The 9 Best Doctor-Recommended Red Light Therapy Masks on the Market

The 9 Best Doctor-Recommended Red Light Therapy Masks on the Market

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If you’re craving supple skin with fewer wrinkles, it might be time to head into the light — the red light, that is. Red light therapy (RLT) uses the therapeutic application of low wavelength red light — 620 to 750 nanometers (nm) — to stimulate your skin’s cells to work at higher efficiency levels.

This ramped-up cellular activity encourages an increase in collagen production (which is a protein that provides structure and support for the skin), along with other potential benefits such as acne reduction, the minimization of fine lines, and less inflammation.

Dermatologists have used light therapy treatments in-office for years to address skin-care concerns.

With the rapid proliferation of portable LED masks that harness this illuminative power, it’s now possible for consumers to get red light therapy treatments at home.

What this means is that instead of just slapping on an endless array of moisturizers, serums, and other potions in the hopes of staving off age-related and other dermatological changes, some individuals may get better results by also basking in the regular application of red light.

But which RLT devices are actually worth your money and your time? To help you navigate the quickly growing (or should we say “glowing”?) at-home red light therapy market, we gathered RLT mask recommendations from top dermatologists nationwide and researched them all to narrow the field. Here are the masks that get Everyday Health’s stamp of approval.

Our Top Picks for the Best Red Light Therapy Masks

Red light therapy mask

Best Full Face

CurrentBody LED Red Light Therapy Face Mask: Series 2

$469.99 at Amazon

Pros

  • Flexible, lightweight silicone mask contours to full face
  • Includes chin coverage
  • 236 red, near-infrared, and deep near-infrared LED lights
  • More powerful than many RLT devices on the market
  • Protective eye inserts included
  • Clip-on controller with built-in 10-minute timer
  • U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared

Cons

  • No returns if product is opened/used

Key Specs

  • Number of lights: 236 LEDs
  • Wavelengths: Red (633 nm), near-infrared (830 nm), deep near-infrared (1,072 nm)
  • FDA status: FDA cleared

If you’re looking for a mask that really gives you full face coverage and more, the new and improved CurrentBody LED Red Light Therapy Face Mask should be a strong contender. “The CurrentBody mask stands out for its flexible design, which allows it to wrap around the full face for even light exposure,” says Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York, and founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan. “This makes it particularly good for targeting fine lines and wrinkles.”

The latest version sports a contoured shape with an added chin strap to target unwanted chin-sagging and jowls. It has a multiway strap to help hold the mask in place, and a clip-on controller with a built-in timer so that it can be used hands-free. The fit of the Series 2 is snugger, and the coverage more complete. Optional eye inserts help mitigate exposure to the much brighter lights of the Series 2.

Not only does the Series 2 mask include more than 100 more LED lights than the Series 1 (236 versus 132), but it also has more varied wavelengths. With 110 red lights (633 nm), 110 near-infrared lights (830 nm), and 16 deep near-infrared lights (1,072 nm) — a wavelength trifecta that incorporates three of the most clinically recognized nanometers for anti-aging benefits — the Series 2 is capable of penetrating up to 10 mm into the skin.

The only downside to this mask is that you cannot return the product if it is opened or used, so be sure this is the model you want before purchasing. It has a two-year warranty for manufacturing defects and requires a USB-C charger (no plug-in wall charger).

Red light therapy mask

Best Time-Saving

Dr Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro

$455 at Amazon

Pros

  • Super short treatment time (three minutes) with automatic timer shut-off
  • Lightweight for a “hard” mask
  • 100 LEDs with both red and blue light wavelengths
  • Three treatment modes (anti-aging, acne, combo)
  • Hands-free full-face design
  • Dermatologist created
  • FDA cleared

Cons

  • Open-eye design doesn’t target crow’s feet
  • No eye protection included 

Key Specs

  • Number of lights: 100 LEDs
  • Wavelengths: Red (630 nm), near-infrared (880 nm), amber (605 nm), blue (415 nm)
  • FDA status: FDA cleared

If you’re interested in trying red light therapy but don’t want to invest a lot of time into the regimen, then the DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro, created by dermatologist Dennis Gross, may be the mask for you. With a super short three-minute treatment window, it definitely has a wham-bam get-it-done vibe, while looking pretty and sleek thanks to the rose-gold shell.

