Your Ultimate Guide To LED Masks & The 13 Worth The Splurge
Let’s face it—literally. LED face masks have gone from a sci-fi gimmick to a skincare essential faster than you can say, “selfie ready.” These futuristic-looking contraptions promise everything from acne annihilation to wrinkle reduction, all while making you look like a chic version of Iron Man. But what’s the deal with all those coloured lights? And which masks are worth the hype? Here we decode the mysteries of LED masks with a guide that’s equal parts glow science and glam wisdom.
What exactly are LED masks?
Think of LED masks as your skin’s personal cheerleader, using different wavelengths of light to target specific concerns. LED (short for Light Emitting Diode) therapy works by penetrating your skin at varying depths to kickstart healing, collagen production, and other skin-loving processes. Bonus: it’s non-invasive, totally painless, and doesn’t require a post-mask filter.
Think of LED masks as your skin’s personal cheerleader, using different wavelengths of light to target specific concerns.
Plus, there’s no prep required. “You don’t need to do anything special pre- or post-LED light therapy. This makes slotting it into your day easy as can be – it doesn’t matter what condition your skin is in, or what you’re doing directly after your treatment,” says The Light Salon co-founders Laura Ferguson and Hannah Measures.
“Also, your skin won’t be more sensitised to the sun as it can be after some facials, so you don’t need to worry if you’re about to go on holiday, in fact you can pack your LED mask with you!” suggests Laura and Hannah.
The benefits of each light colour
Each colour of LED light works its magic in a unique way:
- Red light: Collagen booster. This one’s for firming, smoothing fine lines, and giving skin that bouncy, post-facial glow. Best for mature or tired skin. Think of this as Botox in a bulb.
- Blue light: Acne fighters, rejoice! Blue light zaps the bacteria responsible for breakouts, making it ideal for oily or acne-prone skin.
- Yellow light: Glow getters. This light reduces redness and boosts circulation for brighter, calmer skin—great for sensitive types.
- Green light: Uneven tone? Green light targets pigmentation and evens things out.
Some masks even combine multiple colours, so you can have it all.
4 steps to use an LED mask
1. Start with clean skin: Remove your makeup and cleanse thoroughly.
2. Choose your light: Match the light setting to your skin concern. (Feeling indecisive? Many masks rotate between settings.)
3. Follow the timer: Most masks recommend a session of 10–20 minutes a few times a week. No need to overdo it—this is skincare, not sunbathing.
4. Apply skincare after: Think serums and moisturisers. LED therapy preps your skin to absorb products better, so make it count.
No need to overdo it—this is skincare, not sunbathing.
The best time to use them
Evenings are ideal, but you can use them whenever you have 20 spare minutes to sit still and glow. Beauty Editor tip: Pair your session with a glass of wine or a binge-worthy Netflix series.
Before any big event, I slap on The Light Salon LED Mask like it’s my ultimate pre-game ritual. Ten minutes of red and near-infrared light, and voilà—my skin’s plump, calm, and glowing, like I’ve been sipping green juice all week (spoiler: I haven’t).
The best LED Masks on the market
The products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, The Handbook may make a small commission on some products purchased through affiliate links.
