CurrentBody Skin Series 2 LED Face Mask review

What is it?

CurrentBody, now part of The Beauty Tech Group, released their first version of flexible LED face mask in 2019. This is CurrentBody Skin’s latest Series 2 LED light therapy mask available from September 2024.

This flexible full-face mask has 110 split LEDs of 3 wavelengths; red, near-infrared, and deep near infrared. The photons in these wavelengths boost blood flow and stimulate the mitochondria power generator organelles in our skin cells for healthier skin. This scientifically proven process is photobiomodulation.

Red light therapy perks-up all your cells, including fibroblasts which build more and stronger collagen and elastin. This gradually heals, refreshes, and perfects your skin. With regular use, it’s clinically proven to reduce wrinkles, smooth texture and fade pigmentation for younger behaving and looking, healthier skin.

See also how red light therapy works (a detailed science overview).

I’ve eagerly awaited this updated Series 2 because it has many more LEDs, additional deep NIR LEDs, an improved fit, and the shape treats under your chin, too (this is a trouble spot for me!). Plus this mask shows CurrentBody’s deep understanding of LED photonics. They’ve built custom LEDs with upgraded precision and are exactly placed to boost the mask’s photon power which means a much more potent effect on your skin cells. Each mask also has specific Veritace® traced quality, too. These are not just improvements over their first mask, but all LED mask competitors, too.

You’ll learn all about this and more in this tried and tested CurrentBody Skin Series 2 LED Face Mask review.

Can I use it?

Before you buy any at-home skincare device, you must check it is safe for you to use. Light therapy has a short list of warnings and contraindications, but you should still check the CurrentBody Series 2 LED mask user guide to be sure.

Next, onto my first impressions during unboxing…

First impressions

I love the white, simple, classy CurrentBody Skin branded cardboard box. It’s smooth and sturdy, with manufacturing and safety marks on the side, a picture of the mask and a simple multi-language explanation on the back. There are reassuring security tabs and a thin protective cellophane wrap around it, too. And the fancy, iridescent Veritace® seal adds an exclusive touch.

Attached to the underside of the lid is your Veritace® NFC card in a white envelope.

It’s neat and professional. And I love there’s no protective foam inside (as with earlier CurrentBody Skin devices). That’s replaced with sturdy and recyclable moulded cardboard ✔️♻️.

What’s in the box?

• LED Face mask
• Attached controller
• User guide
• Storage bag
• Charging cable
• 3× head straps
• Eye inserts
• Veritace® NFC card

Quality & design

The mask is a thick and flexible white silicone with black branding and a subtle light beam pattern on one side. It’s not flat like other silicone masks, but gently curved to fit your face, with openings for your eyes, mouth and nose. Two soft and large black head straps wrap around your head and secure the mask using adjustable velcro.

The robust curvy triangular controller attaches via a fixed flexible cord to the bottom right jaw of the mask. There’s a rechargeable lithium battery inside. Charge it with flexible USB C cord supplied. It takes around 4.5 hours for a full charge and lasts up to 10 sessions. To control it is simple, just a single button and a LED indicator light. Plus, a handy, strong clip to attach it to your clothing.

The two large double head straps are soft and thick with a tight weave fabric. They feel a little like neoprene and each measures 24cm long. Fold the thin ends through the silicone slots and back on themselves to secure the velcro. The large velcro patches are stitched on, not glued, for extra strength and durability. There’s an extra 46cm strap, a little thinner than the others, to use over the top of your head if you need it.

The inside of the mask has rows of tightly packed LEDs under transparent and seamless silicone. The LEDs are closer than rival masks, which is good for complete skin coverage. There’s more on this later. And there’s a row of LEDs along the chin strap too to treat your jaw and under chin area.

Although the light is not dangerous to your eyes, you also get soft inserts to shield them if you find them too bright.

Next onto what’s special about this mask…

Series 2 vs rivals: what’s better?

CurrentBody says there are 3 things that make their Series 2 mask better:

1. Precision
2. Coverage
3. Quality (with their Veritace® program)

Their product page gives each a brief mention, as do their socials, and there’s a blog post which digs a little deeper, too. CurrentBody also shared with me much more detail on their research, tests and design choices, with supporting scientific evidence and test reports. I asked a bunch of questions and then asked some more. And I’m impressed with what I learned.

