WIRED Ranks Best Red-Light Therapy Devices for 2026 Following Extensive Testing
Shark CryoGlow leads newcomer category with clinical improvements, while guide stresses importance of FDA clearance and specific irradiance levels for effective treatment.
WIRED has published a comprehensive ranking of the best red-light therapy masks and LED devices for 2026, drawing on extensive testing of 22 products over periods of six to 12 weeks. The guide evaluates devices for efficacy, comfort, and safety across various skin types and budgets, aiming to separate effective technology from social media hype.
The Shark CryoGlow LED Face Mask was identified as a top pick for newcomers. Clinical scans conducted during testing revealed improvements in skin texture, inflammation, and fine lines, with one aesthetician noting significantly less hyperpigmentation after an eight-week trial. The device features dual programs for blemish repair and anti-ageing, utilising blue, infrared, and red LED wavelengths.
Other notable devices included the CurrentBody LED Face Mask Series 2 and the LightStim handheld unit. The CurrentBody mask was praised for its flexible silicone design and three distinct wavelengths, including deep near-infrared light, though testers noted minor fit issues with its strap. The LightStim device offered broader coverage with 72 LEDs but requires a wired connection, limiting mobility during use.
The publication emphasises the importance of technical specifications for effective treatment. Key criteria include FDA clearance, specific wavelengths such as red, near-infrared, and blue light, and irradiance levels between 20 and 60 mW/cm². Experts consulted for the guide noted that higher irradiance does not necessarily equate to better results, and consistency in application is crucial for visible outcomes.
While the Shark CryoGlow, CurrentBody, and LightStim devices received positive reviews, other products faced criticism for comfort issues, poor execution, or lack of significant results. The guide also highlighted the Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Wand as a best-seller, with testers reporting skin tightening and a relaxing spa-like experience due to its added vibration and warmth therapy.
