The 11 best red light therapy devices - from Solawave, Foreo and more

From collagen-boosting to acne-fighting, these tried-and-tested best red light therapy devices have our seal of approval

Three of the best red light therapy devices by Dr Dennis Gross, skin gym and Solwave
(Image credit: Future)
Best red light therapy devices: jump menu

The list in brief ↴
1.
Best overall: Dr Dennis Gross
2. Best value: Solawave
3. Best versatile: Unicskin
4. Best high-tech: MZ Skin
5. Best plumping: The Light Salon
6. Most convenient: Currentbody
7. Best for eyes: Dr Dennis Gross
8. Best for acne: Lightstim
9. Best for dryness: Foreo UFO 2
10. Best for rejuvenation: MZ Skin
How we test
FAQs

Red light therapy devices are in high demand. Previously only accessible via the dermatologist’s office, LED treatments can now be carried out at home thanks to a new breed of high-tech tools.

Promising a clearer and brighter compelexion when used alongside staples such as the best hyaluronic acid cerums or best vitamin C serums , many studies support the skin-boosting benefits of red-light therapy devices. “Red light stimulates the production of collagen and elastin to refine and strengthen the skin,” says Dr Maryam Zamani, a leading global facial aesthetics doctor and founder of MZ Skin. “It boosts luminosity through improved circulation, calms redness, evens skin tone, and plumps up the complexion.” 

At home, red LED can be combined with other light therapies such as blue and infrared for supercharged effects. Our guide spans a wide range of light options, price points, and skin concerns. We've also consulted with dermatology and skin professionals to answer all your red-light therapy FAQs – namely how to choose the right device for your needs and whether it's possible to overdo it.

The quick list

Best red light therapy device overall

The best red light therapy device overall is the Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite Dpl FaceWare Pro

(Image credit: Dr. Dennis Gross)

1. Dr. Dennis Gross DrX Skincare SpectraLite FaceWare Pro

Best red light therapy device overall

Specifications

RRP: £465
Type: Full mask
Target issues: Lines; redness; blemishes

Reasons to buy

+
Ideal for all skin types
+
Effective at addressing acne concerns
+
Also recommended for full-face wrinkles

Reasons to avoid

-
Slippery attachment strap

We found this to be the top performer of any red light therapy device we tried – one that very much justifies its price tag. This three-minute-long LED procedure targets a large range of skincare concerns: wrinkles, fine lines, blemishes, and dark circles, to name just a few. Dr Dennis Gross boasts a patented design that contours to the face and specifically targets areas in need. With red light to support natural collagen and elastin production and blue light to help get rid of acne and redness, this mask truly packs a punch. 

After testing, we would recommend starting with a dry and freshly cleansed face. Use the adjustable strap to place the mask on your face, which we noticed slipped a little during the treatment. Then let the red light and blue light combination therapy do its thing until the timer goes off. After, we followed up with one of the best vitamin C serums to boost brightness further. Expect an improvement in circulation and brightness within 12 weeks.

Our Dr. Dennis Gross DrX Skincare SpectraLite FaceWare Pro review has the full details.

Best value red light therapy device

Best red light therapy device from Solawave

(Image credit: Solawave)

2. Solawave Skincare Wand with Red Light Therapy

Best value red light therapy device

Specifications

RRP: £150
Type: Wand
Target issues: Wrinkles, fine lines, dark circles, blemishes, and dark spots

Reasons to buy

+
Multi-tasking device 
+
Portable and rechargeable 
+
Impressive results 

Reasons to avoid

-
Requires you to move the device

Although this device looks like a razor, it is a four-in-one skincare tool that combines red light therapy with therapeutic warmth, facial massage, and microcurrent to brighten and smooth skin. Intrigued? Us too! Let us break it down for you – the four technologies get to work together to tackle myriad skincare concerns in as little as 5 minutes per day, three times a week. 

All we had to do was move the device around our face in upward and outward motions. The microcurrent stimulates the muscles to boost firmness. Red light therapy reduces the appearance of fine lines and sun damage by boosting collagen production. Low vibrations provide a very pleasant, gentle massage to help take down puffiness. We particularly loved the warming head, which helped reduce redness and gave the device the ultimate feel-good factor. It's super lightweight and a total joy to use, and would make a worthy investment for anyone who likes to do a facial at home. As for results, expect brighter, plumper and smoother skin after a few weeks of use. 

