The Curator independently decides what topics and products we feature. When you purchase an item through our links, we may earn a commission. Promotions and products are subject to availability and retailer terms.
Last summer, in the all-consuming throes of caring for two very little littles, I looked in the mirror and hit a wall. I didn’t recognize myself.
Story continues below advertisement
I didn’t just look as tired as I felt—my skin was puffy, lacklustre and blotchy. And it’s not that I mind every wrinkle. Aging is a privilege and I’ve been fortunate to bear witness to the process so far. But I also didn’t want to look older than I was and, more importantly, I felt something critical had gone from me: my sense of self.
I decided then and there to start carving out what little time I could to a renewed skincare routine—neigh, self-care ritual—in an effort to not only reclaim a sense of ownership over my appearance, but also myself.
I decided to look into LED light therapy, as social media piqued my curiosity about the suite of devices that touted benefits like collagen stimulation, skincare inflammation, the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles and overall skin rejuvenation.
But having reviewed plenty of skincare tools and self-care products myself in the past, I’m also aware there are many more at-home beauty devices that overpromise and underdeliver. I (and my wallet) need my purchases to be scientifically-backed and grounded in research.
I spent several weeks researching the various options out there, ultimately settling on CurrentBody’s LED Mask Series 1 (Series 2 was not yet available) because it was an FDA-approved LED mask, one of the few dermatologist-approved devices and skincare tools on the market and it used clinically-proven wavelengths to stimulate collagen production. (This is important because I learned that not all wavelengths are effective, efficient or intended for all issues.) Simply put, the mask offered the best value for my dollar. I was also assured by CurrentBody Skin’s satisfaction guarantee—knowing if I didn’t absolutely love the product, there is a 60-day money back guarantee and a two-year warranty. While I didn’t need it, this level of confidence from the brand spoke volumes.
Story continues below advertisement
I received my mask without issue and started using it as part of my anti-aging skincare routine—just 10 minutes a day on freshly-washed, dried skin. Just hit the switch, and that’s it.
I was initially worried I’d never find the time, but because I didn’t need more than minutes—and because it comes with handy straps, I soon found myself slipping it on post-shower—while applying lotion, or while doing other household chores. (Though you can certainly level up your experience by hitting pause, using the time for mindfulness, or even treating yourself to a little at-home spascape—aromatherapy, music and all.)
Does the CurrentBody LED technology live up to the hype?
Fast forward eight months of near-daily use (consistency is key), I can honestly say my skin is glowing, generally smoother in texture, plumper and healthier looking. Bonus: I learned the near-infrared light can also help stimulate hair growth on your scalp. It helped me regrow the hair I lost during my postpartum period. (Pro tip: The great thing about the silicone design of this mask is that you can simply slip it onto your head once you’re done using it on your face!)
Story continues below advertisement
Simply put, I am really happy with the Series 1 so when it came to testing out the Series 2, I jumped at the chance to compare my results.
Read more: A dermatologist’s expert evaluation on LED face masks
What’s new with the CurrentBody LED Mask Series 2?
How do you improve an already incredible product? To start, Series 2, which came out in October 2024, looks different out of the box. It has a built-in chin strap for greater coverage, and the mask straps are now more robust to help better keep the mask in place. You do get a choice between the old straps and the new, so you can find the best fit for your face (the closer the fit, the better the results). The Series 2 definitely feels snugger on the face, and there is more coverage around the mouth and eyes.
Story continues below advertisement
The eye inserts on Series 2 are black, which helps block out the light a little bit more effectively. Also, in the package you’ll find a USB-C charging cable, a controller (which is noticeably larger, but now comes with a belt clip so you can keep your hands free as you move), a storage bag, as well as a user manual.
Not only does the mask look different from the front, but it’s different underneath as well. The CurrentBody team has upgraded the functionality of the mask, so it does more with your precious time. The mask features 16 extra near-infrared bulbs in key areas of the mask, where signs of aging are typically more pronounced (around the eyes and mouth). In total, Series 2 has 104 more bulbs than its predecessor. And the LEDs have been strategically placed and spaced to ensure every zone receives the same power and wavelength penetrating the skin, so there are no inconsistencies or dark zones of coverage (an issue with some other masks on the market).
And not only are there more lights, but the lights are more powerful. Where Series 1 includes red light (RED 633NM) and near-infrared light (NIR 830NM) to target fine lines and redness, and to improve texture, and collagen stimulation for bouncier skin, Series 2 now features three highly-precise wavelengths; the CurrentBody team has added deep near-infrared light (DEEP NIR 1072NM) to target deeper wrinkles.
Additionally, CurrentBody has gone the extra mile to test each and every individual mask and its LEDs, tracking the results that are now available to that specific mask user. They’ve done this with their unique NFC card in what they call “Veritace Testing and Traceability.”
Story continues below advertisement
If you, like me, appreciate the research and development behind beauty technology, you’ll love diving into the clinical testing and specifications of your Series 2 mask. Each mask undergoes rigorous quality control to meet the brand’s high standards for precision and accuracy—something I truly appreciate as an end user.
While the Series 2 costs more ($639) than the Series 1 ($475), its upgrades justify the price increase of less than $200. Considering its features and how it compares to other masks on the market, it’s actually a well-priced mid-range option.
In the end, my love for the CurrentBody LED Light Therapy Face Series 2 mask isn’t just because I’m a fan of CurrentBody Skin or the Series 1 mask. The Series 2 stands on its own, winning me over with its thoughtful upgrades that deliver not only great value for my money but also maximize my limited time.
Story continues below advertisement
You may also like:
CurrentBody RF Radio Frequency Skin Tightening Device – $499
