The 7 Best Red Light Therapy Devices, Tested by Real People

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsAdd to CartOthers We TriedWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Add to Cart

Others We Tried

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / Foreo / Solawave

People / Foreo / Solawave

Many skincare formulas are powerful enough to treat some of our biggest beauty areas of interest, including blemishes, dull skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. However, if you’re looking for more targeted at-home treatments, incorporating light therapy devices into your regimen can increase the skin’s overall rejuvenation process to treat, get rid of, and even prevent skin concerns.The More You Know“Light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular activity in the skin”Courtney Moseley, P.A. and skincare specialist, tells PEOPLE. Moseley says investing in a light therapy device brings the benefits of light therapy home and allows for an easier way to enhance skin rejuvenation and save money on in-office treatments.With such impressive benefits,somany beauty brands have released their own version of a light therapy device, making it a little more of a challenge to find ones that actually work and are worth the splurge.To find the best light therapy devices, our PEOPLE Tested team conducted real-world testing on 14 masks and wands to find the devices that actually work some magic. And after eight weeks of testing, we landed on these top picks for the best light therapy devices you can use from the comfort of your home.Our Top PicksBest Overall:Foreo UFO 2 at Amazon$199Jump to ReviewBest Wand:SolaWave Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand at Amazon$189Jump to ReviewBest Spot Treatment:Solawave Bye Acne Pimple Spot Treatment at Amazon$69Jump to ReviewBest Anti-Aging:CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask at Amazon$469Jump to ReviewBest Brightening:HigherDose Red Light Face Mask at Amazon$349Jump to ReviewBest for Acne:Therashield 3-in-1 Light Therapy Mask at Therashield.laJump to ReviewBest Face Massager:Therabody TheraFace Pro at Nordstrom$399Jump to ReviewBest Niacinamide Serum:Westman Atelier Skin Activator Serum with Hyaluronic Acid + Niacinamide at Amazon$189Jump to ReviewBest Face Oil:Acure Radically Rejuvenating Rose Argan Oil at Amazon$19Jump to ReviewBest Teeth Whitening Product:SALECrest 3D Sensitive Teeth Whitening Kit at Amazon$50$34Jump to Review

Many skincare formulas are powerful enough to treat some of our biggest beauty areas of interest, including blemishes, dull skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. However, if you’re looking for more targeted at-home treatments, incorporating light therapy devices into your regimen can increase the skin’s overall rejuvenation process to treat, get rid of, and even prevent skin concerns.

The More You Know“Light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular activity in the skin”Courtney Moseley, P.A. and skincare specialist, tells PEOPLE. Moseley says investing in a light therapy device brings the benefits of light therapy home and allows for an easier way to enhance skin rejuvenation and save money on in-office treatments.

The More You Know

“Light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular activity in the skin”Courtney Moseley, P.A. and skincare specialist, tells PEOPLE. Moseley says investing in a light therapy device brings the benefits of light therapy home and allows for an easier way to enhance skin rejuvenation and save money on in-office treatments.

With such impressive benefits,somany beauty brands have released their own version of a light therapy device, making it a little more of a challenge to find ones that actually work and are worth the splurge.

To find the best light therapy devices, our PEOPLE Tested team conducted real-world testing on 14 masks and wands to find the devices that actually work some magic. And after eight weeks of testing, we landed on these top picks for the best light therapy devices you can use from the comfort of your home.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:Foreo UFO 2 at Amazon$199Jump to ReviewBest Wand:SolaWave Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand at Amazon$189Jump to ReviewBest Spot Treatment:Solawave Bye Acne Pimple Spot Treatment at Amazon$69Jump to ReviewBest Anti-Aging:CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask at Amazon$469Jump to ReviewBest Brightening:HigherDose Red Light Face Mask at Amazon$349Jump to ReviewBest for Acne:Therashield 3-in-1 Light Therapy Mask at Therashield.laJump to ReviewBest Face Massager:Therabody TheraFace Pro at Nordstrom$399Jump to ReviewBest Niacinamide Serum:Westman Atelier Skin Activator Serum with Hyaluronic Acid + Niacinamide at Amazon$189Jump to ReviewBest Face Oil:Acure Radically Rejuvenating Rose Argan Oil at Amazon$19Jump to ReviewBest Teeth Whitening Product:SALECrest 3D Sensitive Teeth Whitening Kit at Amazon$50$34Jump to Review

