Rated 4.9 out of 5 from 332 reviews
rechargeable
- rechargeable
Ingredient glossary
LED Therapy: What It Is and What It Does
LED therapy is a skincare treatment using specific wavelengths of light — most commonly red and near-infrared for skin, blue for oil and blemish-prone skin — to expose skin to light without heat or UV. It is delivered by devices such as LED face masks and handheld wands, and relies on consistent, cumulative use over several weeks for results to build.
What it does
Different wavelengths are associated with different effects: red light is commonly linked with supporting the skin's collagen-related processes and the appearance of fine lines, blue light is used to target the bacteria associated with blemishes, and near-infrared light is associated with circulation and a calmer-looking complexion. Devices deliver this light consistently over repeated sessions, with visible change generally described as building gradually with regular use rather than appearing after a single session.
Who it suits
LED therapy is often chosen by people wanting to address fine lines, uneven texture or occasional blemishes without an active ingredient routine. Blue light devices are commonly marketed at oily or blemish-prone skin specifically. Very sensitive skin should start with shorter sessions, and anyone with rosacea, eczema or another active skin condition should check with a dermatologist before starting regular use.
Cautions
LED therapy can cause temporary redness or mild discomfort in some people, and overuse may increase sensitivity, so following the manufacturer's session length and frequency matters. Eyes should always be protected during treatment. Anyone who is photosensitive, taking medication that increases light sensitivity, or living with a condition such as epilepsy should consult a doctor before using an LED device.
Products with LED Therapy
8 products
- Rated 4.9 out of 5 from 111 reviews
rechargeable
- rechargeable
- Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 136 reviews
- Rated 4.7 out of 5 from 1,085 reviews
rechargeable
- rechargeable
- Rated 4.5 out of 5 from 1,400 reviews
- Rated 4.5 out of 5 from 161 reviews
- Rated 4.3 out of 5 from 138 reviews
- Rated 4.6 out of 5 from 70 reviews
portable
- portable
- rechargeable
Frequently asked questions
- What wavelengths of light are used in LED therapy?
- Red and near-infrared light are the most common for general skin concerns, associated with supporting collagen-related processes and calming the look of the skin at different depths. Blue light is used mainly to target the bacteria linked with blemishes. Devices vary in which wavelengths, or combinations, they offer.
- How is LED therapy different from other skincare treatments?
- Rather than applying an ingredient to the skin's surface, LED therapy exposes skin to specific wavelengths of light with no direct product contact required. It is generally used alongside, not instead of, a normal skincare routine, and is considered a complementary rather than a replacement step.
- Is LED therapy safe for sensitive skin?
- Many sensitive-skin users tolerate LED therapy well, but it is sensible to start with shorter sessions at a lower setting and watch for redness or discomfort. Anyone with an active skin condition such as rosacea or eczema should check with a dermatologist before starting regular sessions.
This is general information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice. It does not describe any specific product, and does not diagnose, treat or cure any condition. If you have a persistent skin or scalp concern, speak to a pharmacist, GP or dermatologist. See our editorial policy for how we handle claims.