The Dangers Of LED Face Masks You Should Know About

LED light therapy masks are powerful at-home tools with remarkable results, transforming your skin and how you feel in it. Due to the power of red light therapy masks, you’re not alone if you’re concerned about safety. The good news is that, if you follow guidelines and use FDA-cleared masks (like ours!) you shouldn’t need to worry. We’re covering everything you need to know about the dangers, side effects and common mistakes of LED therapy.

LED therapy masks are everywhere right now and they’re one of the trendiest beauty tools on the market right now. Once reserved for expensive in-clinic facials, they’re now one of the most popular at-home treatment devices — it’s hard to scroll Instagram without seeing a red light therapy selfie.

With the surge in popularity, many people are apprehensive about trying at-home LED devices due to worries about the potential dangers of LED face masks.

The good news is that LED light therapy is a very safe and effective treatment and many studies establish minimal to no side effects with correct at-home use. Targeting various skin concerns, including breakouts, fine lines and wrinkles and uneven skin tone.

As always, however, certain precautions should always be taken to ensure you are getting the most from your treatment.

What Is LED Light Therapy?

LED (light-emitting diode) therapy is a non-invasive device that uses special wavelengths of light to stimulate the skin’s cellular processes (photobiomodulation) to promote repair. It’s used to improve a wide range of skin concerns, including (but not limited to): breakouts and blemishes, hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone, fine lines and wrinkles, and uneven skin texture.

And we’ve got astronauts to thank for the discovery. NASA first encountered the healing effects of red LED light while trying to grow potatoes in space. This groundbreaking discovery led to the exploration of potential LED benefits for medical purposes. In time, this technology made its way into the medical field and then became a significant innovation in the cosmetic industry. 

What was once an exclusive in-clinic treatment has now become easily accessible through portable at-home devices. This means that you can conveniently reap the benefits of LED masks, like the LumaLux Face Pro LED Therapy Mask, which has 800 LEDs and 8 treatment modes including near-infrared and deep-infrared coverage. 

What Are The Benefits Of LED Light Therapy?

The effects of low-level light therapy (LLLT) in rejuvenating the skin rely on the wavelength of light emitted by your device. Better results are often achieved with deeper light penetration, which makes red light therapy a great option. Red and blue light therapy are widely known for their anti-aging and anti-blemish effects, making them popular choices in LED light therapy.

Here are the common wavelengths of light and their corresponding benefits for the skin:

RED LIGHT 630nm - Known for its anti-aging properties, red light therapy increases our production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which gives energy to our powerhouse cell mitochondria. This encourages repair, collagen production, aids in wound healing and reduces the appearance of fine lines.

BLUE LIGHT 460nm - This antibacterial light targets and destroys breakout-causing bacteria, helping to regulate oil production and improve skin clarity.

INFRARED 850nm - In addition to its anti-aging benefits, infrared light therapy enhances tissue repair and wound healing, while reducing chronic inflammation.  

LED light masks integrate easily into existing skincare routines and can be used with other beauty technology devices such as microcurrent facial rollers and derma rollers and skin tightening tools. For best results, apply a hydrating hyaluronic acid serum after each treatment.  

What Are The Dangers Of Using LED Face Masks?

Like any new treatment, it's crucial to understand the potential risks associated with this type of light therapy. The use of UV-free and non-thermal LED bulbs rules out potential skin damage. While a 2018 study affirms its excellent safety record, here are some possible complications of LED light therapy: 

Eye damage

While the data is limited on the potential long-term effects of red light therapy on the eyes, we always recommend erring on the side of caution and only using LED masks with built-in eye protection or wearing protective goggles during each treatment. Always purchase your device from a trusted brand to ensure ultimate eye safety.

LumaLux Face and Face+ come with built-in eye protection for maximum light exclusion. You should notice almost no light penetrating the eye area during treatment. The cushion eye protection not only protects your eyes but also enables you to continue your daily tasks without impeding your vision. When choosing a mask it is important to ensure it has designated eye protection that you can see - some masks may claim to exclude all light but have no inbuilt mechanisms to guarantee this.

Overuse LED light therapy 

At-home LED light therapy masks vary in terms of power output, while there is little data to suggest too much LED light can cause damage to the skin - it is best to adhere to your device's usage guidelines to avoid any unwanted irritation. 

Skin conditions

Although LED light therapy is generally considered safe, if you have severe skin conditions, always consult a dermatologist to ensure LED light therapy aligns with your overall treatment plan. Don’t use the LED mask on open wounds. 

What Are The Side Effects Of Using LED Masks Too Often?

When it comes to LED masks, there’s an optimal level of use, after which, there aren't any further benefits, so sticking to recommended usage per instructions is important. While generally safe if used a little longer than recommended, excessive use isn’t going to give you good outcomes.

Excessive overuse of LED masks can cause skin irritation, redness,  and, in some cases, even worsened hyperpigmentation. Basically, everything LED can help fix when used properly.

The takeaway? Use as instructed and you’ll get all the benefits.

Can LED Face Masks Damage Your Eyes?

As previously mentioned, LED face masks that are FDA-approved (or CE cleared in Europe) and follow all safety protocols won’t cause damage to your eyes. Red and near-infrared light are not known to damage eyesight.

LLLT red light devices have even been used in human trials to look into whether the therapeutic benefits may help with dry eyes. Although more studies are needed, they’re certainly showing promise and help reassure that red light is perfectly safe for the eyes when used correctly.

For concerns around blue light, it’s important to remember that the blue light emitted from the sun and screens isn’t the same as the blue light emitted from LED devices. At the correct wavelength, blue light has excellent therapeutic benefits, including reducing blemishes.

