The Best Hollywood Facialist-Approved LED Light Therapy Face Masks and Beauty Devices for Every Skin Concern
In the world of high-tech beauty gadgets, LED (light-emitting diode) masks have become a regular — and more easily accessible — part of at-home skin-care routines. Gone are the days when the red light therapy devices were seen as pricey futuristic treatments — some of the best at-home LED face masks and devices are proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and scars; soothe rosacea; and treat inflammation.
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'LED light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin at varying depths, triggering natural biological responses,' board-certified internal medicine and aesthetic physician Dr. Glenicia Nosworthy tells The Hollywood Reporter. Light wavelengths are measured in nanometers (nm), each delivering 'unique benefits, so choosing the right one for your skin concerns is essential,' she adds.
Nosworthy notes that there are four types of light wavelengths in LED beauty devices:
Red light (620 to 700nm): 'Penetrates deeply into the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production.'
Near-infrared or NIR (700-1200nm): 'Penetrates even deeper than red light to target muscles and joints.'
Blue light (400-490nm): 'Targets the surface layer of the skin, killing acne-causing bacteria.'
Green light (495-570nm): 'Affects skin pigmentation by calming overactive melanocytes.'
Amid import tariffs on products coming from China, red light therapy devices are among the items that our shopping editors have seen rise in price. Foreo announced it was officially increasing prices as a result of the tariffs, and we've noticed products from Solawave and other brands go up by $5 to $10.
BEST NEW MASK Shark Beauty CryoGlow Face Mask, $350
MOST VERSATILE HigherDose Red Light Face Mask, $349
BEST VALUE Aphrona 7-Color LED Mask, $149 $180
BEST TRAVEL-FRIENDLY Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Wand, $110 $169
BEST UNDER $400 Omnilux Contour Face Mask, $345 $395
BEST UNDER $500 Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro, $455
BEST RED LIGHT PANEL ReVive dpl IIa LED Treatment Panel, $399
MOST COMFORTABLE CurrentBody 2 LED Light Therapy Mask, $469
BEST LASER Lyma Laser, $2,695
BEST FOR ACNE Solawave Bye Acne Pro Kit, $89
BEST GUA SHA Skin Gym LED Gua Sha tool, $70
BEST FOR TENSION RELIEF Therabody TheraFace Mask, $529 $599
BEST FOR SCALP Foreo Luna 4 Hair, $199
BEST WITH NECK TREATMENT LED Esthetics Glotech Face Mask with Collar, $635.20 $794
BEST INVESTMENT Shani Darden Déesse Pro LED Light Mask, $1,900
The founder of Glo by Glen Skincare, Nosworthy is known for pioneering 'beauty hacking,' her approach of combining science-backed techniques, lifestyle adjustments and innovative tech to 'optimize beauty from the inside out,' she says. At her Brooklyn medispa, Nosworthy offers her starry (and HIPAA-confidential) clientele dermal fillers, microneedling, platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) injections and more skin enhancements. Also on the menu is the celebrity-loved, red carpet-ready Glass Facial, a rejuvenating treatment that uses her collagen-stimulating topical polydioxanone (PDO) serum, hyaluronic acid and a microdose of Botox.
LED light therapy was initially developed by NASA scientists in the early '90s, first for plant growth experiments in space and thereafter to boost the wound healing of astronauts. The light's wavelengths can go deep into body tissue to promote blood circulation and collagen production, which is why the skin-care industry jumped on the high-tech train to bring LED light therapy to top Hollywood spas.
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'The use of light on skin is not a new technology, but as LEDs have improved and become more efficient, so have LED-based technologies,' Mike Poling, president of Lightwave, and a 16-year innovator in the field, previously told THR. He explains that the usage of LED lights on the skin helps to re-energize cells: 'This increase in energy helps our cells function more like they did when we were younger with the immediate effects being a release of endorphins, a reduction in inflammation, and an increase in lymphatic system activity to help detoxify the body.'
Among the most popular LED face masks is the Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro, which went viral when it launched in 2020 after stars including Kris Jenner, Kim Kardashian, Lucy Hale and Halle Berry shared their quarantine selfies wearing the device. Since its debut, other red light therapy devices have landed on the market with even more features, such as cryotherapy, vibration therapy and more.
