Do LED Masks Really Work? Experts Weigh In

Light-Emitting Diode (LED) masks have taken the beauty world by storm, claiming clinical outcomes from the convenience of your home. But are they a real game-changer in skincare, or another passing trend? We spoke with two leading dermatologists, Dr Shefali Mahlawat, Department of Dermatology, NIIMS Medical College and Hospital, and Dr Himanshu Kumar, Dermatologist at Formulo, to demystify the science, advantages, and realistic expectations for these wearable light treatments.

What Are LED Masks And How Do They Function?

LED masks are wearable technology that uses varying wavelengths of light to provide particular benefits to the skin. The technology was originally used in wound healing and tissue repair prior to its cosmetic application.

As Dr Mahlawat notes, "Each light colour serves a specific purpose."

• Blue Light: It is used to target and destroy the P. acnes bacteria that cause acne breakouts.
• Red Light: Induces collagen production, decreases inflammation, and heals the skin.
• Near-Infrared Light: Penetrates deep inside the skin to enhance elasticity and repair damaged tissue.

Dr Kumar describes them as non-surgical devices that administer low-level light to induce skin repair and rejuvenation, usually with blue, red, yellow, green, or near-infrared light.

The Skin Benefits Of LED Masks

The main attraction of LED therapy is the fact that it can produce results with no pain or downtime.

Regular use can lead to fewer breakouts of acne, softening of fine lines, better skin texture, and even skin tone, according to Dr Mahlawat. She further states that red light treatment particularly enhances microcirculation, and the skin becomes firmer and plumper. LED therapy suits any skin type and can be safely added to other professional dermatologic treatments such as chemical peels.

Dr Kumar explains that clinical trials are evidenced behind these advantages with improvements in texture, pigmentation, and overall brightness through stimulation of collagen and tightening of the skin's elasticity. Their non-surgical nature makes them an easy option for daily home treatment.

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Limitations Of LED Masks

Even with the strong advantages, both doctors caution that LED masks are not magic machines and have definite restrictions.

Dr Mahlawat explains that outcomes are moderate and gradual and take regular use over several weeks. One of the main limitations is power: "Generally speaking, home devices do not have the same power as machines used in clinics, and their effect may be limited." So the outcomes will be modest compared to professional office treatments.

Dr Kumar concurs, noting that outcomes can be extremely variable based on device settings, the absence of standard treatment protocols, and variability of use. He further observes that long-term safety data are still limited.

In addition, these masks are not for everyone. You should not use them if you suffer from photosensitive skin disorders, light-induced migraines, or you are on photosensitising medications. Both experts also advise against substandard, unapproved masks which can lead to problems such as eye strain or slight burning.

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Key Things To Consider Before Purchase

Before spending money on an LED mask, adhering to professional advice is critical to guarantee both safety and efficacy.

Obtain Approval: Only choose an FDA-approved or dermatologist-approved device. This ensures the device is compliant with appropriate safety and quality standards.

Eyes Protection: Always use protective goggles if mask design allows light exposure to the eyes, particularly blue light.

Consistency Is the Key: Consistency and realistic expectations are the key. LED therapy is best applied as part of a full skincare plan, not as an isolated cure.

Skincare Prep: Wear the mask on clean, dry skin and always wear sunscreen during the day since treated skin will be slightly more sensitive.

Ultimately, although LED masks represent a promising, non-invasive addition to your skincare routine, they are a complement to, not a substitute for, professional treatment and a proper, thorough skincare regimen.

Image courtesy: Freepik

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