Everything You Need to Know About At Home Red Light Therapy

“It looks cool—and I’ve seen it all over social media—but does red light therapy actually work?” you are probably asking yourself if you clicked this link. And the answer is yes, LED-light therapy does work—with a caveat. But before we get into the red light specifics that claim to cure all (and kind of can), let’s talk about what it is and why it can work on skin.

Our Top Picks:

• Best Red Light Therapy Mask: CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask, $380
• Best Clinically Reviewed: Omnilux Contour Face, $395
• Best for Acne: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro, $455
• Best Spot Treatment: Solawave Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand, $169
• Best Handheld: LightStim LightStim for Wrinkles, $249
• Best for a Glow: HigherDose Red Light Therapeutic Face Mask, $349
• Best Vibrating: Therabody TheraFace Mask, $599
• Best for Blemishes: Omnilux Blemish Eraser, $95

• What is it?
• The Benefits of Red Light Therapy
• How often should you use red light therapy?
• How quickly will you see results from red light therapy?
• Is red light therapy safe?
• How to Find the Best Red Light Therapy Device for You
• Do red light therapy devices work?
• Is there a difference between infrared and red light therapy?
• What skin types most benefit from red light therapy?
• Are home red light therapy devices worth it?
• What wavelength of red light should you use?
• Meet the Experts

“Whilst clinic LED treatments are both effective and popular, at-home devices are a much more cost-effective and convenient way of using LED,” says Newman. “You can use it more consistently at home, resulting in better long-term effects on the skin.” That said, red light is an additional complexion aid—not an excuse to skip out on skincare. “Optimal at-home results will be achieved while combining light therapy treatments with a well-designed skincare routine,” says Murphy-Rose.

Best Red Light Therapy Mask: CurrentBody Series 2 Mask

• Why We Love It: Vogue-verified, CurrentBody’s original LED light therapy mask—which launched in 2018—is internationally beloved by editors and celebrities alike. The flexible silicone device covers the entire face, and was clinically proven to reduce wrinkles by 35% in four weeks. The Series 2 Mask, launched this October, offers an upgrade on the cult-classic OG. “I love this new version of the device for its enhanced coverage and wearability,” Engelman says. “It features 236 LED bulbs that emit a combination of red, near-infrared, and deep near-infrared light. These varied wavelengths work together to boost collagen production, improve circulation, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.” The newer model was designed to comfortably fit a wider range of face sizes and shapes than the original mask, and it contours to the chin as well as to the face. It’s also equipped with new, multiway straps, which make the new mask ultra-secure (according to the brand, it will even stay on during a pilates class.)
• Device Type: Mask
• Best For: The mask offers anti-aging benefits including wrinkle reduction and cellular renewal.
• Target Area: Face
• Treatment Time: 10 minutes

Best Clinically Reviewed: OmniLux Contour Face

• Why We Love It: Another Vogue favorite, this device targets skin-care concerns ranging from fine lines and wrinkles to redness and dark spots, using two wavelengths of light: Red 633 nm and near-infrared 830 nm. “I like the Omnilux Contour Face red light device,” Hartman says. “It’s on the pricier end, but the contour shape fits nearly everyone comfortably and enables the red light to reach all around the face for maximum efficacy. The device is FDA-cleared for use and Omnilux backs up the claims with strong, clinically reviewed and published research.” As for how to optimize use, Bassiri-Therani explains that “For effective skin rejuvenation, the ideal red light wavelength falls between 600 to 700 nanometers,” elaborating that 630 to 660 nm targets the skin’s upper layers, promoting collagen and elastin, while wavelengths around 850 nm penetrate deeper, helping with muscle relaxation and circulation improvement.”
• Device Type: Mask
• Best For: The mask effectively targets fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots, and redness.
• Target Area: Face
• Treatment Time: 10 minutes

Best Customizable: Qure Q-Rejuvalight Pro LED Light Therapy Mask

• Why We Love It: This dermatologist-tested mask has five treatments that target multiple skin concerns at a time. In fact, the app features two presets: Anti-Aging, which uses amber, red, deed red, and infrared light, and Anti-Breakout, which harnesses blue and red light. The treatments can be used on the whole face, or on select areas such as the cheeks, nose, and chin. Senior beauty shopping writer Kiana Murden notes in her review that the Qure mask can tackle everything from. “Forehead breakouts require a different regimen than crow’s feet under the eyes or dark spots along the cheek. These concerns, many of which can be alleviated with consistent LED light therapy, can be tackled simultaneously with Qure’s mask—which boasts unique, customizable features that allow users to personalize their treatment through an app.” “With consistent use, improved skin elasticity, smoothed fine lines, faded dark spots, and reduced inflammation are just a few of its results,” Murden notes.
• Device Type: Face mask
• Best For: The wrinkle-smoothing technology makes aging skin appear fuller and more firm.
• Target Area: Face
• Treatment Time: Three minutes
• FDA-Approved: Yes

