Are LED Lip Treatments the Secret to Smoother Lips? We’re Getting to the Roots
At-home LED therapy devices are nothing new, and every beauty lover on TikTok has surely seen videos of content creators sharing viral LED masks from brands like Dr. Dennis Gross and Neutrogena. These often make you look like you’re wearing a Halloween costume or working as a member of Jabbawockeez (if you know this reference, I love you).
Despite their popularity on Instagram, these at-home beauty devices primarily work to treat the skin. LED light therapy has long been used in facials as an effective way to heal the skin, reduce acne scars, and boost collagen production. Similar effects are seen when used around the lips. 1
As Dr. Gross explained that his new lip treatment could be an alternative to dermal fillers, Botox, and even lasers for lip wrinkles, I had to investigate. I caught up with Dr. Gross and nationally recognized dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman to find out how LED lip treatment devices work and how to produce the best results. I also shared my honest review of these devices.
What are LED lip therapy devices?
“LED lip therapy devices (with light-emitting diodes) are tools that boost blood circulation, make lips appear fuller, and minimize signs of aging, such as filling fine lines and wrinkles,” says Dr. Engleman. They don’t require a huge commitment: “Using the device for just three to five minutes a day (depending on the device) will stimulate collagen production and improve the elasticity, texture, and tone of your lips,” says Dr. Engleman. “Most devices can be inserted into the mouth, making them an efficient, hands-free tool for busy mornings or evenings.”
To use these devices, simply press the “on” button, then simply bite the mouth plate or place it on your lips with one hand. It automatically shuts off after three minutes. Dr. Gross recommends using it daily for four weeks to see results.
Why They’re Trending
As mentioned earlier, at-home LED therapy devices have been around for a while. The market is saturated with everything from topical treatments for acne to full-face masks. These masks don’t usually cover the lips. But it’s one of the areas of the face that people worry about (and even obsess over) the most. “2023 is the year of the lips,” explains Dr. Gross, and why he’s bringing this device to market now. “The lips have always been a popular treatment area, but in the wake of the pandemic, I’ve noticed a significant increase in in-office lip augmentation appointments. [Patients] need lip products and devices that support the overall health of the lips and prolong the effects of injections… between appointments.”
That’s how Dr. Gross’s sleek little lip device was born (and it’s really cute — shaped like lips and all). But he’s not the only brand developing this kind of product. There are also models from CurrentBody and Revive, and more are likely to come to market. Some say the era of the “Instagram face” is over and people are facing “filler fatigue.” An at-home LED lip therapy device could serve as another way to care for your lips and improve their appearance.
“The lips and surrounding area are thinner and more fragile than the skin on your face and body, making them particularly susceptible to collagen breakdown, free radical damage, and premature aging,” explains Dr. Gross. “Professional at-home devices are the next big trend in lip care. They are completely painless and…are a natural way to plump lips and reverse signs of aging throughout the mouth.”
How it works
“LED light has different effects on the skin depending on the wavelength of light used,” says Dr. Engelman. “Red, infrared, crimson, and amber are the wavelengths most commonly used for lip care. Amber, red, and crimson light stimulate fibroblasts in the outermost layers of the skin (epidermis and papillary dermis), signaling collagen production.”
Delayed collagen production is one reason our skin changes when we pile candles on our birthday cake. While stimulating collagen production isn’t an easy task, it can help counteract these changes. “[Collagen production] helps smooth and firm the lip skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. “Reduces wrinkles,” notes Dr. Engelman. “Infrared LED light penetrates the deepest, stimulating blood circulation and wound healing, helping to plump lips and improve their color and texture.”
Does LED lip treatment really work?
“Yes! ” enthuses Dr. Engelman, who has used Dr. Gross and CurrentBody personally. “It’s easy to use and effective. I love LED!”
She goes on to talk about the results you can expect. “When done correctly with a high-quality, FDA-approved device, LED therapy is an effective way to improve the health, appearance, and function of your skin, including the skin of your lips,” she says.
LED Devices Are Not a Replacement for Botox or Fillers
For someone like me who has never had a dermal filler, Botox lip flip, or laser resurfacing treatment, LED light therapy may seem like a relatively easy option to plump up your lips. But is it too good to be true?