Though the mask is not flexible, it is comfortable and ultralightweight. However, some users lament that it doesn’t fully cover their face shape and that it skips the outer eye area. A major plus, however, is that the 100 LED lights can shine both red and blue light onto the skin, making it useful for treating both anti-aging and acne.

The only issues we found were that the open-eye design doesn’t target crow’s feet, and there is no eye protection included.
face contour red light therapy

Best Travel

Omnilux Contour Face

Pros

  • Flat, lightweight design for easy portability
  • Universal voltage and four different country-specific power adapters for worldwide use
  • Fits many face shapes
  • Includes 132 both red and near-infrared LEDs
  • Timer shuts off after 10 minutes
  • FDA cleared

Cons

  • No eye protection included

Key Specs

  • Number of lights: 132 LEDs
  • Wavelengths: Red (633 nm), near-infrared (830 nm)
  • FDA status: FDA cleared

Since consistency is key with RLT, people on the go will want a mask that is portable. With four worldwide power adapters, universal voltage, and a super flat, lightweight silicone design, the Omnilux Contour Face mask is perfect for the jet-set crowd.

“This mask is hands-free and flexible and utilizes two different wavelengths that have been shown to have anti-aging benefits — red and near-infrared — plus, it has 10-minute preprogrammed treatments, which makes it easy to use,” says Juliya Fisher, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist with Idriss Dermatology. “Omnilux has a well-established reputation, as they also manufacture medical in-office devices.”

The brand also emphasizes evidence-backed claims and continued research in the rapidly evolving RLT field, with its site currently listing more than 40 clinical peer-reviewed papers and studies utilizing its products.

This commitment to cutting-edge advancements and the quest to find additional positive applications for phototherapy is one of many reasons why Omnilux is a consistent favorite with medical professionals (every dermatologist we spoke with named it as one of their top picks). Be aware, however, that there is no eye protection included with this product.
Red light therapy mask

Best Multitasking

iRestore Illumina

$398.99 at Amazon
$799Now 50% Off

Pros

  • Integrated eye shield and hands-free design to allow multitasking
  • 360 densely-packed medical-grade LEDs
  • Lightweight silicone, yet hard-shell structure
  • Utilizes three wavelengths simultaneously (red, infrared, blue)
  • FDA cleared
  • 100-day money-back guarantee

Cons

  • May feel tight on larger heads

Key Specs

  • Number of lights: 360 LEDs
  • Wavelengths: Red (635nm), infrared (830nm), blue (415nm)
  • FDA status: FDA cleared

If you want to anti-wrinkle while you work, the iRestore Illumina mask will let you task and treat with ease. While some masks have a little too much light “bleeding” for you to really do much without feeling slightly blinded, the iRestore Illumina is made for multitasking, thanks to its enhanced integrated eye shield.

“I like the iRestore Illumina because it provides full face coverage with great eye protection and allows simultaneous treatment with red, blue, and infrared light all at the same time,” says Brooke Jeffy, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of youth skin-care brand BTWN in Scottsdale, Arizona. “This one is great for enlarged pores plus acne, addresses fine lines, and the rechargeable battery lasts a long time.”

With 360 densely packed medical-grade LED lights, this mask delivers a med spa–level treatment at home. The snap-on power cable has an automatic 10-minute shut-off timer, and its lightweight silicone design has a hard-shell structure that protects the mask’s integrity over time. The iRestore Illumina also offers one of the most generous return policies out there — a 100-day money-back guarantee if you’re not pleased with the results. Users tend to rave about this product, but some feel it could be a bit roomier to accommodate larger faces.

