'We tried 5 LED devices to see if they actually work. Here are our honest thoughts.'

Mamamia’s Tried and Tested series is your review of the latest to hit our desks in beauty, health and wellness. You won’t find any #sponsored content here, just honest, relatable and independent advice. Here, Leigh Campbell, Erin Docherty, Emily Vernem and Michaela Godinez tried out three different LED light therapy devices.

With all of us spending so much time in our homes this year, the beauty world has done some serious innovating on the home-treatment front. Enter the rise in techy light therapy gadgets.

While typical light therapy in a clinic would set you back a couple of hundred dollars, some of these handy devices cost a fraction of that, while some are more of a "skinvestment."

So, are they worth it?

Three women at Mamamia, all with different skin concerns, tried three light therapy devices with varying price points to test whether they delivered the results they claim to. Here's what they had to say.

Before we get into the reviews, here's You Beauty host Em Vernem trialling the foundation hug-proof test. Post continues below.

Em tries: CurrentBody LED Light Therapy Face Mask: Series 2, $679.

Me and my new bestie.

When I first put this mask on, I felt like I was auditioning for the role of "murderer" in a slasher movie. But for nearly $700, I was determined to make this work (and look somewhat graceful doing it).

The mask uses a combination of red and near-infrared light therapy, which sounds fancy but basically means it's supposed to boost collagen production, reduce fine lines, and improve skin tone. It's also flexible, which means it actually sits properly on your face and doesn't leave weird gaps where the light doesn't reach.

What I loved about this mask is that it's completely hands-free — you can clip the little attached remote to your clothes and the mask straps to the back of your head so you can go about your business (although a 10-minute lie down doesn't hurt).

I will say, however, that trying to drink or eat through the little mouth hole… is not a vibe.

I used the mask every two to three days for a month, usually while lying in bed watching TikTok or pretending to meditate.

"I've come for your family."

After some consistent use, my skin tone became noticeably more even, those stubborn acne scars that usually take forever to fade started disappearing faster, and the general redness in my complexion calmed right down.

Is it expensive? Yes. Did I feel slightly ridiculous wearing it? Also, yes. But did it work? Huge yes.

If you're serious about your skincare and have the budget for it, then yes. It's definitely an investment, but if you're committed to the consistency and have similar skin concerns as me, I'd definitely give it a go.

Em also tries: FAQ 202 Smart Silicone LED Face Mask, $1,319.

Yes, this mask is super chic thanks for asking.

When this futuristic LED mask landed on my desk, I was elated. After seeing it all over my TikTok FYP and hearing endless rave reviews, I immediately (yet very carefully) ripped the box open.

Let's address the elephant in the room— this bad boy costs $1,319. Yes, you read that correctly.

What sets this mask apart from its cheaper counterparts is that it's actually smart (probably smarter than me). It connects to an app on your phone, has eight different LED wavelengths, and is made from this very sleek and chic-looking silicone material that moulds onto your face (kinda like a second skin).

Also, it's completely wireless, which means you can actually move around while wearing it (though I wouldn't recommend doing your grocery shopping in it).

I've now become that person who wears their LED mask at work (sorry). The best thing about this device is that you can pre-program different treatments depending on your skin concerns, and because it's so lightweight and comfortable, I just pop it on while I'm answering emails or writing articles.Quick side note: Maybe warn your coworkers before they walk past your desk and see what appears to be a cyborg typing away at their computer.

Erin tries: Therabody TheraFace Mask, $899.

Image: Supplied.

I've been using this guy for a couple of years now — and I love it. Most notably, I used it in the lead-up until my wedding day (I was super consistent and used it nearly every day) and noticed such a positive difference in my skin. It looked clearer, glowier and just healthier.The mask features red light therapy, red and infrared light therapy and blue light therapy along with a unique vibration therapy to help ease muscle tension in the face (drool).I mainly use the red light setting to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and dark spots. It has a whopping 648 medical-grade lights, which is more than others I've tried in the past, and I love how it adequately covers the entire face.Unlike other LED masks that feel like you're wearing a plastic Halloween costume, this one sits comfortably on your face without feeling heavy or awkward. I typically use it for about 15 minutes while I'm watching TV or scrolling through my phone – multitasking at its finest!The blue light setting has been brilliant for those hormonal breakouts that love to appear right before important events (why do they always know?). And the vibration function? It's like a mini facial massage that helps me wind down.Beyond my wedding skin, I've noticed the most significant improvements in my overall skin texture — it's much smoother and more refined. My forehead lines and crow's feet lines are also noticeably softer and I've experienced less redness around my nose and chin. The key? Consistency.

Leigh tries: LightStim For Wrinkles Hand Held Light, $409.

I'd seen a lot of hype online about this device in the US, so was pumped to give it a whirl. What appealed to me was that it isn't a mask, so you can use it to target specific areas, and not just the face.

The device itself uses red light which is anti-ageing, perfect for diminishing lines and wrinkles. Like plants, our skin has the ability to absorb light and convert it into energy. Red light is actually rejuvenating wavelengths delivered to your skin, so with continued use you’ll see a more plump appearance and softer lines. The brand also has a blue light version, which works on the same principle but targets acne.

It’s really easy to use — you hold it on the area for three minutes, then move it to the next spot you want to treat. Simple.

Image: Supplied.

I used it to focus on the lines around my eyes and also the creases on my chest. I used it every second night on clean skin while watching telly, followed by my skincare routine. After three weeks, my skin is definitely more plump and the lines aren't as visibly obvious.

Michaela tries: LUX SKIN LED Facial Mask, $119.

Image: Supplied.

I have wanted to try LED light therapy since I saw the iconic Jessica Alba sporting a mask… but within my budget. Now with so many options, there are multiple that are, so I gave this one a go — and it was really easy and fun to use!

It has three different light options: red light, which stimulates collagen and elastin production, blue light, which stimulates the production of oxygen radicals that kill acne-causing bacteria, and orange light, used to cleanse the skin, boost lymphatic flow and increase the production of new cells.

To use it, you apply your skincare routine, place the shield over your face and press the power button, which you press again to switch the colours.

Image: Supplied.

I used it every night before or in bed for a week, selecting the blue light. After a week, I did not see much of a difference visually, though there was a slight plumpness to my skin.

I do feel that if I used it for 30 minutes across a longer time period such as four weeks, I would possibly have seen more of an effect — because in my case even with skincare it usually takes my skin a few weeks at least to see change.

But it was a really simple addition to my skincare routine and I enjoyed it!

Have you tried a light therapy mask? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below.

Feature image: Supplied.