It’s no secret – LED light therapy is a skincare game-changer. A go-to for skin rejuvenation, LED devices use red light wavelengths to boost collagen production and reduce the signs of ageing, or blue light to eliminate bacteria and banish blemishes.
As Dr Elizabeth Hawkes, Consultant Ophthalmologist at Cadogan Clinic in London, explains, “Red light has been around in medicine for decades and its therapeutic benefits are well established and extensively published in the literature”.
However, as LED light therapy becomes more popular, it’s natural for concerns to pop up – especially around eye safety and the effect of LED light on eyes.
As Dr Elizabeth states:
“There's been a lot of negative publicity in the media about the harmful effects of light to the eyes, so it's really important to clear this up. Overall, as an eye surgeon, I have a huge emphasis and really prioritise safety in my practice. I want to ensure that the light masks I'm recommending to my patients, that I have confidence in the science behind them."
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? Let’s get into it.
Are LED lights bad for your eyes?
The LED lights in beauty devices are known to be safe when used correctly, with researchers even exploring the potential benefits to cellular energy within the eyes.
When it comes to blue light, with the light from our phones and laptop screens linked to premature ageing, you might be worried about whether blue LED beauty devices could have the same effect, but 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.
As Dr Elizabeth confirms, “Blue light at the correct wavelength does also have therapeutic benefits in patients with spot-prone skin.”
When shopping for LED face masks and devices, it’s important to look out for FDA clearance, as this shows that it has been tested and verified to be safe and effective. The CurrentBody Skin LED Red Light Therapy Face Mask, Blue Light Mask and the Dermalux Flex MD are all FDA cleared, 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.
“You don't want to choose a cheap device that may not meet the regulatory standards. FDA clearance in the US and CE marking in Europe are really important when choosing red light masks at home. I want to make sure the light mask is safe and does not damage the eyes. For that reason, I always recommend the CurrentBody mask.”
Should I wear eye protection with red light therapy?
While most at-home red light therapy devices are designed to be safe without the use of eye protection, not all LED devices are created equal. Always check the instructions before use, and if you have any concerns, an extra layer of protection might be best.
The CurrentBody LED Light Therapy Face Mask has been clinically tested and approved for use without goggles, operating between 633-1072nm. 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.
Can I keep my eyes open during red light therapy?
If your mask specifies that it 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 session 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 session is complete.
Expert insight from our resident ophthalmologist
Watch the full video below to hear Consultant Ophthalmologist and Oculoplastic Surgeon, Dr. Elizabeth Hawkes, share her complete expert opinion on the safety of red LED light therapy for eyes, addressing common concerns and misconceptions from a clinical perspective.
“I'm going to be clearing up the misconception that red light LED masks are bad for the eyes - it is perfectly safe to use red light. Red light is well established for its therapeutic benefits and skin rejuvenation and is also being established in the eyes.”
– Dr. Elizabeth Hawkes, Consultant Ophthalmologist
So, is red light therapy bad for your eyes? The short answer: no, Red LED light is widely recognised as safe for the general population. The key takeaway? Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and look out for FDA clearance for extra peace of mind. Cue more superhero-esque selfies and mask-wearing multitasking.
