The Best Acne Light Therapy Devices Are Worth Adding to Your Routine, Stat
I was a skeptic until I started using the LightStim on my annoying hormonal acne.
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If your beauty routine already contains all of the latest serums, masks, and moisturizers but you still struggle with annoying breakouts, we gotchu: It might be time to consider throwing an acne light-therapy device into the mix. These devices typically use LED lights to help treat multiple skin conditions, including acne, fine lines, eczema, and inflammation. But do they actually work...? While much more research needs to be done, tbh, red light can possibly decrease inflammation and improve the overall health and tone of your skin. And, “although red light is perhaps the most celebrated spectrum when it comes to LED devices, blue light is the strongest activator of something in our skin called porphyrins, which indirectly kills acne bacteria and is why blue light is more effective for acne,” says dermatologist Luke Maxfield, DO.
“These devices have potential, but they need to be optimized with other standard treatments,” dermatologist Uchenna Okereke, MD, previously told Cosmo. “We don’t have enough large studies that demonstrate that these lights are superior or as good as standard treatments.” But! Many people (including our entire beauty team) have seen results from incorporating acne light therapy as a supplement to other acne treatments, like RX-strength retinol, Accutane, and/or spironolactone.
Plus, many of these devices are hands-free, so you can lay back and watch the Bridgerton carriage scene in peace as the lights work their magic to help reduce your zits. As with all things, consistency is key, so if you use your mask once hoping for an immediate fix, you’re sure to be disappointed. And not all devices are created equal, which is why I spoke to the experts to get their take on what actually makes a difference—and what might end up collecting dust underneath your bed.
Our top picks for acne light-therapy devices in 2024:
Best Acne Light Therapy Device With Red and Blue Light
Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro LED Light Therapy Device
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While at-home devices are often an investment, they are a one-time purchase that, when compared to the ongoing cost of a gazillion creams, should hopefully pay for themselves over time (girl math!). Keep reading for more on what a light therapy device actually is, how it works, what light kills acne bacteria, and how to choose the best acne light therapy device for you. We also rounded up 13 of our favorite devices with the help of dermatologists and estheticians.
Pros
- Large surface area to cover more of your skin, like your cheeks or forehead
- Many testers found it relaxing to use
Cons
- Have to use daily in order for it to work according to some reviewers
Every time I feel a breakout coming on or notice a new family of zits when I wake up, I groggily reach under my bed for this LED light therapy device. It uses blue light to help destroy acne-causing bacteria and red light to reduce some of the redness, increase circulation, decrease inflammation, and stimulate collagen, improving fine lines and wrinkles—basically everything I need in a product, lol. According to aesthetic nurse practitioner Jodi LoGerfo, "this combination of lights can help to improve acne breakouts and make skin look healthier and clearer.”
Unfortunately, this device isn’t necessarily great for hormonal acne (FWIW, nothing but prescriptions like tretinoin and spironolactone from your derm will help with this), but it works wonders for mild to moderate acne, according to aesthetician Kristin Gunn. “This baby will kill the acne bacteria on and under the skin temporarily,” she says.
- Type of light: Blue and red light
- How long to use: Three minutes
Glowing customer review: “This particular device has been a lifesaver for my mild acne, and my Perioral dermatitis. I use this right when I see a pimple or any inflammation, and it goes down so quickly-usually going away in a day or two. It is not necessary to push hard on the skin with this, just touch it very slightly,” raves one reviewer.
Pros
- Only need two (!!) minutes for one treatment
Cons
- Has a small surface area, so only good for singular pimples
The best thing about the Foreo Espada (other than its cute pink color) is that it’s super compact and rechargeable, allowing you to use it on the go and bring it with you everywhere. It combines blue LED light and relaxing low-frequency pulsations to target acne-causing bacteria and stimulate circulation to potentially help your zit heal a lil faster. It’s especially great for treating individual acne spots, but if you’re looking to treat the entire face, it may be a bit time-consuming. In that case, we’d suggest opting for an LED mask or device with a larger LED surface area.
