Healthy Skin

“I used an LED mask for two months – here’s what happened”

Once a niche, salon-only skincare treatment, LED light therapy is booming in popularity thanks to the rise of at-home masks.

While these skincare tools are becoming more accessible (and much more common on our Instagram feeds), the best LED face masks can be expensive. So, are they worth the investment?

What are the benefits of an LED face mask?

Reduced fine lines, a calmer complexion, boosted collagen production, less breakouts, disappearing hyperpigmentation, and better hydrated skin… LED masks’ list of benefits is seemingly endless.

But which of these actually stand up?

We spoke to Tracy May-Harriott, Global Educator & Brand Ambassador for iSMART, who says that, when it comes to picking an LED mask, it’s important to do your research.

“We would always urge a consumer to look well into their choice of LED masks, as not all LED masks are made equal,” she says. “Certainly not all work the same or deliver the correct dose to the skin for it to be successful.

“Choose a brand that conforms to all global recognition and can prove their own protocols and an LED that is made by a pioneering, regulated manufacturer.”

On the right wavelength

As Tracy explains, looking at wavelength is important when choosing an LED mask.

“Different wavelengths have different actions,” she says. “630nm (red) repairs the skin by enhancing the production of collagen and reducing redness. It leaves skin feeling plump, glowing, and hydrated.

“830 nm (NIR) works by stimulating ‘wound healing’ cells in the skin. Penetrating into the skin’s surface, it boosts circulation, improves blood flow, and increases oxygen to skin cells, helping skin to look fresh and hydrated. Improvements of fine lines and wrinkles, increased blood flow and improved skin texture are commonly seen with well-developed LED masks that use red and near-IR wavelengths.

“If using clinically-proven blue light at 415nm, you can expect improvements in the appearance of blemishes also.”

When it comes to other LED light colours, Tracy isn’t convinced by current data.

“Other colours need a lot more work on them and in fact, some colours show little or zero effect. So an LED mask with a ‘full spectrum of the rainbow’ is really a waste of investment.”

How often should you use an LED mask?

When it comes to getting the best results, consistency is key. Tracy explains that frequency of mask use depends on the brand you have, so it’s best to follow the supplier’s instructions.

“Generally, three to five times a week for approximately 10 minutes is key for ongoing treatment,” she says. “If you can easily achieve wearing the mask three times a week consistently, this will be more effective in the long term than wearing it five times in one week, and then nothing else all month.”

Are there any contraindications?

LED masks don’t suit everyone, so it’s important to carry out a skin sensitisation test before using one.

To do this, Tracy suggests wrapping any new device around your forearm for a treatment. Once the treatment is complete, keep an eye for any photosensitive reactions for up to six hours afterwards.

She adds that iSMART does not recommend the use of LED devices on children or for people who are pregnant, or suffer from light-induced headaches, lupus, photosensitive eczema or albinism. If you’re unsure, check with your mask supplier.

‘I used an LED mask for two months – here’s what happened’

Our Head of Social Media, Rachel Andrews, shares her experience of using an LED mask.

As someone with sensitive skin that’s prone to eczema, redness and occasional breakouts, I’m always open to home treatments that can keep my complexion calm.

But, with a bathroom cupboard filled with failed beauty purchases, I wanted to make sure that a costly LED mask wouldn’t also be joining the pile.

So, after scouring reviews, results and specifications, I settled on the Silk’n Facial LED Mask. It has a more reasonable price point than most, but still ticks all the boxes.

The mask has four different light colours – red, blue, yellow and purple.

The red light setting is 633nm and the blue light setting is 463nm. After speaking with Tracy, I decide not to waste any time on the purple or yellow settings.

The mask is flexible with adjustable velcro straps, and fits snuggly on my face. The controller is attached to the mask via a wire, and can be easily popped in my dressing gown pocket.

How often do I use it?

My main priorities are to keep my tricky skin calm and hydrated. I opt to predominantly use the red light setting, supporting it with blue when experiencing a pimple or two.

While some experts say it is better to use an LED mask in the evening (the red light may have some benefits for our sleep), I have been using mine in the morning. Why? Because I know that consistency is key and I’m less likely to skip a session in the AM.

I ensure my skin is clean and free from products before using my mask, applying my morning skincare immediately afterwards.

My LED mask recommends using it for around 10 to 15 minutes at a time, before adjusting the frequency down to once or twice a week when you start to see results. I haven’t done that yet, but I think it will soon be time.

As per the instructions, I have to build up to this level of frequency to ensure my skin is happy. I kicked off my LED journey using the mask just couple of times a week, keeping an eye out for irritation before increasing the frequency.

What are my results?

Since using the mask, I’ve noticed that my skin seems noticeably calmer overall. My skin always feels softer and more hydrated after a session, and my skincare products just seem to sink better into my complexion.

If I notice a pimple making an unwelcome visit, I make sure to use the blue light setting for a few days. This seems to make them disappear a little quicker. My eczema seems calmer, too.

While I don’t have many fine lines or wrinkles (yet!), I am excited to see whether I notice more long-term results.

Beyond the skin-boosting benefits, I also enjoy the ritual of setting aside 10 to 15 minutes a day to pop on my mask while I make my morning cuppa.

The results have been subtle but noticeable for me, helping me to feel more confident in my complexion. That being said, I can’t reliably contribute all the above just to the LED mask, having fine tuned my skincare products elsewhere in my routine.

Plus, we know that so many factors can play into the appearance of our skin. But so far, so good!