So, I think each is worthy of a better explanation to help you appreciate the scientific grounding, time, investment, care, and attention that’s gone into this latest upgrade. This shows why it’s better than rivals, and hard to copy, too.

Off we go…

1. More precise LEDs than rivals

The wavelengths in Series 2 mask

Like rival anti-ageing masks, the Series 2 mask has the most popular scientifically proven wavelengths of red 633nm and NIR 830nm. There’s extensive clinical evidence in tissue healing and repair for these wavelengths.

However, unlike other masks, the Series 2 also has deep NIR 1072nm. It’s a less common wavelength, and there are fewer studies, but this is effective and known to reach deeper into your tissues and even through bone, up to 10mm. There’s recent research where it improves brain function in dementia patients, immune response to MRSA, and reduces healing time for cold sores. A handful of cosmetic studies show it works to reduce the signs of ageing in the under eye area, and for facial rejuvenation in men.

Including 1072nm LEDs in the mask is a smart move because it stands out compared to the myriad rivals. You get it along with the 633nm and 830nm LEDs around your mouth and under eyes. And I like this because the science shows it works, so you can expect an extra rejuvenating kick in these common trouble areas!

But that’s not all. The LEDs in the Series 2 are even better than all other masks…

Custom LEDs in the Series 2 mask

Here’s a little crucial LED photonics background for you. LEDs are quasi-monochromatic, which means they emit a small waveband of energy either side of the rated wavelength. A narrow band is best, with scientific papers noting a difference of just 5nm can dramatically lower the bio-effect on our cells.

Now, rival masks source their LEDs from global cosmetic LED suppliers, and based on CurrentBody’s lab tests, these fall short of their stated precision. They typically have a wide waveband variance of around 10nm.

Typical LED precision from global suppliers: Results from CurrentBody lab tests of masks (Series 1, Shark Cryoglow, Dr Dennis Gross, MZSkin, Omnilux Contour)

Not happy with these, CurrentBody couldn’t find any better, more precise LEDs. So, they had to make them themselves.

This is how their LEDs compare:

CurrentBody custom LED precision standard: From CurrentBody lab tests and Veritace® quality benchmark testing.

Maybe you’re thinking an improvement of 8% doesn’t sound that much? Well, in the world of photonics, it’s a huge amount that means a far more potent therapeutic action in your skin.

So, if CurrentBody simply swapped the original Series 1 LEDs for these upgraded ones, you’d already see better results. But no. They still had more to do…

2. The best LED coverage on all face shapes

A better, universal fit

A common problem with fixed and flat flexible silicone masks is they don’t mould around all face shapes. They can feel tight around the top of your face but too loose around the bottom, or vice versa. Or they can squish your eyes, eyelashes, nose, or mouth.

CurrentBody saw room for improvement here. So, they switched to a new deceptively simple curved design. It’s an intentional curved-out but malleable shape, which is slightly larger than the Series 1 mask. Using the wide head straps, you can mould and secure it snug around your face. CurrentBody calls it “liquid silicone” which is appropriate. They also say it’s tested on 1,000s of faces. I’m not sure of the practicality of that, but I do love how it hugs my face.

Aside from comfort, however, there’s another scientific reason for this precise design. And that’s getting the mask and LEDs as close to your skin as possible.

Onto that now…

Distance matters

Here’s a smidge more about LED photonics…Phototherapy science shows that closest to the LED is where the intensity is highest. If you move your skin further away, the photon density decreases. And fewer photons means less action in your skin. The decrease follows the inverse squared law, which, every good student knows, is as follows, (ahem):

Intensity = 1/r²

*r is the distance.

To translate, this means if you double the distance from your skin, it doesn’t just half the intensity as you may expect. Nope. It means just one quarter of the intended photon energy reaches your skin. And because we’re taking about differences in millimetres here, the drop off is sharp, so getting the LEDs right next to your skin is crucial. And the Series 2 mask does just this.

Photon interference 🤓

Next, once they nailed this improved fit, CurrentBody added more of their custom LEDs. This boosts coverage of every facial area with an even delivery of red and NIR light, but also creates the scientific phenomenon of photon interference.