Cool feature, though: “This device uses a smart skin sensor that only turns on the blue light when it is in contact with your skin, thereby protecting your eyes from any harmful LED light exposure,” explains dermatologist Mona Foad, MD. So you can ditch the goggles.
- Type of light: Blue light
- How long to use: Two to four times in 30 second increments
Glowing customer review: “When I saw this, I thought it had to be too good to be true. 2 minutes of putting this on my face, and my pimples will disappear?! What?! I took the leap, and glad I did. It isn’t a miracle worker by any means, meaning that if you have a really bad/big pimple it won't get rid of it with one treatment. But consistently using it in the morning and night, it takes me 3 days or so instead of it taking me a week or more with other methods. Yes, if you have a lot of acne it will take a little longer, but it didn't bother me. It gives me 20 minutes of quiet time in a very hectic house. I definitely recommend this product!”
Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro LED Light Therapy Device
Pros
- Combines red and blue light together in one session
- Turns off automatically when the treatment is done
- One charge lasts me two weeks worth of daily treatments
Cons
- Some users have issues with charging the device
You'd be hard-pressed to find an editor who doesn't have a selfie with this LED mask (ahem, Beth Gillette, Cosmo beauty editor, above!). But it's about way more than just lookin' like a fembot. This device not only offers potential acne-bacteria-reducing blue light, but it also has a red light function too. Dr. LoGerfo is a fan of this device, explaining that the red light can possibly help increase circulation, decrease inflammation, stimulate collagen, and improve fine lines and wrinkles. You can do a blue or red-light treatment on its own, or go for the combined treatment which uses both in one session. Even better: It works in just three miuntes.
- Type of light: Red, blue, and a combo of red and blue
- How long to use: Three minutes
Cosmo review: “I actually cannot stop using this device. And ya know what, there are way worse things I could be obsessed with, considering this has seriously helped bring down my acne inflammation and only takes three minutes." — Beth Gillette, beauty editor
Pros
- Flexible material is easy to stash in luggage
- Testers said their skin looked radiant afterward
Cons
- Some reviewers found the silicone material a little uncomfy
Blue light is pretty much the go-to when it comes to acne light therapy. However, Dr. LoGerfo recommends red light as well if you want to improve the overall health of your skin by decreasing inflammation and stimulating collagen production. She's a fan of this flexible mask for those looking to target large areas of the face rather than individually spot-treat. It’s very lightweight, making it easy to travel with (just imagine whipping it out at your situationship’s house—power move). And if you're feeling extra, or get chest or neck acne, try the Neck & Décolleté add-on mask, so you aren’t limited to just the face.
- Type of light: Red light
- How long to use: Three-five minute treatment, 10 minute treatment
Glowing customer review: “My esthetician recommended the Omnilux Contour Face. I’m so glad I took her advice. I received my Omnilux in mid-April and I’ve been using it almost daily since. It’s easy to use and very relaxing. My complexion has become more vibrant with an added healthy glow. I’m looking forward to encountering more positives as I continue to use. I’m now very interested in making it a set by adding the Contour Neck & Décolleté!”
Pros
- Has four different types of light, including infrared, which penetrates skin a bit more than red light
Cons
- The strap falls off easily, according to reviews
For those seeking more than red light, this customizable mask allows you to play around with different settings. It also offers infrared light, a wavelength of red light that might penetrate your skin more. And it goes even as far to include amber light—which hasn't been studied a ton yet but is thought to soothe irritated skin, including rosacea and inflamed zits. The combination of colors allows you to customize which lights are used where, maximizing its benefits to help your skin with acne, anti-aging, inflammation, and more.
- Type of light: Red, blue, amber, infrared
- How long to use: Three minutes
Glowing customer review: “I have been using the Q-Rejuvalight Pro Facewear for a little over two months, and I am in love with the results. I did my research and looked for the best red light therapy on the market and I decided to purchase this one. I have used it religiously every night since I purchased it, and the tone of my skin had evened out and the redness has subsided. I have also noticed a change in my smile lines."