Best Overall:Foreo UFO 2 at Amazon$199Jump to ReviewBest Wand:SolaWave Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand at Amazon$189Jump to ReviewBest Spot Treatment:Solawave Bye Acne Pimple Spot Treatment at Amazon$69Jump to ReviewBest Anti-Aging:CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask at Amazon$469Jump to ReviewBest Brightening:HigherDose Red Light Face Mask at Amazon$349Jump to ReviewBest for Acne:Therashield 3-in-1 Light Therapy Mask at Therashield.laJump to ReviewBest Face Massager:Therabody TheraFace Pro at Nordstrom$399Jump to ReviewBest Niacinamide Serum:Westman Atelier Skin Activator Serum with Hyaluronic Acid + Niacinamide at Amazon$189Jump to ReviewBest Face Oil:Acure Radically Rejuvenating Rose Argan Oil at Amazon$19Jump to ReviewBest Teeth Whitening Product:SALECrest 3D Sensitive Teeth Whitening Kit at Amazon$50$34Jump to Review

Best Overall:Foreo UFO 2 at Amazon$199Jump to Review

Best Overall:Foreo UFO 2 at Amazon$199

Best Overall:

Best Wand:SolaWave Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand at Amazon$189Jump to Review

Best Wand:SolaWave Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand at Amazon$189

Best Wand:

Best Spot Treatment:Solawave Bye Acne Pimple Spot Treatment at Amazon$69Jump to Review

Best Spot Treatment:Solawave Bye Acne Pimple Spot Treatment at Amazon$69

Best Spot Treatment:

Best Anti-Aging:CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask at Amazon$469Jump to Review

Best Anti-Aging:CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask at Amazon$469

Best Anti-Aging:

Best Brightening:HigherDose Red Light Face Mask at Amazon$349Jump to Review

Best Brightening:HigherDose Red Light Face Mask at Amazon$349

Best Brightening:

Best for Acne:Therashield 3-in-1 Light Therapy Mask at Therashield.laJump to Review

Best for Acne:Therashield 3-in-1 Light Therapy Mask at Therashield.la

Best for Acne:

Best Face Massager:Therabody TheraFace Pro at Nordstrom$399Jump to Review

Best Face Massager:Therabody TheraFace Pro at Nordstrom$399

Best Face Massager:

Best Niacinamide Serum:Westman Atelier Skin Activator Serum with Hyaluronic Acid + Niacinamide at Amazon$189Jump to Review

Best Niacinamide Serum:Westman Atelier Skin Activator Serum with Hyaluronic Acid + Niacinamide at Amazon$189

Best Niacinamide Serum:

Best Face Oil:Acure Radically Rejuvenating Rose Argan Oil at Amazon$19Jump to Review

Best Face Oil:Acure Radically Rejuvenating Rose Argan Oil at Amazon$19

Best Face Oil:

Best Teeth Whitening Product:SALECrest 3D Sensitive Teeth Whitening Kit at Amazon$50$34Jump to Review

Best Teeth Whitening Product:SALECrest 3D Sensitive Teeth Whitening Kit at Amazon$50$34

Best Teeth Whitening Product:

SALE

Best OverallForeo UFO 2PHOTO: Sephora$199 at Amazon$299 at UltaView on Foreo.comOur RatingsEffectiveness5/5Design4.8/5Skin Texture5/5Value5/5

Best OverallForeo UFO 2

Best Overall

Foreo UFO 2

PHOTO: Sephora

$199 at Amazon$299 at UltaView on Foreo.com

Our RatingsEffectiveness5/5Design4.8/5Skin Texture5/5Value5/5

Our Ratings

Effectiveness

5/5

Design

4.8/5

Skin Texture

Value

Star QualitiesCalms inflammation and puffinessBeginner-friendly and easy to useLong-lasting batteryRed FlagsRequires purchasing additional products to useNot hands-free