The LumaLux has built-in cushioned eye protection to exclude light and is IEC62471 certified — meeting the highest global standard for eye safety in light therapy.

Common Mistakes With At-Home LED Therapy?

Many of the concerns with LED therapy come down to user error rather than an unsafe device.

Common mistakes people make when it comes to at-home LED face masks, include:

LED therapy mistake 1: Not wearing the device correctly

We ensure our mask fits perfectly on your face to get the correct dosage of light therapy during a session. This means not having it too close that it may cause unnecessary damage, or too far away so that you don’t get the benefits of the device.

The LumaLux Face is made from 100% soft silicone to fit the contour of the face perfectly, ensuring full coverage to get the benefits of the wavelengths. It’s also wireless, hands-free and lightweight enough that you can even get on with day-to-day activities while wearing it — though, we like the excuse to sit back and relax.

LED therapy mistake 2: Overuse of the device

We’ve said it a few times now, but wearing the device more than recommended isn’t going to yield better results. More isn’t better when it comes to LLLT; stick to the manufacture guide.

LED therapy mistake 3: Inconsistent use

Consistency is key when it comes to LED face masks. You have to use it per the instructions on a regular basis to see visible results. This is where getting a device that works quickly is recommended. The LumaLux takes just 3 minutes of use 3-5 times per week to see the benefits. It can take several months to see results — but it’s well worth the wait.

LED therapy mistake 4: Low-quality devices

There’s no point putting the consistent work in if the device you’re using won’t give you good results. Getting a mask that has optimal wavelengths for results and zone coverage to ensure your entire face — and in the case of the LumaLux, even the lips — is gaining the benefits. 

LED Light Therapy Safety Tips

By being aware of potential risks and taking necessary precautions, you can safely enjoy the rejuvenating benefits of LED light therapy. If you have any concerns or questions, it's a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for expert advice.

At-home LED light therapy devices, such as masks or handheld devices, are mostly user-friendly. However, it's important to follow best practices to avoid any unwanted effects. Here are some simple tips to ensure a safe and effective LED light therapy experience:

1. 1. When selecting an LED mask, it is advisable to choose one that includes safety blackout goggles or has built-in eye protection. This added feature alleviates concerns about potential eye damage
   2. It is also beneficial to explore reviews, not only for the product itself, but also for the company behind it. Consider whether the company is responsive to customer inquiries and if they offer a return and exchange policy.
   3. To ensure a safe and effective LED light therapy experience, familiarize yourself with the instruction manual prior to the first use. Keep the manual for future reference.
   4. Follow the suggested treatment plan diligently. This gradual approach allows your skin to adjust to the therapy and begin displaying positive changes.
   5. As favorable results become evident, you can gradually reduce the frequency of use. This allows your skin to maintain the improvements while also allowing sufficient time for rest and recovery between sessions.
   6. If your skin responds well to the therapy, you may consider gradually extending the duration, but keep it within the recommended timeline on the manual. This offers your skin additional time to absorb the rejuvenating benefits of the red LED light, potentially enhancing the overall effectiveness of the treatment.

The Takeaway

When it comes to skincare trends, it’s essential to strike a balance between curiosity and caution. LED face masks have gained popularity for their incredible benefits and visible results, but understanding the risks when it comes to unregulated masks is equally crucial. Here’s what you should remember:

LED Light Therapy: This innovative treatment uses UV-free, non-thermal LED bulbs to transform your skin at the cellular level. From breakouts to wrinkles, it targets various concerns.

Safety First: While the results are appealing, prioritize safety. Remember to protect your eyes and use the mask for the recommended time. It's easy to add into your everyday routine, you can use the mask for just 3 minutes, 3-5 times a week.

At-home Convenience: LED light therapy, once exclusive to clinics, is now accessible at home. The Project E Beauty LumaLux Collection face mask offers a convenient way to incorporate it into your routine. Relaxing and results-driven — the ideal beauty routine.

Related article: What Happens If You Overdo LED Therapy? 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are LED face masks safe to use at home?

Yes. LED light therapy is considered very safe for at-home use because it uses UV-free, non-thermal light that doesn't burn or damage the skin. Most studies report minimal to no side effects when masks are used as directed. To stay on the safe side, choose an FDA-cleared device (or CE-cleared in Europe), follow the usage instructions, and use built-in eye protection.

Can LED face masks damage your eyes?

No, LED face masks are not known to damage your eyes when used correctly with proper eye protection. Red and near-infrared light have not been shown to harm eyesight, and red light is even being studied as a possible treatment for dry eyes. The blue light in LED devices is a therapeutic wavelength and is different from the blue light from screens or the sun. As a precaution, only use masks with built-in eye protection or wear protective goggles, and look for devices certified to IEC 62471, the global standard for eye safety in light therapy.

How often should you use an LED face mask?

For most masks, 3 to 5 sessions per week is the sweet spot, with each session lasting a few minutes. The LumaLux Face, for example, takes just 3 minutes per session, 3 to 5 times a week. Consistency matters more than frequency, so following your device's recommended schedule regularly gives the best results.

What happens if you use an LED face mask too much?

Overusing an LED face mask won't speed up results and can actually cause problems. There's an optimal level of use, after which you get no extra benefit. Excessive overuse may lead to skin irritation, redness, and in some cases worsened hyperpigmentation, the very issues LED therapy is meant to improve. Sticking to the recommended usage time and frequency is the safest approach.

How long does it take to see results from an LED face mask?

Visible results typically take several weeks to a few months of consistent use. LED therapy works gradually at a cellular level, so patience and regular sessions are key. Using a device consistently on the recommended schedule is more important than any single session.

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