Photon interference is when the LED beams diverge, and the crossover beams have extremely intense photon density (which is greater than the sum of the individual beams). Best practise in phototherapy also says the absorption sweet spot for this crossover is just beneath your skin surface, where the photons can work hardest.

However, precision and placement of the LEDs is key. The configuration must be regular and exact to work with the light intensity and 60° angle of every LED beam. Too many LEDs make the overlap overly intense, which dampens or halts the photo stimulation effect.

CurrentBody has lab test results comparing the Series 2 mask to competitors for light coverage and intensity. None of the rival designs have both even light coverage and boosted intensities fuelled by photon interference.

These simplified diagrams created by CurrentBody illustrate the improvements in the Series 2 mask. Whilst they’re polished marketing assets, they’re still an accurate representation of the testing output.

Phewf! That was a lot to take in. But now CurrentBody’s Series 2 mask upgrade is clear. So, next let’s look at how they prove they deliver these higher standards in every mask.

3. Veritace® quality

Reading the previous sections, it’s plain to see the quality and precision of their LEDs is vital to CurrentBody. It’s what sets them apart.

That’s because competitor brands could improve the shape and fit of their masks, and they could also add more LEDs to get better light coverage. But they won’t match the Series 2 mask because they can’t easily get extra precise LEDs, like CurrentBody’s custom-built LEDs.

So, because these LEDs are so crucial, CurrentBody built a quality assurance process around them. This double-checks every LED they put in your mask meets their unique and ambitious quality benchmark, so your results exceed those with rival masks.

CurrentBody call this program Veritace (and they gave it a fancy seal, too). This makes it a recognisable standard that no doubt will appear on more of their products. For the Series 2 mask, Veritace is a multi-step program:

Select. Test. Verify.

The first step in the Veritace program is selecting the best LEDs. And because those from suppliers weren’t good enough, CurrentBody had to design and build their own. And this isn’t something you can do overnight.

After 2 years of hard graft and refinement, they now have their own team of experts, from engineers in California, development teams in the UK and China, and they own the production line in China. This produces the best, most precise LEDs available in home-use masks. And they’re not available to rival brands.

The second step is testing all these LEDs. They don’t just make them and assume they’re all up to scratch. Nope. Instead, they test EVERY single one. To do this, they have custom built machines that test outputs, such as the wavelength precision, beam angle, and power. Any LED that falls short is sorted and separated from the best.

Finally, they verify every completed mask. This isn’t to say other manufacturers don’t test to check their masks work. They do. But CurrentBody go further. This third and final step tests each finished mask has the correct LED placement to meet the target coverage, and that each wavelength LED is correct to guarantee their precision.

And they show all this to you with your mask-specific Veritace quality data. Each mask comes with a unique Veritace NFC card to scan with your phone and see your mask’s quality. It’s a simple way to show you can trust the care, attention and precision that’s gone into your mask. Check out the screens below.

Thanks for sticking with me! Now you know how the Series 2 mask is better than the rest. Let’s continue to see how you use it, and what I like and dislike…

How & when to use it

Before you do your first facial session, do your skin sensitivity test. It’s easiest to do this on the back of your hand, but the user guide also suggests your arm or inner thigh.

Wash and dry the area. Place the LED mask over it. Turn on the controller and do a full 10-minute session. If, after 24 hours, you have no skin reactions, continue with your first facial session.

During your test, give the user guide a thorough read to ensure you understand how it all works and what to expect. It’s a quick and easy read.

Here’s how to use the CurrentBody Skin Series 2 LED face mask:

1. First, wash and dry your skin. DON’T apply any skincare product as this can block the light.
2. Find a comfy spot to relax for the quick session. You can read, watch TV, meditate, relax, or listen to music or a podcast.
3. Place the mask on your face and adjust the head straps for a snug but comfortable fit.
4. Long press the controller button. The lights turn on, sit back and enjoy. The mask auto shuts off after 10 minutes.
5. When you’re finished, remove the mask and wipe it down with a damp cloth, then store it safely in the bag and box.

And here’s the recommended treatment plan:

Ease & sensation

Let’s cover this in more detail now…

Comfort & fit

First, the mask is easy to put on. The straps easily fit through the slots and secure with strong velcro. Try it on to check the fit. Remove and readjust until you have a snug fit that doesn’t squish your skin, nose, lips or eyelashes/lids. The straps are larger than with rival masks, so they have a secure, no-slip grip.

