With technology at the forefront of everything in our lives, it’s not surprising that futuristic devices have made their way into our beauty routines, too. Red light therapy devices in particular have made a mark on beauty rituals for their ability to elevate skincare regimens with their in-office-inspired benefits.
“Red light stimulates collagen and lessens inflammation,” explains Dr. Loretta Ciraldo, MD, FAAD, a Miami-based board-certified dermatologist. Additionally, the benefits of red-light therapy devices for skin include reducing the appearance of pigmentation, targeting signs of aging — specifically fine lines and wrinkles — and glowing skin.
Before choosing a red light therapy device, Dr. Ciraldo says to keep in mind that at-home masks are generally not as effective as in-office treatments. That being said, you can still incorporate the at-home devices into your skincare routine to add extra oomph to your beauty regimen. “For at-home light therapy, it’s best to expect it to take two weeks before you see visible improvement,” says Dr. Ciraldo.
How Often Should You Use Red Light Therapy Devices?
When using an at-home red light device, you might wonder: Is this something I can use every day? Dr. Ciraldo says the answer really depends on the device as each one will come with its own set of instructions for use. For example, the Baby Quasar device recommends five days per week while the SolaWave Wand can be used daily (though the brand recommends starting with five minutes per day for the first few days, then working up to 30 minutes from there).
Precautions to Consider Before Trying Red Light Therapy
As with other technology-focused beauty treatments, there are some precautions to consider before giving red light therapy devices a try. First, Dr. Ciraldo says “if you’re on any medication or you are being treated for a disease (especially seizures or any light sensitivity-associated problem), it’s best to consult with a dermatologist or trusted skincare specialist before you use a light device.” Additionally, Dr. Ciraldo warns against using these devices on areas impacted by concerns that make you sensitive to light “or if you’re taking medicine topically or by mouth that can make you light-sensitive.” And, if you use retinol in your skincare routine, it’s best to stop using before trying these devices, since retinol can make the skin more sensitive to light. For additional precautions, always refer to your device’s manual (or product page if you’re still shopping!) to ensure you understand the precautions for the device of your choice.
Red Light Therapy Devices to Try at Home
If you’re thinking about giving red light therapy devices a try, we put together a collection of the best to make your selection easier. From full-face masks to wands to a device that also has microcurrent benefits, here are our top picks for at-home red light therapy devices.
SolaWave Advanced Skincare Wand With Red Light Therapy
This teeny-tiny compact red light device was designed with the at-home facial in mind. Featuring red light therapy, plus microcurrent, facial massage, and therapeutic warmth technologies, the coveted device has quickly become Instagram’s favorite skincare tool for its ability to leave the skin looking more radiant and glowing with increased absorption of skincare products.
HigherDOSE Red Light Face Mask
If you’re always on the go, this red light face mask is right up your alley. Specifically designed with busy lifestyles in mind, the futuristic face mask features a wireless design with three straps and eye holes so it can stay safe and secure on your complexion while you meditate, cook, or work. It’s also formulated with wavelengths that mimic natural sunlight — without UV damage — for additional rejuvenation and glow.
Quasar MD Baby Quasar Plus
One of Dr. Ciraldo’s suggestions for red light therapy devices is this Baby Quasar Plus device. The at-home tool utilizes red LED light technology for an all-around healthier-looking complexion with benefits that include targeting fine lines and wrinkles and a smoother, firmer-looking complexion.
Solaris 4-Color LED Light Therapy Mask
This celebrity-favorite LED face mask isn’t just a red light mask — it’s a blue, green, and orange light mask, too. The hands-free device features four different light therapies for additional benefits, including reducing acne-causing bacteria (blue light), additional inflammation reduction and lymphatic fluid detoxification (orange light), and targeting hyperpigmentation and signs of sunspots (green light), plus all of the benefits of red light therapy.
LightStim for Wrinkles
Using a wand-like device allows you to target specific complexion areas with red light therapy. We love this one because, in addition to the red light therapy benefits already shared, it also works to reduce the look of pores and improve elasticity.
Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite™ EyeCare Pro
If you’re looking to target just the eye area with light therapy, we love this red light eye mask from Dr. Dennis Gross. The device is created with red LED technology to stimulate collagen and target the fine lines commonly found around the eyes. Not to mention: The futuristic mask makes you look like a skincare superhero.
Omnilux Contour Face
This FDA-cleared red light therapy face mask is centered around skin rejuvenation with its ability to target fine lines and wrinkles and reduce redness and uneven skin tone. The device is crafted with 633 nm red light and 830 nm near-infrared light for a glowing complexion.
NuFACE Trinity®: The Complete Facial Toning Kit
There’s a reason why NuFACE is one of the internet’s most raved about facial tools. The device is designed with microcurrent technology to lift and tone the look of the skin. And this set comes with a red light therapy attachment to target signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles.
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