For a technology that involves doing absolutely nothing but basking in some light rays, red light therapy (RLT) is wildly effective.
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Whether you’re treating acne, thickening hair, softening fine lines, speeding muscle recovery, or just looking to biohack your way to a better mood, red light has entered the chat. Once reserved for dermatologists and expensive med spas, at-home RLT devices now come in all shapes, sizes, and wavelengths.
What makes red light therapy so powerful? It works at the cellular level, stimulating mitochondria (the energy powerhouses of your cells) to produce more ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the fuel your body uses to repair itself. That translates to brighter skin, faster muscle recovery, and even improved sleep.
Studies suggest stacking red light therapy with methylene blue — yes, that vivid blue liquid with fans including RFK Jr. going viral for its nootropic benefits — can supercharge results by enhancing mitochondrial function even further. Think of it as adding rocket fuel to your already glowing engine.
So whether you’re a fitness junkie, a skincare maximalist, or just want to look hotter and live longer (don’t we all?), here are the best red light therapy devices worth investing in — plus one that’s small enough to fit in your carry-on but mighty enough to turn your skin into a glazed donut.
Red light therapy (RLT), also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation (PBM), is a non-invasive treatment that utilizes specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light (typically between 600 and nanometers) to stimulate cellular activity. This light penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the mitochondria — the energy-producing components of cells — enhancing the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP).
Increased ATP production can improve cellular function, promoting healing and regeneration. Clinical studies have demonstrated that RLT can aid in skin rejuvenation, reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and support hair growth. For instance, research has shown that RLT can effectively treat conditions like acne vulgaris and androgenetic alopecia, and improve skin texture and tone.
While RLT shows promise in a number of therapeutic areas, it’s important to note that its efficacy can vary depending on the condition being treated and the levels of the therapy, such as wavelength, dosage, and treatment duration. Some studies have reported benefits in muscle recovery and pain reduction, particularly in conditions like knee osteoarthritis. However, more extensive and standardized clinical trials are needed to fully establish optimal treatment protocols and long-term safety.
Additionally, while we love an at-home RLT device since they are widely available and considered safe, they may be less powerful than professional-grade equipment. And, of course, as with any therapeutic treatment, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting RLT to ensure it’s appropriate for your specific health needs.
Don’t let the size fool you — the Gleam Mini is a professional-grade red and near-infrared light device disguised as a handheld glow stick. It uses medical-grade LEDs to deliver 660nm (red) and 850nm (near-infrared) wavelengths, scientifically proven to boost collagen, improve skin tone, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain at the muscular level. Most handheld RLT devices either skimp on power or go full-on toaster oven, but this one strikes the perfect balance between strength and portability.
Gleam is also FDA-cleared, shockingly lightweight, and wireless — so yes, you can hold it to your face while binge-watching The Bear or angle it over your hip flexor after a savage Pilates class. The Gleam Mini has a built-in timer and auto-shutoff (a blessing for the forgetful), and the sleek magnetic stand means you don’t need a third arm to use it.
I’ve been using the Gleam Mini every morning for the past two weeks, and not to be dramatic, but I think it’s restructuring my face.
I use it for five minutes on each cheekbone (hello, glow) and then aim it at my jawline, where I tend to both break out and clench from stress. It’s warm, soothing, and weirdly meditative. My skin is visibly calmer and smoother, and I swear my jaw pain has eased. Also, it fits in my tote, so best believe it comes with me on my weekends away.
Type: Cordless handheld device | Time Commitment: Start with 1–2 minutes per area, gradually increasing to 10 minutes per session at a distance of 6–12 inches | Results: 2–4 weeks of consistent use
If your primary goal is to channel your inner beached seal, the CurrentBody Skin LED Mask is a derm-favorite for a reason. This silicone mask molds to your face like a second skin and uses clinically proven red and near-infrared wavelengths to improve elasticity, smooth fine lines, and reduce redness. It’s hands-free and fits flush against the skin, which means more effective absorption and a spa-like experience without the $200 facial.
