Shark CryoGlow LED Face Mask Review: A Beauty Editor’s Deep Dive

Skincare technology has evolved, moving from professional treatments to at-home devices. These gadgets represent an investment, requiring consistent apply to achieve optimal results. After a year of testing, the Shark CryoGlow LED Face Mask stands out for its unique features, design, and price point. This review explores the benefits of red light therapy and whether the Shark CryoGlow delivers on its promises.

Understanding Red Light Therapy

“Red light masks, which expose the skin to safe wavelengths of light, have a number of excellent benefits,” shares Dendy Engelman, M.D., a board-certified dermatologic surgeon in New York City. Red light therapy creates a biochemical effect in cells, improving their efficiency in repairing damage, rejuvenating skin, and addressing concerns like aging, stretch marks, scars, hyperpigmentation, and acne. It’s a painless, no-downtime way to improve skin function and appearance over time.

What is the Shark CryoGlow LED Face Mask?

The Shark CryoGlow LED Face Mask is an FDA-cleared light therapy mask utilizing three lightwave types—red, blue, and infrared—to address various skin concerns, including signs of aging, discoloration, hyperpigmentation, and acne.

Each light offers distinct benefits:

• Red light: Reduces inflammation, increases blood circulation, improves moisture retention, boosts skincare product absorption, and stimulates collagen production and cellular regeneration.
• Blue light: Kills acne-causing bacteria, moderates oil production, and can calm eczema and psoriasis.
• Infrared light: Offers similar benefits to red light but penetrates the skin more deeply.

Beyond the light capabilities, the under-eye cooling pads differentiate this mask. This cryo technology provides a steady chill to the delicate eye area, tightening, smoothing, and brightening during treatment.

How to Use the Shark CryoGlow LED Face Mask

Use the Shark CryoGlow on a freshly cleansed face, before applying serums or moisturizers. Applying skincare before treatment can reduce effectiveness, as the lights necessitate to reach the skin directly. Adjust the straps for a comfortable fit, then use the remote to turn on the device.

The mask offers three pre-programmed treatments:

• Better Aging: A six-minute red and infrared treatment designed to minimize fine lines and firm skin.
• Skin Clearing: An eight-minute treatment utilizing all three light forms to target acne-causing bacteria and redness.
• Skin Sustain: A four-minute session incorporating blue, red, and infrared light to boost collagen production and radiance.

Adjust the coolness level for the under-eye cryo pads, or turn off the feature. The mask too features an “Under-Eye Revive Treatment” for five, 10, or 15 minutes of chill without light therapy. The control screen displays a “spot you tomorrow!” message, emphasizing the importance of consistency for results.

Testing and Results

After testing numerous LED masks over three years, the Shark CryoGlow has been a consistent part of a beauty routine for the past year. Incorporated into an evening routine, alongside nightly affirmations, the six- and eight-minute treatments were used depending on acne flare-ups. Regular usage was maintained, except during travel due to the mask’s size.

While significant changes weren’t experienced (given prior consistent red light mask use), a slight boost in radiance was noted, prompting inquiries about the skincare routine.

What I Liked

• Comfortable Design: The structured design creates space between the lights and skin, promoting sanitation and allowing lightwaves to reach specific areas.
• Lightweight: Compared to other hard masks, the Shark CryoGlow is extremely lightweight.
• Pre-Programmed Options: The variety of treatments caters to different skin concerns, with manageable session lengths.
• Intuitive Remote: The remote is easy to use, with a clear digital screen and progress tracking.
• Cryo Eye Therapy: The under-eye cooling pads are invaluable for reducing puffiness and promoting a more awake appearance.

What I Didn’t Like

• Battery Life: Requires charging about once a week, taking around three hours to fully charge.
• Bulkiness: The mask is not remarkably portable, making it difficult to travel with.

The Bottom Line

Red light therapy is a valuable addition to a skincare routine, and the Shark CryoGlow is an impressive device. The well-thought-out technology, automated treatments, and easy-to-use remote make it a comprehensive red light device. The cryo under-eye pads elevate the experience. At $349, the price is competitive, especially considering its features and performance. If you commit to regular use, the Shark CryoGlow is a worthwhile investment for radiant skin.