Red light therapy mask

Best Budget

Skin Gym WrinkLit LED Mask

Pros

  • Lowest price on our list
  • Three LED wavelengths (red, blue, amber)
  • Totally hands-free design
  • Easy to use
  • Super lightweight (76 grams)

Cons

  • Doesn’t specify number of LEDs
  • No automatic timer
  • Not FDA cleared (though the company’s more expensive mask is)

Key Specs

  • Number of lights: Unspecified
  • Wavelengths: Red (620 nm to 750 nm), blue (476 nm to 495 nm), amber (590 nm to 620 nm)
  • FDA status: Not cleared

If you’re curious about RLT and looking for a lower-investment way to try it out, the Skin Gym Wrinklit Heart LED mask is an inexpensive and cheerful option. At less than $100, this mask offers a solid entry-level light therapy experience that includes three wavelengths for users to experiment with: red for anti-aging, blue for anti-acne, and amber to boost the skin’s glow.

Popular with the TikTok set, this mask is cute (pink) and wearable (you slide it on like a pair of sunglasses). But like any budget entry, you get what you pay for, in that our research found it’s not the comfiest mask out there, and it’s a completely manual experience (you have to turn it on and off yourself). This mask is also not as high-powered as some of the more expensive options, so you need to wear it for about 15 to 30 minutes to get the full benefit.

Though it’s not FDA-cleared, the company’s more expensive mask, Skin Gym LED Pro Light Therapy, does have clearance (FDA clearance isn’t a requirement, and the application process is pricey for companies). In addition, it doesn’t specify the total number of LEDs, and it does not have an automatic timer function. Basically, this is no-frills, low-level light therapy on a budget, but it’s a great way to get a taste of the trend to see if it’s a fit for you.

Red light therapy mask

Best Eye Mask

Solawave Eye Recovery Pro Mask

Pros

  • Targets crow’s feet and frown lines
  • 80 LEDs featuring four wavelengths (red, deep red, near-infrared, amber)
  • Lightweight, flexible silicone design
  • Hands-free with built-in eye protection
  • Short treatment duration (three-minute sessions)
  • FDA cleared
  • 60-day risk-free trial

Cons

  • Only one setting

Key Specs

  • Number of lights: 80 LEDs
  • Wavelengths: Red (630 nm), deep red (660 nm), near-infrared (880 nm), amber (605 nm)
  • FDA status: FDA cleared

While RLT masks are great, one area they frequently neglect to adequately address is the delicate tissue around the eyes. However, many people lament the signs of aging that manifest in the ocular area. Enter the Solawave Eye Recovery Pro Mask — its entire job is to soften crow’s feet and frown lines and to brighten dark circles.

This hot new addition to the Solawave line, which includes the ever-popular 4-in-1 Red Light Therapy Wand, sells out fast because of its efficacy in targeting the entire eye area, including the upper lid and under eye, in a single three-minute session. With 80 LEDs featuring four specific wavelengths (red, deep red, near-infrared, amber), this flexible silicone mask has built-in eye protection so you can wear it while getting ready for your day.

While the company recommends that you pair treatments with their LightBoost eye cream to further enhance results, the eye mask alone will bring new life to your tired eyes if used consistently. The drawback here is that there is only one LED setting.

Red light therapy mask

Best Lip Mask

Dr Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite LipWare Pro LED Device

$148 at Amazon

Pros

  • Tackles the often-skipped lip area
  • Lightweight and attractive design
  • 56 targeted red LEDs
  • Removable mouthpiece for easy cleaning
  • Dermatologist developed
  • Short time commitment (three-minute sessions)
  • FDA cleared

Cons

  • Can be awkward to hold mouthpiece with teeth

Key Specs

  • Number of lights: 56 LEDs
  • Wavelengths: Red (633 nm)
  • FDA status: FDA cleared

The Dr Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite LipWare Pro is fantastic for giving the entire lip area a boost. Most of the masks and wands on the market skip the lip area, but this product covers an entire pucker. It’s sort of like an RLT lip injection. The lip device sports 56 red LEDs to combat fine lines and also boost collagen in the area. Some users even say it plumps their lips after the first use and improves lip color.

The design is similar to those wax lips that are available at Halloween — but in a sleek metallic rose gold that feels super fancy. Just bite down on the mouth tray to hold it in place during the treatment, or, if this method is uncomfortable, you can hold it in place with your hand instead.

