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After hitting a milestone age (woo!) I've noticed that my dark circles and smile lines have become harder to ignore (boo!). Sure, I use an undereye cream twice daily, but I need something more to help increase collagen production and target visible signs of aging. Since I'm scared of needles and don't plan on getting Botox or fillers anytime soon, I've been looking for non-invasive ways to help slow down visible aging.
Enter red light therapy eye masks. I've had positive experiences testing full LED face masks, but red light therapy undereye patches and glasses are more affordable, making them ideal for my fellow budget-conscious millennials. These suggestions start at just $99, which is drastically lower than full-face LED masks that easily cost $400-$950, or at least 304% more than these featured more undereye patches. After all, our eyes are the first place on our faces to show signs of aging, so targeting fine lines, wrinkles, darkness, and puffiness early on is a smart preventative beauty move, says dermatologist Dr. Pooja Rambhia, MD.
Red light therapy and wrinkles: Collagen gives our skin its structure, strength, and elasticity. However, our natural production declines once we’re 30-years-old. Thus, stimulating collagen with these devices helps plump up our wrinkles and fine lines.
For dark circles, effectiveness depends on the underlying cause. “When dark circles stem from thin skin where blood vessels show through, red light therapy can help by promoting collagen production to thicken the skin,” says Dr. Rambhia. However, she says red light therapy is unlikely to significantly improve dark circles caused by genetics, hyperpigmentation, or volume loss.
And as for inflammation, red light therapy can mildly help your under-eye bags by reducing inflammation. But, it will not address infraorbital fat pad herniation, which is when the fat under your eyes bulges out, says Dr. Rambhia.
Best Red Light Therapy Eye Masks
What To Consider
The derms I consulted recommend three key factors to look out for when shopping, including wavelengths, design, and time commitment. Using a device that is FDA-cleared is also beneficial, but not necessarily a dealbreaker
Wavelengths
Red light wavelengths between 630-680 nanometers (nm) are effective for stimulating collagen production, says dermatologist Dr. Hadley King, MD, who points to a 2024 study on the efficacy of photobiomodulation. These rays target superficial skin layers that are about 8-10 8 to 10 millimeters deep where it increases fibroblast production to create wrinkle-plumping collagen. This process can also help improve skin texture and tone, says Dr. Rambhia.
Near-infrared wavelengths range between 700–1440nm, are ideal for stubborn wrinkles in mature skin because they reach several centimeters into the skin, says Dr. Rambhia.
Some devices like the CurrentBody Skin Eye Perfector combine both red and near-infrared wavelengths to address surface concerns and deeper cellular regeneration for more comprehensive anti-aging benefits than single-wavelength treatments, says Dr. Rambhia.
Design
Red light therapy devices for our eye area are either patches or look similar to a pair of sunglasses or goggles. Each type has its respective benefits and limitations.
Patches
Reusable undereye patches sit directly under your eye, which is excellent for anyone targeting dark circles. So how do the patches stay up? Sure, you could lay down and hope they stay in place, but that’s not a fail-safe move. You’ll want to use the included hydrocolloid patches to adhere the rechargeable devices to the skin for a hands-free treatment. You can also angle them to stick over your crows feet if dark circles aren’t a major concern for you.
They’re just as effective at anti-aging as glasses, but take up less space so they’re more helpful for hyper-targeted treatments. Reach for these compact, cordless, and travel-friendly devices if you’ve got a tighter budget and aren’t concerned with targeting 11 lines between your eyebrows or deep wrinkles. Patches are also cheaper than glasses and goggles. For example, the Omnilux patch is $99, while the CurrentBody Skin googles are $290
Glasses And Goggles
These tools, including the Dr Dennis Gross Skincare model, look similar to sunglasses or goggles that treat around the entire eye area. Since they cover a wider space, you’ll pay more than patches, but still less than a traditional red light therapy wand, panel, or face mask. If you can afford to spend a little extra upfront, I recommend reaching for glasses since you get more coverage right away.
Time Commitment
We all have busy lives, but it's important not to cut corners when using these devices. Reading and actually adhering to the directions for frequency and duration are crucial for achieving visible results. These two factors will vary among the devices, but overall, all featured picks are all quick additions to your routine. Some of these models, like the MZ Skin model require a 10 minute treatment 3-5 times weekly (30-50 minutes weekly), while the Solawave should be used for a shorter 3-minute daily session, or 21 minutes weekly commitment. The more frequently you use the device, the more visible are your results. But you'll want to stick to the suggested guidance since it's a range brands have found are safe for their devices—and it'll prevent any accidental damage.