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro

• Why We Love It: Offering a combination of red and blue-light therapy, this dermatologist-developed mask stimulates collagen production and clears up breakouts. “I specifically designed this device to be easily incorporated into your everyday routine with one three-minute daily treatment,” Dr. Dennis Gross tells Vogue. “The SpectraLite FaceWare Pro is a great choice due to its medical-grade LED technology, designed to target both acne and signs of aging,” says Dr. Michael Bassiri-Therani, a double-board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon based in New York. “With red and blue lights, it delivers dual benefits—fighting bacteria while stimulating collagen for smoother, more radiant skin.” Dr. Dendy Engelman, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in New York City adds: “I love that it offers a hands-free, daily treatment for quick and easy results.”
• Device Type: Face mask
• Best For: Beneficial for aging or acne-prone skin, the device smooths fine lines and wrinkles, minimizes the appearance of sun and age spots, and tames redness and inflammation.
• Target Area: Face
• Treatment Time: Three minutes
• FDA-Approved: Yes

Best for Blemishes: Omnilux Blemish Eraser

• Why We Love It: For stubborn pimples, look no further than the Omnilux Blemish Eraser. The disc-shaped version of the aforementioned Contour Face, this device excels at hyper-targeted treatments that clear up the complexion in a flash. Using two wavelengths of light—one red and one blue—the mini mask comes with a hydrocolloid patch. Infused with salicylic acid and green tea to decongest the pores and sweep impurities from the surface of the skin, the patch sticks to the device, which is then applied to the face. Is this the pimple patch of the future? Perhaps, just perhaps.
• Device Type: Miniature silicone LED mask
• Best For: The device treats acne, inflammation, and redness.
• Target Area: Face
• Treatment Time: Use the device for 10 minutes, four times a week, until the blemish is gone.
• FDA-Approved: Yes

Best Spot Treatment: Solawave Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand

• Why We Love It: A Vogue editor favorite, Solawave’s four-in-one device handily smooths fine lines and wrinkles, brightens dark circles, and boosts serum absorption in just a few minutes with consistent use. All the while, it delivers a depuffing face massage, which boosts circulation. “This handheld, travel-friendly device is a fantastic tool that combines red light therapy, galvanic current, massage, and warmth to address a range of skin concerns,” Engelman says. “The galvanic current works to tone and firm the face while reducing puffiness for a brighter and smoother complexion. Plus, the vibration massages serums into the skin barrier to enhance absorption.”
• Device Type: Handheld
• Best For: Suited for all skin types, the wand targets fine lines and wrinkles, crow’s feet, dark circles, and blemishes.
• Target Area: Face, neck
• Treatment Time: Three minutes per region
• FDA-Approved: No

Best for a Glow: Higherdose Red Light Therapeutic Face Mask

• Why We Love It: Higherdose’s mask, which emits glow-boosting lights, makes it easy to wellness stack: You can wear it while you go about your everyday activities, like folding laundry or washing dishes. “This is a comfortable, hands-free device you can use for 10 minutes three to five times a week to see impressive results,” Engelman says. “It uses red light and infrared light to synergistically minimize signs of aging by promoting cellular renewal and stimulating collagen production.”
• Device Type: Face mask
• Best For: Anti-aging technology reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on mature skin; the device also calms redness.
• Target Area: Face
• Treatment Time: 10 minutes
• FDA-Approved: No

Best Vibrating: Therabody TheraFace Mask

• Why We Love It: Equipped with vibration therapy, the Therabody LED mask soothes tension in the face—and it provides more reasons to exhale, with its ability to target multiple common skin concerns at once. With red and blue light settings, the device firms, smooths, and boosts radiance in the skin. “This mask uses vibration therapy to boost blood circulation and release tension around the face,” Engelman says. “I like that you are able to target specific concerns with various settings including red light, blue light, and red and infrared light.”
• Device Type: Face mask
• Best For: The device firms and contours the complexion, making a noticeable difference in sagging and loose skin; it can also make dark spots less noticeable.
• Target Area: Face
• Treatment Time: Three minutes
• FDA-Approved: Yes

