Best red light therapy for skin: Benefits and what to expect

We tried red light therapy devices to support our skin—here are our top picks that are worth checking out

Simple skincare products are not always enough for acne or fine lines, which is why some are looking for ways to enhance their skincare routine. Before diving into clinical procedures or professional treatments, more and more people are turning to red light therapy.

You can now enjoy RLT sessions at home with a variety of handheld devices, masks, or larger panels, depending on your needs. Red light therapy is often associated with potential benefits like overall collagen, inflammation, signs of aging, and clear skin support. However, it might be difficult to choose a device, especially since most of them make unreasonable promises, use different wavelengths, and come at very different prices. 

If you’re interested in trying red light therapy for skin, we’ll answer all the main questions in this article: how RLT works, what results you can expect, and whether it’s worth it in 2026.

Quick picks: Best red light therapy devices for skin

• Omnilux Contour Face: Best overall RLT device for skincare
• iRESTORE Illumina Face Mask: Best RLT mask for full face sessions
• Solawave 4-in-1 Red Light Therapy Wand: Best portable device for targeted areas
• HigherDOSE Red Light Face Mask: Best for relaxing RLT sessions
• CurrentBody Skin LED Red Light Therapy Face Mask: Best professional RLT device for deeper skin concerns

How we tested red light therapy for skin

To notice even subtle effects, you’ll likely need to use your red light therapy device consistently for an extended period. That’s why, during our tests, we focused on real-world performance rather than just technical specifications.

We tested each device for a few months, mostly during nightly routines or post-workouts, focusing on its build and usability. This allowed us to determine whether it’s easy to include the device in everyday routines and use it consistently. It was also necessary to analyze wavelengths and features to determine whether they may have any impact in the long run. Lastly, we also considered the device’s portability and ease of setup, ensuring that each device is a simple at-home solution.

Omnilux Contour Face

Best RLT device for smoother skin

• Device type: Mask
• Wavelengths: 633nm red and 830nm near-infrared
• Coverage area: Face
• Session time: 10 minutes
• Price: $395.00

If you’re concerned about the appearance of acne, fine lines, or redness on your face, we believe that Omnilux Contour Face could be a great addition to your skincare routine. While it’s easy to use at home, it felt a bit more professional than iRESTORE Illumina.

During our tests, we found out that Omnilux Contour Face is very convenient. One thing that stood out is that it’s a silicon mask, which makes it feel less bulky and more lightweight and flexible. 

The provider recommends 10-minute sessions to minimize your time commitment. Omnilux comes with a rechargeable controller, so you can manage it while lying around. To start using the device on your skin, put it on with the straps, then start the sessions with the on/off button on the controller.

It also uses frequently studied wavelengths (red and near-infrared light), so, in theory, they may affect inflammation and help support collagen. However, as with all RLT devices, we found that you must use it consistently for any optimal effects.

We believe that Omnilux Contour Face is a great investment if you’re looking for an RLT device to enhance your skin. On the other hand, while it feels quite professional, it doesn’t offer many features, which might be a drawback for some of you.

• Check out our full Omnilux Contour Face mask review

Pros	Cons
Silicone flexible mask	No additional features
Easy-to-use controller	Possible to use on other body areas, but it’s not convenient
Necessary wavelengths linked to skin regeneration

iRESTORE Illumina Face Mask

Best red light therapy device for comfortable sessions

• Device type: Mask
• Wavelengths: 635nm red, 830nm near-infrared, and 415nm blue
• Coverage area: Face
• Session time: 10 minutes
• Price: $399.00

iRESTORE Illumina Face Mask proved to be one of the most comfortable RLT devices for facial skincare. Due to this, it’s easy to include it in your everyday routine. Besides, we found it to be quite user-friendly, so you shouldn’t encounter any issues, even if it’s your first RLT device.

It wasn’t difficult to start using the iRESTORE Illumina Face Mask daily due to its simplicity. The device’s material felt firm, and the whole mask fit comfortably. The brand also suggests 10-minute sessions a few times a week. Since it doesn’t need to be plugged in, you can easily move around or simply relax during your sessions.

iRESTORE Illumina uses wavelengths often associated with potential skin improvements and reduced inflammation. As a result, using this mask may benefit your skin. However, keep in mind that you’ll likely need to use the mask regularly, and even then, the effects will probably be subtle.

We believe that iRESTORE Illumina is a good choice if you’re looking for a simple, comfortable RLT device. However, if you’re new to red light therapy, you might find cheaper options.

Pros	Cons
Full face coverage	Suitable for facial skincare only
User-friendly device	High price for a simple device
Stable and made out of quality material

Solawave 4-in-1 Red Light Therapy Wand

Best compact skincare RLT device for travelers

• Device type: Wand
• Wavelengths: 633nm red
• Coverage area: Targeted spots
• Session time: 12 minutes
• Price: $189.00

After testing multiple RLT devices, we have decided to include the Solawave 4-in-1 Red Light Therapy Wand among our top picks for its simplicity and compact size. If you’re dealing with smaller problematic areas or don’t mind longer sessions, the Solawave wand will be a perfect RLT device for traveling.

We were mostly intrigued by the wand’s size. I personally try to pack lightly for my travels, so carrying an RLT face mask is not always an option. Since the Solawave 4-in-1 wand is a much smaller device and comes with a travel case, it’s definitely portable. It’s easy to use, but since it’s a handheld device, you won’t really be able to work out or do other things during the sessions.

During testing, we found it to be more of a skincare gadget rather than a clinical-style device. It also has a facial massage feature that enhances your nightly routine, making it even more relaxing.

If you want a portable and simple device to use as an additional skincare step, you should definitely consider Solawave’s 4-in-1 wand. 