FDA-Cleared
Lastly, for added security you can use eye masks that have 510(k) clearance from the FDA, says dermatologist Dr. Hadley King, MD. This distinction means the new to market devices are similar to already approved competitors. Brands need to provide information on their product safety and how they work to the government organization. All featured eye patches and goggles, except the SmoothSkin are currently listed on the FDA’s 501(k) database. However, it’s not necessarily a dealbreaker. The brand’s clinical study found that 91% of testers agreed their lines and wrinkles were less visible after six weeks of using the DuoLux LED Eye Patches and hydrogel sheet mask.
How We Chose
During my conversations with the doctors, I asked about their no-fail red light therapy eye mask recommendations. I also carefully analyzed several top-rated options, and asked the pros for their honest feedback. During my research process, I factored in the above guidance—wavelengths, design, time commitment, and FDA clearance—plus pricing and the number of disposable patches included. And because I love trying new beauty products, I tested some models to share my unbiased experience. Ultimately, I was only a fan of the CurrentBody Skin Eye Perfector, which is why it’s my best overall recommendation. As for the rest, they are aligned with expert guidance, earned snaps from the pros, and boast glowing shopper reviews across Amazon, Sephora, and Dermstore.
Pros
Fast 3-minute treatment time- Multiple wavelengths
- It also helps with brow furrows
- Includes protective goggles
CurrentBody Skin is the grand dame of red light therapy tools—and the Eye Perfector is no exception to their stellar lineup of skincare gadgets. Dr. Rambhia, and I are all fans of this nifty device. The goggle design is covered in 80 LED bulbs for impressive coverage. It has 85% more LED lights than the SmoothSkin patches. It targets the orbital area, including the undereyes, 11 lines between the brows, and crows feet.
Notably, this device emits four wavelengths of LED. There’s amber (605nm), red (633nm), deep red (660nm), and near-infrared (830nm), meaning multiple skin layers are being blasted with LED light for surface level lines and stubborn deep wrinkles. It’s a device someone younger can use for prevention and they can grow with it as they age and their deeper skin layers need some extra TLC.
What strikes me most about this tool is that it’s super lightweight and comfortable to wear. The LED lights are cushioned by a clear, thick silicone that’s easy to clean with an alcohol wipe between uses. It also features a soft and stretchy detachable black band for a customizable fit for most head sizes and shapes. It’s a small detail, but the band features textured dots that prevent slippage, which I appreciate. The mask is also slightly stretchy to accommodate high cheekbones and wide faces, but you’ll still want to handle the Eye Perfector or any of these featured devices carefully to prevent accidental damage.
Another highlight of this device is the quick, three-minute time commitment. I can easily incorporate it into my routine when I could use a moment of selfcare, like during commercial breaks of TV shows. As for the results, this is a relatively new addition to my routine. I noticed some brightness after a week of almost daily use, but I’ll see more significant anti-aging benefits in eight weeks. That said, because I’ve had positive experience using other CurrentBody Skin tools, I’m confident this device will benefit my skin. So be sure to bookmark this story for an update on my results.
More: Memorial Day Skincare Deals
| Wavelengths | Amber (605nm), red (633nm), deep red (660nm), and near-infrared (830nm) |
|---|---|
| Design | Goggles |
| Time commitment | 3 minutes |
| FDA-cleared | Yes |
Pros
- Includes two patches
- Combines multiple wavelengths
Cons
- The hydrocolloid adhesive is strong
Looking to save some coins? Opt for Smooth Skin because you get two patches for around $160. It’s half the price of my best splurge recommendation, and it’s cheaper than purchasing two Omnilux patches. A single Omnilux undereye mask is $99, and two are $198.
Beyond the relatively affordable price, each patch features six large LED bulbs for major anti-aging benefits. The combination of red and near-infrared lights works in just six weeks, but Amazon reviewers noticed brightness as early as two weeks into their at-home regime. No wonder why it earned a 4.2-star average from 30 Amazon reviews.
These cordless patches sit perfectly under your eyes with support from collagen-infused hydrocolloid patches. They’re also relatively large, so you could technically apply them to other areas of concern on your face, including your nasolabial folds and frown lines.