Medicube Age-R Booster Pro - 6-in-1 Total Care LED Therapy Device
Pros
- Combines four different therapies into one tool
- Uses five (!) different LED lights
Cons
- Will likely take a long time and consistent use to see results, since the LED panel is small
ROYGBIV—ever heard of her? This skincare device, which features "electroporation" technology to help your products absorb better into your skin, also uses a slew of different LED lights. We’re talking red, orange, blue, green, and purple for different benefits, all of which are thought to help potentially promote a glowy, smooth, clear complexion (but, ofc, more research needs to be done).
It actually has four different modes—including product absorption, microcurrent toning, and an "air shot," which is said to mimic microneedling—and you can incorporate LED light therapy with all of 'em. Gunn recommends this device since its settings are powerful for product absorption, and the airshot setting provides a nice cooling effect afterward. “It's great for the summer temperatures and for people suffering from melasma, which can be triggered by excess heat,” she adds.
- Type of light: Red, orange, blue, green, purple
- How long to use: Multiple time settings
Cosmo review: “Okay, this device TRULY changed the way my skin barrier absorbed my skincare every night--specifically my serums and moisturizer. After my regimen, I used it on my face for five minutes in an upwards sculpting motion, and my complexion was immediately more glowy and bouncy every. single. time. The timer and different levels of vibration were also v helpful to make sure I was using it properly and getting the most out of each session. I wholeheartedly recommend for anyone looking for some extra hydration and sculpting!" — Jasmine Hyman, assistant shopping editor
Pros
- Includes eight different attachments to switch between
- In-app tutorials make it user friendly
Cons
- Some users have had an issue with the charger
Yes, you are reading this correctly. Therabody, makers of the hit body massager, also has a face tool so that you can massage your face now too. But it isn’t *just* a massager; there are eight attachments (!) so you can have a fully customizable skincare routine. Think: microcurrents and rejuvenating light therapies combined with lymphatic massage. There are three LED attachments to toggle between: red light therapy for anti-aging and reducing eye wrinkles, blue light therapy for mild to moderate acne, and infrared therapy for calming inflammation. It isn’t limited to the face either; you can also bring it up or down to your jaw, neck, and chest.
- Type of light: Red, blue, and infrared light
- How long to use: Up to eight minutes
Glowing customer review: “So easy to use and the tutorials in the app have been a huge blessing, makes it all so clear! I honestly first bought it just for the cleansing ring and microcurrent because I'd been researching the microcurrent options for a while but now I'm a big fan of all the different attachments and treatments. So glad I finally gave this a chance!”
Pros
- Contains multiple light settings
- Reviewers found the hard-shell comfortable
- Features green light, which is said to inhibit melanin production and reduce hyperpigmentation
Cons
- Most expensive device on this list
This mask is quite the investment, but it allows you to bring the spa to your bedroom. Aesthetician Samantha Susca actually used it during a facial with me, calling it “by far the best LED mask on the market.” This mask does it all while maintaining respect for the skin by not overheating. “It’s also one of the only LED light options for home that includes green LED wavelength for potentially helping reduce and treat hyperpigmentation and acne scarring,” she says.
- Type of light: Red, blue, green, and near-infrared light
- How long to use: 20 minutes
Glowing customer review: “I have been using Deesse Pro as part of my evening routine for over eight months now, and I can genuinely say that I see a difference. I have done hardly any changes to the rest of my skincare routine, so I really believe that the improvements in my skin can be attributed to the use of the mask. I have fewer impurities, and it has really helped with the redness caused by rosacea."
