Can LED Face Masks Transform Your Skin? Experts Weigh In

Can LED Face Masks Transform Your Skin? Here’s What the Experts Say

LED technology has been used to address skin issues like eczema, mild to moderate acne, psoriasis, and sun damage in medical settings. However, the at-home LED market is growing rapidly. Devices, such as masks, are available from £40 to £1,500.(LED face masks)

LED technology uses light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to stimulate skin cells when exposed to the skin. Developers claim these masks can treat acne scars, sun damage, and fine lines. But, does this hold up under scrutiny?

The Projected Growth of the LED Market

The LED market is projected to be worth £600 million globally by 2032. This is nearly double the projected value of airflow technology, like the Dyson Airwrap, by the same year.

How LED Technology Works

Dr. Jonathan Kentley, a consultant dermatologist, explains that LED technology works by causing the skin to absorb light energy. This triggers cellular changes in a process known as photobiomodulation (PBM). “This allows new blood vessels and skin cells to form, along with increased collagen and elastin,” he says.

PBM also helps treat acne by reducing inflammation and oil production in the skin. A recent study emphasized the need for more clinical trials to fully understand PBM’s effects.

The Medical History of LED Therapy

NASA first studied LEDs in the 1990s for their potential in cell regeneration. Since then, dermatologists have used medical-grade devices for years. However, at-home masks have only been available for about five years, and they cost much less than medical devices.

At-Home vs. Medical Devices

The key differences between medical devices and at-home LED masks include the strength of the LEDs, the number of bulbs, and how close the device sits to the skin.

Expert Opinions on At-Home LED Masks

Dr. Justine Kluk, a dermatologist, believes at-home LED masks “sound promising.” However, she cautions that manufacturers may be speculating about their benefits. “No one has run clinical trials on the at-home LED mask to see if it delivers the same dose as a clinical device,” she says. “Studies are small and unstandardized, making it difficult to feel confident about their efficacy.”

Skincare now makes up nearly half of global sales in the beauty industry, surpassing categories like haircare, makeup, and fragrance. This growth is driven by Generation Z (born between 1995 and 2009) and Generation Alpha (born 2010 onwards), whose skincare interests are heavily influenced by social media.

Increasing Interest in At-Home Skincare

Dr. Kluk has noticed a significant rise in interest in at-home skincare since the Covid pandemic. “The ‘visually interesting’ nature of LED masks makes them eye-catching,” she says. “People often ask about them during consultations.”

Social Media Influence on LED Masks

TikTok and other platforms are full of videos showcasing users’ results with LED masks. Natalie O’Neill, a skincare content creator, shares her experience using a mask for curiosity. “I noticed a change in my skin after a couple of weeks. It helped prevent breakouts and evened out my skin tone,” she says.

O’Neill emphasizes that she combines the mask with a consistent skincare routine. “LED therapy in a clinic isn’t directly transferable to a mask. But I have realistic expectations,” she explains.

The Appeal of Easy-to-Use Devices

Part of the appeal of LED masks is their ease of use. Laurence Newman, CEO of CurrentBody, explains that people use their at-home LED mask for just 10 minutes to achieve an instant glow. “Women are increasingly looking for non-invasive skincare options, avoiding botox and fillers,” he says.

Newman also notes that the at-home LED mask market is still new. There’s a growing movement of education around the technology.

Is LED Therapy Safe?

Dr. Kentley concludes that PBM is mostly considered safe, even at high levels. Using LED technology is unlikely to cause cell damage. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects. “Many studies have been small and varied, making it hard to draw firm conclusions,” he says.

He advises consumers to choose devices with EU safety certifications and a high density of LEDs. This ensures enough energy reaches the skin.

Dr. Kluk also stresses that while LED masks may support a good skincare routine, they’re unlikely to work miracles on their own. “This is a significant amount of money to spend on a device. It might help with a skincare routine or a prescription regimen for severe issues like acne,” she says.

Article souse :-BBC

Can LED face masks transform your skin – here’s what the experts say