Our Solawave review has the full details.

The best red light therapy device for different modes

Unicskin LED mask is the best red light therapy device for different modes

(Image credit: Unicskin)

3. Unicskin UnicLED Korean Mask

The best red light therapy device for different modes

Specifications

RRP: £315
Type: Mask
Target issues: wrinkles, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, acne, sebum regulation, redness, sagging and inflammation

Reasons to buy

+
Seven different colour modes
+
Results can be seen after three sessions
+
Brightens and smooths skin

Reasons to avoid

-
Has to be plugged in while wearing
-
Low stock levels make this device harder to buy than others on this list

If you’re after an LED mask that tackles every major skincare concern going, this is the one for you. With seven (yes, seven) different light modes, the device tackles wrinkles, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, melasma, acne, sebum regulation, redness, inflammation, and sagging. So, how does it work? Despite sounding complicated, we found it incredibly easy. Plug the mask in, set your preferred time and intensity (intensity level varies from 1-5), pick your colour (choose from red, blue, green, purple, yellow, aqua blue, and white), then sit back and relax. 

It does have to be plugged in while wearing so we found it slightly less convenient than some others on the list, but it's comfortable to wear and sometimes it's nice to have an excuse to just kick back and relax. The best thing about this mask is that you can create a bespoke treatment depending on your skincare needs. For instance, if you want to treat pigmentation and acne, try the green light for 15 minutes followed by the blue light for 15 minutes. Clever!

Best high-tech red light therapy device

Best red light therapy device from MZ Skin

(Image credit: MZ Skin)

4. MZ Skin LED 2.0 LightMAX Supercharged LED Mask

Best high-tech red light therapy device

Specifications

RRP: £545
Type: Mask
Target issues: Skin lines, blemishes, collagen, inflammation

Reasons to buy

+
Soft silicone contours to your face
+
Reduces wrinkle depth and treats acne 
+
Portable so you can bring it anywhere

Reasons to avoid

-
It's expensive
-
Not as widely available as other red light therapy devices on this list

Dr Maryam Zamani is back with a brand-new LED face mask that looks - and feels -the part. Crafted from patented, medical-grade soft silicone in a millennial pink shade, this device molds to the contours of your face, a little like the best face masks, for a comfortable, sleek aesthetic. Looks aside, it’s also portable so we found we could pop it on and get on with our day uninterrupted. As for technology, it boasts two LED light modes: Anti-aging (using infrared and red light therapy) and Acne (combining red light and blue light therapy). 

Simply slip the mask on, adjust the strap at the back and select your chosen mode to begin your 10–30 minute treatment. Designed to rival the power of the tools used in-clinic, this mask delivers impressive results. Clinical trials revealed that in just four weeks, wrinkle depth was reduced by 36% and collagen fibers increased in just two weeks. Impressive, huh? We noticed a brighter, healthier-looking complexion almost immediately.

Best plumping red light therapy device

Best red light therapy device from The Light Salon

(Image credit: The Light Salon)

5. The Light Salon Boost LED Face Mask

The best plumping red light therapy device

Specifications

RRP: £395
Type: Mask
Target issues: Skin tone, fine lines, wrinkles and hydration

Reasons to buy

+
Lightweight silicone material
+
Combines red and near-infrared light
+
Works in 10 minutes

Reasons to avoid

-
Adjustable strap is a little fiddly 

If you haven’t had a chance to visit The Light Salon in real life, we suggest rectifying that pronto. Situated in department stores across the UK, the station boasts an impressive menu of LED treatments from The Blue to fight acne to The Full-Body Signature for top-to-toe results. If, however, you can’t book in - invest in their at-home alternative instead. The Boost LED Face Mask delivers 10-minute treatments of near-infrared and red light to soften fine lines, calm inflammation, and plump up the skin. 

For best results, the brand recommends wearing the mask three times a week, over the course of four weeks. According to clinical trials, wrinkle depth is reduced by 36% in four weeks. We found that it’s super comfortable to wear with its soft silicone shell and adjustable straps. It’s also portable and boasts an impressive 5000 hours of use. If you’re a frequent flyer, this is a great choice as it can be laid out entirely flat in the protective bag and will rehydrate skin post-flight. Big tick!

