People will go to impressive (and sometimes questionable) lengths to cover up signs of aging. With all the different treatments, gadgets, and gizmos available to reduce wrinkles these days, you’d think living a long life was a crime. We’re not here to judge how you treat your skin, but we are here to educate you on your options. Option A, of course, is to embrace it and be proud of your lived experiences and wisdom. Option B is to do what makes you feel good in your skin — and if that includes the use of topical retinoids, high-tech in-office treatments, or elective surgery, we’re here to make sure you’re informed. The latest and buzziest innovation in skincare right now is red light therapy.
Maybe you’ve seen the futuristic masks donned by your favorite celebrity, like Katie, or you’re a history buff who knew that the Navy Seals started using light therapy to heal wounds faster in the ’90s. Somehow, you’ve heard of it, but you may not be aware of its benefits. Red light therapy (RLT) devices have gone mainstream, leaving many of us wondering: Is it worth the hype?
The tools on the market come with steep price tags, so before you make the investment, it’s crucial to understand how the treatment works, what it can (and can’t) do, and how to use it safely. To get the full picture, we consulted with top dermatologists and skincare experts to light the way.
What is LED (light-emitting diode) light therapy?
“Light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses certain wavelengths of light to treat various skin conditions,” explains Jared Jagdeo, MD, associate professor of dermatology at SUNY Downstate Medical Center. “During an LED light treatment, light photons of specific wavelengths are absorbed by cell components, particularly the mitochondria, triggering a cascade of biochemical reactions.”
LED light therapy is available in varying colors and wavelengths, each with distinct benefits. RLT is the skincare game-changer that stimulates cellular activity to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, accelerate healing, and increase collagen production. Those biochemical reactions can lead to glowing skin beyond the time spent under the light.
London-based oculoplastic surgeon and MZ Skin founder Maryam Zamani, MD, describes RLT as a “skin healer,” saying: “The light recharges the cells’ energy battery. The skin then uses that energy to repair and rejuvenate damaged cells and boost its natural daily repair process.”
Red light therapy benefits
RLT can address a wide range of skin concerns, including:
- Boosting collagen production: Collagen is the protein responsible for skin elasticity and firmness. As we age, production slows, causing wrinkles and fine lines. RLT helps promote collagen synthesis, softening deeper lines over time. “It improves fine lines, texture, and other signs of aging,” says Connie Yang, MD, dermatologist and Dermstore Medical Advisory board member.
- Improving skin texture: By enhancing blood flow and delivering more oxygen and nutrients to skin cells, RLT leads to smoother, more radiant skin, making wrinkles less noticeable.
- Reducing inflammation: Chronic inflammation contributes to visible aging. Red light may calm this, minimizing wrinkle formation.
- Promoting hydration: Light therapy may increase the skin’s hyaluronic acid production, helping it retain moisture and appear plumper and healthier.
- Fading sun damage: RLT may reduce the appearance of age spots and uneven pigmentation caused by UV exposure.
Is red light therapy safe for everyone?
There are minimal side effects associated with RLT; however, individuals sensitive to light or those taking medications that cause photosensitivity should avoid light therapy treatments.
“Melasma is a very tricky condition that’s triggered by many environmental stressors, including heat,” says Dr. Yang. “The heat from an LED mask could potentially flare melasma. Red light and near-infrared light can also stimulate melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment in our skin. This can potentially lead to worsening of hyperpigmentation. If you’re unsure if RLT is a good option for you, seek advice from a board-certified dermatologist.”
He also adds that “those with seizure disorders should avoid red light therapy, as those with epilepsy may be sensitive to light exposure, which could trigger seizures.”
Some have noted concerns that RLT may cause cancer, but there are no studies that support that theory. On the contrary, some research suggests that red light therapy may be effective in treating melanoma.
Are there any red light therapy dangers?
“Like a lot of professional skin treatments, LED light therapy requires regular sessions to maintain results, so if you’re using the devices inconsistently, you most likely won’t get the results you’re looking for,” says Dr. Jagdeo.
Another aspect to consider is managing your expectations. “At-home red light therapy is not going to replace in-office procedures. I consider it more of a maintenance therapy in between more intensive laser treatments. The results will be gradual, and consistency is key,” says Dr. Yang. And do not use RLT devices longer than recommended to avoid redness or darkening of the skin or hyperpigmentation.
The biggest mistake Dr. Jagdeo sees patients make is “not using a device that has been FDA-cleared, tested, or engineered with the correct wavelengths of light.”
Ready to step into the light? Here are the doctor-approved tools that have been FDA-cleared and clinically tested for safety and efficacy.
Best Red Light Therapy Masks of 2025
Best Overall: Shark