Star QualitiesCalms inflammation and puffinessBeginner-friendly and easy to useLong-lasting battery

Calms inflammation and puffiness

Beginner-friendly and easy to use

Long-lasting battery

Red FlagsRequires purchasing additional products to useNot hands-free

Requires purchasing additional products to use

Not hands-free

This device uses red and blue light therapy and is designed to activate the brand’s face masks, so in addition to the device, you also have to make sure to purchase theForeo UFO-activated masksto see results. While we wish you didn’t have to purchase additional products to reap the benefits of the light therapy device, we appreciate the overall luxe and salon-worthy experience — it seriously felt like having a professional facial at home.

What We Think Now

Recommended Use:1-2 times per week when masking |Device Type:Handheld |Light Colors:Blue, red |Wavelength:463nm (blue), 627nm (red)

PHOTO: People / Joy KimPHOTO: People / Joy KimPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best WandSolaWave Radiant Renewal Skincare WandPHOTO: Amazon$189 at Amazon$169 at Nordstrom$169 at UltaOur RatingsEffectiveness4/5Design4.7/5Skin Texture4/5Value5/5Star QualitiesSuper small and perfect for travelSimple to use and only requires 5-minute treatmentsDark spots appeared lighter after useRed FlagsNot hands-freeWe didn’t see any improvements in our skin’s textureThe best LED therapy wand is, without a doubt, the SolaWave 4-in-1 Skincare Wand. This tiny LED facial device utilizes the benefits of red light therapy to target signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles. It also works tolift and tone the skin, lighten dark spots, and can even help make the skin look less puffy.When testing this device, we found the compact size super convenient and the technology easy to use. We also love how you don’t have to commit to spending a ton of time with this wand since you only need around five minutes per day.Associate shopping editorial director Erin Johnson personallytested out the Solawaveand raved about the skin-brightening effects. “TheSolawave sitepromises results in two to four weeks, but my skin looked noticeably better in less than two weeks, and when I use the wand now, the results are immediate,” Johnson says.Although we didn’t see any noteworthy improvements in our skin’s texture, we did notice that after the testing period, our dark spots appeared lighter. Additionally, our skin appeared more radiant with regular use.What We Think NowWe have been using the SolaWave Skincare Wand one to two times per week over the past six months and have noticed that our skin looks and feels less puffy overall. We love how easy and convenient the device is to use and that it only requires a few minutes per day to reap the red light benefits. We also appreciate that it’s the most portable of all the options we tested, making it easy to integrate into our daily routine.Recommended Use:5 minutes per day |Device Type:Wand |Light Colors:Red |Wavelength:660nmPHOTO: People / Joy KimPHOTO: People / Joy KimPHOTO: People / Joy Kim

Best WandSolaWave Radiant Renewal Skincare WandPHOTO: Amazon$189 at Amazon$169 at Nordstrom$169 at UltaOur RatingsEffectiveness4/5Design4.7/5Skin Texture4/5Value5/5

Best WandSolaWave Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand

Best Wand

SolaWave Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand

PHOTO: Amazon

$189 at Amazon$169 at Nordstrom$169 at Ulta

Our RatingsEffectiveness4/5Design4.7/5Skin Texture4/5Value5/5

4/5

4.7/5

Star QualitiesSuper small and perfect for travelSimple to use and only requires 5-minute treatmentsDark spots appeared lighter after useRed FlagsNot hands-freeWe didn’t see any improvements in our skin’s texture

Star QualitiesSuper small and perfect for travelSimple to use and only requires 5-minute treatmentsDark spots appeared lighter after use

Super small and perfect for travel

Simple to use and only requires 5-minute treatments

Dark spots appeared lighter after use

Red FlagsNot hands-freeWe didn’t see any improvements in our skin’s texture

We didn’t see any improvements in our skin’s texture

The best LED therapy wand is, without a doubt, the SolaWave 4-in-1 Skincare Wand. This tiny LED facial device utilizes the benefits of red light therapy to target signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles. It also works tolift and tone the skin, lighten dark spots, and can even help make the skin look less puffy.