Pros	Cons
Smaller size, easy to travel with	Doesn’t offer near-infrared light
Has a facial massage feature	Suitable for small, targeted areas only
Easy to control

HigherDOSE Red Light Face Mask

Convenient RLT device for self-care routine

• Device type: Mask
• Wavelengths: 630nm red and 830nm near-infrared
• Coverage area: Face
• Session time: 10 minutes
• Price: $349.00

We found that the HigherDOSE Red Light Face Mask may be a perfect choice if you want skincare sessions at home. With its flexible, lightweight material, the mask is very comfortable, so you’ll be able to relax at the same time.

When testing the HigherDOSE mask, we found it to be quite similar to Omnilux Contour Face, as it’s also a silicone mask. Silicone masks usually wrap around the face more comfortably than plastic ones. 

To use HigherDOSE, all you have to do is charge the controller, and you can enjoy your first session in no time. The device covers the whole face, so you won’t need to reposition. We found HigherDOSE quite convenient, even if you’re new to RLT, since it doesn’t have any unnecessary settings on the controller. It also uses wavelengths that have been studied for skin support, so it might have some potential for subtle improvements. 

After using it for a couple of months, we believe that the HigherDOSE Red Light Face Mask may be suitable for relaxing skincare sessions at home. However, it is quite pricey considering its simplicity.

Pros	Cons
Comfortable silicone mask	Suitable for face skincare only
Easy to control during sessions	No extra features
Red and near-infrared lights

CurrentBody Skin LED Red Light Therapy Face Mask

Advanced RLT device to support skin concerns

• Device type: Mask
• Wavelengths: 633nm red, 830nm near-infrared, and 1072nm deep near-infrared
• Coverage area: Face
• Session time: 10 minutes
• Price: $469.99

Another RLT device for skin worthy of your attention is the CurrentBody Skin LED Red Light Therapy Face Mask. As with other devices, you will likely need to use it consistently to notice any potential results, but it’s easy to incorporate it into your daily routine. It also proved to be quite a professional device made of quality materials, yet still simple to use.

Due to its design and build, it felt stable during our tests, making it convenient to use at home. It comes with straps that you’ll wrap around your head, so you’ll be able to move around during your sessions. According to CurrentBody, it’s enough to use the mask for 10 minutes per session.

What stood out the most was that this RLT mask offers three wavelengths. Most RLT devices use only red and near-infrared wavelengths, while CurrentBody also has deep near-infrared light, which may reach deeper skin layers. If you’re concerned about acne, redness, or irritation, CurrentBody may help support clearer- and calmer-looking skin.

However, this premium-quality device also comes at a premium price. If you’re looking for a simpler device for general skincare, there are cheaper alternatives.

Pros	Cons
Includes deep near-infrared wavelengths	More expensive compared to other devices
Stable, can be used while moving around	Slow battery recharging
Convenient to use daily

Red light therapy devices for skin compared

Device	Type	Wavelength	Coverage area	Session time	Price	Best for
Omnilux Contour Face	Mask	633nm red and 830nm near-infrared	Face	10 minutes	$395.00	Best for convenient, professional home sessions
iRESTORE Illumina Face Mask	Mask	635nm red, 830nm near-infrared, and 415nm blue	Face	10 minutes	$399.00	Best for full-face regular skincare sessions
Solawave 4-in-1 Red Light Therapy Wand	Wand	633nm red	Targeted spots	12 minutes	$189.00	Best for targeted areas while traveling
HigherDOSE Red Light Face Mask	Mask	630nm red and 830nm near-infrared	Face	10 minutes	$349.00	Best for calming sessions at home
CurrentBody Skin LED Red Light Therapy Face Mask: Series 2	Mask	633nm red, 830nm near-infrared, and 1072nm deep near-infrared	Face	10 minutes	$469.99	Best for redness or acne support

How red light therapy works for skin

Red light therapy devices use specific red and near-infrared lights during sessions. Red light is generally associated with surface-level applications, such as skin texture and tone, while near-infrared light may reach deeper and potentially address concerns like inflammation. The light penetrates the skin and may help your body produce more energy, potentially supporting the skin repair process.

RLT is also often associated with collagen support. Due to this, it might help improve the appearance of softer and tighter-looking skin, especially if you start to notice the first signs of aging. Some studies also suggest that red light therapy might help reduce inflammation. 

However, it’s necessary to understand that while red light therapy might improve your skin, it won’t magically heal all problematic areas. At-home red light therapy cannot replace medical procedures. Even though you might notice subtle changes, if you’re dealing with deeper skin issues, it’s best to turn to professional treatments.

How to choose the right device for your skin

While some devices might be recommended by others, that doesn’t mean they will fit you best. For any red light therapy device to show any potential improvements, you will likely need to use it consistently. That’s why you should always choose a comfortable one that quickly becomes part of your routine.

There are now various RLT devices that will fit different body parts. For the face, we recommend using red light therapy masks. If you want more coverage or to use it on other areas, you could turn to RLT panels or pads. 

While we believe that usability is one of the main criterias when choosing a red light therapy device, it’s also important to consider its technical specifications. Be sure to choose a device that uses wavelengths associated with subtle benefits, like 630–660nm red and 810–880nm near-infrared. 

Additionally, consider your budget, as the price range for RLT devices is quite wide. If you want more features, more wavelengths, and quality materials, you should expect a higher price. However, we found a few simple yet good options for less.

Red light therapy for skin: FAQ’s

References

• National Library of Medicine. Light-emitting diodes in dermatology: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials
• National Library of Medicine. Photobiomodulation: A Systematic Review of the Oncologic Safety of Low-Level Light Therapy for Aesthetic Skin Rejuvenation
• Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery. Photobiomodulation: A review of the molecular evidence for low level light therapy