PLS EXPLAIN Why does every Sydney girl have an LED mask now, and do they actually do anything?

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Apparently at some point in modern history, the Sydney girl maintenance routine stopped being cleanser, moisturiser and SPF. Suddenly, it’s turned into glowing on the couch like a cyborg.

Don’t know what I mean? Well, let me introduce you to the LED light community then, my friend. This deeply effective yet borderline terrifying treatment has officially taken hold of TikTok it-girls and anyone trying to look like them.

Because after all, if the pilates memberships, brow bookings and hair appointments didn’t already cost enough, there’s now light therapy. In fact, it’s become so popular that Paris Hilton claims her dog lived to 25 just because of it.

Ever since COVID, the rise of at-home beauty treatments and tech has been on the up. And while we might have been able to put it previously down to boredom, the girl maths of it all actually makes a lot of sense. Treatments that would otherwise cost $100 to $200 in a salon are now available at a much lower per-use rate when used at home.

But one question still remains…

Do they actually do anything?

The answer is a little more annoying than a simple yes or no.

Different LED light wavelengths are commonly used to target different skin concerns, including acne, texture and visible signs of ageing. Studies suggest red-light LED devices can produce subtle to noticeable results.

So, no, LED is not necessarily just expensive mood lighting for your face. But according to science, these masks aren’t all created equally, either.

The power output, wavelengths, coverage, treatment time and consistency of use can all affect the experience and potential results. In other words, the issue is not necessarily LED itself. It’s whether the device has been designed to deliver enough energy to actually do its job.

This is where GlowLUXE comes in…

Australian LumiLift founder Tegan created GlowLUXE after feeling frustrated with the temporariness of other at-home LED light therapy facial devices that just didn’t have enough oomph. In other words, it’s designed specifically for people who want something more effective than a random purchase from their FYP.

Its major point of difference is its 60mW/cm² power output, a level reportedly more commonly associated with professional-style treatments than standard at-home devices. Featuring seven targeted light wavelengths and a flexible design, the idea is simple. 10 minutes a day at home replaces the need to book yourself into a clinic every time your skin decides to have a hissy fit.

Because let’s be real, the best beauty device is the one you will actually use, not the one that lives in a drawer next to your amethyst gua sha and expired sheet mask.

Clinics are expensive. Time is limited. Everyone is tired. And if there’s a way to do a little skin-supporting beauty admin from the couch while watching reruns of MAFS and pretending it’s self-care, we can see why the girls are interested.

And yes, I will be putting my dog under this.