Best Red Light Therapy Panel: Celluma Home

• Why We Love It: Celluma Home’s LED device offers full-body benefits thanks to its large light panels. On the face, it uses red and near-infrared wavelengths to smooth fine lines and wrinkles; on the body, it can also help with wound healing and relieve pain in muscles and joints. “This unique device has been FDA-cleared for not only aging skin but also for pain such as arthritis and muscle strains. It can be used on various parts of the body for accelerated recovery.” Though its panels are large, the device also lends itself to on-the-god use—it’s surprisingly easy to stow in luggage or bags.
• Device Type: When used on the face, the corded panel is positioned onto two face rests. It can also be placed directly onto the shoulders, the lower back, or any other area calling for pain relief.
• Best For: Wound healing, anti-aging, and pain relief.
• Target Area: Whole body
• Treatment Time: 30 minutes
• FDA-Approved: Yes

Best for Neck: Currentbody Skin LED Neck and Dec Perfector

• Why We Love It: Currentbody’s lightweight device wraps comfortably around the neck and the decolletage, where its red and near-infrared lights stimulate collagen production and give the skin a smoother, more youthful appearance. “So many of my patients are focused on their face, but I always remind them we can’t ignore our neck and chest,” board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nicole Ruth says. “CurrentBody’s neck and chest mask is lightweight and comfortable. You can use the mask while sitting in bed reading or catching up on emails.” Engelman adds: “This is a targeted device for the neck and chest area, which is often neglected from sun protection, causing accelerated aging. It uses red light at 633 nanometers and infrared light at 830 nanometers to stimulate cell renewal for firmer and tighter skin.”
• Device Type: Neck and decolletage mask
• Best For: The anti-aging device has been clinically proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkles in just four weeks.
• Target Area: Neck, chest
• Treatment Time: 10 minutes
• FDA-Approved: Yes

Best Handheld: LightStim for Wrinkles

• Why We Love It: Embedded with 72 LED lights that emit wavelengths of light red, dark red, infrared, and amber, this handheld device treats wrinkles everywhere on the face—including the forehead, crow’s feet, and lips. “LightStim is the OG red light wand and stands out for its FDA-cleared technology and customizable treatment options,” says Bassiri-Tehrani. “It uses a range of wavelengths to penetrate different skin layers, targeting fine lines and wrinkles to improve firmness and elasticity with regular use. It’s also a great option to help target trouble areas because it’s a wand.” Dr. Corey L. Hartman, a board-certified dermatologist based in Birmingham, Alabama, also signs off on the device. “LightStim for Wrinkles is a favorite of many patients and I like it as a spot treatment because you can it use in key areas of concern,” he says. “The device can help reduce pore size, firm and tone skin, and increase skin’s elasticity for a more youthful, refreshed appearance. Plus, the LED light helps stimulate the production of collagen and elastin for an ongoing benefit.”
• Device Type: Handheld
• Best For: The wrinkle-taming device was designed for maturing skin.
• Target Area: Face, body, neck, hands, etc
• Treatment Time: 90 seconds
• FDA-Approved: Yes

Best for Redness: MZ Skin Light-Therapy Golden Facial Treatment Device

• Why We Love It: ​​This mask was designed to mimic an in-office treatment with London’s sought-after oculoplastic surgeon and facial aesthetics doctor Maryam Zamani. With five colors of LED light, the doctor-developed device offers targeted treatments for a host of issues. “There is the typical red light for collagen production and reduced inflammation, along with blue light to reduce blemish-causing bacteria,” Murden writes. “Then there are colors you may be less familiar with, like green light to target discoloration and broken capillaries, yellow light for redness and circulation, and white infrared light to calm sensitivity for a healthy glow.”
• Device Type: Face mask
• Best For: Both sensitive and acne-prone skin will benefit from regular use of the mask, which is meant to promote a clearer, more balanced complexion.
• Target Area: Face
• Treatment Time: 10 to 30 minutes
• FDA-Approved: Yes

What is red light therapy?

“Red light therapy is a treatment that exposes skin to low levels of red or near-infrared light (most devices utilize 630 to 700 nm wavelength of light),” says board-certified dermatologist Blair Murphy-Rose, MD. “Red light has been shown to reduce inflammation in the skin and to stimulate fibroblasts to produce collagen, which can reduce and prevent wrinkles and can improve skin texture.”