Pros
- Uses red and near-infrared light
- Flexible silicone feels comfortable against my face
Cons
- Can be hard to adjust on your head
I love taking a selfie with this device and feeling like Kim Kardashian (yup, she, along with Emily Cooper of Emily in Paris, loves this one!). Not only does this LED mask use red light, but it also contains infrared light, which, according to Dr. LoGerfo, has the longest wavelength and penetrates deepest into the skin. Infrared light may help mend acne scarring, reduce inflammation, and possibly even tighten skin and improve sun damage, too, she says.
- Type of light: Red light and near-infrared light
- How long to use: 10 minutes
Glowing customer review: “I’ve been using my mask for about a month now. My quickly approaching 50 skin looks fantastic! I'm noticing more clarity and smoothness, paired with a good skincare regimen. I love my relaxing mask time in the mornings before work.”
Pros
- Sticks in place to target specific pimples
- Testers loved that it's hands free
Cons
- Testers wished the battery lasted longer
If you already stick on a hydrocolloid patch whenever a zit crops up, why not try this LED one? Think of it like a high-tech pimple patch. Using the included adhesive strips, just place the device on a clean pimple, pop on your included safety goggles, and turn the light on. The blue light can help decrease some of the inflammation of an angry, raging zit without you having to lift a finger (literally).
- Type of light: Blue light
- How long to use: 20 minutes
Glowing customer review: "This has been the only thing that has helped clear up my cheek acne. I also use a retinol and low percentage benzoyl peroxide, but adding this has made a huge difference."
Pros
- So simple to use (just hold it against your skin and turn it on)
- Uses both red and blue light to help treat acne
Cons
- Can be annoying to hold in place
"We gave this a much-deserved Holy Grail Acne Award in 2022 after it single-handedly shrunk the size of a massive pimple on my chin days before a first date," says Gillette. "I love that it uses a combo of red and blue light, which calms some inflammation and kills acne-causing bacteria in a matter of three minutes." Legit, just hold it against your skin, turn it on, and watch this lil bb work its magic. It's so compact and perfect for travel, but most all, completely takes all the guesswork out of using an LED device.
- Type of light: Red and blue light
- How long to use: Three minutes
Glowing customer review: "I love how compact this product is it makes it really easy for me to travel with it and use it on the go. The packaging is great quality is amazing and I’ve noticed that it helps minimize blemishes after just a few uses. I love how easy it is to use and recharge. I have sensitive skin and have seen zero adverse side effects."
Pros
- Most affordable device on this list (!)
Cons
- Only lasts for 30 treatments, then needs to be replaced
Um, this patch (which sticks on and floods your zit with red and blue light) is less than $20?!? And according to reviewers, it works pretty damn well to help curb your pimples. FYI, it isn't going to last forever, as one device only works for up to 30 treatments. But if you're someone who only gets the rare breakout once a month, you'll still have it for a while before needing to replace.
- Type of light: Red and blue light
- How long to use: Three minutes (up to three times a day)
Glowing customer review: "This patch works really well! I love using red light therapy on my skin but have always found it annoying to have to sit and not be able to do anything while holding a device. This patch basically took away all the hassle. It was super easy to apply, and I was able to continue getting ready for the day as the light did its work."
Pros
- Fits into purses, makeup bags, luggage, etc.
Cons
- Not rechargeable (but comes with a battery)
This is legit the size of a pen, so you can bring it anywhere. But why I love it sm is that it easily fits into all the nooks and crannies I get pimples, like around my nose and eyebrows. Its mix of red and blue light noticeably bring down the redness and swelling from my hormonal acne. I have to hold it against my skin during the whole treatment, which can be annoying, but it’s so lightweight, so I can use it constantly without worrying about my arms cramping.
- Type of light: Red and blue light
- How long to use: Three minutes
Glowing customer review: "I got this on a whim because I had a zit that would not go away :((( I used this in conjunction with a acne routine and definitely saw a difference after using this a couple of times."
What is light therapy?
“LED light therapy, or light-emitting diode therapy, is a non-invasive skincare treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate various cellular processes in the skin,” explains Dr. Foad. It’s a popular treatment for a variety of skin concerns, including acne, fine lines, eczema, and general inflammation.