This is the mask you’ve seen all over TikTok (including on A-list celebs who pretend to be low-maintenance). It’s gentle enough for daily use, with results visible in as little as four weeks — and it doesn’t make you look like a cyborg with rage issues, which is nice.
Type: Flexible silicone face mask | Time Commitment: 10 minutes per session, 3–5 times per week | Results: Within 4 weeks
Finally — a wearable red light device designed for more than your cheekbones. The Kineon MOVE+ Pro is a modular, strap-on device built to deliver red (650nm) and near-infrared (808nm) light therapy directly to joints, tendons, and muscle groups, making it ideal for knees, shoulders, ankles, or even wrists. It’s wireless, rechargeable, and completely portable, so you can wear it during work, rest, or while plotting your revenge on whomever caused your tendinitis.
Unlike most wraparound devices that deliver weak surface light, the MOVE+ Pro uses laser diodes and LED combinations to penetrate deeper tissues and reduce inflammation where it actually starts. If you’re dealing with chronic pain, sports recovery, or even arthritis, this is a legit wearable solution, not just red light cosplay.
Type: Cordless, modular wearable device | Time Commitment: 5–15 minutes per session, once or twice daily | Results: 2–4 weeks of consistent use
Hair thinning? Scalp inflammation? Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is one of the few scientifically backed methods to stimulate hair regrowth and improve scalp health, without relying on minoxidil or panic-buying hats. The Mito Red Light Professional Laser Therapy Helmet uses 200 diodes and a combination of red and near-infrared light to improve circulation and cellular regeneration at the follicular level.
It’s FDA-cleared, hands-free, and comfortable enough to wear while scrolling, emailing, or spiraling in silence on your couch. With consistent use (think 3 times per week, 20 minutes per session), studies show LLLT may help restore hair density and quality, especially for androgenic alopecia. You won’t see results overnight, but with patience, this helmet can quietly change the game — no greasy serums required.
Type: Cordless helmet | Time Commitment: 12-minute sessions every other day | Results: Within 3–6 months of consistent use
To determine the best red light therapy devices, we tested models across various formats, including masks, wands, panels, and hybrids. We evaluated ease of use, LED power output, safety certifications (FDA clearance or medical-grade classification), and effectiveness for various use cases — skin clarity, muscle soreness, inflammation, and mood.
Devices were tested over a 2-week period for consistency, comfort, visible improvements, and overall user experience. Bonus points were given for portability, battery life, and thoughtful design features like auto shut-off, timers, and accessories.
What does red light therapy actually do?
Red and near-infrared light penetrates the skin and stimulates mitochondrial function to produce more adenosine triphosphate (ATP), boosting cellular regeneration and reducing inflammation. This helps improve skin tone, muscle recovery, and even mood.
Is red light therapy safe?
Yes, red light therapy is considered safe when used as directed. Most high-quality devices are FDA-cleared and emit wavelengths that do not damage DNA or cause burns. However, protective eyewear is recommended when treating areas near the eyes.
Can I use red light therapy with methylene blue?
Methylene blue can enhance mitochondrial activity and may synergize with RLT when used carefully. It acts as a redox agent and can improve the electron transport chain function when activated by light. However, consult a healthcare provider before combining the two.
How often should I use a red light therapy device?
Most studies suggest that 3 to 5 sessions per week, lasting 10 to 20 minutes, are beneficial for the skin. Muscle recovery may benefit from daily use, depending on intensity. Always follow manufacturer guidelines.
What’s the difference between red light and near-infrared light?
Red light (around 660nm) targets the surface of the skin — great for treating wrinkles and acne. Near-infrared light (around 850nm) penetrates deeper into tissue and muscle, helping with joint pain and recovery.
Is there a difference in the quality of red light therapy devices?
Absolutely. The RLT market ranges from sketchy Amazon gimmicks to professional-grade equipment used in clinical settings. Here’s how they differ:
How do you pick the right red light therapy device?
Here are the recommended key criteria to consider:
Warranty and customer support: A solid warranty (preferably 1 to 3 years) and responsive customer support are non-negotiables at this price point.
Although at-home devices aren’t a substitute for the type of red light at a doctor’s office, they can emit wavelengths powerful enough to deliver visible results within weeks, if used consistently, according to Kseniya Kobets, MD, director of cosmetic dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care in Elmsford, New York.
