Most LED light therapy masks on the market are, to be honest, quite similar—and I say this as someone who has tested countless top-rated options. While there are minor variations in design, weight, light settings, and price, the leading models often cost several hundred dollars and share many overlapping features. However, Shark’s new CryoGlow Red Blue & Infrared iQLED Face Mask with under-eye cooling stands in a league of its own. Beyond delivering on promises of reduced wrinkles and acne, this mask is a game-changer for soothing puffy under-eyes. After several weeks of testing, I can confidently say it’s my top pick, particularly for anyone seeking to revitalize both their skin and under-eye area. Keep reading for my full review.
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What is the Shark CryoGlow LED Face Mask, and how does it work?
Let’s start with a quick overview of how LED light therapy masks can benefit your skin. Dermatologist Howard Sobel explains that red light is effective in reducing fine lines and wrinkles by activating fibroblasts. It also helps alleviate inflammation, improves blood flow, and promotes wound healing. Meanwhile, blue light works to combat acne-causing bacteria (p.Acnes) and reduce oil (sebum) production in the sebaceous glands. As dermatologist David Kim aptly puts it, “Blue light targets acne, red light addresses inflammation, and near-infrared light stimulates collagen production.”
The Shark CryoGlow mask goes beyond just offering blue, red, and infrared light therapy. It also features cooling metal under-eye pads designed to deeply chill and soothe the delicate skin under the eyes, effectively reducing inflammation. This wireless device, charged via USB-C, includes a handy remote to control its four targeted treatments: Better Aging, a six-minute red and infrared light session; Skin Clearing, an eight-minute blue light therapy for acne; Skin Sustain, a four-minute session combining all three light types; and Under-Eye Revive, a light-free cooling treatment with three adjustable chill levels.
What are the benefits of the Shark CryoGlow?
The Shark CryoGlow sets itself apart from typical LED face masks by combining light therapy for clearer, more radiant skin with advanced cooling and depuffing technology. This versatile feature can be used during your treatment sessions or as a standalone option. As an FDA-cleared device, it’s not only effective but also user-friendly—it’s easy to operate, simple to clean, and charges conveniently with a USB-C cable. Its wireless design gives you the freedom to move around, whether you’re tidying up or simply walking through your home. For those with sensitive eyes, the mask offers excellent protection, allowing tasks like typing on a laptop to be done comfortably during treatments. If you’re in the market for an LED face mask that enhances skin health while showing some extra love to your tired, puffy eyes, this one’s a game-changer.
Are there any drawbacks to the device?
While the Shark CryoGlow mask has many advantages, there are a couple of drawbacks worth noting. Although it’s not the heaviest mask out there, the attached remote does add a bit of weight. To stay comfortable while moving around, it’s best to clip the remote onto your waistband or keep it tucked into a pocket for convenience.
When the mask is in cooling mode, the internal fans produce a noticeable hum to maintain its chill effect. While this isn’t particularly loud to those around you, it might interfere with your ability to fully enjoy a TV show or similar activities. Additionally, the fans keep running briefly even after you’ve completed your treatment and turned the mask off.
Another point to consider is the cooling metal eye pads. While the integrated iQLED Technology delivers consistent light therapy across the skin without gaps or hot spots, these metal pads can partially obstruct the light therapy from fully reaching the under-eye area.
Is the CryoGlow LED mask worth it?
Absolutely—my eyes and skin have never been more satisfied. I can’t praise this mask enough for its sheer convenience. Why bother storing spoons or skincare wands in your freezer when a simple button press delivers the same depuffing effects, completely wirelessly? And why settle for an LED mask without the added luxury of cooling technology? Like all LED devices, consistency is key—you’ll need to use the mask daily for eight to 12 weeks to fully enjoy its skin-clearing, wrinkle-reducing, and radiance-enhancing benefits. However, the cooling eye pads provide instant gratification and feel absolutely amazing, making it easier to stick to incorporating the mask into your everyday routine.
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