It’s no secret – LED light therapy is a skincare game-changer. A go-to treatment for skin rejuvenation, LED devices mainly use red light wavelengths to boost collagen production and reverse the signs of ageing or blue light to eliminate bacteria and banish blemishes. Once only available in a clinical setting, LED light therapy treatments are now more accessible than ever, thanks to the new era of at-home LED devices.
However, as LED light therapy becomes more popular, it’s natural for concerns to pop up – especially around eye safety. After all, the skin around our eyes is delicate, and no one wants to risk their vision for better skin. So, is red light bad for your eyes? It’s one of the biggest myths of beauty tech – and one we’re here to clear up.
Are LED lights bad for your eyes?
Rest assured, the LED lights in beauty devices are perfectly safe when used correctly. While there isn’t any credible research linking red LED light to eye damage, research suggests that some red light wavelengths can actually be beneficial for eye health, helping to slow retinal ageing and other age-related eye conditions and improving vision long-term.
When it comes to blue light, with the light from our phones and laptop screens linked to premature ageing and eye damage, you might be worried about whether blue LED beauty devices could have the same effect. But fear not – the two are not the same. While screens emit HEV light, which has a higher energy level enabling it to travel deeper into the eye, beauty devices use a weaker wavelength, optimal for killing blemish-causing bacteria.
When shopping for LED face masks and devices, it’s important to look out for FDA approval, as this shows that it has been tested and verified to be safe and effective. The CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Face Mask, Anti-Blemish Mask and the Dermalux Flex MD device are all FDA-approved, meaning they're cleared as safe for your eyes. That said, if you have a specific eye condition, it's always a good idea to check with your healthcare professional first.
Should I wear eye protection with red light therapy?
While some clinic-strength treatments may require eye protection, most at-home red light therapy devices are designed to be safe without it. The CurrentBody LED Light Therapy Face Mask has been clinically tested and approved for use without goggles. That said, we know that comfort and peace of mind matter, so this device comes with optional comfort goggles or eye inserts if you'd prefer to use them.
Remember, not all LED devices are created equal. Always check the instructions before use, and if you have an existing eye condition or any concerns, an extra layer of protection might be best.
Can I keep my eyes open during red light therapy?
If your mask does not require you to wear eye protection, it is safe to keep your eyes open so you can catch up on your favourite series or scroll without worry. But, if you want to be extra cautious, or use the treatment as an excuse to have a few minutes of shut-eye, go ahead and close your eyes. Your device will automatically shut off once the timed treatment is complete.
So, is red light therapy bad for your eyes? The short answer: no. Red LED light is safe and can even support eye health. However, the blue HEV light from screens and devices in everyday life can be harmful. The key takeaway? Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and look out for FDA approval for extra peace of mind. Cue more superhero-esque selfies and mask-wearing multi-tasking – you’re good to go.