When it comes to skin care, RLT can “increase collagen production, which is an essential structural protein in the skin,” explains Michele Green, MD, a dermatologist in New York City who specializes in photodynamic therapy. In addition to skin-care benefits, RLT may also help stimulate hair growth and possibly provide pain relief, although more research is needed to substantiate those claims. These devices use red, near-infrared, or deep near-infrared light — different wavelengths of red light that penetrate the skin at different depths.After consulting with two board-certified dermatologists and a physical medicine and rehabilitation doctor, we came up with a list of the best red light therapy devices to test out for six weeks. During testing, we looked at design, ease of use, comfort, and wearability. We also considered whether the results compared with what the product promises. Find out which at-home red light devices are the most effective for your skin, hair, and body.
The mask is designed to contour to the face, allowing for even more targeted delivery of light. “I noticed results after just one week. My skin is smoother and has a fantastic glow,” says Alexandra Klausner, a writer who tested the mask for Everyday Health. She gives the product high marks for delivering on its claims. “The product promises to brighten and plump skin, which it did. I don’t have too many wrinkles, but I found it did soften the wrinkles around my eyes.”
This red light therapy device is an easy-to-use wand that combines several skin-care technologies — red light therapy, microcurrent, facial massage, and therapeutic warmth — into one tool. It’s designed for a 12-minute treatment session, which includes all therapy modalities at once. The wand also makes it easy to target different areas of the face. It has a timer that beeps every three minutes, so you know when to move on to a different area, ensuring a full face and neck treatment.
The red light it emits addresses various skin concerns, including dull texture, the appearance of discoloration, and fine lines and wrinkles. The galvanic current feature may enhance the transdermal delivery of topical skin-care products, such as SolaWave’s Skin Therapy Activating Serum, which not only helps the wand slide across your face but also contains hyaluronic acid to add moisture to your skin.It’s an extra cost, but you don’t have to use the SolaWave Skin Therapy Activating Serum — you can use any serum to help the wand glide. I loved the way the galvanic current felt during use. It’s like giving your face a warm massage. I’ve been using the wand for more than six months, and I notice instant results when it comes to sculpting and de-puffing my face. Over time, I’ve noticed the brown spots on my complexion begin to fade, which I attribute to using the wand. “[RLT devices] can start to stimulate collagen within two to four weeks and beyond, so continued use is key,” notes Dr. Kobets.
Its multipurpose wearable functionality allows you to use it on areas like your back, (secured by shoulder straps while you stand, or laid flat on your back while you lie down), or, because it’s bendable, you can also wrap it around your knee, shoulder, or anywhere that you have joint pain. “While it might be hard to work out or do anything when it’s wrapped on a joint, I found I could treat my back while walking around my apartment, and I loved that,” says Kimberly Dawn Neumann, a writer who tested the device for Everyday Health.
Neumann also laid it flat on her back and stomach, hoping to reap some of the other benefits indicated with red light therapy, since there is research that associates red light with cellular repair to aid pain and digestion, although more studies on this are needed.For more information, please visit LLLT Neck Device.
We like that the lights on this product are dispersed across a removable panel that can be put into any hat, not just the baseball cap it comes with. “The cap that comes with it is a standard baseball cap,” explains Brittany Vargas, a writer who tested the cap for Everyday Health. “The design is fine, but not the most flattering. I was able to use it with my sun hat. I love that I can easily travel with it, because it’s not in a hard shell like some other models.”
She adds that it’s primarily designed for hair that’s thinning on the top of the head. Because she’s experiencing hair thinning all over her scalp, Vargas had to place the hat to the side to ensure even coverage during each session. She was only able to test the cap for 25 minutes per day, three to four times per week, and she says that the results are gradual — but promising. “Given the design and quality of the cap, I’m confident that with continued use, I’ll see results,” she says.
What makes this mask unique is the way its silicone design molds to your face. I tested the mask for Everyday Health, and the design really stood out to me, differentiating it from other masks on the market. The mask is malleable and feels comfortable on the face. It’s not stiff or heavy, the way other LED masks can be.
