Red Light Therapy Masks: Are They Worth It?

Red light therapy masks explained — my full breakdown of benefits, how they work, and what to look for before you buy.

I get asked about red light therapy masks all the time—by clients before a photo shoot, friends who see me using mine, and women who just want to know if they’re actually worth the investment. As a celebrity makeup artist, I’m always looking for treatments that help skin look healthy, fresh, and naturally radiant—not just under studio lights, but in real life too.

I’m not someone who chases every beauty trend that comes along. I like products and treatments that actually work, and red light therapy has earned a permanent place in my skincare routine because it’s non-invasive, easy to use, and supports your skin from the inside out.

Here’s what I think you should know before buying one.

What Is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy (also called low-level light therapy or LED therapy) uses specific wavelengths of light to help energize your skin cells. Most quality masks combine red light with near-infrared light, and each works a little differently.

Red light is commonly used to help support collagen production, soften the look of fine lines, improve skin texture, and calm redness. Near-infrared light reaches a little deeper and may help support skin repair, firmness, and overall rejuvenation. Some masks also include blue light, which is often used to help target acne-causing bacteria.

How Does It Work?

One of the things I love most is that it doesn’t hurt, there’s no downtime, and you can easily fit it into a busy schedule.

The LED light delivers gentle wavelengths into your skin without heat or damage. Those wavelengths help stimulate the mitochondria—often called the powerhouse of the cell—which gives your skin cells the energy they need to repair and renew themselves more efficiently.

I like to think of it as giving your skin a little workout from the inside.

Why I’m a Fan

It helps support collagen.

As we get older, collagen naturally declines. While nothing stops the aging process, consistent red light therapy may help support collagen production, leaving skin looking firmer and smoother over time.

It gives your skin a healthy glow.

This is honestly one of my favorite benefits. When I’ve been using my mask consistently, my skin looks brighter, healthier, and more rested. Makeup goes on beautifully because the skin underneath already looks fresh.

It helps calm redness.

If your skin gets irritated easily or you’re recovering from another treatment, red light can be incredibly soothing.

It can benefit acne-prone skin.

If your mask also includes blue light, it may help reduce acne-causing bacteria while calming inflammation associated with breakouts.

It’s easy to stay consistent.

Unlike more aggressive treatments, you can do this from the comfort of your own home while reading, relaxing, or winding down before bed.

How Often Should You Use It?

Consistency is everything.

Most experts recommend using your mask three to five times a week for about 10 to 20 minutes each session. Think of it like working out or eating healthy—you won’t see dramatic results overnight, but those small, consistent habits really add up.

What I Look for in a Red Light Therapy Mask

A lot of people ask me which red light therapy mask I personally use. I’ve been using the TheraFace Mask by Therabody, and I’ve really enjoyed incorporating it into my skincare routine. If you’re curious, you can learn more about it here: TheraFace Mask by Therabody⁠

Not every LED mask is created equal. Here’s what I always recommend looking for:

● FDA-cleared technology for safety.

● A comfortable, lightweight fit that you’ll actually want to wear.

● Multiple light settings, including red and near-infrared.

● Hands-free or wireless features if you like to multitask.

● Quality over hype. Celebrity endorsements are everywhere, but effectiveness, comfort, and safety matter far more than fancy marketing.

Who Should Be Careful?

Red light therapy is generally considered very safe, but if you have a medical condition or take medications that increase light sensitivity, it’s always smart to check with your healthcare provider before starting.

And, as with anything, more isn’t always better. Follow the manufacturer’s directions and be consistent instead of overdoing it.

My Pro Tips

A few simple habits can help you get the most from your mask:

● Start with clean skin.

● Apply your skincare afterward unless your device recommends otherwise.

● Stay consistent.

● Take progress photos once a month—you’ll notice changes you might otherwise miss.

● Pair your treatments with healthy sleep, hydration, regular exercise, great nutrition, and a good vitamin C serum.

My Final Thoughts

Red light therapy isn’t a magic overnight fix, and anyone who tells you otherwise is probably overselling it. But when you use a quality device consistently, I do believe it can become a wonderful addition to your skincare routine.

I’ve spent decades helping women look and feel their best, and one thing has never changed: beautiful makeup always starts with healthy skin.

For me, beauty has never been about chasing perfection or trying to look twenty-five forever. It’s about taking care of yourself, building healthy habits, and feeling confident in your own skin.

Healthy, radiant skin will always be in style.

If you’d like more beauty, skincare, and wellness tips, be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel. And if you’re in the San Francisco Bay Area and looking for professional hair and makeup for your next event, photo shoot, or special occasion, I’d love to connect with you.

Red light therapy masks explained — my full breakdown of benefits, how they work, and what to look for before you buy.