When testing this device, we found the compact size super convenient and the technology easy to use. We also love how you don’t have to commit to spending a ton of time with this wand since you only need around five minutes per day.

Associate shopping editorial director Erin Johnson personallytested out the Solawaveand raved about the skin-brightening effects. “TheSolawave sitepromises results in two to four weeks, but my skin looked noticeably better in less than two weeks, and when I use the wand now, the results are immediate,” Johnson says.

Although we didn’t see any noteworthy improvements in our skin’s texture, we did notice that after the testing period, our dark spots appeared lighter. Additionally, our skin appeared more radiant with regular use.

What We Think NowWe have been using the SolaWave Skincare Wand one to two times per week over the past six months and have noticed that our skin looks and feels less puffy overall. We love how easy and convenient the device is to use and that it only requires a few minutes per day to reap the red light benefits. We also appreciate that it’s the most portable of all the options we tested, making it easy to integrate into our daily routine.

We have been using the SolaWave Skincare Wand one to two times per week over the past six months and have noticed that our skin looks and feels less puffy overall. We love how easy and convenient the device is to use and that it only requires a few minutes per day to reap the red light benefits. We also appreciate that it’s the most portable of all the options we tested, making it easy to integrate into our daily routine.

Recommended Use:5 minutes per day |Device Type:Wand |Light Colors:Red |Wavelength:660nm

PHOTO: People / Joy KimPHOTO: People / Joy KimPHOTO: People / Joy Kim

Best Spot TreatmentSolawave Bye Acne Pimple Spot TreatmentPHOTO: Ulta$69 at Amazon$69 at Nordstrom$69 at UltaOur RatingsEffectiveness4.7/5Design4/5Skin Texture5/5Value4/5

Best Spot TreatmentSolawave Bye Acne Pimple Spot Treatment

Best Spot Treatment

Solawave Bye Acne Pimple Spot Treatment

PHOTO: Ulta

$69 at Amazon$69 at Nordstrom$69 at Ulta

Our RatingsEffectiveness4.7/5Design4/5Skin Texture5/5Value4/5

Star QualitiesReduced our blemishesCompact sizeVery easy to useRed FlagsA little expensiveNot designed to use on entire face

Star QualitiesReduced our blemishesCompact sizeVery easy to use

Reduced our blemishes

Compact size

Very easy to use

Red FlagsA little expensiveNot designed to use on entire face

A little expensive

Not designed to use on entire face

The wand utilizes the bacteria-fighting benefits of blue light along with the inflammation-reducing results of red light to target and treat pimples. It only takes around three minutes per treatment, a few times per week, and quickly reduces breakouts with regular use.

Recommended Use:3 minutes per day |Device Type:Handheld |Light Colors:Red, blue |Wavelength:415nm (blue), 630nm (red)

PHOTO: People / Joy KimPHOTO: People / Joy KimPHOTO: People / Joy KimPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best Anti-AgingCurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy MaskPHOTO: Current Body$469 at Amazon$469 at Currentbody.comOur RatingsEffectiveness3.7/5Design4.7/5Skin Texture4/5Value3.5/5

Best Anti-AgingCurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask

Best Anti-Aging

CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask

PHOTO: Current Body

$469 at Amazon$469 at Currentbody.com

Our RatingsEffectiveness3.7/5Design4.7/5Skin Texture4/5Value3.5/5

3.7/5

3.5/5

Star QualitiesEasy to useFlexible silicone material makes it comfortable to wearFeatures automatic timerRed FlagsExpensiveNot very secure

Star QualitiesEasy to useFlexible silicone material makes it comfortable to wearFeatures automatic timer

Easy to use

Flexible silicone material makes it comfortable to wear

Features automatic timer

Red FlagsExpensiveNot very secure

Expensive

Not very secure

The CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask claims to be “31 percent more powerful than any other LED mask” on the market. Based on our results after testing it out for ourselves, we believe the hype.After wearing the mask for just 10 minutes a day, our skin looked brighter, firmer, and all-around glowier. We even noticed a reduction in the number of breakouts we usually experience.