The LED lights are equally distributed along the inside surface area of the mask, which allows for full coverage along the face and chin. The mask uses red, near-infrared, and deep near-infrared wavelengths, which have been clinically studied and may help smooth skin texture and stimulate collagen production.“[RLT devices] help by stimulating the skin’s collagen and elastin production, which may also help make the skin look more youthful,” says Kobets. The recommended use time is between 20 and 25 minutes per day. I’ve used this mask for six months, and I feel confident that it’s helped make my skin more radiant and decreased the look of fine lines.This portable panel device, meant mainly for pain relief, can be used in two ways: It can be put on a stand for hands-free use, or you can hold it as you target a specific area of your body. It’s not too big, about the size of a large smartphone, says Vargas, and it can be adjusted for vertical or horizontal use.
The short 10-minute sessions make it a relatively easy addition to your daily routine. Vargas used it several times per week and found the sessions incredibly relaxing, especially before bed, saying she noticed “immediate deeper sleep” after using it. “For my knees and legs,” Vargas adds, “it took a couple of uses before I started to notice a difference. I think that with continued use, I may see even more improvement in joint and muscle stiffness.”
I tested this cap, and although I haven’t experienced hair loss, I am a swimmer with double-processed hair. After a few weeks of use, I saw a reduction in the amount of hair shedding and breakage. The cap helped make my hair feel thicker and fuller. With a short treatment time of 10 minutes, three to five times a week, it’s easy to incorporate into your weekly routine.
This device features a flexible, silicone design with an adjustable strap and uses red and near-infrared light therapy to aid in pain relief and muscle recovery. It’s designed to be worn for 10 minutes at a time, on many different parts of the body.
The design is comfortable and easy to wear. ”It’s flexible, lightweight, and yet still powerful,” says Neumann. “It comes with two straps: one for longer attachments (like around the waist) and one for shorter ones (say, for a joint like the ankle). It’s also great that it’s very flat, making it portable but also wearable.” Neumann says that after just one use, her sore lower back felt less achy. “Consistent use is the key with RLT to reap the benefits. The ease of this device makes it more likely people might make it a habit,” she adds.
“It felt like I’d just come from the dentist after having a cleaning,” Neumann says. The deep-clean feeling she gets from using it helps ensure that it’s a staple in her routine. After two months of using the device, Neumann’s dentist said her gums looked healthy, and she reported a less painful cleaning with no bleeding.
This oval-shaped wearable device comes with two bands (short and long), so that you can wrap it around various body parts — such as the knee, elbow, back, or neck — to help relieve muscle stiffness. The micro-vibrations provide a percussive feeling, as if you’re getting a massage.
There are four treatment modes: red light, near-infrared light, magnetic signals, and micro-vibrations, or a combination of all four. Getting the device positioned correctly with the Velcro straps does require a few tries, says Lili Ladaga, an Everyday Health editor who tested the Jazz Band Live Pro. She recommends watching the demo video first to get the best fit. The oval shape is useful because it helps ensure that the entire pad is in contact with your skin. As to whether the product delivers on its promises, Ladaga says she felt a “certain degree of relief of aches and pains” after two weeks of 20-minute sessions daily.
When it comes to design, the mask’s hard exterior, while durable, is not as flexible as the CurrentBody or Omnilux models. “You can get up and move around if needed, though it does take some care,” notes Crystal Hoshaw, a writer who tested the mask for Everyday Health. She says that while the 10-minute cycles are relatively easy to fit into your weekly skin-care routine, the mask’s comfort and wearability (or lack thereof) might get in the way of a more consistent daily practice. Hoshaw doesn’t have acne and says that wrinkles aren’t a big concern for her either. However, she did report a “subtle reduction of the emerging crow’s feet” around her eyes.
This rectangular handheld device uses red and near-infrared light therapy and is designed for targeted treatments on either the face or body. It also stands out for its durability and ease of use.
Hoshaw likes how “easy the device is to carry, and its lightweight design.” The fitted case makes it “easy to transport or stick in a suitcase,” she adds. Although the device can stand on its own, Hoshaw recommends buying a stand (at an additional cost) to ensure that it’s always at the angle you want it, depending on what part of the body you’re targeting.
