Are LED Masks Safe? Eye Safety, Skin Sensitivity, and What to Expect

Are LED Masks Safe? Eye Safety, Skin Sensitivity, and What to Expect

3 minute read

It’s always wise to vet the safety of your new skincare purchases. While it adds a step to the shopping process, it protects against unwanted effects. So if you’re wondering about LED mask safety, rest assured: FDA-cleared, clinically evaluated LED masks are designed for safe at-home use when used as directed. This doesn’t mean that all at-home LED masks are inherently safe, but that adhering to certain criteria can guide you to a safe option.

Omnilux LED devices lead with safety and transparency to make your choice easy. Our medical-grade devices are meticulously tested, backed by over 40 peer-reviewed brand studies, trusted by over 700,000 users, and conform to the highest eye safety standards. But don’t just take our word for it: read on for everything you need to know about eye safety, skin sensitivity, and proper LED mask usage.

Are LED Masks Safe for Your Eyes?

Many people wonder whether LED masks can damage your eyes, as they emit light close to the eye area. But LED masks use visible light wavelengths, like red and near-infrared, not UV (ultraviolet) light. This distinction matters for eye safety, because unlike UV-based treatments, LED light therapy uses non-ionizing light that doesn’t damage skin cells or DNA.

Still, selecting an LED mask that adheres to eye safety standards is the best way to ensure worry-free use. Omnilux devices have been tested and conform to IEC/EN 62471, the international photobiological eye safety standard. 

Eye protection isn’t required for Omnilux devices; they’re entirely safe for use without it. However, while not required for safety, optional eyewear is available to those who prefer it. Additionally, as some people may find that they’re sensitive to blue light, Omnilux Clear is equipped with built-in eye shields for added comfort.

Skin Safety: What to Expect

LED light therapy is non-invasive and doesn’t use UV light, making it a gentle choice for all skin types. If you experience temporary redness or warmth after a session, it should resolve quickly and isn’t a sign of damage. In most cases, it’s simply the result of natural body heat and having the device close to your body.

If you’re one of the 50 to 70% of adults who report having sensitive skin, you might approach new skincare products and devices with extra skepticism. But your sensitive skin shouldn’t take LED light therapy off the table. Omnilux devices have shown in testing to be safe for all skin types. The non-UV technology makes it well-tolerated, even for reactive skin types.

With that said, if you have concerns about using LED light therapy with sensitive skin, we recommend performing a sensitization test on your arm with the device before using it on your face. And if you have questions about using an LED mask with sensitive skin, medications, photosensitivity, pregnancy, or recent procedures, consult your healthcare provider before getting started.

Using LED Safely With Your Skincare Routine

Selecting the right at-home LED mask is only the first step: using it safely is just as crucial. To set yourself up for success, start each session with clean, dry skin, and use the device as directed. Omnilux devices automatically shut off after the recommended session time (10 minutes), making proper usage as convenient as possible.

To elevate your results, you can consider products developed to complement LED light therapy sessions, including:

You might also wonder how LED light therapy pairs with other steps in your skincare routine, like retinol. At Omnilux, we don’t recommend using retinol with LED light therapy; while some people can use both comfortably, it poses a risk of reaction. Talk to your dermatologist or skincare provider for personalized guidance on pairing LED light therapy with more potent topicals, and for more information, visit our Help Center and Product FAQs.

How Often Should You Use an LED Mask?

It’s one of the most common questions we hear: Can I use an LED mask every day?

LED light therapy is non-ablative, meaning it doesn’t compromise the outermost layer of the skin (called the epidermis). This also means there’s no required recovery period between sessions (unlike chemical exfoliants, retinoids, and more invasive therapies, like certain lasers). However, more isn’t always more: the best approach is to follow the recommended protocol that produces the documented clinical results.

  • For Omnilux Contour Face, this protocol is three to five 10-minute sessions per week for four to six weeks, followed by maintenance as desired to achieve measurable outcomes like reduced fine lines and wrinkles and brighter, more radiant skin.
  • For Omnilux Clear, this protocol is four 10-minute sessions per week for six weeks, followed by maintenance sessions at the earliest sign of a breakout to help reduce active acne and prevent blemishes.

Using your device as directed helps prevent LED mask side effects and supports radiant results. To learn more about the documented outcomes of LED light therapy, visit our Clinical Bibliography.

What Makes Omnilux Different

In your search for a safe, effective LED light therapy device, Omnilux stands out from the crowd as a medical-grade brand since 2003. While LED light therapy has been trending recently (and many brands have hopped on the bandwagon), Omnilux is a stalwart in the field, with the credentials to back it up:

  • Over 700,000 customers (and counting)
  • 40+ peer-reviewed brand studies in our Clinical Bibliography
  • FDA clearance, meaning the device has been reviewed by the FDA for its intended use
  • Clinically evaluated wavelengths for specific skin concerns (633nm red, 830nm near-infrared, and 1072nm near-infrared for skin rejuvenation; 415nm blue for acne)

A Simple Checklist for Safe LED Sessions at Home

Follow this straightforward process for safe LED light therapy sessions that fit into your home skincare routine.

Before each session:

  • Cleanse your skin thoroughly with a gentle cleanser to remove all makeup and skincare products that could inhibit light penetration.
  • Skip strong active ingredients, like retinol and prescription retinoids, on LED nights (especially if you’re new to LED light therapy).

During each session:

  • Apply complementary Omnilux topical skincare products formulated for use during sessions, like Hyaluronic Acid Serum or Hydrogel Masks.
  • Follow the recommended treatment time and weekly frequency for your device.
  • Refer to the instructions to secure the device close to your skin.
  • Keep your eyes open or closed, whatever is most comfortable for you. No eye protection is required with Omnilux devices, though Omnilux Clear includes built-in eye shields for added comfort.

After each session:

  • Apply serums and moisturizer right after your session, as your skin is primed for absorption.
  • Apply SPF daily as part of your usual routine. This isn’t specific to LED light therapy; it’s just good skincare!

Looking for additional information? Refer to our Help Center and review our Product FAQs to learn more.