Are LED Light Masks Dangerous for your Eyes? Let’s Find Out

IN THIS ARTICLE:

• 01 What Are LED Face Masks?
• 02 Are LED Face Masks Safe To Use?
• 03 How Can LED Face Masks Affect The Eyes?
• 04 How To Protect Your Eyes During LED Light Therapy? 
• 05 LED Devices That You Can Try
• 06 How Often Should You Use LED Masks?

This skincare craze isn't going anywhere! But amidst all the buzz, one burning question remains: are LED light masks harmful to your eyes?

1. What Are LED Face Masks? 

THE DESIGN - Most LED light therapy masks resemble the front of a ski mask with holes for the eyes, nose, and mouth. To hold them in place, the masks have either temples or adjustable head straps. The mask usually comes as a one-size-fits-all piece.  

THE ORIGIN - The LED face mask uses a NASA-inspired technology that has been around since the 1980s. Is LED red light therapy safe? The healing potential of red light advanced in the medical setting and made its way into the beauty industry as a safe and effective skin rejuvenating treatment.

THE TECHNOLOGY - All LED light therapy masks work the same way: LED bulbs emit light energy that penetrates the skin’s surface to activate photoreceptors. These receptors capture light to mount a series of natural processes that are usually beneficial for the skin.

THE BENEFITS - Some of these natural processes may include collagen production, acne-fighting, and skin cell renewal. Other processes and skin-altering effects may also occur depending on the visible light color used. 

THE ADVANTAGE - Smaller LED light therapy devices such as these masks use the same technologies as in-clinic machines, which means you can get the same type of results. This makes at-home LED face masks more cost-efficient in the long run.

2. Are LED Face Masks Safe To Use?

LED light therapy is a safe method for treating skin conditions. Because the LED bulbs used for light therapy are UV-free and non-heating, LED masks do not cause any type of damage to the surface of the skin. A 2018 study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology confirms that phototherapy using an LED device displays an excellent safety profile. 

It also does not cause any adverse reactions and requires little to no downtime for the user. The same study also confirms the effectiveness of phototherapy devices when used to treat mild to moderate acne and heal wounds.

3. How Can LED Face Masks Affect The Eyes?

The truth is, LED light masks use high-intensity LED bulbs that are a little too bright for the eyes. If you’re not wearing proper protection (such as goggles) or if you’re exposed to it for a long period of time, chances are bright light can damage your vision.  

In 2019, a famous beauty brand issued a recall of its own light therapy mask due to reports of “theoretical risk of eye injury.” The Australian Department of Health confirms that certain people may be at risk of irreversible retinal damage and peripheral vision impairment or loss. 

4. How To Protect Your Eyes During LED Light Therapy? 

LED light therapy masks can be damaging to your eyes -  if improperly used. After all, LED light masks are designed for skin treatment and there’s no reason for you to expose your eyes to it.  Here are easy ways to protect your eyes while undergoing LED light therapy. 

• Use eye protectors - Most LED light therapy masks and devices come with built-in or additional protective goggles. If not, purchase a pair of blackout goggles for effective blocking. Do not forget to put them on before you start.
• Don’t look directly into the light - Again, there’s no reason for you to check out those ultra bright lights with just the naked eye. Bright lights, in general, can overstimulate and damage the retina.  
• Limit usage - Strictly follow and do not exceed treatment times especially if you’re new to light therapy. 

5. LED Devices That You Can Try 

Project E Beauty offers a variety of LED light therapy masks and devices with additional safety features/inclusions. 

6. How Often Should You Use LED Masks?

For beginners, treatments using an LED light therapy mask or a handheld device can be done up to four times a week starting with 10-minute sessions. Once favorable results start to appear, reduce treatments to twice a week - you may do longer sessions for up to 15 minutes each. LED bulbs provide pure light energy and are very powerful so there is no need to amp up usage to achieve better results.

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Originally published on 1st October, 2023. Last updated on 11th March 2024.

 

 written by Olivia Khader