The Beauty by Light Colour Atlas
LED face mask colours,
explained.
Understand what the settings mean, where the research applies and how to choose a mode with care.
LED face mask colours describe different light settings, but colour alone does not tell you what a device can do. Red, blue and near-infrared light have been studied for different skin applications. Other settings need to be assessed against the actual wavelengths, device specifications and evidence supplied by the manufacturer.
This guide explains the common modes, what to check before choosing one and how to build a routine around your device's instructions.
Looking for a mask? Browse the Beauty by Light LED face mask collection to compare available masks and skincare bundles. For a buying checklist, read how to choose an LED face mask in Australia.
How light therapy wavelengths interact with the skin
Wavelength is measured in nanometres (nm). It describes the light emitted by a device; it is not a measurement of light energy or treatment strength. Light absorption and penetration depend on wavelength and tissue characteristics, rather than following a simple rule that every higher number penetrates deeper.
When comparing masks, check the wavelength, treatment settings, recommended session length and intended use. The examples below describe common colour labels and research settings, not verified specifications for every Beauty by Light mode.
LED face mask colours at a glance
Examples studied include 630 nm and 633 nm
Studied for the appearance of ageing skin; results depend on the device and treatment protocol.
830 nm is one researched example
Invisible light, often studied alongside red light for skin rejuvenation.
415 nm is one researched example
Studied for acne; follow model-specific instructions and eye protection requirements.
Check the manufacturer's measured output
Do not assume a green setting treats pigmentation without relevant evidence.
Check the manufacturer's measured output
Research findings are specific to the device and condition studied.
May combine visible wavelengths
Check which wavelengths operate together; the label alone does not establish a benefit.
Check the manufacturer's measured output
Ask for evidence supporting any sensitive-skin or skin-barrier claims.
Usually a mixture of visible wavelengths
Not a single wavelength or a standardised treatment mode across brands.
The complete LED mask colour guide
1. Red light
Red light is commonly studied for skin rejuvenation, including changes in the appearance of fine lines and skin texture. Published studies use specific devices, doses and schedules. Their results cannot automatically be transferred to every mask with a red setting.
For example, a 2023 study examined a particular 630 nm LED mask. When choosing a red-light device, check the evidence relevant to that model rather than relying on colour alone.
2. Near-infrared light
Near-infrared light is outside the visible spectrum, so you cannot assess its output by brightness. A 2005 study examined an Omnilux system combining 633 nm red light and 830 nm near-infrared light for facial rejuvenation.
Check whether your device offers near-infrared separately or in combination with another mode, and use it only as directed.
3. Blue light
Blue LED light has been studied for acne, including a pilot investigation using 415 nm light. Treatment parameters and evidence vary between devices. Blue light should not be presented as a guaranteed way to prevent all breakouts or replace established acne treatment.
Read the eye protection instructions carefully. If you are managing persistent acne or using prescribed treatment, discuss suitable options with a qualified health professional.
4. Green light
Green settings are often marketed for pigmentation and uneven tone. A colour label does not establish that a particular home mask can reduce dark spots. Look for model-specific specifications and evidence supporting the advertised use.
5. Yellow or amber light
Yellow and amber settings are commonly promoted for calming or rejuvenating applications. Check the exact wavelength and supporting research, because studies using one device or treatment protocol do not establish the effects of every yellow setting.
6. Purple light
A purple-looking mode may combine red and blue light, but implementations vary. Check the manual to confirm which LEDs operate together. Combining colours does not automatically prove a greater benefit or justify extending session time.
7. Cyan light
Cyan modes are sometimes promoted for sensitive skin. Do not assume that a cyan setting repairs a damaged skin barrier or is suitable for irritated skin without checking the manufacturer's instructions and evidence.
8. White light
White light generally contains a mixture of visible wavelengths rather than one distinct wavelength. The mode's name does not provide enough information to determine its intended use, output or likely effects.
Compare Beauty by Light LED mask settings
The Beauty by Light silicone LED light therapy mask with near-infrared product page describes its available modes and included accessories. Read the current listing and supplied manual for the specifications and directions that apply to your model.
To compare masks with treatment bundles, explore our LED face masks available in Australia.
How to organise your LED mask routine
You do not need to use every colour or follow a different mode each day. Start with the instructions for your particular mask and its intended use.
- Check suitability: read the warnings, including those about light sensitivity and required eye protection.
- Prepare as directed: follow the manual's advice about cleansing and skincare products before treatment.
- Choose the setting: use the mode recommended for your intended purpose.
- Follow the schedule: stay within the specified session time and frequency; do not add extra sessions to chase faster results.
- Assess progress consistently: if taking photos, use similar lighting and angles. Individual outcomes vary.
For help organising skincare around treatment, read our LED light therapy skincare routine guide. The instructions supplied with your device take priority.
Frequently asked questions
What does each colour on an LED face mask do?
There is no standard benefit assigned to every colour across all brands. Check the colour index above for researched examples and the questions to ask about each mode. The same colour name can describe devices with different wavelengths, output and treatment schedules.
Is purple light the same as ultraviolet light?
No. A purple-looking LED mask setting is not automatically ultraviolet, and it may be a combination of visible red and blue light. Check the manufacturer's wavelength specifications rather than judging the output by its appearance.
What colour LED light is used for fine lines?
Red light, sometimes combined with near-infrared, has been studied for skin rejuvenation. Choose by the device's intended use, specifications and relevant evidence rather than treating all red-light masks as equivalent.
What colour LED light is used for acne?
Blue light and some red/blue combinations have been studied for acne. Suitability and outcomes depend on the device and individual circumstances. Follow its directions and seek professional advice for persistent or severe acne.
Can you use multiple LED colours in one day?
Only if the instructions for your device allow it. There is no universal daily time limit that applies to every mask. Do not stack treatments or extend exposure beyond the specified schedule.
Does a higher wavelength always penetrate deeper?
No. Penetration depends on how light interacts with tissue, including absorption and scattering. Wavelength alone does not tell you the delivered treatment dose or guarantee a deeper or better result.
How often should you use an LED face mask?
Follow the schedule supplied for your model. Session lengths and frequency differ, so a routine for one mask should not automatically be applied to another.
Can LED masks replace other skincare treatments?
They are not interchangeable with every topical or clinical treatment. Our guides to red light therapy versus retinol and LED face masks versus Botox discuss different approaches. Ask a qualified clinician about treatment decisions relevant to your skin.
Exploring light therapy beyond facial skincare
Interested in scalp treatments? Our red light therapy for hair loss and hair growth guide explains the research on scalp-specific devices, realistic expectations and why evidence for a hair-growth cap should not be applied automatically to a facial LED mask.
Choosing your next step
Understanding LED face mask colours helps you ask better questions about a device. Check what each mode emits, what it is intended for and how to use it. More colours alone do not establish better results.
Ready to compare options? Shop the Beauty by Light LED face mask collection, or check our silicone LED mask with near-infrared for current product information.
Scientific references and further reading
These sources examine particular treatments or review the wider research. They are not clinical trials of the Beauty by Light mask.
- Russell BA, Kellett N, Reilly LR (2005): Combination 633 nm and 830 nm LED therapy in facial skin rejuvenation.
- Couturaud and colleagues (2023): Reverse skin aging signs by red light photobiomodulation.
- Tremblay and colleagues (2006): Light-emitting diode 415 nm in the treatment of inflammatory acne.
- Light-emitting diodes in dermatology: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials.