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The face mask that launched a thousand selfies is one of those devices that makes skincare fun again.
Photographed by Ben Hassett, Vogue, April 2017
But are theseLED face maskssafe?
Reports of visual effects associated with [its] use are rare, generally mild, and transient.
Now, these face masks have evolved and improved in many ways to mitigate those concerns.
What is LED Light?
Light Emitting Diode (LED) masksemit varying wavelengthsof light that treat different skin concerns.
Amber light, for example, helps stimulate collagen and firm skins elastin.
Red lightreduces inflammation and promotes blood circulation.
Blue light killsacne-causing bacteria.
LED light is essentially acting like the sun to a plant, says dermatologistMarnie Nussbaum, MD.
It is penetrating the skin to a cellular level and subsequently causing different intra- and intercellular reactions.
As a result, physician offices sometimes have more to offer than at-home treatments.
But in-office treatments can be pricey, ranging anywhere from $150 to $300 per session.
Is LED light therapy safe?
Nussbaum says to choose masks that are labeled as FDA-cleared and to wear blackout or opaque goggles.
you might even find masks that come with the appropriate eyewear, such as theLightStim Light Therapy devices.
What are the dangers or risks?
Without proper eye protection, Dr. Mariwalla says prolonged exposure to blue or red light can damage the eyes.
More serious problems include irreversible peripheral vision loss or complete impairment.
Do LED light masks work?
LED light is extremely beneficial.
Like anything, companies (and social media) sometimes overpromise results, he says.
I look at LED masks as a supplementary treatment, not a primary one.
The results may be modest, but they do help.
Its important to set practical expectations.
How often should I use LED light therapy at home?
Dr. Bhanusali says it really depends on the mask you use.
We also like theOmnilux Contour Faceand theDr.
Dennis Gross DRx Spectralite FaceWare Pro LED Light Therapy rig.
Below, more products that will give you the sameif not betterresults.