One thing to note is the hydrocolloid’s stickiness. You’ll want to peel back these single-use patches carefully and slowly because some Amazon reviewers found it can pull their delicate skin.
| Wavelengths | Red (630nm) and near-infrared (830nm) |
|---|---|
| Design | Patches |
| Time commitment | 10 minutes, 3-5 times weekly for 4-6 weeks followed up by as needed |
| FDA-cleared | N/A |
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Pros
- Includes 14 single-use hydrocolloid patches
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- You only get one patch
I can’t open TikTok without seeing an Omnilux product pop up on my feed. The viral brand’s eye patch is the most affordable option on this list, making this an epic beauty gift for my fellow budget-conscious shoppers. What you’ll love most about buying Omnilux is that it can be purchased with pre-tax funds from your Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
Each patch features 12 LED lights, which is an impressive amount despite its small size. The higher concentration of lights spread across a small surface area means the undereye is bathing in red and near-infrared lights for max collagen production.
Omnilux includes 14 single-use hydrocolloid patches infused with brightening niacinamide and amino acid-rich peptides for multiple benefits before following up with your eye cream.
The biggest bummer about Omnilux is that you only get one patch. But at $95 a pop, it’s still a relatively fair price. Plus, buying two for $190 is still cheaper than some goggles and my best splurge suggestion. That said, you can rock a single patch at a time. Sure, it’ll be a 20 minute treatment for both eyes, but you’re saving about $100, so can you really complain?
| Wavelengths | Red (633nm) (red) and near-infrared (830nm) |
|---|---|
| Design | Patch |
| Time commitment | 10 minutes; start with 3-5 weekly treatments for 4-6 weeks with maintenance as needed |
| FDA-cleared | Yes |
Most LED Lights
Dr Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite EyeCare Max Pro Device
$199 at Women's Health Shop
Pros
- Equipped with 96 LED bulbs for enhanced coverage
- User-friendly because it’s hands-free and has an adjustable strap
Cons
- Not as comfortable as flexible alternative
Dermatologist Dr. Dennis Gross’ eponymous skincare brand is known for its skin brightening peel pads and viral full-face LED face mask. Still, the SpectraLite EyeCare Max Pro Device is also notable. The Pro is an upgrade to the OG mask, and the re-up is impressive because it’s covered with 96 LED bulbs, which is equivalent to 30 percent more than its predecessor. This device boasts 1,500% more bulbs than the MZ Skin undereye patches and 20% more than the CurrentBody Skin model. It’s the highest number of bulbs among my recommendations, meaning your eye area will be essentially covered in red light. It also emits amber, deep red, and far infrared lights to target multiple skin layers, making this a must-have for your mom and mother figure who needs extra TLC for deeper wrinkles.
Beyond the fast 3-minute treatment session, it’s made from rigid plastic which offers excellent stability during movement and doesn't slip, says Dr. Rambhia. However, this durable design is less comfortable against the skin than flexible silicone alternatives.
| Wavelengths | Amber (605nm), red (630nm), deep red (660nm), and far infrared (not listed) |
|---|---|
| Design | Goggles |
| Time commitment | 3-minutes daily |
| FDA-cleared | Yes |
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Most Comfortable To Wear
SolaWave Eye Recovery Pro LED Light Therapy Eye Mask
$199 at Women's Health Shop
Pros
- Pretty pink design
- Easy-to-use, cordless device
Cons
- Doesn’t include protective goggles
Find the CurrentBody Skin model too expensive? You can reach for this pretty baby pink option from Solawave instead. It earned snaps from Dr. Rambhia and fellow dermatologist Dr. Hadley King, MD, who points out the combination of multiple wavelengths makes this a top red light therapy tool contender. The mix of amber, red, deep red, and near-infrared LED lights boost collagen to reduce fine lines, puffiness, wrinkles, and crows feet.
Not only is it stylish and effective, but the Solawave is highly-comfortable to wear. It’s made from flexible, medical-grade silicone to accommodate various facial features, like high cheekbones. This device sits snugly on your face and comes with an adjustable strap to fit various head sizes and shapes.
Like all red light therapy tools, this one is pain-free. You’ll feel a slight warmth during the three-minute session but it’s nothing overwhelming for anyone sensitive to heat. Think relaxing spa vibes versus scalding hot showers.