For people who have trouble sticking with something, note that the treatments for this device are only three minutes. This is literally a quick and easy anti-aging lip treatment that can become a habit like brushing your teeth.

Red light therapy mask

Best Heavy Duty

Therabody TheraFace Mask

$649.99 at Best Buy

Pros

  • 648 medical-grade LEDs in three wavelengths (three times more than any other mask on the market)
  • Includes vibration massage
  • Nine-minute timer shuts off automatically when treatment finishes
  • Covers the lips
  • Removable protective eye shields

Cons

  • Heavier than other masks (1.2 pounds)
  • Rigid polycarbonate construction

Key Specs

  • Number of lights: 648 LEDs
  • Wavelengths: Red (633 nm), red + infrared (830 nm), blue (415 nm)
  • FDA status: FDA cleared

If all-or-nothing is your style, then Therabody’s heavy-duty TheraFace Mask may suit your treatment purposes. Not only does it include 648 red, infrared, and blue lights in every treatment — which is three times more LEDs than almost any other mask on the market — but it also vibrates. So, you get a solid dose of light therapy and a face massage simultaneously.

“The vibrating feature of this mask helps reduce puffiness and promotes circulation, which can contribute to a more refreshed appearance,” says Dr. Henry. “Just as importantly, it provides a relaxing, enjoyable experience that improves compliance — patients are more consistent with treatments when they find them pleasant to use, and that consistency ultimately supports better outcomes over time.”

The drawback of the TheraFace is that it’s bulky and heavy (over 1 pound), so this is not a mask you’ll be wearing unless you’re doing anything but relaxing — especially since, unlike most of the other masks on the market, it also covers the lips (which is actually a bonus for treating fine lines in that area, but it will keep you from talking while you treat). On the upside, it’s only nine minutes per session, so it’s a quick time-out with a big potential payoff.

Red light therapy mask

Best Splurge

Foreo FAQ 202

Pros

  • Can create customizable wavelength combinations and control via smartphone app
  • Luxurious ultralightweight flexi-fit silicone design
  • 600 evenly distributed LEDs in eight wavelengths for different skin concerns
  • Wireless (completely hands-free)
  • Long battery life (90 minutes per charge)
  • FDA cleared
  • Two-year warranty

Cons

  • Open eye and mouth design means those areas aren’t treated thoroughly
  • Must pay a subscription fee to access some of the preset treatments on the app

Key Specs

  • Number of lights: 600 LEDs
  • Wavelengths: Red (637 nm), near-infrared (854 nm), blue (465 nm), green (520 nm), orange (600 nm), yellow (580 nm), purple (440 nm), cyan (485 nm)
  • FDA status: FDA cleared

If you’re looking for next-level RLT treatment, the Foreo FAQ 202 is like the Ferrari of face masks. It’s a splurge at around $800, but it puts you in the driver’s seat and allows you to create a customized cocktail of different wavelength combinations to address your personal skin-care needs.

“I really appreciate the tailored programs on the app, so that you can benefit from multiple wavelengths in one session,” says Dr. Jeffy. “I also personally like the Foreo FAQ 202 for the silicone fit — it’s like a transparent second skin, and it’s cordless, so you can go anywhere with it on.”

There’s the possibility of adding red light to improve the appearance of wrinkles, near-infrared to boost collagen, and blue light to target acne (similar to some of the other masks on this list). You can also select the following, which Foreo purports will help with these conditions: green light for brighter skin, orange to improve skin texture, purple to reduce hyperpigmentation, yellow to reduce redness, and cyan to calm stressed skin.

The different “recipes” can be set up through the FOREO For You app.

One issue with this model is the open design, which means that the eye and mouth areas don’t get treated as thoroughly. Plus, you have to pay a subscription fee to access some of the preset treatments on the app. Though it’s a higher price point, it’s also incredibly efficient and addresses most skin-care concerns with one modern-looking mask — just like its Swedish design suggests.