Next, the mask is a comfy fit, too. I adjust it so my eyes, nose, and mouth align with the openings before tightening the straps. The holes and chin slit are well-placed, with the chin strap folding neatly under. I find the bottom slightly looser which allows you to talk, and is good for wider jawlines as it won’t feel too tight.

And the light coverage is excellent. Not only are these top quality LEDs, but there are significantly more of them versus rival masks. So it bathes your entire face in rejuvenating light. They reach from edge to edge, spaced 1cm apart, to cover everything in between.

The chin strap is a welcome addition. It has a row of 6 LEDs to treat this hard to reach area. I have loose skin here and pigmentation along my under jaw from old acne marks, so I appreciate the extra help!

It’s quick to clean after each session, too. The smooth inner surface is easy to wipe over with a damp cloth because there are no grooves, gaps or recesses for grease, dust, dirt or hairs to stick in.

Battery life & charging

The battery run time is good. I get around 10 sessions from each charge. So, that’s around 2 weeks of treatments depending on how opften you treat.

Check for the flashing orange light during your session. When I see it, I sit the charging cable on top of the storage bag. That way, I remember to plug it in when I’m putting it away. The cable is a decent length so you can sit the mask and controller inside the bag and the box when close to an outlet.

And I like it connects to any USB mains adapter, so there are no bulky mains plugs or adapters as with older and other models.

What it feels like

There’s no noise, heat, pain or skin sensation from the light. I feel just a little warmth, but it doesn’t get sweaty under the mask or leave any redness.

However, it’s very bright. And if you use it in a darkened room, it seems extra intense! So, if you find it too much, pop in the soft eye inserts. These compress slightly against your skin and shield your eyes from the glare (covering none of the LEDs themselves). It’s also much easier to see your phone screen, laptop, or TV whilst wearing the eye inserts.

I don’t advise moving about whilst wearing your mask. It restricts your vision so accidents could happen. Instead, I suggest you sit or lie down for 10 minutes. I love to recline and relax with my eyes closed at the end of each day.

Effort & results

Use the mask 3 to 5 times a week for 8 weeks. Then, use as frequently as you need to maintain your results. You’ll see faster, better results if you start with 5 sessions per week. And 3 maintenance sessions per week is the sweet spot for my tester. You can always go for a 5-day booster streak to perk up tired or dehydrated skin.

Collagen and elastin gradually rebuild and renew your skin, so I strongly recommend you take a before and after photo to show the changes. Over 8 weeks of consistent use, your skin texture smooths, firms and tones, hydrates, fine lines and wrinkles soften, pigmentation fades to reveal a more even, brighter, healthier complexion.

I love CurrentBody proudly shares the mask’s clinical test results. It’s standout because some brands lack clinical proof. And of those that have it, few share their results, presumably because you could easily compare which mask is better. I’m reassured by this confidence of superior, healthy skin results from the Series 2 LED mask upgrade.

You may see all these results or just a few, and to varying degrees too. Your lifestyle and overall skin condition determine the breadth and depth of results and how frequently you need maintenance sessions, too.

Value for money

The Series 2 mask is a significant investment at £399 / $469.

You can buy cheaper, more basic LED masks, and see good skin rejuvenating results at home. Like the Series 1 mask. And if they match your budget, they’re a fine choice. But, if you can afford around £100 / $80 more, I think the Series 2 is well worth it and rather excellent value for money.

That’s because none of the rival mask brands shows this deeper level of expertise and scientific design in their masks. None have the patented best-fit flexible shape, and number and exact placement of LEDs. And none of them have extra precise LEDs even close to CurrentBody’s custom-built LEDs.

CurrentBody Series 2 mask has all of this, plus test reports showing it performs better than the competition. Even the more expensive masks. CurrentBody has invested serious time, effort, expertise and care into this patented design to deliver results way beyond the competition. They show how serious they are with their Veritace quality program, too. I can’t wait to see what they do next.

You can save 10% on the Series 2 mask with my voucher code below.

Buy CurrentBody Skin Series 2 LED mask

I hope you’ve found this CurrentBody Skin Series 2 LED face mask review helpful. If you spot something that looks wrong, or if you’ve got a question, please let me know!

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