We found the mask to be very comfortable to wear, although the straps around the back of the mask weren’t the most secure, so it works best when sitting still. The wide surface area of the mask covered our whole face, and the mouth and nose holes allowed us to breathe comfortably. Since the automatically-timed red light sessions last for just 10 minutes at a time, we think it’s worth it to sit down, relax, and use the mask for a few peaceful minutes to achieve a youthful, healthy glow.

Recommended Use:10 minutes per day, 5 days per week |Device Type:Mask |Light Colors:Red, near-infrared |Wavelength:633nm (red), 830nm (near-infrared)

PHOTO: People / Joy KimPHOTO: People / Joy KimPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best BrighteningHigherDose Red Light Face MaskPHOTO: Revolve$349 at AmazonView on Fwrd.com$349 at RevolveOur RatingsEffectiveness4.3/5Design4.5/5Skin Texture4.7/5Value2/5

Best BrighteningHigherDose Red Light Face Mask

Best Brightening

HigherDose Red Light Face Mask

PHOTO: Revolve

$349 at AmazonView on Fwrd.com$349 at Revolve

Our RatingsEffectiveness4.3/5Design4.5/5Skin Texture4.7/5Value2/5

4.3/5

4.5/5

2/5

Star QualitiesFlexible medical-grade silicone material is comfortable to wearCordless designWith regular use, it gives skin a healthy-looking glowRed FlagsExpensive

Star QualitiesFlexible medical-grade silicone material is comfortable to wearCordless designWith regular use, it gives skin a healthy-looking glow

Flexible medical-grade silicone material is comfortable to wear

Cordless design

With regular use, it gives skin a healthy-looking glow

Red FlagsExpensive

Albeit on the expensive side, we found that this mask is highly functional and worth the splurge thanks to the hands-free design that allows you to move around and even partake in some light exercise or meditation. The red light glow didn’t irritate our skin either, but it does make it a little hard to see, so we recommend using this while relaxing in bed or on the couch rather than wearing it while sitting in front of your computer.

Recommended Use:10 minutes per day, 3-5 times per week |Device Type:Mask |Light Colors:Red |Wavelength:630 nm

PHOTO: People / Joy KimPHOTO: People / Jhett ThompsonPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best for AcneTherashield 3-in-1 Light Therapy MaskPHOTO: TherashieldView on Therashield.laOur RatingsEffectiveness4.5/5Design4.6/5Skin Texture4.7/5Value3/5Star QualitiesComes with three different light therapy colorsWith regular use, it got rid of our blemishesSuper easy to useRed FlagsPlastic mask can feel a little uncomfortable to wearMay not cover the whole faceWhen testing the Therashield 3-in-1 Light Therapy Mask, we originally tried it out tofade dark spotsbut quickly discovered that it actually works extremelywell on blemishes.With regular daily use, the mask completely got rid of our breakouts. The light therapy mask features three colors — red, amber, and blue — for different benefits, including promoting tissue repair, diminishing redness, and preventing (and targeting) breakouts, respectively.Overall, the mask is easy to use and attached to the face like sunglasses, so you don’t have to worry about straps. Toggling back and forth through the different colored lights is also simple enough for beginners. While we found the plastic mask to be a bit uncomfortable for long periods of time (especially when sitting up), it’s definitely doable while lying down and relaxing.What We Think NowWe have integrated this mask into our nightly routine about four days per week for 15 minutes each over the past six months. The jury is still out on how effective this mask is at reducing inflammation, as we haven’t noticed a huge difference in our complexion. Overall, we wish the mask was brighter and that the battery lasted longer (we have to charge it weekly, if not more).Recommended Use:Two 15-minute sessions per day |Device Type:Mask |Light Colors:Red, amber, blue |Wavelength:620nm to 750nm (red), 590nm to 620nm (amber), 435nm to 500nm (blue)PHOTO: People / Joy KimPHOTO: People / Joy KimPHOTO: People / Joy KimPHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson

Best for AcneTherashield 3-in-1 Light Therapy MaskPHOTO: TherashieldView on Therashield.laOur RatingsEffectiveness4.5/5Design4.6/5Skin Texture4.7/5Value3/5

