Red Light Therapy Masks: Fantastic or Fraudulent?

If you've been scrolling on the wellness side of TikTok, you've probably seen them: big, bulky masks emanating a red light. These "red light therapy masks" have been trending lately and claim to provide a plethora of benefits for your skin. Due to companies such as Shark and Dennis Gross selling and advertising these masks, their popularity has only shot up. These masks may be cool and futuristic, but are they really doing their job? Or are they just another cash grab that promotes consumer culture? 

After all, these masks aren't cheap; Shark's mask costs about $350. In many ways, these masks just seem like the latest fad. Every time a new product comes out (Rhode eye patches, COSRX Snail Mucin Essence, etc.) people get excited, try out the product and then forget about it a few weeks later and move on to the next big thing. 

When it comes to red light masks, though, the benefits do seem incredibly tempting. These masks claim that they offer anti-aging properties, the ability to stimulate collagen production and help with acne. They use LED lights to penetrate the skin and promote cellular movement and for the most part, these claims are supported. 

The truth is, that red light masks do help in some ways. According to dermatologists who talked to Forbes, claims of anti-aging are supported, as long as the mask is used frequently (about 3-5 times per week for 10-20 minutes). Additionally, red light masks have been tested thoroughly and are safe for most, but those who are sensitive to light may want to avoid them. It's a good idea too, to use eye protection when wearing the masks so that your eyes aren't affected. 

Overall, these masks aren't harmful and, with consistent use, do provide concrete help for your skin. The thing to think about now, is whether or not you're interested in spending hundreds of dollars on something that may end up sitting on the floor of your closet in a year (who knows, though, red light therapy masks may be just what you've been missing in your everyday skincare routine).