas of acne breakout.
5. While effective, additional skincare products may be necessary for a comprehensive acne treatment routine.

3. SolaWave 4-in-1 Skincare Wand

The SolaWave 4-in-1 Skincare Wand is a compact and versatile light therapy device designed for on-the-go skincare. It utilizes red light therapy technology to target fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots effectively. This wand offers a convenient solution for addressing various skin concerns, with just 5-minute treatments fitting seamlessly into daily skincare routines.

Pros:

1. Versatile and compact design for on-the-go use.
2. Red light therapy technology effectively targets fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.
3. Convenient 5-minute treatments fit into daily skincare routines.
4. Endorsed by celebrities like Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Gabrielle Union.
5. Users observed a reduction in dark spots during testing, indicating effectiveness.

Cons:

1. Some users noted a lack of noticeable improvement in overall skin texture with prolonged use.
2. Limited to targeting specific areas; may not address all skincare concerns comprehensively.
3. Initial investment may be relatively high compared to basic skincare products.
4. Results may vary depending on individual skin type and condition.

4. HigherDose Red Light Face Mask

The HigherDose Red Light Face Mask is a premium skincare device designed to promote a healthy, radiant complexion. Crafted from soft, flexible medical-grade silicone, it ensures comfort during wear. The mask utilizes red light therapy and near-infrared technology to stimulate collagen production and cellular renewal, resulting in improved skin radiance.

Pros:

1. Premium skincare device crafted from soft, flexible medical-grade silicone for comfort during wear.
2. Cordless design allows for mobility during treatments.
3. Hands-free functionality enables users to multitask or engage in light exercise.
4. Noticeable improvement in skin radiance observed with regular use.
5. Red light therapy and near-infrared technology stimulate collagen production and cellular renewal.

Cons:

1. Higher price point may deter some consumers.
2. Red light glow may obscure vision during activities.
3. Effectiveness may vary depending on individual skin type and condition.
4. Limited coverage may require repositioning for full-face treatment.
5. Requires consistent use for optimal results, which may require commitment from users.

5. Therashield 3-in-1 Light Therapy Mask

The Therashield 3-in-1 Light Therapy Mask is a comprehensive solution for skincare concerns, particularly blemishes and redness. It features three distinct light therapy colors — red, amber, and blue — each targeting specific skin issues such as tissue repair, redness reduction, and breakout prevention.

Pros:

1. Remarkable effectiveness in eliminating blemishes with regular daily use.
2. Three distinct light therapy colors for targeting various skin concerns.
3. User-friendly design akin to wearing sunglasses, ensuring ease of use.
4. Simple toggling between light colors, suitable for beginners.
5. Promotes clear, radiant skin with consistent daily use.

Cons:

1. Some users experienced discomfort during extended wear due to the hard plastic material.
2. Partial face coverage might be limiting for some users.
3. May not address all skincare concerns comprehensively.
4. Effectiveness may vary depending on individual skin type and condition.
5. Higher initial investment compared to basic skincare products.

6. Riki Loves Riki Miracle LED Patch

The Riki Loves Riki Miracle LED Patch is an innovative spot treatment device that incorporates both blue and red light therapies to fight acne and rejuvenate the skin. Made of portable silicone, it’s lightweight, rechargeable, and convenient for on-the-go use. With just six minutes of treatment time, users can expect noticeable improvements in acne and blemishes.

Pros:

1. Incorporates both blue and red light therapies for acne-fighting and skin-rejuvenating properties.
2. Lightweight and portable design makes it convenient for on-the-go use.
3. Biodegradable material ensures environmental friendliness.
4. Easy-to-use functionality allows for hassle-free application.
5. Automatic shut-off feature adds to convenience, eliminating the need for manual monitoring.
6. FDA-clearance ensures safety and efficacy.

Cons:

1. Higher price point compared to some similar devices.
2. Effectiveness may vary depending on individual skin type and condition.
3. Limited coverage may require repositioning for full-face treatment.
4. Requires consistent use to maintain results.
5. May not address all acne concerns comprehensively.

7. NuFace Trinity Wrinkle Reducer Attachment

The NuFace Trinity Wrinkle Reducer Attachment is a specialized addition to the NuFace Trinity lineup, aimed at diminishing fine lines and wrinkles. This FDA-cleared attachment utilizes a combination of red, amber, and infrared lights to promote firmer, more youthful-looking skin.

Pros:

1. Utilizes a combination of red, amber, and infrared lights to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
2. Offers convenience with just 10-25 minutes of daily use, seamlessly integrating into skincare routines.
3. Advised usage regimen provides guidance for optimal results, starting with five days per week and transitioning to two to three times per week for maintenance.
4. Complements existing skincare regimens and enhances their efficacy when used with the NuFace Trinity device.
5. Proven effectiveness in reducing wrinkles justifies the initial investment for those seeking visible improvements in skin texture and firmness.

Cons:

1. Initial investment may seem daunting.
2. Requires consistent use to maintain results.
3. Effectiveness may vary depending on individual skin type and condition.
4. Some users may find daily use challenging to maintain.
5. Limited coverage may require repositioning for full-face treatment.