She used it for a minimum of 10 minutes, three times a week, and found that it aided her recovery time after workouts. She also noted that consistent use helped speed up the healing process of muscle soreness from tennis elbow.
These portable RLT eye devices have a fun star-and-comet design that fits under the eye area, mimicking the shape of a gel eye patch. The red light emits from a button you press, which activates a nine-minute session with a smart timer. In order to get the device to stay put, you use hypoallergenic double-sided stickers to adhere the device to the skin beneath your eyes.
I tested these, using them daily for four weeks, and found the design comfortable and lightweight. The stickers are easy to use and don’t pull at your skin, which was a concern when I first saw the adhesives. After one session, I noticed the skin under my eyes was less puffy.
With consistent use over four weeks, the skin under my eyes was smoother and more even. If I’m going to wear an under-eye patch, having ones that emit red and near-infrared light feels like the best use of my time. That being said, I had to use a USB to charge it frequently between uses, but that isn’t a dealbreaker. It’s also worth noting that the devices only come with 20 stickers, but you can purchase additional 20-packs for $12.
“The device delivers instant results in terms of relaxation,” notes Hoshaw. “It’s a cozy way to end the day, especially during the cold fall and winter. When it comes to workout recovery, I did notice relief from muscle soreness,” she adds. However, she says that it’s hard to fully attribute her muscle recovery to the blanket, because there were too many competing factors. However, if you’re looking for warming relief, this blanket delivers it in just one session.
With a modular panel design, it can sit on a stand or be propped up against something. Hoshaw notes that she found the setup intuitive and quick. “It was easy to put against the wall in my room so I could sit on the floor in front of it,” she explains. She was most impressed with the level of heat that emitted from the device.
Our testers used the red light therapy devices at home for four to six weeks, for several hours a week. Some of the devices we’ve even owned for years and are part of our weekly routines. As we tested them, we took note of the design, ease of use, comfort, wearability, and, of course, how effective we found the results.
When testing the red light therapy devices for skin care, we looked at how the device delivered in terms of plumping, brightening, de-puffing, and diminishing the look of fine lines and wrinkles. For the red light therapy devices for hair growth, we tested various RTL caps and evaluated them on design, comfort, and effectiveness. When testing red light therapy devices for the body, we looked at both wearable and panel models. For each one, we took into account its ease of use and effectiveness for pain management, muscle stiffness, and recovery.
Finally, we consulted with the following medical doctors for their expertise:
“Before you buy a device, look for higher quality devices that specify wavelengths,” suggests Kobets. “Beware of devices that offer various colors in the device (for example, if no specification of a specific wavelength or range is given). I would also be wary of cheaper models and ones that just emit heat, as this can be dangerous to the skin.”
“Red light has the longest wavelength, while blue light has the shortest wavelength,” explains Green. “A longer wavelength allows for deeper tissue penetration, so red light can penetrate the dermis, while other colors only reach the epidermis.”
Kobets recommends that you only consider buying devices that are cleared or registered by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). “I feel more comfortable with devices that have FDA clearance on the FDA website for that specific company or their device,” she says. “It may mean that the device is more reliable in delivering its results because it’s been tested.”
“Red light therapy is thought to function by targeting the mitochondria (organelles that produce energy) within cells,” explains Green. “By increasing energy levels, cells can operate more efficiently, assisting in processes such as skin repair, new cell growth, and overall skin rejuvenation. Certain cells, like fibroblasts, found in the skin and connective tissue, absorb specific wavelengths of light, which stimulates their activity.”
Because fibroblasts play a crucial role in wound healing and tissue regeneration, Green notes that “this stimulation prompts collagen production as part of the wound healing response, which may help reverse some signs of aging caused by sun damage.”In terms of pain management and muscle soreness, “When the red light hits your skin, it stimulates cells to produce more energy, which helps repair tissues, improve blood flow, and reduce soreness,” Dr. Caparó says. “It may also lower chemicals in your body that cause inflammation and pain, and calm nerves that send pain signals. This combination of effects may help speed up healing and reduce discomfort.”Green is optimistic about the efficacy of red light therapy devices, but she notes that more research needs to be done to establish the treatment’s effectiveness. “Red light therapy is an emerging treatment that shows promise in addressing issues such as wrinkles, redness, acne, scars, and other signs of aging,” she says. “While ongoing research is investigating its effectiveness, many studies suggest positive results.”