Comparison Table

Superlative
Number of Lights
Types of Lights
FDA Status
Special Features
Best full face
236 LEDs
Red (633 nm), near-infrared (830 nm), deep near-infrared (1,072 nm)
FDA cleared
Included chin strap, three RLT wavelengths, clip-on controller
Best time-saving
100 LEDs
Red (630 nm), near-infrared (880 nm), amber (605 nm), blue (415 nm)
FDA cleared
Red and blue wavelengths (treats aging and acne), short three-minute treatment time, hands-free
Best travel
132 LEDS
Red (633 nm), near-infrared (830 nm)
FDA cleared
Medical grade LEDs, extremely portable, flexible silicone design, multiple power adapters
Best multitasking
360 LEDs
Red (635nm), infrared (830nm), blue (415nm)
FDA cleared
Enhanced eye protection, three simultaneous LED wavelengths, hands-free design
Best budget
Unspecified
Red (620 nm to 750 nm), blue (476 nm to 495 nm), amber (590 nm to 620 nm)
Not FDA cleared
Totally hands-free design, lightweight, three LED wavelengths
Best eye mask
80 LEDs
Red (630 nm), deep red (660 nm), near-infrared (880 nm), amber (605 nm)
FDA cleared
Targets crow’s feet and frown lines, four wavelengths, flexible silicone, lightweight
Best lip
56 LEDs
Red (633 nm)
FDA cleared
Attractive design, short three-minute treatment duration, removable mouthpiece
Best heavy duty
648 LEDs
Red (633 nm), red + infrared (830 nm), blue (415 nm)
FDA cleared
Three times the number of LEDs in most masks; includes vibration therapy
Best splurge
600 LEDs
Red (637 nm), near-infrared (854 nm), blue (465 nm), green (520 nm), orange (600 nm), yellow (580 nm), purple (440 nm), cyan (485 nm)
FDA cleared
Ultralightweight, wireless, multiple settings for specific skin concerns, eight LED wavelengths

How We Researched the Best Red Light Therapy Masks

To come up with our picks, we drew from suggestions from our trusted writers and editors, multiple dermatologist recommendations, and hundreds of reviews. Then we evaluated the masks based on key criteria that constitute a quality product, such as the number and concentration of lights, RLT wavelengths, FDA status, and price. To ensure that all the masks on our list are safe, effective options, we consulted the following experts:

  • Juliya Fisher, MD, double board-certified dermatologist with Idriss Dermatology
  • Michelle Henry, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan
  • Brooke Jeffy, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of youth skin-care brand BTWN in Scottsdale, Arizona
  • Stephanie Rosen, MSPAS, PA-C, board-certified physician assistant at Arria MedSpa in Montclair, New Jersey

What to Look for When Buying a Red Light Therapy Mask

With so many red light therapy devices on the market, sifting through them all to find the standouts is no small feat. However, to narrow down the field of masks, keep the following in mind:

  • Number of LEDs “Check the number of LEDs and overall coverage, since that impacts how effective the mask will be,” says Henry. The more densely packed the LEDs are, the better your chances of even RLT distribution.
  • Price While there are some really affordable and really expensive options out there, cost doesn’t always dictate quality. Remember, regular use is a big part of getting results. So, select a mask with quality recommendations that works comfortably in your budget.
  • FDA Cleared, Registered, or Approved Though RLT is low risk when used correctly, it’s still smart to see if the company went that extra step with the FDA to prove their commitment to quality.
  • Features These include aspects like fit, settings, feel, comfort, timers, plug-in, or hands-free, etc.
  • Ease of Use If it’s too confusing, it’ll just gather dust, and consistency is key with RLT.
  • Red Light Range “Pay attention to the wavelengths — red light typically falls between 630 and 660 nanometers, while near-infrared is usually around 830 nanometers,” says Henry. Look for masks that fall within the prime 630 to 850 nm RLT effectiveness range.
  • Warranty Since RLT doesn’t work for everyone, make sure there is a reasonable return window and policy.

What You Should Know About Red Light Therapy

Also known as low-level laser therapy, red light therapy takes advantage of a phenomenon called photobiomodulation, where different components of our cells are activated or respond to various wavelengths of light.

In the last 40 years, researchers have started exploring the deliberate use of RLT as a type of photomedicine, which is the application of light for health and healing purposes. Photomedicine works because visible light seeps more deeply into biological tissues than most people realize, with red and near-infrared light traveling as much as 6 to 8 millimeters into the body.

