LED Face Masks: benefits and things to know before trying

Used in medicine for skin care, LEDs are even used to combat certain diseases and cancers.

Models of LED masks sold to the general public, which are not medical devices unlike those found in dermatology clinics, are increasingly being used.

Why? In the hope of seeing improved skin quality, anti-acne, and anti-aging benefits.

But what should we think of this trend? What precautions should be taken before trying an LED mask? Should we use them? That's what we'll explore in this article.

 

WHAT ARE THE ADVERTISED BENEFITS OF AN LED FACE MASK?

These masks are sold as devices with different benefits depending on the product purchased.

Indeed, each LED color is presented as having different benefits for the face:

• Blue LEDs to combat sebum production, acne, and imperfections;
• Green LEDs for a more radiant complexion and reduction of spots;
• Red LEDs for firmer and more radiant skin;
• Yellow LEDs to improve the complexion of dull skin;
• Infrared LEDs to stimulate skin regeneration and healing.

 

Brands sometimes refer to phototherapy to justify the benefits of these masks for the skin.

The low-energy waves and lights emitted are said to penetrate deep into the skin, stimulate mitochondria, promote cell regeneration, improve skin tone and suppleness, and slow down skin aging.

WHAT ARE THE SUPPOSED ANTI-AGING QUALITIES OF AN LED MASK?

Compared to the LEDs you might encounter when visiting a dermatologist, the LED face masks you can buy as an individual are relatively low-powered.

According to brands, at-home masks still offer some anti-aging benefits. The hypothesis explaining these benefits is the ability of red and infrared lights to stimulate microcirculation.

Why is this beneficial for combating the signs of skin aging? Because this process helps create a more radiant complexion and increases the production of elastin and collagen.

Furthermore, their purported ability to increase endorphin production could provide a sense of well-being and reduce stress. Stress can be very detrimental to facial skin.

 

WHAT PRECAUTIONS SHOULD YOU TAKE BEFORE USING AN LED MASK FOR YOUR SKIN?

The wide price variation from one brand to another (from 100 euros to several thousand) may strongly suggest a simple marketing trend, not truly scientifically supported... It's up to you to decide if it's worth it.

The LEDs whose effectiveness has been most proven are blue ones. They help combat moderate acne, but only temporarily: pimples quickly reappear after stopping the treatment. Unfortunately, these LEDs tend to make dark spots even more prominent.

Finally, if you decide to try it, be careful not to overuse it. Indeed, you could over-stimulate your skin, ultimately causing it to age faster!

As with any new product, we strongly advise you to at least discuss it with your primary care physician, and ideally with a dermatologist.

More "organic" than LEDs, discover our purifying face mask to take care of your skin.