Red light therapy masks are everywhere right now, from dermatology clinics to your social feed. They're also not cheap, so it's fair to ask: do they actually do anything, or is it just a glowing selfie? Here's what an LED mask is, what the research really shows, and how to get the most out of one if you decide to try it.
Looking for an at-home mask? The Fringe Red Light Face Mask is a wireless silicone mask with red (630nm), near-infrared (830nm) and blue (415nm) light. Shop the Fringe Face Mask →
What is a red light therapy mask?
A red light therapy mask is a face-shaped device lined with LEDs that shine low-level light onto your skin, usually for around 10 minutes at a time. Most masks use red light, and many add near-infrared light (which you can't see) and blue light. The technical name for the technique is photobiomodulation. Unlike lasers or peels, it doesn't heat or damage the skin, and it doesn't use UV light.
How does red light therapy work on skin?
Red and near-infrared light are absorbed by cells in the skin, and researchers believe this gives the cells' energy centres (the mitochondria) a boost. Cleveland Clinic explains that red light may reduce inflammation and stimulate collagen production, the protein that keeps skin firm and smooth. Blue light works differently: it's used to target the bacteria involved in breakouts.
Do red light therapy masks actually work?
For fine lines and skin texture, the research is encouraging, with a few honest caveats.
- A home-use mask trial. A 2025 randomised, double-blind study in Medicine gave 59 people a home-use mask with red (630nm) and near-infrared (850nm) light, or a sham mask. After 12 weeks of 9-minute sessions, five days a week, independent raters judged the crow's feet of 86% of the real-mask group as improved, compared with 17% of the sham group. No serious side effects were reported.
- Collagen and skin texture. In a 2014 controlled trial in Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, people treated with red and near-infrared light had smoother skin, better skin complexion and higher collagen density than an untreated control group.
The caveats matter too. Dermatologists writing in Dermatology Times note that results from home devices are modest but measurable, that they take consistent daily use over about 12 weeks, and that home devices are less powerful than clinic machines. Cleveland Clinic also points out that more large, high-quality studies are still needed.
In short: a mask won't replace a clinic treatment, but used consistently it can give real, gradual improvement in fine lines and texture.
What should you look for in an LED face mask?
- The right wavelengths. Look for red light in the 630 to 660nm range, ideally paired with near-infrared around 830 to 850nm. These are the wavelengths used in the studies above.
- A design you'll actually use. Results depend on consistency, so a comfortable, wireless mask you can wear on the sofa beats a powerful one that stays in the drawer.
- Clear instructions. More isn't better. Dermatologists warn that using a device for longer than directed doesn't boost results.
- Regulatory status. In Australia, check whether a device is included on the TGA's register. Fringe states its Face Mask is TGA approved to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
How to use a red light therapy mask
- Start with clean, dry skin, with no makeup or thick creams.
- Follow the session time in your mask's instructions, often around 10 minutes.
- Close your eyes during sessions, and use the eye protection provided, especially with blue light modes.
- Use it on most days and give it about 12 weeks before judging results. Taking a monthly photo in the same light helps you see gradual change.
- Follow up with your usual serum and moisturiser.
Who should avoid red light therapy masks?
Check with your GP or dermatologist first if you're pregnant, have a history of skin cancer or an eye condition, or take medication that makes your skin sensitive to light (such as isotretinoin or lithium). Stop using the mask if you notice ongoing redness, rash or irritation.
Face mask or neck and chest mask?
The neck and chest often show sun damage and fine lines before the face does, and they're easy to forget. The Fringe Neck & Chest Mask uses the same red, near-infrared and blue wavelengths as the face mask, shaped for that area. You'll find both, along with Fringe's wraps and panel, in our Fringe red light therapy range.
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Keep Reading
- Red Light vs Infrared Therapy: What's the Difference?
- The Gut-Skin Connection: What Eczema and Psoriasis Have to Do With Your Gut
- Browse our Fringe red light therapy range
Disclaimer: This article is general information, not medical advice. Red light therapy is not a treatment for skin cancer or any other medical condition. Speak with your doctor or dermatologist before starting if you're pregnant, have a skin or eye condition, or take medication that increases light sensitivity.
