There are a lot of things that can help you get juicy, plump lips. Lip plumpers offer a temporary effect, of course. And for something more permanent, there are always lip injections. But if you don't want to go that far—but want something longer-lasting than a gloss—red light LED therapy for lips may be your answer.
The Best Red Light Devices for Lips
Easiest to Use
CurrentBody Skin LED Lip Perfector
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Plumping Kit
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Plumped Perfection LipWare Pro Kit
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Under $100
reVive Light Therapy Lux Collection Red Light Therapy Lip Plumping Device
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"Clinical studies suggest that for the lips, red light therapy can stimulate collagen production, improve blood flow and circulation, enhance lip color, support healing, reduce fine lines around the lip area, and even help with post-procedure recovery—for example, after injectable procedures," says Kunal Malik, a board-certified dermatologist at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.
So, which of these devices should you try? Read on for our roundup, plus more info on the benefits of red light therapy, according to Malik.
Easiest to Use
CurrentBody Skin LED Lip Perfector
Comfortable to use
Over $450
Ignore the pacifier vibes: The small mouthpiece on this device is much smaller and more comfortable than some others on the market. It also features 56 bulbs to offer optimal results in just a three-minute treatment session.
Number of LED bulbs: 56
Length of treatment: 3 minutes per day for full results in 8 weeks
Customer Review:"Been using this for the last 2 years. I’s changed the color of my lips so much so people think I’ve had lip blush done!" —Jayne M.
Plumping Kit
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Plumped Perfection LipWare Pro Kit
Multiple products in one
The plumper has a bit of an old-school tingle
This cute lip-shaped LED device is powerful and features a detachable silicone mouthpiece for easy cleaning. Plus, it comes with the brand's DermInfusions Plump + Repair Lip Treatment for extra—and instant—lip plumping and a little clutch to store it all.
Number of LED bulbs: 56
Length of treatment: 3 minutes
Customer Review:"Little did I know using straws would have the same effect as smoking on my mouth. Talk about lines. The Lipware Pro is worth every penny, is easy to use, and only takes 3 minutes a day then apply the Plump and Repair Lip Treatment for a fabulous result! LED light therapy is where it’s at!! You’ll definitely get results with consistent use." —Elena D.
See AlsoInvestment-Worthy Red Light Therapy Devices for Head-to-Toe RejuvenationDo Red-Light-Therapy Wands Actually Work?Do Red-Light-Therapy Tools *Actually* Work? I Tested Them OutEverything You Need to Know About at-Home LED Light TherapyAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below
Under $100
reVive Light Therapy Lux Collection Red Light Therapy Lip Plumping Device
$99 at Nordstrom$99 at Walmart
Pros
Large mouth piece
This FDA-cleared device combines infrared, deep red, red, and amber light therapy to provide the optimal collagen-boosting treatment. Reviewers say it's easy to use and charge, and they love the auto shutoff feature.
Length of treatment: 3 minutes, with results after 8 weeks
Customer Review:"I love this device. The functionality is great, and the overall design is of high value. I like that it’s easy to use and that you don’t have to set manual time limits, it automatically turns off when the timer ware’s off. One of my favorite skincare hacks." —Jessie Rose
Full Face Mask
Therabody TheraFace Mask
See AlsoWe've been busy testing LED face masks – and all our favourites are on sale
Over $500
Most LED face masks have a cutout around the mouth. In most cases, that makes sense—but not if you want the benefits of red light on your lips. This one covers the lips as well as the face, plus it has an acne-fighting blue light and a massage function.
Number of LED bulbs: 648Length of treatment: 9 minutes, with a 3-minute option
Customer Review:
"Love that it’s cordless, light and comfortable. Love the eye shields and the massage is relaxing" —Merideth K
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Best for Cold Sores
Luminance RED Lip Device
Offers targeted relief
Over $300
Clinical studies show that red light can help heal cold sores, too. Unlike other mask-like devices, this wand targets specific areas with red light to help specific areas heal when you have one to reduce pain and, hopefully, the appearance.
Length of Treatment: 1 minute
Customer Review:"I've used it several times over the last month: once on a full blown sore and twice when I felt the beginning of one. It helped me manage the main sore and completely stopped the formation of the other two.” —John D
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is Red Light Therapy Safe for Lips?
"Yes, if used properly," says Malik. However, the derm notes, "The lips are architecturally and cellularly different than the rest of facial skin, so that needs to be taken into account as they may be particularly responsive to light therapy." Red light does not burn on its own, but there's always the risk of a device malfunctioning. "Proper wavelength and energy settings are important to avoid burns or irritation," he explains.
Can You Do Red Light Therapy If You Have Lip Filler?
"Based on current evidence, I do believe red light therapy is safe with hyaluronic acid fillers and may actually help maintain filler longevity by supporting collagen production," explains Malik. That being said, "I’d advise waiting at least 48 hours after injections before starting, avoiding excess heat, and staying in touch with your provider to let them know about anything unusual, especially in the days following the injections," says the dermatologist.
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Meet the Expert
- Kunal Malik, MD FAAD, is a board-certified cosmetic and medical dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.
Looking for more facial tools and devices?
- The 8 Best Radio Frequency Skin Devices for Tighter, Lifted Skin
- The 10 Best LED Face Masks to Address Wrinkles, Acne, and More
- The 6 Best High Frequency Skincare Wands to Add to Your Routine
- The 10 Best Microcurrent Devices for an Instant Face Lift
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