8. LightStim for Wrinkles LED Light Therapy Device

The LightStim for Wrinkles LED Light Therapy Device is a highly recommended skincare tool designed to reduce wrinkles and fine lines. Handheld for convenience, it offers targeted light therapy while protecting the eyes from damage. Its FDA-clearance ensures safety and efficacy, employing multiple wavelengths of light to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture.

Pros:

1. Highly recommended by estheticians for reducing wrinkles and fine lines.
2. Handheld for convenience, offering targeted light therapy.
3. FDA-clearance underscores safety and efficacy.
4. Built-in three-minute timer for ease of use.
5. Suitable for the entire face, with proven transformative benefits.

Cons:

1. Initial price may seem high, though it’s justified by transformative benefits.
2. Requires consistency in usage for optimal results.
3. Effectiveness may vary depending on individual skin type and condition.
4. Some users may find daily use challenging to maintain.
5. Limited coverage may require repositioning for full-face treatment.

9. Cleopatra LED Mask

The Cleopatra LED Mask is a hands-free skincare device equipped with 192 High-Density LEDs that emit different colors of light, including red, blue, purple, green, yellow, cyan, and white. These LEDs work by emitting specific wavelengths of light that penetrate the skin to target various skin concerns.

The red light boosts circulation and stimulates collagen production, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. On the other hand, the blue light targets acne-causing bacteria, helping to clear up breakouts and prevent future ones. The mask is designed for comprehensive coverage, ensuring that all areas of the face and neck receive the rejuvenating benefits of LED therapy.

Pros:

• Convenient and hands-free skincare solution
• Offers multiple light colors for targeting different skin concerns
• Scientifically proven to improve skin texture and appearance
• Wireless design with long battery life for portability
• Cost-effective compared to salon treatments
• Comes with a 2-year warranty for peace of mind

Cons:

• Results may vary among individuals
• Bulky design can be uncomfortable during longer treatment sessions
• Not a substitute for healthy skincare habits

To learn more, you can read the full review of Cleopatra LED Mask.

How to choose an LED light therapy tool

When choosing an LED light therapy tool:

1. Consider the target area: For face-only treatment, opt for a mask; for full-body use, a wand may be more suitable.
2. Check the wavelengths: Different colors of light address specific skin concerns, such as red light for collagen production and blue light for acne.
3. Look at treatment time: Choose a device with shorter sessions (3 minutes or less) if you need quick treatments before or after a busy day.

How Does Red Light Therapy Work?

Red light therapy works by using specific wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin. The effectiveness depends on factors like the target condition, the wavelength used, the power of the light source, and the duration of treatment.

Short pulses of high-powered light, such as those used in professional settings, tend to yield the best results, but at-home treatments can still be beneficial.

What are the benefits of LED light therapy?

LED light therapy offers numerous skin benefits, as confirmed by dermatologist Dr. Lauren Penzi. It stimulates collagen production, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, improves circulation, detoxifies the body, and soothes inflammation.

Over time, it softens scars, stretch marks, and assists in wound healing. Additionally, it can stimulate hair growth by boosting energy production and increasing blood supply to the area.

Can using multiple colors of LED light have different benefits?

Different colors of LED light offer various benefits:

• Red Light: Ideal for addressing wrinkles and aging of the skin. According to dermatologist Dr. Sandy Skotnicki, red light targets fibroblasts, stimulating collagen production. Increased collagen can diminish visible signs of aging and aid in restoring hair follicles for individuals with androgenetic alopecia.

• Blue Light: Effective in reducing acne and minimizing pore size. Blue light therapy can shrink oil glands, thereby reducing oil production in the skin. Research indicates it may also combat P. acnes bacteria, associated with certain types of acne.

How to Use LED Light Therapy Devices at Home

To use LED light therapy devices at home:

1. Clean and dry your skin.
2. Follow the instructions provided with the device.
3. Apply the device to the treatment area for the recommended duration.
4. Avoid looking directly at the light for too long.

What are the potential risks of using LED light therapy?

The main risks of LED light therapy are minimal, but it’s crucial to protect your eyes during treatment. Always use eye protection like goggles or patches to shield your eyes from the light.

LED devices are generally safe for all skin types, but people with melasma should be cautious as heat from the therapy may aggravate the condition. Follow the instructions carefully when using an LED device to avoid any potential worsening of skin conditions. Stick to FDA-approved devices tailored to your specific skin concern and use them as directed to minimize risks.

How do you incorporate LED light therapy into your routine?

To include LED light therapy in your routine:

1. Start with clean skin before applying any serums or prescriptions.
2. Cleanse with a gentle formula like CeraVe or Aveeno.
3. Proceed with your regular skincare routine after LED therapy.

FAQs

1. How often should you do red light therapy?

Follow manufacturer instructions and avoid exceeding recommended usage to prevent skin damage.

2. Can you overuse LED light therapy?

Exceeding manufacturer-recommended usage may harm the skin, as there are no official guidelines for LED light therapy timing.

3. Does infrared light help wrinkles?

Yes, research indicates that infrared light can boost collagen production and reduce wrinkles (2019 study).

4. Can infrared light tighten skin?

Regular infrared light use can enhance collagen production, leading to firmer and plumper skin.

5. Is blue or red light better?

The choice depends on your skin concerns. Blue light may be preferable for acne treatment. Research LED colors available in products to match your skincare goals.