Best for AcneTherashield 3-in-1 Light Therapy Mask

Best for Acne

Therashield 3-in-1 Light Therapy Mask

PHOTO: Therashield

View on Therashield.la

Our RatingsEffectiveness4.5/5Design4.6/5Skin Texture4.7/5Value3/5

4.6/5

3/5

Star QualitiesComes with three different light therapy colorsWith regular use, it got rid of our blemishesSuper easy to useRed FlagsPlastic mask can feel a little uncomfortable to wearMay not cover the whole face

Star QualitiesComes with three different light therapy colorsWith regular use, it got rid of our blemishesSuper easy to use

Comes with three different light therapy colors

With regular use, it got rid of our blemishes

Super easy to use

Red FlagsPlastic mask can feel a little uncomfortable to wearMay not cover the whole face

Plastic mask can feel a little uncomfortable to wear

May not cover the whole face

When testing the Therashield 3-in-1 Light Therapy Mask, we originally tried it out tofade dark spotsbut quickly discovered that it actually works extremelywell on blemishes.With regular daily use, the mask completely got rid of our breakouts. The light therapy mask features three colors — red, amber, and blue — for different benefits, including promoting tissue repair, diminishing redness, and preventing (and targeting) breakouts, respectively.

Overall, the mask is easy to use and attached to the face like sunglasses, so you don’t have to worry about straps. Toggling back and forth through the different colored lights is also simple enough for beginners. While we found the plastic mask to be a bit uncomfortable for long periods of time (especially when sitting up), it’s definitely doable while lying down and relaxing.

What We Think NowWe have integrated this mask into our nightly routine about four days per week for 15 minutes each over the past six months. The jury is still out on how effective this mask is at reducing inflammation, as we haven’t noticed a huge difference in our complexion. Overall, we wish the mask was brighter and that the battery lasted longer (we have to charge it weekly, if not more).

We have integrated this mask into our nightly routine about four days per week for 15 minutes each over the past six months. The jury is still out on how effective this mask is at reducing inflammation, as we haven’t noticed a huge difference in our complexion. Overall, we wish the mask was brighter and that the battery lasted longer (we have to charge it weekly, if not more).

Recommended Use:Two 15-minute sessions per day |Device Type:Mask |Light Colors:Red, amber, blue |Wavelength:620nm to 750nm (red), 590nm to 620nm (amber), 435nm to 500nm (blue)

Best Face MassagerTherabody TheraFace ProPHOTO: Therabody$399 at Nordstrom$399 at DermstoreView on Therabody.comOur RatingsEase of Use5/5Performance/Effectiveness5/5Features5/5Overall Look5/5Star QualitiesRed, blue, and infrared therapy is totally customizablePercussive massage helps relax facial tensionMade our skin look brighterRed FlagsDidn’t make a difference in skin textureMassaging heads can unclick from device with too much pressureNot only does the TheraFace handheld device provide red light benefits, but it also offers percussive massage and three different kinds of LED light therapy. The treatment is totally customizable — you can choose from red, blue, and infrared light therapy and cycle through three increasingly strong percussive massage levels to suit your taste. The device also comes with a few different massaging heads that are easy to click on and off, and the percussive massage is gentle yet powerful enough to help us relax jaw tension from TMJ and generally relax our facial muscles.While our skin appeared brighter at the end of the test, we didn’t notice much difference in the texture. We also noticed that the magnetic massaging tips would sometimes come unclicked from the device when we used too much pressure, but that could also be a user error.Recommended Use:8 minutes per day |Device Type:Handheld |Light Colors:Red, blue, infrared |Wavelength:Not listedPHOTO: People / Brian SanfordPHOTO: People / Brian Sanford

Best Face MassagerTherabody TheraFace ProPHOTO: Therabody$399 at Nordstrom$399 at DermstoreView on Therabody.comOur RatingsEase of Use5/5Performance/Effectiveness5/5Features5/5Overall Look5/5

Best Face MassagerTherabody TheraFace Pro

Best Face Massager

Therabody TheraFace Pro

PHOTO: Therabody

$399 at Nordstrom$399 at DermstoreView on Therabody.com

Our RatingsEase of Use5/5Performance/Effectiveness5/5Features5/5Overall Look5/5

Ease of Use

Performance/Effectiveness

Features

Overall Look

Star QualitiesRed, blue, and infrared therapy is totally customizablePercussive massage helps relax facial tensionMade our skin look brighterRed FlagsDidn’t make a difference in skin textureMassaging heads can unclick from device with too much pressure