Here, we've rounded up some of the best LED masks for a variety of budgets and skin-care goals, including red light therapy devices on sale at Amazon's Big Spring Sale. All products on our list are FDA-cleared as class II medical devices, and most (if not all) are eligible for HSA/FSA funds.
Shop our top picks below, and scroll down for pro advice on how to choose the right device for you, what to look for in LED light therapy masks and the difference between 'FDA approved' and FDA-cleared devices.
March 10, 2025: Updated this list to include additional product specs, such as number of LED lights, wavelengths, warranty periods and more.
BEST OVERALL
No. of LEDs: 132Wavelengths: Red (630nm), blue (415nm), NIR (830nm)Treatment modes: 4Usage: 5-15 minutes, 3-5 times weeklyPower output/irradiance: 128mW/cm2Portable/rechargeable: Yes; USB-CWarranty: 2 years
$350 at Shark Beauty
$350 at Amazon
$350 at SEphora
$350 at Ulta
One of our top finds at CES 2025, Shark Beauty's new CryoGlo face mask is essentially a mini medispa in a box and has the highest power output (or irradiance) of all the picks on our list. Featuring Shark's iQLED technology for even and effective coverage, the LED light therapy facial device delivers four treatments that combine red, infrared and blue lights for addressing fine lines and wrinkles, acne, dark spots and tired eyes. In our hands-on testing, we've found that Shark's iQLED technology and mask design effectively and evenly covers every inch of our face. We especially loved the adjustable InstaChill cooling therapy with the medical-grade stainless steel pads for treating our puffy under-eyes. (When we got a sneak preview at CES in Las Vegas, the pads brought sweet relief to our tired eyes amid the dry indoor air at the busy tech show.) We also like that the adjustable straps accommodate our small head.Shark notes that a 12-week study with 60 subjects found that users reported a decrease in the appearance of fine lines, redness and acne; firmer-looking skin and a more even complexion.
MOST VERSATILE
No. of LEDs: 132Wavelengths: Red (630nm), NIR (830nm)Treatment modes: 1Usage: 10-20 minutes, 3-5 times weeklyPower output: 50mW/cm2Portable/rechargeable: Yes; USB-CWarranty: 1 year
$349 at HigherDose
Made of flexible medical-grade silicone, HigherDose's Red Light Face Mask uses 132 LEDs to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, boosting collagen and elastin and minimizing redness. Choose 10- or 20-minute treatment times; the brand suggests using the mask three to five times a week to see results. Reviewers also love that the third head strap helps to keep the mask in place while moving, making this device one of the best LED masks to use while working out or doing chores.
BEST VALUE
No. of LEDs: 150Wavelengths: Red (630nm±5nm), yellow (590nm), green (520±5nm), cyan (490±5nm), blue (415nm±5nm), violet (390nm), whiteTreatment modes: 7Usage: 5-50 minutes, 2-3 times weeklyPower output: 30-80mW/cm2Portable/rechargeable: No; power supply requiredWarranty: 1 year
$149.99 $179.99 17% off
Buy at Amazon
Aphrona's LED face mask features seven interchangeable color lights and 10 intensity/power levels, and can be used for up to 50 minutes — making it one of the most versatile options on our list. It offers the most popular red, blue and green treatments for addressing fine lines, wrinkles, acne, redness and pigmentation. The company says that a clinical trial shows that over 90 percent of mask users reported improvements in their skin's texture and moisture. The device also comes with a handy travel case.
