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Courtesy of Solaris Laboratories NY
Have your TikTok algorithms also been showing you a certain LED red light gua sha tool with testimonials swearing you urgently need it in your life? According to the internet, this little skincare device is somehow incredibly affordable and extremely effective in de-puffing and sculpting your face.
We were suspicious, but intrigued. With the shopping bug biting us relentlessly, we held off until we knew for certain we needed this red light gua sha. So, we went to an expert source to get the truth on these viral devices.
We tapped Dr. Dendy Engleman, a board-certified and nationally-acclaimed dermatologic surgeon, to give us the truth. "You don’t need an LED gua sha, but it can be a thoughtful addition when used correctly," she told E!. "Red light therapy is having such a moment because it delivers real, measurable results without being invasive."
There are a lot of rules when it comes to LED red light devices. We suggest investing in a device that follows her advice, paying attention to her list of dos and don'ts—in our research, the more affordable of these devices are in the $80-$180 price range. But if that's too much to invest in right now, Dr. Engleman also spoke highly of traditional gua shas.
Keep reading to shop all of these expert-recommended products to transform your skin.
Do I Need A Red Light Gua Sha? Depends.
While gua sha tools are beneficial on their own, Dr. Engleman says adding LED red light to the massaging tool can make the ritual even better. It works by supporting collagen production and skin repair, while the gua sha improves circulation.
"The key is to choose a device that delivers adequate light intensity, because many small handheld tools don’t provide enough energy for meaningful results," she said.
But in a sea of LED red light devices, how do we know what to look for? Dr. Engleman gave us the Do's and Don'ts when you're shopping for one of these tools.
First, look for that little FDA seal. Second, notice the intensity in wavelengths. "It's important to look for the right wavelengths, typically 630-660 nm for red light and 800-850 nm for near-infrared, and consistent light intensity, as these determine whether the device is effective," she told us.
"Prioritize quality and comfort so it will be used consistently and easily incorporated into your daily routine."
Below are some LED red light therapy tools that fit those qualifications:
Solaris Laboratories It's Lit LED Gua Sha Facial Massager
This device is similar to what those viral TikToks were talking about, while still meeting Dr. Engleman's requirements and remaining under $100. While you can't find the intensity in the product page, Solaris' FAQ page specifies that all their LED devices emit "approximately 630 to 670 nm."
SolaWave 2-in-1 Skincare Mini LED Red Light Device
While not imitating the gua sha shape, this little LED red light device is travel-friendly and promises to de-puff and soothe your face with its 630nm of red light and 830nm of near-infrared light.
Skin Gym Litlift Facial LED Tool
This massage tool uses LED Light, Heat, EMS, and vibrations to help stimulate the facial muscles to boost circulation and leave your skin lifted and de-puffed.
Mount Lai The Vitality Qi LED Gua Sha Device
This device combines ancient Chinese Medicine with advanced technology to support collagen production and give you a more balanced complexion. It features 660nm of red light, heat, white jade rollers, and a gua sha shape.
Metamorphosis MorphoGlow
Dr. Engleman specifically recommended the MorphoGlow by Metamorphosis. "This device combines microcurrent, heat, vibration, red light, and near-infrared therapy to lift, tone, and enhance skin radiance. The gua sha-inspired design supports circulation, relieves tension, and helps serums absorb more effectively."
For More Affordable Options, Traditional Gua Shas Are Great
If these LED red light devices are a little out of your price range, regular jade or stainless steel gua shas are still a great option.
"Traditional gua shas have real benefits on their own. They stimulate microcirculation, support lymphatic drainage, relieve facial tension, and can even create a subtle contouring effect," Dr. Engleman said.
EcoTools Jade Gua Sha
Made with 100% real jade stone, this gua sha by drugstore favorite brand EcoTools is an amazing option for under $10.
Yeamon Gua Sha Facial Tools and Face Roller Set
This set includes a cooling stainless steel gua sha and a dual-ended face roller with two rollers designed to glide over cheeks or arms, while the smaller eye roller is perfect for under-eye areas.
SACHEU Stainless Steel Non-Porous Gua Sha
The stainless steel gua sha by SACHEU is non-porous (which prevents bacteria buildup from transferring to your skin), naturally cooling, and made from recycled materials.
How We Choose
The E! Insider Shop editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources, comb through customer reviews, and use our own personal experiences to make shopping easier for our readers.
As an editorial team, we independently create content and determine coverage based on research, reporting and what we think our readers would like to read about. The goal of our content is to provide a service and inform readers who are on the hunt for the latest products to help make their life better. Items are sold by retailer, not E!. Pricing and availability are accurate as of publish time.
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