Most convenient red light therapy device

Current Body Skin LED Mask is an A-list-approved red light therapy mask

(Image credit: Current Body)

6. CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask

The most convenient red light therapy device

Specifications

RRP: £299
Type: Mask
Target issues: Texture, firmness, lines, inflammation

Reasons to buy

+
Very flexible and comfortable
+
Can be used with hydrating masks
+
A-list approved

Reasons to avoid

-
Pricier than some other models

Not only is the CurrentBody Skin LED Mask one of the most comfortable red light therapy devices we have tried, but it's also the quickest to use and easiest to store. This comes down to its unique flexible silicone material, which hugs the face so you can sit up and pop it on for the required ten minutes while you watch television. The grippy material also ensures that the red and near-infra-red LED lights can reach and evenly penetrate every contour of your complexion. 

A combination of two light types boost collagen production and calms skin for long-term effects, but also revs up circulation so you get instant radiance. You can opt to use a hydrating hydrogel mask underneath for extra glow, or simply apply it after your best cleanser and before your best face moisturizer. Aside from a sizeable initial investment (as all LED masks generally involve), this mask ticks all our boxes. No wonder it won a woman&home Beauty Award and is loved by stars including Carey Mulligan. 

Best red light therapy device for the eyes

The best red light therapy device for eyes is the Dr Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite EyeCare Pro

(Image credit: Dr Dennis Gross)

7. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite EyeCare Pro

Best red light therapy device for the eyes

Specifications

RRP: £175
Type: Hands-free glasses
Target issues: Dark circles; lines; crows feet

Reasons to buy

+
Full-spectrum of age-defying wavelengths
+
Targets crows feet and 'eleven' lines 
+
 Short application time

Reasons to avoid

-
Only targets eye area

This hands-free light therapy device is specifically built to target the eye area - including crow’s feet, eleven lines and general loss of elasticity in the skin around the eye area that comes with age. It is ideal for those with general skin texture and laxity concerns, as well as anyone dealing with dark circles, dullness, or fine lines overall. For those looking to supplement the best eye cream in their arsenal with a bit of tech, commit to daily use of this device and see a noticeable difference in a few weeks. 

In a 10-week daily-use clinical study, 97% of subjects showed visible improvement. We can get on board with those odds. The adjustable strap that stretches around the back of the head ensures this device is comfortable for heads of all sizes. And as with all beauty regimens and products, the more consistent you are, the better your results will be. In just two weeks of daily use, we noticed the eye area looked brighter, smoother and somewhat firmer - we're impressed. 

Best red light therapy device for acne

LightStim for Acne LED Light Therapy Device is the best red light therapy device for preventing new blemishes

(Image credit: LightSim)

8. LightStim for Acne

Best red light therapy device for acne

Specifications

RRP: £150
Type: Handheld wand
Target issues: Acne; redness

Reasons to buy

+
Good for all skin types
+
Alternative and effective way to target acne
+
Addresses existing acne while preventing new blemishes 

Reasons to avoid

-
Targets bacteria rather than collagen
-
Can be tricky to get hold of

Due to hormonal changes and external stressors, acne can be a problem at any stage of life. And it doesn’t ever seem to get any less frustrating, despite our best efforts at following a skincare routine for acne to a T. Instead of investing in another topical acne treatment, consider a red light therapy device specifically designed to target both existing acne and new underlying blemishes threatening to pop up. 

The LightStim for Acne is our top red light therapy device pick for acne-prone skin. Utilizing multiple wavelengths of red light, this device uses a mix of blue light to combat acne-causing bacteria and red light to soothe redness and inflammation. The 3-minute built-in timer will let you know when your session is up to ensure you reap all the benefits without going overboard. After testing this device for one week, we saw a marked improvement in the appearance of dark spots and existing blemishes. 

Best red light therapy device for dryness

FOREO UFO Mini 2 is one of the best red light therapy devices if you have dry skin

(Image credit: Foreo)

9. Foreo UFO 2

Best red light therapy device for dryness

Specifications

RRP: £168
Type: Handheld orb
Target issues: Dryness; fine lines

Reasons to buy

+
Heats, cools, and pulsates 
+
Compact and easy to use
+
Does away with sticky hands post-mask application

Reasons to avoid

-
Doesn't hold a long charge

Using ultra-fast heating, cooling, pulsations, and full-spectrum LED lights, the famous Foreo UFO 2 Smart Mask is a multi-tasking wonder. It starts by warming and prepping the skin before cooling and lifting to add firmness and reduce puffiness. We found this combination of temperatures felt both relaxing and refreshing and was one of the most enjoyable experiences we had throughout our testing. 

