Every week a new patient of mine comes in asking for my thoughts on a device they’ve seen, read or heard about on Instagram and TikTok. So as a follow-up to my recent article on in-office laser treatments, I thought it would be useful to explore with you the at-home skincare devices. Of course these tools have gained popularity for their convenience, accessibility, and the promise of delivering professional-level results in the comfort of your home. But do they really work? and are they worth it?
At-Home LED Face Masks
One of the most talked-about at-home skincare devices is the LED face mask, which uses varying wavelengths of light to target specific skin concerns, such as acne, fine lines, and skin tone. LED therapy has long been utilized in professional dermatological treatments, but recent advances have made it possible to enjoy similar benefits at home. I actually like them and do believe “if used regularly” they are effective at addressing some fine lines and skin elasticity. However compliance is a major factor, and the downside is that most people, including myself will buy them and use them for a few days to weeks and then they are just taking-up space on your night-stands collecting dust. That’s my honest opinion on them. However, if you believe that you can be disciplined and actually use it consistently, I would actually recommend it.
The Benefits of LED Therapy:
1. Acne Treatment: Blue light emitted by LED masks helps kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation, making it effective for individuals struggling with acne.
2. Anti-Aging Effects: Red light therapy stimulates collagen production, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin elasticity and texture over time.
Several studies have highlighted the efficacy of LED masks. For example, a 2022 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy found that red light therapy improved skin elasticity and reduced wrinkles in patients using LED masks consistently. Similarly, a 2024 study from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) revealed that a new, face-conforming LED mask improved skin elasticity by 340%, suggesting an enhancement in deep skin stimulation.
Safety First: While LED face masks are generally considered safe, don’t just buy any device off Amazon. It’s essential to choose FDA-cleared devices to ensure optimal efficacy. I would recommend one from a well known brand as the potential side effects like skin irritation or sensitivity are not worth it. I would also recommend patch-testing before regular use.
Dermal Rollers: Microneedling at Home
Another type of at-home device I get asked about is the dermal roller, which uses tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, a process known as microneedling. This treatment helps improve product absorption, stimulates collagen production, and can reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks. I am very hesitant about recommending at home dermal rollers though, because lately I have seen more bad than good from these devices as they can cause micro-tears, disrupt the skin barrier and also introduce skin infections if not sterilized beforehand. In contrast, the in office microneedling devices are FDA-cleared, have disposable single use needle tips and are performed by professionals who understand the skin anatomy and physiology, so we know what layer of the skin we are targeting.
If you are going to use a roller the process should be done gently to avoid skin damage. It’s also essential to sterilize the roller before and after use to prevent infections.
Two devices I highly recommend based on my experience and the clinical results are:
Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro: This LED mask combines red and blue light therapy, offering a balanced approach to both acne and aging concerns.
BeautyBio GloPRO Microneedling Tool: A highly rated dermal roller known for enhancing product absorption and promoting smoother, firmer skin.
Last but not least the most important thing is to manage expectations. While these devices can offer visible improvements, I would say they are a good add-on but not a substitute for professional treatments, and results can vary based on individual skin types, age, and conditions.
Have you tried any at-home skincare devices? Which are your favorites? I’d love to hear your experiences or answer any questions you may have about their use.