BEST TRAVEL-FRIENDLY
No. of LEDs: 7Wavelengths: Red (630nm)Treatment modes: 1Usage: 12 minutes, 3-7 times weeklyPower output: 49.5-60.5 mW/cm2Portable/rechargeable: YesWarranty: 1 year
$169 at Amazon
Buy Kit at Solawave $134.56 $134.56
$189 at Ulta
A favorite among Hollywood facialists and makeup artists, the Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Wand is the best multi-use LED device for same-day skin prep and traveling. In addition to red LED light therapy for addressing fine lines and dark spots, the device also features galvanic current (low voltage electricity that's different than microcurrent) for better skin care absorption, warmth for soothing and reducing the appearance of dark circles and vibration for depuffing and massage therapy. We love the compact size for traveling (it's become a toiletry bag essential) and the feeling of the galvanic current and vibration on our skin. Hollywood pros agree with us: celebrity groomer Miho Suziki (who works with Cooper Koch) says the vibration 'helps to wake up the skin in the best way possible [and the warmth] helps with depuffing and adding a subtle radiant glow.' Katy Perry and Nicole Richie have said they use the device, and it's also in the red carpet kits of celebrity aestheticians Emily Cheng (who used it on client Gracie Abrams before the 2025 Grammys) and Melissa Imperial (who works with Jonathan Van Ness) and star makeup artist Georgie Eisdell (who uses it on client Dakota Johnson).
MOST COMFORTABLE
No. of LEDs: 236Wavelengths: Red (633nm), NIR (830nm), deep NIR (1072nm)Treatment modes: 6Usage: 10 minutes, 2-4 times weeklyPower output: 30mW/cm2Portable/rechargeable: Yes; USB-CWarranty: 2 years
$470 at CurrentBody
$470 at Amazon
CurrentBody's second-gen LED light therapy face mask now has an updated liquid silicone material underneath a flexible cover for better nose and lip coverage and includes a scuba fabric-type adjustable strap, making it one of the most comfortable devices we've tested. It also adds deep NIR light (the Series 1 model only has red and NIR) for better light penetration. Each mask also comes with an NFC card containing Veritace's testing and traceability data so you can see each step of the quality review process.The brand's LED masks are a favorite of celebrity beauty pros for red carpet prep: Hollywood makeup artists Vera Steimberg and Melissa Hernandez used it on their clients (Zoë Saldaña and Mikey Madison, respectively) for the 2025 Golden Globes. Lilly Collins and Suki Waterhouse are among the stars who've raved about CurrentBody's face mask, and Kim Kardashian once gave it as a Christmas gift to friends.
BEST LED MASK UNDER $500
No. of LEDs: 152Wavelengths: Red (630nm), blue (415nm), amber (605nm), NIR (880nm)Treatment modes: 3Usage: 3 minutes dailyPower output: 60mW/cm2Portable/rechargeable: Yes; USB-CWarranty: 1 year
$455 at Sephora
$455 at Amazon
$455 at Nordstrom
$455 at Violet Grey
Another celebrity favorite is the wildly popular DRx SpectraLight FaceWare Pro mask by Dr. Dennis Gross. (Kris Jenner, Rita Ora and Halle Berry and Lucy Hale snapped lockdown selfies wearing the mask). Standout features of this mask include 100 red LED lights to support collagen production and reduce wrinkles, 62 blue LED lights to target and prevent acne-causing bacteria and an adjustable head strap for a universal fit. Look forward to seeing results after 10 weeks of consistent use.Pro tip: You can flip the mask upside down and use it on your neck and décolletage.
BEST GUA SHA LED TOOL
No. of LEDs: 3Wavelengths: Red (618-625nm), blue (463-473nm), violet (410-425nm)Treatment modes: 4Usage: From 3 minutes dailyPortable/rechargeable: Yes; USB-CWarranty: 1 year
$70 at Skin Gym
$70 at Revolve
$70 at Ulta
For pre-event sculpting, radiance and relaxation, try Skin Gym's LED gua sha device that Jessica Alba's makeup artist, Maria Vargas, recently used on her star client for the 2025 Oscars. The curved, ergonomic tool features red and blue light therapy, heat and vibration, which combine in four treatment modes for boosting circulation, lifting (on the forehead, cheekbones and jawline), eliminating acne, soothing muscles, evening out the skin tone and addressing fine lines and wrinkles.
BEST FOR ACNE SPOT TREATMENTS
No. of LEDs: 3Wavelengths: Red (630nm), blue (415nm)Treatment modes: 1Usage: 3 minutes per area, 3-5 times weeklyPower output: 11.7J-14.4J/cm2Portable/rechargeable: Yes; USB-CWarranty: 1 year
$89 at Solawave
Equipped with blue and red light, Solawave's Bye Acne Pro Kit helps to 'eliminate acne-causing bacteria and reduce sebum production and prevent future breakouts.' Ideal for spot treatments, this device is designed to be used with the company's serum-infused microdart pimple patches (which contain niacinamide, green tea, gotu kola and madecassoside) to 'calm and soothe the skin.'