A good way to visualize this concept is by shining a white flashlight through your hand. You will see a red glow on the other side through your skin. Because red light scatters and isn’t as readily absorbed by the blood, it will more deeply penetrate tissues where it can affect positive change at a cellular level.

When intentionally aiming red light waves at the skin, concentrated light energy is absorbed by the cellular mitochondria (the powerhouse center of each cell). This “light capture” then enhances the production of ATP, which is basically the energy currency of a cell.

In turn, increased ATP fuels various physiological processes in the body, including collagen synthesis, DNA repair, and cellular proliferation. The translation of all this in layman’s terms is that the regular application of red light may make your skin look and feel better, starting from the inside out.

“Think of it as a supportive treatment that enhances everything else you’re doing for your skin,” says Henry.

Do At-Home Red Light Therapy Devices Really Work?

A recent comprehensive review of multiple RLT studies appearing in the journal Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine supports the assertion that regular red light therapy may reduce fine lines and wrinkles. The same report also showed that RLT was successful in treating and reducing acne outbreaks.

Though most of these studies were done in clinical settings, the results can certainly translate to at-home use. However, one thing is clear — this is not a one-and-done type of treatment. Results are gradual and require consistency if a user hopes to see long-term improvements to their skin.

However, the need for a continual commitment to RLT may be another argument for the purchase of an at-home RLT device, since it saves individuals from having to make multiple trips to a med spa or dermatology office. And if you can couple your treatments with self-care rituals, that seems like a solid incentive for RLT adherence.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Use Red Light Therapy?

While red light therapy is generally considered safe, it can still have some side effects. These may include temporary skin irritation, redness, and dryness. In rare cases, some people may experience headaches or eyestrain if the therapy is used near the eyes.

If you’re taking any prescription medications that make your skin more sensitive to light — like certain antibiotics, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and anti-anxiety meds — then RLT must be used with extreme care.

Another thing to keep in mind is that RLT products may not be the best choice for individuals whose skin contains more melanin.

“If you have darker skin or are prone to pigmentation, you may want to be cautious with their use, as blistering and hyperpigmentation are potential side effects of these devices,” says Dr. Fisher.

It’s also important to note that when it comes to people with melasma, the heat and light can exacerbate symptoms. As such, it’s important to follow proper safety guidelines and consult with a dermatologist before starting any new treatment.

Tips for Using Red Light Therapy Masks at Home

The No. 1 tip is to follow the directions for whatever device you purchase. That’s because every RLT product has its own unique makeup, including lightwave strength and configuration.

Beyond that, here are some other tips for getting the most out of your RLT device:

  • Wash your face before doing the treatment. Our experts recommend that your face is clean and free of any products before using a red light therapy mask. This allows for the maximum absorption of light while minimizing the chance of accidental product ingredient interactions.
  • Don’t exceed time-limit recommendations. More is not always better. Start slowly and test out your RLT device for a shorter amount of time than the device’s maximum, to see how your skin reacts.
  • Protect your eyes. While most masks have ample optic cutouts, make sure the red light is never shining directly into your eyes. In most cases, it’s better to keep your eyes closed or wear eye protection during RLT treatments that aren’t localized.
  • Make it part of your routine. Consistency is the key with RLT, so try doing your treatments at the same time each day. “Since these devices provide the best results when used daily, integrating them into your morning or night-time routine, so they become a habit, is the secret sauce,” says Rosen.

Should My Red Light Therapy Mask Be FDA Cleared?

The FDA approves specific uses for red light therapy. Most quality devices are FDA cleared or FDA registered. Currently, however, there are no at-home red light therapy devices that are FDA approved. Each of these designations means something different.

To get something FDA approved generally involves a very intense review process, and it is therefore more likely to be pursued for higher-risk medical devices. Clearance is given to “lower-risk devices,” when the FDA determines they are substantially similar to other already FDA-approved devices with a comparable risk level.

To be FDA cleared or registered, a device manufacturer must apply to the FDA’s 510(k) program.

