LED (light-emitting diode) therapy works by delivering specific wavelengths of light energy into the skin to stimulate natural cellular processes. This mechanism, known as photobiomodulation, can trigger collagen production, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation.
Different colours of light target different concerns: Red light (630–660 nm) boosts fibroblast activity, promoting collagen and elastin for firmer, smoother skin. Near infrared light (around 830 nm) penetrates deeper, supporting cellular repair and circulation. Blue light (415 nm) works closer to the surface, killing acne-causing bacteria and reducing oil production.
Research around the use of LED in skincare varies in quality, but there’s growing evidence to support its benefits. A 2005 clinical trial using red and near-infrared therapy reported that over 80% of participants experienced softer fine lines and improved tone after 12 weeks. More recent research continues to strengthen the case: a 2025 meta-analysis of red and blue at-home devices found they were effective in treating mild-to-moderate acne.
Sceptics point out that most high-quality clinical studies are done with professional-grade LED machines used by dermatologists — not consumer masks, and, because at-home devices are sold as cosmetic products, not medical devices, they aren't held to the same standards.
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