BEST LED MASK UNDER $400
No. of LEDs: 132Wavelengths: Red (633nm), NIR (880nm)Treatment modes: 1Usage: 10 minutes, 3-5 times weeklyPower output: 30mW/cm2Portable/rechargeable: Yes; USB-CWarranty: 2 years
$345 $395 13% off
Buy AT OMNILUX
Paris Hilton told Who What Wear that she loves using Omnilux's Contour Face mask in her morning and evening routines. For those looking to specifically target acne, Omnilux has another fan-favorite for this exact purpose: Omnilux Clear. This LED mask has passed FDA, TGA and CE regulations for treating acne and offers dermatologist-grade treatments from the comfort of your home by way of blue light that targets and kills acne bacteria and red light that aids in the production of new collagen while reducing inflammation. Recommended length of use: four 10-minute treatments for six weeks. (Through May 13, save $50 off one device with code SAVE50, $115 off two devices with code SAVE115 or $200 off three devices with code SAVE200.)
BEST FOR TENSION RELIEF
No. of LEDs: 648Wavelengths: Red (630nm±10nm), blue (415nm±10nm), NIR (830nm±10nm)Treatment modes: 2Usage: 3-9 minutes dailyRechargeable: Yes; USB-CWarranty: 1 year
$649 at Bloomingdale's
$649 at Best Buy
$650 at therabody
$650 at Amazon
Known for its pro athlete-loved, celebrity-backed percussive massage tools, Therabody brings its vibration therapy to beauty with its TheraFace mask. In addition to 648 red, infrared and blue LED lights that deliver a large amount of coverage, the device features 17 QX-Micro motors to relieve pressure points on the face and scalp for stress relief and relaxation. As for its skin health benefits, A 12-week study conducted by a third-party company found that Therabody's face mask brought a range of improvements to their skin, including the reduced appearance of dark spots.
BEST RED LIGHT PANEL
No. of LEDs: 262Wavelengths: Red (630nm), deep red (660nm), blue (415nm), amber (605nm), infrared (880nm)Treatment modes: 3Usage: From 3 minutes dailyPortable/rechargeable: No; power supply requiredWarranty: 1 year
$399 at Amazon
$399 at LED TEchnologies
ReVive's Lux Collection dpl IIa LED Treatment Panel is one of the most versatile options on our list as the book-like design makes it easy to use on the entire body. Created to address fine lines, wrinkles, inflammation and acne, the panel can be placed at your desired distance and angle from your desired treatment area, and offers three settings with a variety of light colors and strengths.
BEST WITH NECK COLLAR
No. of LEDs: 132Wavelengths: Red (630nm±5nm), blue (415nm), NIR (830nm)Treatment modes: 2Usage: 10 minutes dailyPower output: 44mw/cm2Rechargeable: Yes; USB-CWarranty: 1 year
$694 $794 13% off
Buy at LED ESTHETICS
Customers have seen results in two weeks after using LED Esthetics' Glotech Mask Pro for 10 minutes per day, six times per week. The FDA-cleared device features red, NIR and blue light treatments to visibly reduce the appearance of wrinkles and pigmentation, boost collagen production, enhance skin texture, minimize pore size and reduce or eliminate acne.According to the company, Chrissy Teigen, January Jones, Madonna and Jessica Alba are among the stars who have shared their experiences using the LED mask on social media.