“Some people may experience reduced muscle soreness or pain after using the therapy regularly,” says Caparó. “However, the results are gradual, and it may take several sessions before you notice a difference.” Red light therapy might not work for every kind of pain, and some people may not notice an improvement, he cautions.
Jill has over 15 years of experience writing about women's health, wellness, and beauty. She has deep knowledge of buzzy products and what makes them popular with consumers. She's tested hundreds of skin care products, tools, and medical aesthetics procedures throughout her career, and she has interviewed top dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and holistic physicians to stay on top of the latest in skin health and wellness.
Jill is the former associate editorial operations director of the beauty group at Dotdash Meredith, where she worked on brands such as Shape and Byrdie, editing health, fitness, skin care, wellness, and body care commerce content.
She's also a former sex and relationship writer, and has made national television appearances to discuss sexual wellness topics for women. In addition to anything beauty and sexual wellness, Jill specializes in writing about body neutrality and mental health.
Jill has a degree in sociology, with a focus on gender studies and she has taught sociology classes at Barnard and Columbia University.
Daniel Oakley is a journalist, editor, and fact-checker. He has written, edited, taught, and produced media for Dow Jones, S&P Global, IHS Markit, Third Coast Studios Magazine, and 826 National.
Oakley's path has always been a health-and-wellness-focused one. A competitive triathlete and racing fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, he also spends summer weekends as an ISA-certified surf instructor and Red Cross professional water rescuer with Laru Beya Collective in Rockaway Beach, which helps kids master and delight in their own backyard — the ocean. It has taught Oakley that “optimizing body and mind” flourishes precisely at the wellspring of community.
Alexandra Klausner is a freelance health writer and editor with over 10 years of journalism experience. Prior to going freelance, she worked as a reporter and editor at the New York Post for eight years covering everything from health and wellness to features and breaking news. Before that, she covered multiple beats at the Daily Mail Online for three years.
Alexandra graduated from Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs with a bachelor's degree in theater. As a New York City native, she is also a grant-winning playwright, actor, freestyle singer, catchy-hook writer, and podcaster. She loves yoga, 5 Rhythms dance meditation, and running.
Kimberly Dawn Neumann is a NYC-based magazine and book writer whose work has appeared in a wide variety of publications including Forbes Health, Forbes Home, Women’s Health, Health, Cosmopolitan, Fitness, Prevention, Redbook, Realtor.com, Maxim, Allure, and more.
After graduating first in her class, summa cum laude, with a degree in journalism, she earned a Life Coach certification through the Coach Training Alliance, an American Council on Exercise fitness professional certificate, a 200-hour RYT yoga instructor certification, and an Active Isolated Flexibility Technician certification.
She’s had two books published, The Real Reasons Men Commit and Sex Comes First. A top fitness and dance instructor as well as a former National Competitive Aerobics Champion bronze medalist, she has starred in 10 exercise videos. She has also performed in several Broadway shows and made many film, TV, and radio appearances.
Brittany Elyse Vargas has been a professional writer and journalist for over a decade and has been exploring topics around mental health, mind-body medicine, health, wellness, and psycho-spiritual development for the past 20 years.
As a trauma-informed health journalist, she is a regular contributor to Everyday Health, Medscape and Verywell Mind. Her byline has also appeared in Yahoo Life, Shape, Integrative Practitioner, Business Insider, and BBC Travel, among others.
Brittany is also a certified Reiki Master who has been practicing since .
She received her bachelor's degree from the University of California at Santa Barbara and is a proud Californian. In her spare time, she loves practicing yoga, dancing, hiking, and traveling.
Crystal is a mother, writer, longtime yoga practitioner, and an editorial professional with over 14 years of experience creating best-in-class SEO-optimized health and wellness content.
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