LED masks have quickly become one of the most popular at-home skin care tools around. They are especially useful for addressing multiple skin concerns, from acne to wrinkles to inflammation, and they work by emitting varying wavelengths of light that penetrate the skin's surface to change molecules at the molecular level.
The benefits of LED lights for the skin include reducing inflammation, clearing up breakouts, and improving overall skin tone. This technology can also help reduce the appearance of sun damage, according to Dr. Buzney.
Unlike in-office laser treatments, LED masks are non-invasive and safe for most people. Some are even FDA-approved for home use. They can be used as part of your daily routine, and they're also great for boosting the results of other beauty products and treatments you already use.
These devices come in different shapes and sizes, so there's an option for everyone, including those who have trouble using traditional masks. They can be worn for a few minutes per day or longer sessions at a time, depending on the device you choose.
You can even find LED masks that fit on your face and move with you, so you can do other activities during your treatment. For instance, the LightSim mask is a flexible, silicone mask that's designed to contour to your face and has two straps that wrap around the head to keep it in place.
If you're unsure which type of device will best suit your skin, it's a good idea to consult with a dermatologist or esthetician. They'll be able to recommend the perfect solution for your needs, as well as the best brands for quality and effectiveness.
The LED lights that these masks use are made of a variety of colors, including amber and red. The amber light, for example, stimulates collagen and elastin, which helps firm your skin's appearance. It also reduces inflammation and promotes blood circulation, whereas red light helps kill bacteria that cause acne.
These lights are effective for a wide range of skin conditions, says Natalie White, a skin expert and esthetician in New York City. She advises wearing blackout or opaque goggles and avoiding oily and occlusive products, as they can prevent the light from penetrating the skin's layers.
Using an LED mask can be a great addition to your daily skincare routine and is recommended twice or three times a week for the best results. However, it's important to note that these treatments aren't as powerful as in-office procedures, so they may take a few weeks to show significant results.
To treat breakouts, experts recommend applying the mask to clean, dry skin and turning it on for about 10 to 30 minutes. You can also add serums like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C to the treatment if you're looking to boost your results even further.
It's important to use these devices regularly, as they can have a cumulative effect on your skin. The best results are seen with continuous, weekly treatments that last for about 30 minutes.