BEST CLINICAL-GRADE LASER DEVICE
Wavelengths: Red (625nm), NIR (808nm) Treatment modes: 1Usage: From 3 minutes daily for first 12 weeks; then 3-4 times weekly to maintain resultsPower output: Rechargeable: Yes; USB-CWarranty: 2 years
$2,695 at Lyma
While nothing can replace a pro treatment at a medical spa, the Lyma Laser is a close second — and unlike other devices, it can be used on the whole body and on darker skin tones. Lyma just released the Pro edition of its best-selling laser that delivers results faster with triple the power.)The FDA-cleared device uses red and NIR laser light across a surface of 8cm2 to reach the base layer of the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, sun spots, old and new scars and other skin concerns. To use, you'll hold the flashlight-shaped device to the desired treatment areas for three minutes or more. Lyma (pronounced 'LEE-ma') says the Laser activates mitochondria in cells, 'producing collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid' and thickens the top epidermal layer to make skin look 'smoother, firmer and healthier.' Lyma says that clinical trials show that the device noticeably improves face and body skin texture and elasticit in as little as 12 weeks when used for 15 to 45 minutes daily. Unlike LED face masks, the Lyma Laser can be used over makeup and sunscreen. It boasts a two-hour battery life on a single charge and a 10-year lifespan.Lyma recommends using the device daily with its Oxygen Mist and Glide skin-care products (but you can also use your own favorite products); laser purchases include a free 30-day supply, and skin-care subscriptions are $149 per month. (Celebrity facialists Joanna Czech and Iván Pol use the Lyma Laser on starry clients, while celebrities including Selena Gomez, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Beckinsale, Amber Valletta, Sienna Miller and Kathy Hilton swear by the laser tool.)
BEST FOR SCALP
No. of LEDs: 17Wavelengths: Red (630nm)Treatment modes: 1Usage: Varies on your conditioning routinePower output: Rechargeable: Yes; USB-CWarranty: 2 years
$199 at Foreo
Known for their gentle silicone facial massagers, Sweden-based beauty tool brand Foreo's new Luna 4 Hair device combines red LED light with up to 6,500 pulsations per minute to help boost microcirculation, unclog pores and reduce oil buildup on the scalp. Designed to be used in or out of the shower with your hair conditioning routine, the 100 percent waterproof device 'clinically proven to reduce dandruff by 24 percent and oil on the scalp by 50 percent' within a month, and 97 percent of testers say they have thicker, shinier hair, per Foreo.
BEST INVESTMENT
No. of LEDs: 238Wavelengths: Red (630nmnm±10nm), blue (415nm±10nm), NIR (830nm±10nm)Treatment modes: 6Usage: 10 minutes, 2-5 times weeklyPower output: 29-44mW/cm2Portable/rechargeable: No; power supply requiredWarranty: 2 years
$1,900 at Shani Darden
$1,700 at Déesse (without Neck)
$1,900 at SEphora
Given that Hollywood aesthetician Shani Darden is a go-to for stars including Jessica Alba and Shay Mitchell, it's no surprise that success follows any product attached to her name. The actresses, along with Kate Hudson and Kim Kardashian, have turned up on social media looking like members of the Jabbawockeez while wearing the bestselling Shani Darden by Déesse Pro LED mask.Inspired by her iconic facials, Darden's mask features dual-diode LEDs that deliver red, blue and near-infrared light therapy to support collagen production, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and blemishes and target pigmentation. Bonus: This mask also comes with a custom-designed neck attachment to target fine lines and wrinkles on the decolletage and country-specific plug adapters so you bring it with you around the world.
There are several factors to consider as you're choosing the best LED device for yourself, says Nosworthy. Skin concerns, power output (or irradiance), size and design, safety, ease of use and budget are all important when selecting the right one. 'Choose FDA-cleared devices to ensure safety and efficacy, and look for built-in eye protection or use goggles if the device doesn't include them,' she says.
If you want to target signs of aging (such as fine lines and wrinkles), 'choose a device with red or near-infrared light,' notes Nosworthy. Blue light is best for addressing acne, while green light is the most helpful for pigmentation or redness. 'Combination devices may include multiple wavelengths for versatile treatment.'
She points out that 'higher power output means better penetration and faster results. Look for devices with a power output of at least 20-40mW/cm2 for effective treatment.'
For those who are minding their budget, 'professional-grade devices may cost more but deliver faster results, while affordable options are available but may require more consistent use to see effects.'
It's worth noting that not all LED face masks available online are safe or effected, which is why experts like Nosworthy recommend only buying FDA-cleared products.
When an LED light therapy device is 'FDA-cleared,' it means that the Food and Drug Administration has reviewed the data provided by the manufacturer and determined that the product is safe and effective for its intended uses (such as treating wrinkles, acne and dark spots) class II medical device. Most, if not all, LED beauty tools fall under this category, as the process takes anywhere between several months to years.
Long story short, no LED light therapy beauty devices on the market are FDA-approved. The government agency requires an extensive and rigorous five-step process that includes laboratory research, lab or animal testing, clinical tests and more that could take eight or more years. Because of this, experts recommend exercising caution before buying any LED beauty tools that are marketed as 'FDA-approved.'
Nosworthy recommends using the devices as recommended by their manufacturer — typically three to five times a week — for maximum effectiveness. 'Always use on clean, dry skin to maximize absorption and apply hydrating or soothing products afterward to lock in benefits.'
She reminds people to be patient: 'results often appear after four to eight weeks of regular use. By matching the wavelength to your specific skin concerns and ensuring the device meets safety and power standards, you can maximize the benefits of LED light therapy for your skincare routine.'Best of The Hollywood Reporter
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Just squirt in some makeup brush shampoo (I recommend the EcoTools one!) and water, plug 'er in, press the button, and away the bowl spins, scrubbing your brushes clean while you simply hold them in place! This is the next best thing to a Merlin-cleaning-dishes-in-The-Sword-in-the-Stone-type charm. A bottle of professional-grade callus-removing gel that can magic away that pesky hard, dead skin in just a few minutes — for real, don't leave it on for more than that. Then just rinse, sand with a pumice stone or rasp, and enjoy those silky-smooth feet! If you love Baby Foot but hate waiting, this is a great option. An ergonomically designed detangling brush with cone-shaped bristles that separate snarls by pulling them apart sideways, not tugging them down. Reviewers say it's a miracle worker for everything from thick, coily hair to the finest strands! Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré, a fan-favorite French moisturizer that you could stock up on during your next trip to just order straight from Amazon (it's a verified seller!), especially until teleportation exists. Reviewers and makeup artists alike swear by this for a super-hydrating, non-greasy base under cosmetics (and bonus: it smells really good too). An exfoliating mitten so you can scrub off dead skin cells and reveal softer, smoother skin during your Everything Showers. Just lather up and (gently!) massage your skin — reviewers say this is great for preventing ingrown hairs, helping reduce KP, and using before applying fake tan! And an exfoliating First Aid Beauty Bump eraser body scrub reviewers with KP (aka keratosis pilaris) swear by to get rid of those tiny red bumps, without slathering on any additional potions — just use in the shower instead of your regular soap. It contains 10% glycolic and lactic acids, and has tiny pumice exfoliants to buff away dead skin for smooooooooooth arms. L'Occitane's fast-absorbing shea butter hand cream, because if you have dry, cracked skin or just hate the feeling of papery hands post-washing when you're on the go, you need this lil' guy in your bag. And fear not: there's no overly greasy feeling after, either! L'Oreal True Match Lumi Glotion, a glycerin-infused illuminator you can mix in with moisturizer or foundation, wear as a base under makeup, *or* apply as a highlight or bronzer for a natural-looking (and not glittery) glow — without conjuring your own sunlight. A nongreasy eye cream designed to help deflate your under-eye bags, hydrate your delicate skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and brighten your under eyes, thanks to a blend of aloe, rosehip seed oil, and vitamins C & E. Kosas's Revealer Concealer — a super popular and splurge-worthy pick thanks to its skincare ingredients (hello caffeine, hyaluronic acid, and peptides) and brightening, buildable coverage, so you can spot conceal on no-makeup days or use as part of a full face of makeup. Urban Decay's All Nighter setting spray, which is a fan-favorite for a reason. It's lightweight and buildable, so you can spray it on as you apply your makeup look, and will help keep your makeup from budging all day and all night — even up to 16 hours! A TikTok-famous flat-top oval brush that has tightly-packed, but super-soft fibers to seamlessly blend your products, from foundation to concealer, for an airbrushed finish you might think was otherwise done by a magic wand. E.l.f. Poreless Putty primer, which is infused with squalene to hydrate, smooth over skin for a seamless finish, and hold onto makeup for all-day staying