Red light therapy tools like LED face masks and hair growth caps have taken the beauty world by storm in recent years. These noninvasive, at-home treatments aim to stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation and promote cellular renewal.

Once offered only in clinical settings, red light therapy is now accessible at home with handheld devices, masks and panels that promote visibly smoother, brighter, younger-looking skin. In this blog, we will discuss:

• How does red light therapy work?
• Red light therapy benefits
• Do LED face masks work for acne and hair loss?
• How to use red light therapy at home
• The best red light therapy devices

How does red light therapy work?

Red light therapy works by using low-level wavelengths of red or near-infrared light to stimulate cellular renewal and skin’s natural repair process. In theory, this light helps increase the production of mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy that fuels cellular activity. With this boost of energy, cells can work more efficiently to repair damage, reduce inflammation and renew skin. This makes red light therapy a popular tool for addressing fine lines, acne, dullness and more.

Dr. Joel Schlessinger, board-certified dermatologist, Mohs surgeon and cosmetic surgeon, shares, “Red light therapy tools are available for at-home use and there are multiple options ranging in price and design. With continued use, these non-invasive devices may subtly support collagen production, promote circulation and calm inflammation, all of which should contribute to healthier-looking skin and improved tissue health.”

“Many of my colleagues use them for post-operative care to decrease healing time after laser procedures. While I think they probably help this, I leave it up to my patients as to whether they want to use it or not,” he adds.

Red light therapy benefits

Red light therapy offers a wide range of skin care benefits, making it a versatile addition to any beauty routine. It helps to stimulate collagen production, visibly smoothing skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time. These devices also promote healthy circulation and energize the skin cells, which helps enhance the skin’s radiance and promote a more even-looking complexion.

Since red light therapy is gentle and non-invasive, it’s an ideal treatment for revitalizing skin, even for sensitive skin types. So, does red light therapy help acne? While red light therapy doesn’t kill acne-causing bacteria directly (that’s typically done with blue light), it aims to complement acne treatments by reducing inflammation and calming overactive oil glands, making it especially beneficial for acne-prone skin. Blue light devices are more commonly used for acne-prone skin, but red light can help with the inflammation, so they could provide a synergistic benefit together.

With regular use, red light therapy may help promote a smoother, more radiant complexion, without any downtime.

Do LED face masks work for acne and hair loss?

A recent systematic review in JAMA Dermatology demonstrated that at-home red and blue light LED devices do seem to show improvement in mild to moderate acne and hair thinning. Although LED therapies seem promising, patients with more serious skin issues should see a board-certified dermatologist for additional treatment.

Dr. Daniel Schlessinger, board-certified dermatologist, Mohs surgeon and cosmetic surgeon, explains, “While there may be some improvements in acne inflammation or in hair growth, they are very subtle in most cases and are usually best if done in conjunction with medical or cosmetic treatments. We recommend and offer various LED light devices in our clinic as adjunctive treatments, but also try to set reasonable expectations from the beginning.”

How to use red light therapy at home

When it comes to red light therapy, consistency is key. Most devices recommend treatments three to five times a week for optimal results. Light penetrates best on clean skin, so start with a thorough cleanse before using your at-home red light therapy device. Be sure to wear eye protection, like protective goggles, when using a red light therapy mask or panel device.

You can expect to see visible results within three to four weeks of continued use. Additionally, red light therapy works best when paired with complementary skin care ingredients, including antioxidants, retinol and salicylic acid. Always finish your beauty routine with a broad-spectrum sunscreen to shield skin from harmful UV radiation.

Red light therapy is painless and generally safe for all skin types. However, you’ll want to consult your dermatologist first if you’re photosensitive or using certain medications that make you more sensitive to the sun.

The best red light therapy devices

Ready to add a red light therapy device to your skin care routine? Experience the many benefits of red light therapy with these versatile treatment tools. From visible anti-aging to clearing up acne, these multitasking devices help you restore a luminous, youthful-looking complexion. The key to a good red light therapy device is the number of actual LEDs it has. The more the better.

FOREO FAQ 201 Silicone LED Face Mask – 600 LEDs

This innovative face mask combines cutting-edge technology with the comfort of an at-home treatment. The hands-free mask fits snugly against the face for maximum light penetration. It features five LED wavelengths, including red light to help stimulate collagen and improve skin elasticity. The soft, medical-grade silicone design ensures a comfortable fit, making it easy to achieve smoother, more radiant-looking skin from home.

PMD Clean Redvolution Smart Facial Red Light Cleansing Device – 19 red LEDs

This multitasking device from PMD pairs the benefits of red light therapy with a deep, purifying cleanse. It uses sonic vibration to lift away impurities while red LED light supports collagen production and visibly diminishes premature signs of aging. It’s perfect for streamlining your skin care routine without compromising results.

Skin Gym Revilit LED Light Therapy – 15 red LEDs

Ideal for targeted treatments, this LED light therapy wand delivers red light energy exactly where your skin needs it. Whether you're addressing fine lines, dullness or uneven texture, the sleek, portable design makes it easy to incorporate red light therapy into your daily routine. Plus, it includes other LED light therapy options, so you can tailor your treatment to your unique skin concerns.

FOREO FAQ 102 Professional Facial Rejuvenation – 8 LEDs

Designed with advanced T-Sonic pulsations and red LED light, this convenient little device offers professional-level skin rejuvenation in the palm of your hand. This ultra-lightweight skin care staple helps firm and lift while enhancing skin’s natural glow. Whether you’re using it alone or with your favorite serum, it adds a spa-like experience to your daily regimen.

Mirabella Phototherapy 7-Color LED Facial Mask with Infrared – 153 LEDs

For those who crave options, this phototherapy mask offers seven LED colors, including red and infrared, for a fully customizable skin care experience. Red and infrared light work together to energize skin cells, support collagen production and improve overall radiance. Its flexible, comfortable fit and wireless design make it a favorite for at-home LED light therapy.

BONUS: FOREO FAQ 221 Anti-Aging LED Hand Mask - 623 LEDs & FOREO FAQ 211 Neck & Decollete Mask - 761 LEDs

The benefits of red light therapy don’t stop at your face. These FOREO masks make it easy to enjoy the benefits of red light therapy on your neck, decolletage and hands. Red and near-infrared reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and age spots for smoother, brighter skin. Each mask consists of ultra-soft silicone for a comfortable, skin-hugging fit, delivering targeted rejuvenation.

Looking for more skin care devices? You can read more on the LovelySkin Blog.