Using the FOREO For You app, we synced the mask to our phone using a unique barcode to activate the red light therapy. Talk about futuristic skincare. Oh, and the best part? This device ensures every last drop of essence is well spent on our faces, as opposed to ending up on our hands. Women of all ages have taken the leap and purchased this more expensive red light therapy mask because it actually delivers on its promises. Great for those of us who seek skincare for dry skin, our skin felt plumper after just four weeks of use. 

The best red light therapy device for multifaceted rejuvenation

MZ SKIN Light Therapy Golden Facial Treatment Device is a red light therapy device that utilizes four led wavelengths

(Image credit: MZ Skin)

10. MZ SKIN Light Therapy Golden Facial Treatment Device

The best red light therapy device for multifaceted rejuvenation

Specifications

RRP: £390
Type: Mask
Target issues: Skin texture, lines, collagen, inflammation

Reasons to buy

+
Combined four LED wavelengths
+
Comfortable, no need to lie down
+
Slick and visually appealing

Reasons to avoid

-
While not the most expensive device on this list, this product is still a pricy investment

The MZ Skin Light-Therapy Golden Facial Treatment Device has visual appeal in abundance. It's hard to make skincare tech look desirable but you could display this slick gold-toned mask on a shelf, should you wish. The red light therapy device isn't just a pretty face. It's been created by a highly respected Aesthetic Doctor and Oculoplastic Surgeon, Dr Maryam Zamani, and combines not one but four LED wavelengths (red, blue, green, and yellow) to achieve results on skin texture, tone, and firmness in one hit. 

You only need to wear it for ten minutes per day, a couple of times a week at first, then build up to longer 30-minute sessions over time. Unlike some LED masks, this fits securely to the face, thanks to a robust adjustable strap at the back. While it's not the cheapest red light therapy device on our list, it's far from the priciest either. And given its medical pedigree, multitasking results, and user-friendly feel—it is a great investment in your skin. We're hooked!

Best handheld red light therapy device

Best red light therapy device from Skin Gym

(Image credit: Skin Gym)

11. Skin Gym Revilit LED Therapy Tool

Best handheld red light therapy device

Specifications

RRP: £79
Type: Handheld device
Target issues : blemishes, redness, fine lines and pigmentation

Reasons to buy

+
Reasonable price point
+
Choice of three colour modes
+
Wireless tool 

Reasons to avoid

-
Requires you to move the device

While this red-light therapy device is one of the more affordable options on the market, it truly delivers on results. Simple and chic, the millennial pink tool features three different colour modes to tackle various skincare concerns. Blue is ideal for treating blemishes while green can calm inflammation and improve the appearance of pigmentation. Then there’s red – the ultimate collagen-boosting light to soften fine lines. To select or change the colour mode, you simply press the pink button positioned on the handle. 

As with many of the other devices listed here, this tool allows you to customize your experience for a bespoke treatment. For example, if you want to soften fine lines on your forehead – apply the red light for three minutes. Chin breaking out? Opt for the blue light and again, hold it there for three minutes. We found that this device does require a little more arm work than a face mask design (there’s no sitting back and relaxing), but the results speak for themselves. We noticed a big improvement in the appearance of dark spots and pigmentation in just three weeks.  

How we tested these red light therapy devices

Many companies now offer red light therapy devices, and we tested dozens for this guide. It's worth noting that even the best at-home red light therapy devices won't be as powerful as professional LED treatments that use light therapy for acne or collagen-boosting. After testing each for a minimum of four weeks, our testers assessed each one on:

  • Comfort 
  • Colours of LED offered 
  • Variety of treatment options 
  • Ease of use 
  • Results on skin tone, texture, and clarity 
  • Value for money

Our testers then checked our skin after each use for post-treatment reactions, kept an eye out throughout the trial for cumulative results, then compared how our skin changed overall once the testing period finished. Those devices that ranked highly (and are featured below) slotted easily into our daily regime without taking up too much time. They were also comfortable and user-friendly, boasting several functions that really delivered results – coming close to those used in a salon setting. 

Your red light therapy FAQs answered

What is red light therapy?

Why you can trust Woman & Home Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Professionals have been using red light, as well as other wavelengths like blue and yellow LED, for years in salons and clinics, but what is red light therapy and how does it benefit your skin? 