There are various colors from the rainbow to choose from, with red being one of the most popular and, so far, the most studied (although, like we said, more research is still needed!). It's thought to stimulate collagen production, which could help reduce wrinkles and plump and firm your skin, and it also has some potential promise for reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing. Blue light, the second most common, can potentially target acne-causing bacteria, effectively reducing breakouts, making it a popular choice for mild to moderate acne treatment.
There are other lights, including green, purple, yellow, and amber, which don't have concrete evidence backing up their efficacy just yet. The idea is that green light can maybe even out pigmentation and enhance skin tone while providing a soothing effect, while yellow light might promote lymphatic flow, improving overall skin health and reducing redness and irritation.
What light kills acne bacteria?
Blue light can potentially kill acne-causing bacteria, which is why it's usually the go-to choice for breakouts. While red light is the go-to in LED devices, blue light is the strongest activator of a component in our skin called porphyrins, according to Dr. Maxfield. This indirectly kills acne bacteria, making blue light very effective for acne treatment.
But he actually suggests using a device that uses a combination of colors and allows for customization, as combining red and blue, for example, might not only help reduce acne, but can possibly bring down inflammation. Which brings us to...
How to choose the best acne light therapy device for you:
Decide which type of light you need
Before adding just any device to your cart, Dr. Foad suggests considering whether you prefer blue light therapy, red light therapy, or a combination of both. Remember, blue light targets acne-causing bacteria, while red light reduces inflammation and promotes healing. “If possible, I would recommend getting a device that has both red and blue light to target both the acne and the inflammation that can cause hyperpigmentation,” she suggests.
Assess the size
It’s worth considering the size and design of the device, and whether it’s suitable for treating the areas of your skin affected by acne. Some devices are designed for spot treatments, while others cover larger areas like the entire face. If you tend to be lazy (relatable), you might prefer a mask so you don’t have to physically maneuver a device around your face.
Look at the intensity.
Higher intensity and specific wavelengths are often more effective but may also increase the risk of side effects. “Look for devices with adjustable settings to customize treatment intensity according to your skin’s sensitivity and the severity of your acne,” says Dr. Foad.
Make sure to protect your eyes.
“Finally and very importantly, make sure to protect your eyes, because it has been shown that LED light therapy, if used incorrectly, can damage your eyes,” she says. At-home use can be safe if you follow the appropriate guidelines. Some devices only turn on when in contact with your skin, while others are made to be used around the eyes with a lower intensity of light and have built-in safety features. Still, other devices may require eye protection.
Meet the experts:
- Mona Foad, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at MONA Dermatology in Cincinatti, OH.
- Luke Maxfield, DO, is a board-certified dermatologist and content creator for Doctorly, where he educates people on dermatology and skincare.
- Jodi LoGerfo, DNP, is a doctor of nurse practitioner at Orentreich Medical Group in New York, NY where she specifically treats acne.
- Samantha Susca is the lead aesthetician at Casa Cipriani Spa in New York, NY.
- Kristin Gunn is a celebrity aesthetician and the owner of Halcyon Skincare and Beaux Medspa in Austin, Texas.
- Uchenna Okereke, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Dermatology Associates in Canton, MA, and a clinical associate at Massachusetts General Hospital. She was previously interviewed about LED masks.
Why trust 'Cosmopolitan'?
Iman Balagam is a beauty contributor at Cosmopolitan with nearly four years of experience writing beauty stories that range from forehead acne to chin acne. She’s an authority in all categories, but is an expert when it comes to acne light therapy devices, thanks to years of personally researching and testing different devices to banish her breakouts.
Iman Balagam is a freelance writer who has been in the beauty industry for nearly five years. She has written for and contributed to top women’s magazines and digital brands such as Harper's BAZAAR, Allure, Byrdie, Elle and more. She will try *nearly* anything and spends a lot of time looking for new ways to store her beauty products in a small New York apartment.
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