Star QualitiesRed, blue, and infrared therapy is totally customizablePercussive massage helps relax facial tensionMade our skin look brighter

Red, blue, and infrared therapy is totally customizable

Percussive massage helps relax facial tension

Made our skin look brighter

Red FlagsDidn’t make a difference in skin textureMassaging heads can unclick from device with too much pressure

Didn’t make a difference in skin texture

Massaging heads can unclick from device with too much pressure

Not only does the TheraFace handheld device provide red light benefits, but it also offers percussive massage and three different kinds of LED light therapy. The treatment is totally customizable — you can choose from red, blue, and infrared light therapy and cycle through three increasingly strong percussive massage levels to suit your taste. The device also comes with a few different massaging heads that are easy to click on and off, and the percussive massage is gentle yet powerful enough to help us relax jaw tension from TMJ and generally relax our facial muscles.

While our skin appeared brighter at the end of the test, we didn’t notice much difference in the texture. We also noticed that the magnetic massaging tips would sometimes come unclicked from the device when we used too much pressure, but that could also be a user error.

Recommended Use:8 minutes per day |Device Type:Handheld |Light Colors:Red, blue, infrared |Wavelength:Not listed

PHOTO: People / Brian SanfordPHOTO: People / Brian Sanford

Westman Atelier Skin Activator Serum with Hyaluronic Acid + Niacinamide$189 at Amazon$125 at Nordstrom$125 at SephoraAcure Radically Rejuvenating Rose Argan Oil$19$17 at Amazon$19 at IHerbView on Acure.comCrest 3D Sensitive Teeth Whitening Kit$50$34 at AmazonView on Target$32 at WalmartHyper Skin Hyper Even Vitamin C Serum$80 at Amazon$36 at Sephora$58 at Revolve

Westman Atelier Skin Activator Serum with Hyaluronic Acid + Niacinamide$189 at Amazon$125 at Nordstrom$125 at Sephora

Westman Atelier Skin Activator Serum with Hyaluronic Acid + Niacinamide

$189 at Amazon$125 at Nordstrom$125 at Sephora

Acure Radically Rejuvenating Rose Argan Oil$19$17 at Amazon$19 at IHerbView on Acure.com

Acure Radically Rejuvenating Rose Argan Oil

$19$17 at Amazon$19 at IHerbView on Acure.com

Crest 3D Sensitive Teeth Whitening Kit$50$34 at AmazonView on Target$32 at Walmart

Crest 3D Sensitive Teeth Whitening Kit

$50$34 at AmazonView on Target$32 at Walmart

Hyper Skin Hyper Even Vitamin C Serum$80 at Amazon$36 at Sephora$58 at Revolve

Hyper Skin Hyper Even Vitamin C Serum

$80 at Amazon$36 at Sephora$58 at Revolve

Other Red Light Therapy Devices We Tried

People / Jhett Thompson

What to Know About Red Light Therapy Devices

Wavelength

“Probably the most important part of selecting a mask is the wavelength specificity,” says Moseley. When shopping for a light therapy mask, Moseley says the mask should explicitly list the wavelengths used and look for 415nm for blue light and between 630 and 680nm for red light. “Deviations from these specific wavelengths may result in suboptimal benefits.”

Just like when using amicrocurrent deviceto improve skin health, consistency and frequency are crucial when using red light therapy devices to achieve desired results. If you don’t have much time, a wand such as theSolaWave 4-in-1 Skincare Wand, which only requires five minutes per day, might be the best choice. For something that takes a little longer but is hands-free, consider theHigherDose Red Light Face Mask, which has a design made for multitasking and recommends a minimum of 10 minutes three to five days per week.

Skin Concerns

According toDr. Jeannette Graf, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, it’s also worth considering your skin concerns to determine which kind of light will benefit you the most. Many at-home light therapy devices utilize the benefits of red, blue, and amber light.

