They look like futuristic masks. We apply them for a few minutes on the face. LED masks (for Light Emitting Diode) are machines equipped with diodes which emit waves and diffuse low-energy UV-free lights, which stimulate the skin and improve its appearance.
We’ve been using it for a long time in dermatology practices and beauty salons. Today the technique is on the rise, because we can buy them and use them at home.
How exactly does it work?
“LED masks emit different lights which will act on different levels of the skin, explains Dr Martine Baspeyras, dermatologist. For example, the red lights and infrared will go as far as the dermis and stimulate the cells which produce collagen and elastin”. They have more of an anti-aging action.
“Blue lights are more superficial, and will, for example, be used to correct imperfections, notably acne, at the level of the epidermis”, adds Dr Martine Baspeyras. According to the dermatologist, “we can hope to have a improvement in the quality of the skin, a more even complexion, with fewer small imperfections, less redness, and fewer fine lines.
However, she warns: the results are not spectacular. Indeed, well-established wrinkles will not disappear and the skin will not tighten if it is relaxed. The rejuvenating effect is moderate and progressive. According to studies provided by brands, results can be seen after 3 to 4 weeks, with approximately two applications per week. The LED mask can be seen as a maintenance treatment. It does not replace creams, but it can complement them.
LED masks do not represent a risky technique, it is now well mastered, completely painless and cannot cause burns. It is suitable for all skin types and colors. What is important is to respect the rules for using the devices provided by the manufacturers, in particular the number and duration of sessions to be done per week.
“There is no point in increasing the sessions or their duration, the results will not be better, because there is a threshold effect,” specifies the dermatologist.
How to choose the right mask?
There is masks at all prices. From a hundred euros, up to more than 1000 euros. It is not necessarily the most expensive that is the most effective: what you need to look at is the power of the mask, the number of LEDs and the colors.
According to the dermatologist, “the power must be at least 30 milliwatts per cm², but does not need to be very high. The mask must have at least 100 diodes and emit 3 or 4 colors, including red and infrared light, which have the most complete rejuvenating action.”
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