Keep in mind this device has a relatively short battery life of just 30 minutes, though it does equate to 10 3-minute sessions. It also doesn’t come with a pair of black protective goggles, so if you’re light sensitive this might not be the option for you.
| Wavelengths | Amber (605nm), red light (630nm), deep red light (660nm), near-infrared light (880nm) |
|---|---|
| Design | Goggles |
| Time commitment | 3 minutes daily |
| FDA-cleared | Yes |
Pros
- Created by an oculoplastic surgeon
- Stylish design
Cons
- Must use a fresh hydrocolloid patch with each use
At $405, these lightweight patches are certainly a splurge. However, they effortlessly blend form with function. Created by oculoplastic surgeon Dr. Maryam Zamani, these patches emit both red and near-infrared wavelengths to help brighten dark circles and plump up wrinkles. Unlike the Omnilux model, you get two pretty pink patches that work in just 10 minutes. With Omnilux, you’ll have to use one patch for 10 minutes and then apply it on the other under eye, which bumps up your daily treatment time to 20 minutes.
MZ Skin is also well-received by Dr. Rambhia’s patients. These ultra-thin, adhesive patches provide targeted eye treatment using red (630nm) and near-infrared (830nm) wavelengths combined with skincare-infused hydrocolloid patches, says the New York-based doctor. Notably, they immediately help depuff, but you’ll see fine lines minimize after consistent use of 3-5 times weekly.
The biggest downside with choosing MZ Skin patches is the maintenance cost. In order for the patches to stick to your skin, you’ll need to use a fresh set of hydrocolloid patches. Each 20-pack costs around $50, so it works out to $2.50 per patch or $5 for both undereyes. FWIW, these patches contain brightening niacinamide, hydrating and skin-plumping sodium hyaluronate, and peptides to strengthen the delicate skin barrier.
| Wavelengths | Red light (630nm red light) and near-infrared (830nm) |
|---|---|
| Design | Patches |
| Time commitment | 10-minutes daily, 3-5 times per week |
| FDA-cleared | Yes |
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Meet The Experts
- Dr. Hadley King, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in New York.
- Dr. Kseniya Kobets, MD, is the director of cosmetic dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care in Westchester County, New York.
- Dr. Pooja Rambhia, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York.
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Nicole Saunders
Beauty Editor
Nicole Saunders is the beauty editor at Women's Health and has over eight years of experience researching, writing, and editing lifestyle content. She specializes in breaking down complicated topics, like red light therapy for hair growth and LED face masks, into easy-to-understand guides. Saunders takes great pride in heavily researching and testing featured beauty products, such as strengthening shampoos and body washes for dry skin on our site.
Previously, she was the beauty editor at Best Products where she tested quite literally thousands of launches for her quarterly column and the Best New Beauty Awards package. She also launched the beauty and wellness coverage at NBC News and contributed to CNN, Cosmopolitan, Billboard, The Hollywood Reporter, and Harper's BAZAAR.
You can follow her on Instagram to stay in the loop on her product testing adventures.
Expert consulted:Dr. Pooja Rambhia
Dermatologist
Dr. Pooja Rambhia, FAAD is a board-certified and fellowship-trained cosmetic dermatologist practicing at UnionDerm in New York City and Greenwich, CT. She provides comprehensive cosmetic and medical dermatologic care, specializing in laser treatments, injectables, and facial and body contouring.
Reviewed byBrian Underwood
Beauty Director
Brian Underwood is beauty director at Women’s Health, where he oversees content strategy for the brand across all platforms, including digital, print, and social. Underwood previously served as beauty and wellness director at Oprah Daily and O, The Oprah Magazine. During his tenure leading beauty content for the Oprah brand at Hearst, stories Underwood commissioned were awarded the Skin Cancer Foundation Media Award and a Fragrance Award for Editorial Excellence (his second). He was the launch Beauty Director of Dr. Oz THE GOOD LIFE, and has held additional editorial positions at Fitness, Organic Style, Good Housekeeping, Life & Style Weekly, and Woman’s Day and has written for Self, Shape, Seventeen, Redbook, Cosmopolitan, and many more. Underwood previously served on the Skin Cancer Foundation’s gala committee and as partnerships director of the Trans Beauty Clinic, a New York-based charitable organization that provided beauty services and workshops to the city’s trans community.