“Unlike UV light which is associated with skin cancer and premature and accelerated aging, LED light is the visible spectrum of light which can have benefits in the skin,” says New York-based dermatologist Whitney Bowe, MD. “The longer the wavelength (i.e. red light), the deeper the penetration into the skin. Red LED lights induce changes in the skin through a process known as photo-biomodulation, which doesn’t require injury or trauma.”

The healing benefits of the treatment were first noted in the late 1980s, the hypothesis furthered, somewhat accidentally, by NASA. (NASA scientists who worked under the red and blue LEDs used to mimic photosynthesis for potato growth noted that wound healing, namely that of cuts and scrapes on their hands, seemed to be occurring more quickly.)

Now, red light therapy is a commonplace treatment in medi spas and living rooms alike. “LED (“light emitting diode”) therapy is used in-office with other complementary treatments like microneedling, chemical peels, or laser treatments,” says Bowe. “It’s a noninvasive treatment that shouldn’t involve any heat.”

What are the benefits of red light therapy?

As noted by Murphy-Rose, regular use of red light therapy reduces inflammation and ramp up both collagen production and collagen density, leading to improved skin texture and reduced wrinkles over time. The treatment has also been used to treat pattern hair loss and alopecia and to reduce body fat.

“Red light therapy is thought to promote collagen synthesis in the dermal layer of the skin and help to dial down inflammation in the skin,” says Bowe. “The light interacts with the skin to stimulate regeneration, healing, and repair of skin cells and supports our healthy collagen production and skin elasticity.” These benefits can be applied to scarring, fine lines, and acne, too, though the latter is commonly treated with blue light.

“In clinic, benefits range across skin rejuvenation (collagen production, fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation) right through to healing (using near-infrared light),” says Laurence Newman, Founder and CEO of CurrentBody. The dialing down of inflammation has more benefits than simply reducing redness: When used on certain areas of the body, phototherapy (aka light therapy) may help to reduce pain and soreness and even heal deeper tissues.

How often should you use red light therapy?

Frequency and duration of red light exposure depend on the “what” and “where” of your red light therapy device. “In-office red light devices are significantly more powerful than the devices you can get at home, and the at-home devices that are FDA-cleared are safer and more effective than the ones that are not FDA-cleared,” says Bowe. “When we are referring to at-home devices, I recommend patients stick with regular use (daily or 3-4x/week) for at least 6 weeks to give the device a chance to work.” Bowe goes on to note that skin-firming results can require up to three months of a regular red light routine.

How quickly will you see results from red light therapy?

While benefits like improved signs of photoaging and collagen boosting may take a few months, red light can calm inflammation in a single 10-minute session—the dermatologist-recommended span of exposure.

Are there any risks with red light therapy?

Red light therapy is generally considered a safe and effective method for all skin types, but there are a few common sense caveats. Step one: close your eyes.

“If you’re keeping your eyes open, the light can cause damage,” says Bowe. Next, your red light device, nor your skin, should never be hot, or even warm. “If the wavelengths of light are creating heat, that can trigger pigment producing cells in your skin to pump out more melanin, so you want to be especially cautious that it isn’t emitting heat if you are prone to hyperpigmentation.”

Murphy-Rose adds that it’s best to chat with your medical provider prior to using red light if you have any conditions that make you more photosensitive or take medications that increase your photosensitivity. And before you buy that pricey device, make sure it’s been properly vetted. “I would always recommend doing your research before investing in an LED device,” says Newman. “Not all LEDs are made the same, it’s very important to check that your device operates at the correct wavelengths to offer the results you are looking for and has been tested for safety.”

Still, the non-invasive treatment is largely side effect-free. Whether you opt to treat skin conditions in-spa or try light treatment at home, the positive effects of red light therapy are worth your time and dollar direction.

How to Find the Best Red Light Therapy Device for You

Interested in giving red light therapy a try? When choosing the best device for you, Ruth says “you should consider factors such as wavelength, power output, and treatment-area coverage of the device.”

“Opt for a device with wavelengths between 630 and 850 nanometers, as these wavelengths have shown optimal penetration for skin rejuvenation,” she says. And of course, a stamp of approval from the Food and Drug Administration never hurts. “I instruct patients to look for FDA-cleared devices to ensure safety and efficacy,” Ruth notes.