If you’re looking for a mask that features all three light therapies, we recommend theTherashield 3-in-1 Light Therapy Mask.

To find the best red light therapy devices for anti-aging, blemishes, and more, we first researched dozens of options before narrowing our list down to 12 top picks. From there, the PEOPLE Tested team spent eight weeks (over 390 hours!) trying out each device to see how they held up to manufacturers' claims and how well they worked at treating common skincare woes like blemishes, acne, fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, dullness, and more.

Frequently Asked QuestionsIf used correctly, Moseley says LED light therapy is generally considered safe with minimal side effects; however, there are some potential side effects worth considering. “Direct exposure to LED light can cause eye discomfort manifested as dryness, irritation, and strain, so it’s important to use appropriate eye protection if this is a concern,” says Moseley. Additionally, light therapy can cause headaches for those who are sensitive to light, and if light therapy is used late at night, Moseley notes that it can disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm.While you can’t necessarily “overdo” light therapy, it’s best to follow the manufacturer’s recommended usage to achieve the desired results. However, when first starting out, Dr. Graf says it’s worth limiting usage in the first few weeks. “When starting out with light therapy, try to use it in 10- to 15-minute sessions to see how your skin reacts, avoid any further irritation or adverse reactions, and gradually increase accordingly,” she explains.Regarding light wavelengths, most light therapy masks will have the same wavelengths regardless of price and, therefore, give you the same benefits. However, more expensive masks have additional perks worth considering. “Light therapy masks that are at a higher price point tend to have features that allow for more adjustments, such as treatment time, intensity, etc.,” says Dr. Graf. “They will also come with better safety features and will be more comfortable to wear and more durable over time.”

Frequently Asked Questions

If used correctly, Moseley says LED light therapy is generally considered safe with minimal side effects; however, there are some potential side effects worth considering. “Direct exposure to LED light can cause eye discomfort manifested as dryness, irritation, and strain, so it’s important to use appropriate eye protection if this is a concern,” says Moseley. Additionally, light therapy can cause headaches for those who are sensitive to light, and if light therapy is used late at night, Moseley notes that it can disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm.

While you can’t necessarily “overdo” light therapy, it’s best to follow the manufacturer’s recommended usage to achieve the desired results. However, when first starting out, Dr. Graf says it’s worth limiting usage in the first few weeks. “When starting out with light therapy, try to use it in 10- to 15-minute sessions to see how your skin reacts, avoid any further irritation or adverse reactions, and gradually increase accordingly,” she explains.

Regarding light wavelengths, most light therapy masks will have the same wavelengths regardless of price and, therefore, give you the same benefits. However, more expensive masks have additional perks worth considering. “Light therapy masks that are at a higher price point tend to have features that allow for more adjustments, such as treatment time, intensity, etc.,” says Dr. Graf. “They will also come with better safety features and will be more comfortable to wear and more durable over time.”

Jessie Quinnis a contributing writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, NYLON, and more. When covering the best light therapy devices, Jessie thoroughly reviewed the PEOPLE Tested team’s experiences to better understand which devices are worth the investment. She also connected with top skincare experts, including dermatologist Dr. Jeannette Graf, physician assistant Courtney Moseley, and dermatologist Dr. Loretta Ciraldo, to learn more about what to look for in red light therapy devices, their benefits, and whether or not the at-home treatments are worth it.

Our Expert PanelDr. Jeannette Grafis a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at theIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinaiin New York City.Courtney Moseleyis a board-certified physician assistant, award-winning aesthetic injector, and skincare consultant. Her practice,The Plastic PA, is based in Charlotte, N.C.Dr. Loretta Ciraldois a board-certified dermatologist with over 40 years of experience and the founder ofDr. Loretta Skincare.

Our Expert Panel

Dr. Jeannette Grafis a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at theIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinaiin New York City.Courtney Moseleyis a board-certified physician assistant, award-winning aesthetic injector, and skincare consultant. Her practice,The Plastic PA, is based in Charlotte, N.C.Dr. Loretta Ciraldois a board-certified dermatologist with over 40 years of experience and the founder ofDr. Loretta Skincare.

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source: people.com