I have been using an LED mask for around 5 years and I’m a complete convert.
It was first introduced to me by my skin clinic as a complimentary treatment after a facial. The aesthetician set the LED lamp and tucked me in with a cosy blanket for extra comfort, I remember her saying, “prepare to have skin that will make you look 18 again!” which caused a real giggle. Well, let me tell you she wasn’t far off.
The LED session was 20 mins of pure relaxation with a comforting warm feeling on my face. It felt as if my skin was receiving an age-busting light awakening my cells and producing the good stuff “collagen”. By the time the session had come to an end I felt completely relaxed and sleepy. The following morning my skin looked years younger and it was a day of unexpected compliments. Honestly, I am not joking!
I desperately wanted to create the same result without the £50 weekly price tag. So I started researching and learning everything about LED masks. I felt the science backed the promise and found one to buy within my budget.
That was 5 years ago and I have probably gone through one device per year since. On three occasions it was my fault they broke and I had a faulty one that was instantly replaced. My budget has always been around £50 – £100.
I use the face mask 3-4 times per week, after cleansing and application of a serum. The current model I have is to be used for 10 mins only. When I’m struggling to find that 10 mins I remind myself of the benefits and how my skin needs that TLC. It’s become the same as brushing my teeth, no matter how tired or stretched, it’s important to make time.
Using an LED mask regularly has certainly contributed to my fresh appearance and though I still have the occasional bad skin day I’m sure they are less frequent than without the mask.
We all have different amounts of disposable income and if having regular sessions at a professional clinic is doable, I would absolutely recommend booking a course as a salon LED machine is undoubtedly stronger than a mask that you use at home and the result will be heaps better.
Addicted to the glow!
Jo Clark
What is an LED mask and how does it work?
LED lights date back to the 1960s but have only been used as a skin treatment for around 20 years. Light-emitting diode (LED) masks emit visible wavelengths of blue to red light. This type of light therapy is used to penetrate deep into the skin and accelerate cell processes.
The red LED light is thought to act on cells in the skin known as fibreblasts, which play a role in the production of collagen (the good stuff). This is a protein that makes up a large part of connective tissue and helps the skin to recover when it’s harmed. Medical professionals believe that this light may help to reverse some of the signs of photoaging (primarily sun damage) in the skin.
Blue light is often used to treat acne as it’s thought it may kill acne-causing bacteria. The blue and red light can be used in combination to help fight acne as the red light also targets inflammation and redness. Yellow light is thought to be beneficial for healing.
How effective are LED masks?
In my opinion having used them for around 5 years I think they do make a difference. My skin looks healthy, clearer and I feel it has helped with my sun damage from nearly 20 years ago.
I believe however that you need to adopt other habits to achieve good skin. For example, I have a regimented skincare regime, drink lots of water and I have a skin treatment every couple of months. I’m not convinced that using an LED face mask alone would achieve the same results.
What I would say is that using an LED mask at home is a fraction of the intensity you would receive from a professional grade one at a clinic. That said, I still wouldn’t drop this from my skin regime.
Is it painful?
No.
Are there any risks?
They do not emit UV light, are non-invasive and safe to use however it is recommended to wear goggles whilst using.
Which one should I go for and what do I need to put on my face before using?
It’s always best to apply a vitamin C or hyaluronic acid serum for best results.
Do your research and read reviews to find one within your budget but to help, here are three that you might wish to consider:
Here are three that you might wish to consider:
Project E at Amazon
This one has 7 different colour options and is wireless which is more ideal.
I did have this but sadly it was dropped on my wooden flooring and broke.
Hangsung at Amazon
This is my current one I am using and has 3 different light features. I tend to mainly use the red light and it comes with goggles for your eyes.
Dr Dennis Gross at Selfridges
This is marketed as a medical grade LED Face mask and is on my wish list!
Really good information