How to Reduce Wrinkles with Red Light Therapy, According to an Expert

We interviewed Dr. Samantha Ellis because we think you’ll like her picks at these prices. E! has affiliate relationships, so we may get a commission if you purchase something through our links. Items are sold by the retailer, not E!. Prices are accurate as of publish time.

If you’re like me, you may have started to notice more fine lines and wrinkles on your face. They just started creeping up over the years, and once they appear, they’re hard to shake. Now, there are a ton of skincare products out there that promise anti-aging results, but it’s hard to tell what will actually work (or for how long).

reduce those fine lines and wrinkles, while minimizing redness and inflammation. The claims sound too good to be true, which is why I spoke with Dr. Samantha Ellis to find out how red light devices work and which ones are worth the cost.

When it comes to skin benefits, Dr. Ellis notes that you might see, “reduced redness and inflammation, accelerated wound healing, improved skin elasticity, and reduction in fine lines.”

So keep on scrolling to find the right at-home red light therapy device for you. If you’re still not sure, Dr. Ellis advises that people look for “customer reviews, certifications, and expert opinions to make an informed decision.” You’ll be glowing in no time.

Dr. Ellis has been using the Omnilux Contour mask for years, “because Omnilux has participated in some of the pioneering red light therapy research.” The brand also promises anti-aging and skin rejuvenating results. All it takes is three to five, 10-minute treatments per week for four to six weeks. Just put on the mask, close your eyes, and let it do it’s thing. The battery is rechargeable and the mask has a wavelength of 633 nanometers (which Ellis recommends).

If you’ve ever used your Theragun and thought, “I wish I had this for my face”? Well, you’re in luck, because that’s what the TheraFace PRO is (and more). This incredibly portable device comes with attachments for red light (for wrinkles), blue light (for acne), and red light plus infrared light therapy (for wrinkles and pain), plus microcurrents for toning and firming your face and facial massage and cleansing attachments.

There’s also a plush pouch for carrying everything. I noticed my skin feeling firmer immediately. Plus, it’s red light has a wavelength of 633 nanometers and a light intensity of 60 mW/cm^2 (just in the range Ellis recommends).

The LightStim is another red light therapy device that I’ve loved using. It’s easy to use, covers a large portion of your face (so you’re getting a good dose of light), and features a 3-minute timer so you know when to switch to another section of your face. Plus, it comes with a case for easy portability. The LightStim promises to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and deliver a youthful look after a few months. The wand uses a mix of amber, red, and infrared light, covering a range of 605 to 855 nanometers.

Hurry, this red light therapy wand could be yours for just $68. You can switch between green (for hyperpigmentation), blue (for acne), and red (for aging) LED lights for different results, and all you have to do is glide it across your face. The device charges via USB, so it’s handy to use on the go. Reviewers have called it “a miracle.”

Score softer, rejuvenated skin with the Lifepro light therapy mask. It includes red, blue, and amber light options, and the eyeglass frame design doesn’t lay on your skin, giving you a different fit than other masks.

We’ve been talking about this wand for a while. That’s because the Solawave is easy to use, rechargeable via USB, and can deliver radiant skin. It can even minimize the appearance of fine lines, dark circles, blemishes, and puffiness on your face. Just glide it over your face three minutes per day for three weeks, and the brand promises results.

This user reported, “I’ve been using this for a few weeks and I definitely see a difference. My skin looks glowy and plumper each time I use it. Wonderful tool especially for the price!” Plus, the red light is right in Ellis’ recommended range (633 nanometers).

Newly launched by Solawave, this mini red light device is perfect for glowing skin on the go. It easily fits in the palm of your hand and features 630 nanometers (right in the ballpark of Dr. Ellis’ recommendation). You can also use it to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles all over your body, and even pack it in a carry-on.

All it takes is three minutes for this Dr. Dennis Gross mask to potentially deliver smooth and clear skin (and then it automatically shuts off, so you don’t have to time it). It uses red light with a wavelength of 633 nanometers, and features three treatment settings. The mask easily contours to your face for comfort and charges via USB (so it’s conveniently hands-free). The brand promises results within 10 weeks of use.

Using a combination of red, yellow, blue, and infrared light, the Ulike ReGlow LED Light Therapy Face Mask includes Glow, Firm, Rejuvenate, and Clear modes. It promises to reduce aging signs and diminish redness while giving your skin a firming, glowing boost.

I swear by this Solawave red light therapy device. Just use it for minutes a day (it automatically turns off after 3 minutes), and it can reduce the signs of wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, and more. It’s also comfortable to wear, and I’ve seen immediate results.

Get all the benefits of red light therapy for your neck and chest with this LED mask. Solawave promises you can see results within 8 weeks with reduced fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and more. Plus, it comes with a cream that can boost results.

If you’re interested in investing in an at-home red light therapy device, Dr. Ellis recommends these specs:

Wavelength: “Ensure the device emits wavelengths within the effective range for red light therapy (around 633 nanometers for red light and 830 nanometers for near-infrared light),” Ellis reports. Not all devices advertise their wavelength range, but for those that do, I noted them below.

Light Intensity: “This is also known as the irradiance, and I look for some in the range of 40-100 mW/cm^2.” Ellis explains that the intensity of the light is essential because if you don’t have enough, you won’t get any results. Again, not all devices advertise this spec.

Ease of Use: “Consider the design, size, and user-friendliness of the device and what will work best with your lifestyle,” Ellis notes. Some other considerations might include how the device is powered and if it comes with a handy case for portability.

Certifications: Finally, Ellis reminds consumers that they should “Choose devices that comply with relevant safety and quality standards.”

“The frequency of red light therapy sessions can vary depending on the specific device and the purpose of use. Some devices recommend daily use, while others may suggest a few sessions per week. It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns,” Dr. Ellis reports.

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—Originally published February 6, 2024, at 12:57 p.m. PT