So You Bought A LED Mask — Now What?

IN THIS ARTICLE:

• 01 Quick Facts On LED Light Therapy
• 02 How To Incorporate LED Light Therapy In Your Routine
• 03 Which Skincare Products Can You Use With Your LED Light Therapy Mask?  

So, you've finally purchased your very own LED light mask after much consideration. But now that you have it in your hands, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed, unsure of where to begin.

Take a deep breath and relax. By now, you've probably gathered a significant amount of knowledge about LED light therapy that you could easily persuade anyone of its effectiveness. It's just those first-time jitters that can get to you.

Although LED light masks are very easy to use, let this article guide you through the process of using your mask for the first time, help you establish a routine around it, and recommend some complementary products to enhance your experience.

1. Quick Facts on LED Light Therapy

You may be familiar with how this device works, the science behind it, and even the pioneering inventors who delved into this technology. To get you all hyped up all over again, uncover some fascinating facts that you may not have encountered before.

💡The world’s first visible light-emitting diode (LED) was demonstrated in October 9, 1962. Prior to this, the only light emitted from LEDs was infrared or invisible light. 

💡The healing effects of red and blue LED lights were unexpectedly discovered during NASA's experiments with potato growth in the space shuttle.

💡Infrared light, the wavelength that can’t be seen, has the same benefits as red light but BETTER as it penetrates deeply into the skin.

💡LED light therapy tools are not limited to masks and handheld devices. There are also dedicated devices for the neck, hands, and the lips.

💡LED light therapy masks come in a variety of materials such as the commonly used plastic, the lightweight yet strong polycarbonate, and the bendable silicone.

💡Beware of counterfeit devices as some may utilize colored bulbs instead of true LED bulbs. These can heat up and potentially cause photodamage.

2. How To Incorporate LED Light Therapy In Your Routine?

To achieve your skin goals more quickly, it's crucial to incorporate LED light therapy into your routine consistently. One easy step to integrate LED light therapy is by using it after facial cleansing. Remember to always start with a clean face before using the mask. Once the therapy session is complete, you can continue with your regular facial products. 

To answer the important question: how often should I use LED light therapy at home? How often should you use LED light masks in general? For beginners, using a LED light therapy mask or a handheld device, treatments can be done up to four times a week, starting with 10-minute sessions. Once you begin to see favorable results, you can reduce the frequency to twice a week while potentially increasing the session time to 15 minutes each. 

It's important to remember that LED bulbs provide pure light energy and are highly effective, so there is no need to increase usage for better results.

3. Which Skincare Products Can You Use With Your LED Light Therapy Mask?

When it comes to using your LED light therapy mask, the best part is that it becomes even more effective when used in conjunction with other skincare products. Whether you're targeting anti-aging, anti-acne, or simply maintaining healthy skin, you can boost the benefits of your mask with the following skincare products:

Serums: After red light therapy, use hyaluronic acid or vitamin C enriched serums or ones infused with retinol, argan oil, and peptides to enhance the anti-aging effects. Use retinols with caution and avoid applying them immediately after your LED light therapy session. Wait for at least five to 10 minutes.

Creams: Products containing beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) help exfoliate dead skin cells and can work well in combination with blue LED light. Just like the acne-fighting light, BHA creams help eliminate bacteria and unclog blocked pores by loosening impurities on the skin’s surface.

Moisturizers: Some treatment plans can be drying for your skin. When using an LED light mask, it's important not to skip the moisturizer. In fact, regardless of your skin concern, never skip moisturizing as the last step to lock in moisture and keep your skin barrier intact.

 written by Sophie Flair