power. It can help cast a cloaking spell to help blur your skin, too. You mayyyy have seen this all over TikTok over the past few years, and the reviews back up the hype! Or if you prefer gripping-style primers like Milk Hydro Grip (which reviewers say this is similar to!), E.l.f.'s Power Grip, which is formulated with hyaluronic acid to plump the appearance of skin and designed to *hug* to your makeup for all-day wear. And it's fragrance-free! Bioderma micellar water, a perfect addition to your double cleansing routine — it removes allllll your makeup and excess oil without harsh scrubbing or irritating sensitive skin. Now you'll know you've actually removed your sunscreen and makeup before bed — without having to use those aggressive makeup wipes. Or Juno & Co.'s Clean 10 cleansing balm, a non-irritating makeup remover formulated with Japanese pearl barley to help brighten skin as it cleanses. Just scoop out a pea-sized amount (it comes with a lil' spatula!) and massage into your skin — it'll become a luxurious oil and gently dissolve allllll the makeup, SPF, dirt, oil, and more, leaving no residue behind *and* not overly stripping skin of moisture. A bottle of CND SolarOil, a nail and cuticle oil to help your nails grow and grow (no peeling!), and keep your cuticles nourished and soft, no matter how much hand sanitizer you're using. Just massage in the jojoba oil and vitamin E infused formula daily. A 2-in-1 Kiss eyeliner that's actually *also* false eyelash glue, so you can get out the door in way less time — just line with the easy-to-draw felt tip, let the glue get tacky, and stick those falsies on! Skin-lifting, pore-tightening Skin1004 face masks with results that reviewers swear by — not to mention the fact that using them is weirdly fun? The mask tightens as it dries on your face, giving you the titular "zombie" effect (just better more expensive Hanacure). NYX Brow Glue, an extreme hold eyebrow gel (up to 16 hours!) to keep your brow hairs in place alllll day long, especially if you like that "laminated" look. Reviewers agree that the hold is great, the formula doesn't flake off, and that it also washes off easily! Radha rosehip oil to not only soften skin and lock in moisture (just like other oils), but also help reduce redness and breakouts, thanks to the rich blend of vitamins A, C, and E, fatty acids and anti-inflammatory antioxidants. Essence's Lash Princess mascara, which over *200,000* 5-star reviewers swear by for dramatic length and volume *without* clumps, thanks to the flake- and gob-free formula and cone-shaped brush. Elizabeth Mott's cult favorite Thank Me Later eyeshadow primer to keep your favorite eye makeup look on lock all day AND all night — *no* creasing. That's right, you will NOT have to reapply before your evening plans. Vanicream, a sensitive skin-friendly moisturizer free of common irritants (and fragrance free!) reviewers love to use on their face *and* body. The included pump dispenser is great for easy application, and avoiding contamination the jar. Plus, it has the seal of acceptance from the National Eczema Association! SoCozy curl conditioning spray, which was designed with kiddos' curls in mind, but works for reviewers of all ages! This leave-in conditioner moisturizes and helps improve curl definition and elasticity with just a few quick spritzes, which is great for impatient kids *and* grown-ups with limited time. E.l.f. Camo liquid blush if you're a fan of Saie's Dew blushes or Rare Beauty's liquid blushes — this has a similar doe-foot applicator. E.l.f.'s liquid blush is newer but already beloved by reviewers for its bendability and level of pigment! A bottle of Elizavecca Hair Treatment for an intense at-home mask that'll help your strands look and feel less damaged in just five minutes. It's basically a time machine for your hair, is what I'm saying. Some reviewers say it's even BETTER than Olaplex, which is over three times the price! The Revlon One-Step Hot Air Brush (now with an upgraded motor) with a unique oval-shaped barrel so you can get super close to your scalp for smooth hair and majorly boosted volume at the roots without having to juggle a brush and blow-dryer. One reviewer says it takes less time to dry than their Dry Bar Brush! I Dew Care's dry shampoo powder, which comes packaged in an easy-to-apply, perfect-for-travel powder puff applicator you just tap-tap-tap onto your hair. Just massage the ultra-fine powder into your roots (it's formulated with black ginseng and biotin btw!), and it'll quickly absorb excess oil, leaving you with volumized and refreshed-looking hair.