Dermstore
This device stands out. Not only does it utilize red, blue, and infrared LEDs to target wrinkles, improve skin tone, and address blemishes, but it has cryotherapy-inspired cooling, too. That latter aspect will soothe and depuff unlike any other mask on the market.
Most Comfortable: Omnilux
Omnilux
“A combination of red and near-infrared light, such as that in the Omnilux devices, is ideal for treating mature skin. The red light (633nm) is proven to increase cellular energy, which essentially kick-starts cellular renewal to reduce inflammation and redness, and correct pigmentation and photodamage. The near-infrared light (833nm) is where you’re going to see the most wrinkle-reducing benefit as this light penetrates much deeper into the skin to target fibroblast cells, which stimulate new collagen and elastin production for plumper, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin,” says Dr. Jagdeo.
Skincare savants tend to prefer bendable mask styles, thanks to the easy-to-wear construction. Unlike rigid plastic masks that don’t fit all heads, Omnilux’s product is designed to wrap around your head for a comfortable fit.
Best Investment: Therabody

Therabody
“I recommend investing in a high-quality red light therapy mask or panel from a reputable brand. Dr. Dennis Gross and Therabody TheraFace Mask are two great options for beginners due to their ease of use,” says Dr. Yang. This one is also great for hyperpigmentation, with users noticing visible reductions in fine lines and dark spots in less than two months.
Best Combo Mask: Dr. Dennis Gross

Dermstore
“I recommend choosing a mask over a wand, as you can cover a larger surface area in less time,” says Dr. Yang. “Keep in mind that ease of use and treatment time is important to ensure consistency of use. A wand can be an option for targeted treatment areas, but in general, you are better off with a mask. The amount of light exposure with the wand is unlikely to be sufficient to provide notable benefits.”
Dr. Dennis Gross’ dual mask is the most viral of all the products listed, and with good reason. It has both red, blue, and combo light options, so it can help address both wrinkle and acne concerns.
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Solawave
Solawave
Solawave’s portable, potent, and aesthetically pleasing wand is one of the most affordable red light tools out there. They just released this device that targets acne. It’s effective but gentle on sensitive, pimple-prone skin, helping to fade both active breakouts and post-acne discoloration.
Best for Body: Omnilux
Omnilux
“The neck, chest, and hands, are often overlooked when it comes to skincare, yet these areas are usually the first to show signs of aging,” says Dr. Jagdeo, who recommends Omnilux products for your entire body. “Using red light therapy devices that target these specific areas can significantly reduce wrinkles and sun damage and even out skin tone and texture. Another benefit of red light therapy is its ability to reduce inflammation, and I’ve heard of people experiencing relief from arthritis and joint pain using these devices — the Contour Glove is a great option for those looking to reduce arthritis pain and improve signs of aging!”
Best for Hair Loss: CurrentBody
CurrentBody
LED therapy doesn’t just improve your skin. Since RLT stimulates collagen production, it can also be highly effective in addressing hair loss. CurrentBody’s helmet may look like something that belongs in a sci-fi movie, but it’s top of the market when it comes to regrowth products. It has a wavelength that wakes up your hair follicles and lowers dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels, the hormone known to cause hair thinning and loss. By improving blood flow, it encourages hair follicles to stay in the growth phase longer, which leads to healthier hair in the long run.