The clearance review process is much less complex than getting something FDA approved from scratch. But when a company receives clearance, it shows they have taken an extra step to protect the public by having the FDA provide a preliminary assessment and validation that their device is safe for personal use. Most at-home RLT devices fall under the “FDA cleared” heading, and therefore shouldn’t be advertised as “FDA approved.”

FAQ

Is it safe to use red light therapy masks?
Yes. While red light therapy is still under active investigation for its full effectiveness, studies have shown that these at-home devices are generally a safe, noninvasive treatment for myriad skin issues, as long as they are used as directed.

With some RLT devices being sold for less than $100 and others costing $1,000 or more, it’s possible to find one to fit most budgets. The most expensive products aren’t necessarily the best though, since how you use your device also factors into the results. So, the important thing is to find a device that works for your budget.
LED light therapy is the overall term for any type of photomedicine that uses light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to affect a certain physiological response. From there, varying wavelengths correlate to specific colors: red (625 to 740 nm), yellow (565 to 590 nm), green (520 to 565 nm), and blue (435 to 500 nm). While each color has its own set of potential benefits, the most commonly used light therapies for dermatological issues are blue and red. Blue tends to affect the outermost layers and helps with acne-prone skin, while red penetrates the deepest, leading to improvement of wrinkles and scarring.

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Kimberly Dawn Neumann

Author

Kimberly Dawn Neumann is a NYC-based magazine and book writer whose work has appeared in a wide variety of publications including Forbes Health, Forbes Home, Women’s Health, Health, Cosmopolitan, Fitness, Prevention, Redbook, Realtor.com, Maxim, Allure, and more.

After graduating first in her class, summa cum laude, with a degree in journalism, she earned a Life Coach certification through the Coach Training Alliance, an American Council on Exercise fitness professional certificate, a 200-hour RYT yoga instructor certification, and an Active Isolated Flexibility Technician certification.

She’s had two books published, The Real Reasons Men Commit and Sex Comes First. A top fitness and dance instructor as well as a former National Competitive Aerobics Champion bronze medalist, she has starred in 10 exercise videos. She has also performed in several Broadway shows and made many film, TV, and radio appearances.

Susan-Bard-bio

Susan Bard, MD

Medical Reviewer

Susan Bard, MD, is a clinical instructor in the department of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medicine and an adjunct clinical instructor in the department of dermatology at Mount Sinai in New York City. Her professional interests include Mohs micrographic surgery, cosmetic and laser procedures, and immunodermatology.

She is a procedural dermatologist with the American Board of Dermatology and a fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery.

Dr. Bard has written numerous book chapters and articles for many prominent peer-reviewed journals, and authored the textbook The Laser Treatment of Vascular Lesions.

Daniel Oakley

Fact-Checker

Daniel Oakley is a journalist, editor, and fact-checker. He has written, edited, taught, and produced media for Dow Jones, S&P Global, IHS Markit, Third Coast Studios Magazine, and 826 National.

Oakley's path has always been a health-and-wellness-focused one. A competitive triathlete and racing fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, he also spends summer weekends as an ISA-certified surf instructor and Red Cross professional water rescuer with Laru Beya Collective in Rockaway Beach, which helps kids master and delight in their own backyard — the ocean. It has taught Oakley that “optimizing body and mind” flourishes precisely at the wellspring of community.

Olivia Campbell

Editor

Olivia Campbell is the New York Times bestselling author of Women in White Coats: How the First Women Doctors Changed the World of Medicine and Sisters in Science: How Four Women Physicists Escaped Nazi Germany and Made Scientific History. She is a freelance editor at Dotdash Meredith and a freelance journalist. Her work has appeared in The Atlantic, National Geographic, New York Magazine, Health, Parents, History, and The Guardian, among other outlets.

Campbell received a journalism degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and a master's in science writing from Johns Hopkins University, where she now acts as a thesis advisor. She is a member of the National Association of Science Writers.

Campbell lives outside Philadelphia with her husband, three children, and two cats.

EDITORIAL SOURCES
Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions.
Resources
  1. Wavelength of Blue and Red Light. UCAR Center for Science Education.
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