Written September 8, 2026. Research covered through 2026-03-31.
On this page: Some devices combine treatments · There is some controlled research · Check these details before paying · Is a mask worth the cost? · Keep reading
What to know: Check the exact mask and the result measured before spending money on a light device.
Red-light masks can be expensive. Before you buy one, check whether the research tested that model and the skin change you care about. A promising study of one device does not tell us how every mask will perform.
Some devices combine treatments
A March study enrolled 36 women, of whom 34 completed the study. They used a home device with both near-infrared light and microcurrent. Several skin measurements improved over 12 weeks. But there was no comparison group using a dummy device, and one author worked for the company that provided technical support. We cannot tell how much each technology contributed to the results. Read the study
There is some controlled research
In an older study, 60 participants used either a red-and-infrared mask or a comparison device. Wrinkle ratings around the eyes favored the active mask. That is encouraging for the tested equipment and that particular concern. It does not promise the same result from another mask. Read the 2025 study
Another trial found changes in eye-area wrinkles without improvements in measured hydration or skin elasticity. One positive result does not mean a device improves everything. Read the 2023 study
Check these details before paying
Look for the exact device name, what it was compared with and what improved. Be cautious if the main evidence is a set of photographs with different lighting or expressions.
Read the device’s own instructions and safety information. Do not copy the settings or session length from a study of different equipment.
Is a mask worth the cost?
That depends on the evidence for the model and what you want it to do. The research here does not give every light mask a pass. If the seller cannot connect its claims to a relevant study, it is reasonable to wait rather than make an expensive guess.