The main differences between these three treatments and the LED lip therapy device are the time investment, financial investment, and immediate results. “The infrared light has a plumping effect on the lips and…improves their texture, which are two effects people typically want to achieve with fillers and Botox,” says Dr. Engelman. “However, to achieve results with LED therapy, you must be patient and stick with the treatments. LED therapy has a more subtle effect and occurs more slowly than fillers, Botox, and lasers. Therefore, I would not describe LED therapy as a true alternative to any of these solutions.”
Both experts agree that LED lip therapy complements these treatments and can work on its own, too. Just be sure to keep your expectations in mind. For example, while LED lip therapy has a plumping effect, it won’t dramatically change the shape of your lips like dermal fillers or a Botox lip flip. Plus, it won’t repair the skin as deeply as a Fraxel laser. The effects of using an LED lip therapy device may be more subtle and long-lasting (with Botox, for example, which wears off after about three months).
The risks and potential side effects are also significantly reduced, especially if you have a low pain tolerance or an aversion to needles. “LED therapy is a much lower-risk treatment than fillers, Botox, or lasers, and it absolutely delivers results if used correctly and consistently,” Dr. Engelman adds. “So it’s a great option for those who don’t want to go all out on injectables and/or laser treatments and for those who can’t safely undergo laser treatments.
We also can’t forget the cost. Typically, these in-office treatments start at $500 per treatment (repeated treatments are required for maintenance), while LED lip treatment devices cost about $150 to $200 per treatment.
Is LED lip treatment safe?
This treatment is simple, painless, and generally considered “safe.” No, it does not emit UV rays or cause sun damage. Dr. Gross explains, “LED light therapy is very safe for lips and skin in general because it targets skin cells without causing damage. Plus, it doesn’t emit UV radiation, so there is no risk of tanning, sunburn, or skin cancer.” ”
Some of these devices are also FDA-approved. “When using a well-made, FDA-approved LED light therapy device, the wavelength of light is easily absorbed by the skin and contains no harmful UV rays,” Dr. Engleman adds.
Who is a good candidate for LED lip treatment?
Both experts agree that most people can use these devices, and Dr. Engleman describes them as an easy-to-use and versatile treatment option. “Because LED therapy devices are both a preventative and restorative treatment, everyone can benefit from the device,” she explains. “It works best for those who want to treat wrinkles, fine lines, loss of elasticity, and uneven texture and tone in their lips.” If you’re looking for preventative measures, Gross recommends starting in your 20s. (I wish these had been around in the early 2000s so I could try them.)
Despite the lower risk, there are some situations where you should avoid these devices. Dr. Engelman warns that people with light sensitivity should be careful. Dr. Gross warns against those with active rashes or taking prescription medications that increase light sensitivity, such as tretinoin or prescription retinoids. If you have these or any other concerns, it’s recommended that you consult a licensed dermatologist before using an LED lip therapy device.
My Honest Review
It sounds a little too good to be true. Use it for three minutes a day and transform your lips? I was intrigued, excited, and… skeptical.
After using the devices from Dr. Dennis Gross and CurrentBody for a few months, I can confirm that both were extremely easy to use (I didn’t even have to follow instructions), completely painless, and I didn’t experience any negative side effects. The results are very subtle, and consistency is key. Using LED The light therapy device won’t make you look like you’ve had dermal fillers or mimic the results of laser treatments. It won’t change the shape of your lips or do anything radical. But over time, I’ve found that my little lip wrinkles don’t bother me as much anymore. My lips feel juicier and look more rosy. I find it works especially well when paired with a lip serum or using a product with hyaluronic acid.
Perhaps the hardest part is actually doing this multiple times a week (if not daily) to get results. I’ve been trying to make it a habit to incorporate it into my daily prep routine, using it when I draw my eyebrows or curl my hair.
I’ve also noticed that I have to wrap my lips around the bite plate to keep the device in place. This is the same lip movement that caused my lip lines in the first place. So try to relax your lips when using it. (Rely more on your teeth for stability). Having this thing in your mouth feels a bit like the bite plate that dentists use to take x-rays, but I’m getting used to it. I’ll keep my lips glossy until I’m ready for a more comprehensive treatment.