"LED light therapy encourages wound healing, boosts collagen production, and kills P-acne bacteria, addressing a multitude of concerns," explains Genevieve Knodell, aesthetic practitioner at Stratum Dermatology Clinic. "It's great for skin prep, before or after any procedure to accelerate healing by stimulating collagen and elastin, suppressing melanocyte activity, and providing anti-inflammatory benefits that will repair and strengthen the skin."

How do I choose a good red light therapy device?

"For at-home LED devices, you should look for a device that incorporates red and blue LED and sits flush to the face – this allows the LED to penetrate the skin," says board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon Dr. Dennis Gross Here are some key terms and features to look out for:

  • Wrinkle reducing: If one of your main skincare concerns ties back to wrinkle reduction, be sure to keep an eye out for a device that targets wrinkles in particular. 
  • Plumping: Seeking a more youthful, glowing appearance overall? Look for a device that targets ageing skin concerns with red and yellow light specifically. 
  • Acne solutions: Acne-fighting red light therapy devices will combat acne-causing bacteria and soothe existing redness and inflammation.

Gross also emphasizes the importance of wavelengths. "The key is to maximize energy, allowing the surface of the skin to be touched by the lights. 415nm is the most effective wavelength for blue light – successfully targeting and killing mild to moderate acne-causing bacteria. For red LED, look for a device that is in the spectral range of 600-1300nm (red and infrared)—these wavelengths stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation, and diminish hyperpigmentation," he adds.

Does red light therapy work at home?

Most experts agree that red light therapy at home is an effective skincare treatment, although masks and wands designed to be used at home will not be as powerful as in-clinic devices. This is for safety reasons, as very high-strength LED should only be in the hands of professionals, but there are signs of a hardworking home device you can look out for.

"To ensure you are using a high-quality device, look for a medical-grade DEVICE that has clinical studies that clearly show the device’s effectiveness," Dr. Gross recommends. "There are strict regulations for the strength of red LED at-home devices, however, some devices are more effective than others. Ultimately, you want the device to lay flat on the skin surface without heat or risk of burning." 

Is red light therapy safe?

Experts maintain that red light therapy is generally considered safe for use, save for some people reporting blistering and burning from faulty units or from going over the recommended time usage. Eye protection is also recommended when using a facial red light therapy device for extra precaution. 

LŪMMco-founder Ryan McCarthy concurs: "LED light therapy has been around for decades, used for a wide array of cosmetic and therapeutic benefits. At this time, there are no known adverse side effects of the use of LED light therapy. Each product is different; you should always read the instruction manual thoroughly before use. If you have any further questions, contact the brand directly and consult your physician."

"Unlike harmful UV rays used in tanning beds that can burn and damage skin, LED light therapy uses a safe, lower intensity, non-UV infrared light," says McCarthy. He does note that it is not recommended to use red light therapy if you're pregnant.

How many minutes a day should you do red light therapy?

There's no hard and fast recommendation for the frequency of red light therapy use, although most devices recommend once daily, for around 15 minutes, for best results. Several devices will also automatically turn off after a certain amount of time. We strongly encourage checking the specific instructions for your chosen device and following the recommended usage. If you see a dermatologist, take your device to them for assessment before using and following their advice in regards to usage. 

Can you overdo red light therapy?

Like most beauty treatments, however gentle, it is possible to overdo red light therapy. Side effects of overuse may include inflammation and tissue damage. Dr. Tom Ingegno, Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, and owner of Charm City Integrative Health in Baltimore says for most cases, 20 minutes of RLT daily should be sufficient. "Of course, always consult with your primary care doctor before electing to start any new treatment to find what'll work best for you."

However, as Ingegno reminds us, red light "is a relatively low-risk therapy. It is important to remember that RLT is on the opposite end of the light spectrum and does not have the same issues as heavy amounts of UV light." Thus, the likelihood of any severe side effects is slim, but you'll still want to be careful.

Emma Stoddart

Emma Stoddart is a freelance beauty journalist and self-confessed skincare aficionado with over five years’ industry experience. Emma has worked for some of the UK’s top women’s titles including Net-A-Porter, Stylist and Grazia. Her experience spans online and print as well as producing editorial shoots with some of the industry’s biggest artists, including Val Garland. Asides from working with them behind the scenes, she’s also had the chance to interview the likes of Patrick Ta, Pat McGrath, and Sam McKnight for all their insider tips and tricks.