Do red light therapy devices work?

“With continued red LED treatments, clients can trust that their skin will look firmer and they will have a more even tone and texture,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dennis Gross. So the devices work, but how? “LED works just like any other topical ingredient,” says Gross. “Our skin cells have receptors for LED, meaning light will enter the skin cell, connect to a unique LED receptor, and trigger the body to convert light energy into cellular energy. With red light devices, the red LED enters the fibroblast cell and stimulates collagen production—the key to healthy, younger-looking skin—and diminishes fine lines and wrinkles.” Gross adds that red LED also increases circulation and decreases redness, reducing inflammation and hyperpigmentation with consistent use.

Is there a difference between infrared and red light therapy?

“The main differences between infrared and red LED light are visibility, wavelength length, and depth of penetration,” Gross explains. “Infrared light is invisible and has a longer wavelength than red light. This allows it to penetrate deeper into the body and facilitate wound healing and cellular repair.” On the other hand, red light is visible, and—because it has a shorter wavelength—it targets the skin’s surface. “Red LED increases cellular energy to stimulate fibroblast growth factors to boost collagen synthesis,” Dr. Gross continues. “It also decreases matrix metalloproteinases activity, which is what breaks down collagen.” Generally speaking, red light therapy utilizes 630 to 700 nm wavelength of light, whereas near-infrared uses 800 to 1200 nm of light.

What skin types most benefit from red light therapy?

“Nearly every skin type can benefit from red light therapy,” Hartman says. “Even patients with skin conditions like eczema and rosacea can find relief from symptoms as red light can help reduce skin inflammation. Acne-prone skin benefits greatly from red light therapy too, as the light can reduce sebum production, which is one cause of acne, plus reduce the appearance of current inflammatory breakouts.” Those with mild to moderate fine lines and wrinkles will also find red light therapy beneficial, Hartman says, as red light promotes collagen and elastin production.

“Red light therapy can benefit a range of skin types but is especially helpful for those with aging or sensitive skin,” Bassiri-Therani adds. “People with sensitive skin often tolerate red light therapy well, as it’s non-invasive and generally soothing.”

Brooke Jeffy, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Scottsdale, Arizona, cautions: “Those with more darkly pigmented skin may rarely experience worsening of hyperpigmentation and should stop treatments if occurring.”

Are home red light therapy devices worth it?

“If you plan to use your red light therapy device consistently, it can definitely be worth the investment due to its effectiveness,” Engelman says. “With its multi-functional benefits, red light therapy allows you to target several skin concerns at once. This is a great investment for those who aren’t able to regularly visit a dermatologist for in-office treatments. While professional red light therapy sessions will offer stronger results more quickly, a high-quality at-home device can provide similar benefits over time, making them a more affordable and effective alternative. There are many high-quality devices available at various price points, so you can find one that fits your budget.” However, it pays to be discerning. “I highly recommend choosing an FDA-approved or clinically tested device to ensure safety and optimal results,” Engelman says. “Cutting corners on quality could lead to skin irritation or subpar outcomes, so it’s important to invest in a reputable and science-backed option!”

Hartman has a similar philosophy. “At-home red light therapy devices are worth the cost, especially if paired with in-office light therapy treatments and other procedures,” he says. “I typically recommend a joint approach of at-home and in-office options to patients, especially those with more moderate to severe concerns. Patients with moderate to severe concerns would likely find some improvement with at-home devices, but more improvement with treatments under the care of a dermatologist.”

What wavelength of red light should you use?

According to Hartman, “The ideal range is between 630 nm and 680 nm. This range has shown the most benefit in research to stimulate the cellular process within the skin to help boost the production of collagen and elastin, ease fine lines and wrinkles, and reduce inflammation.”

Meet the Experts

• Dr. Dennis Gross, founder of Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare, is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon based in New York.
• Dr. Nicole Ruth, DO, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York.
• Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist seeing patients in New York and the Hamptons; she’s also the founder of Skincare Junkie.
• Dr. Whitney Bowe, MD is a board-certified dermatologist and scientist based in New York and the founder of Dr. Whitney Bowe Beauty.
• Laurence Newman is the founder and CEO of CurrentBody.
• Michael Bassiri-Therani, MD, is a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon based in New York City.
• Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic in New York City.
• Corey L. Hartman, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama.
• Brooke Jeffy, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Scottsdale, Arizona.