Hamilton Spectator
a day ago
- Hamilton Spectator
A boy in Gaza with brain damage fights for his life amid blockade
BEIRUT (AP) — It's as if the whole weight of Israel's war in Gaza has fallen on Amr al-Hams. The 3-year-old has shrapnel in his brain from an Israeli strike on his family's tent. His pregnant mother was killed. His father is paralyzed by grief over the death of his longtime sweetheart. Now the boy is lying in a hospital bed, unable to speak, unable to move, losing weight, while doctors don't have the supplies to treat his brain damage or help in his rehabilitation after a weekslong blockade and constant bombardment. Recently out of intensive care, Amr's frail body twists in visible pain. His wide eyes dart around the room. His aunt is convinced he's looking for his mother. He can't speak, but she believes he is trying to say 'mom.' 'I am trying as much as I can. It is difficult,' said his aunt Nour al-Hams, his main caregiver, sitting next to him on the bed in Khan Younis' Nasser Hospital in southern Gaza. 'What he is living through is not easy.' To reassure him, his aunt sometimes says his mother will be back soon. Other times, she tries to distract him, handing him a small ball. The war has decimated the health system The war began Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas-led militants stormed into Israel and killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took 251 people captive. Israel's retaliatory campaign has killed over 57,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's Health Ministry, which says women and children make up most of the dead but does not specify how many were fighters or civilians. Nearly 21 months into the conflict that displaced the vast majority of Gaza's 2.3 million people, it is nearly impossible for the critically wounded to get the care they need, doctors and aid workers say. The health care sector has been decimated: Nearly half of the territory's 36 hospitals have been put out of service. Daily bombings and strikes overwhelm the remaining facilities, which are operating only partially. They struggle with shortages of anything from fuel, gauze and sutures to respirators or scanners that have broken down and can't be replaced. Israeli forces have raided and besieged medical facilities, claiming Hamas militants have used them as command centers. Doctors have been killed or were displaced, unable to reach hospitals because of continued military operations. For more than 2 1/2 months, Israel blocked all food, medicine and other supplies from entering Gaza, accusing Hamas of siphoning off aid to fund its military activities, though the U.N. said there was no systematic diversion. The population was pushed toward famine. Since mid-May, Israel has allowed in a trickle of aid, including medical supplies. Gaza's Health Ministry estimates that 33,000 children have been injured during the war, including 5,000 requiring long-term rehabilitation and critical care. Over 1,000 children, like Amr, are suffering from brain or spinal injuries or amputated limbs. 'Gaza will be dealing with future generations of kids living with all sorts of disabilities, not just brain, but limb disabilities that are consequences of amputation that could have been prevented if the health system was not under the pressures it is under, wasn't systematically targeted and destroyed as it was,' said Tanya Haj-Hassan, a pediatric intensive care specialist who has volunteered multiple times in Gaza with international medical organizations. A fateful journey north In April, one week before her due date, Amr's mother, Inas, persuaded her husband to visit her parents in northern Gaza. They trekked from the tent they lived in on Gaza's southern coast to the tent where her parents live. They were having an evening meal when the strike hit. Amr's mother and her unborn baby, his grandfather and his brother and sister were killed. Amr was rushed to the ICU at Indonesian Hospital, the largest in northern Gaza. A scan confirmed shrapnel in his brain and reduced brain function. A breathing tube was inserted into his throat. 'He is 3. Why should he bear the weight of a rocket?' his aunt asked. His father, Mohammed, was too stunned to even visit the ICU. His wife had been the love of his life since childhood, the aunt said. He barely spoke. Doctors said Amr needed advanced rehabilitation. But while he was at the hospital, Israeli forces attacked the facility — encircling its premises and causing damage to its communication towers, water supplies and one of its wards. Evacuation orders were issued for the area, and patients were transferred to Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. Another treacherous journey But Shifa was overwhelmed with mass casualties, and staff asked the family to take Amr south, even though no ambulances or oxygen tanks could be spared. The father and aunt had to take Amr, fresh out of ICU with the tube in his throat, in a motorized rickshaw for the 25-kilometer (15-mile) drive to Nasser Hospital. Amr was in pain, his oxygen levels dropped. He was in and out of consciousness. 'We were reading the Quran all along the road,' said his aunt, praying they would survive the bombings and Amr the bumpy trip without medical care. About halfway, an ambulance arrived. Amr made it to Nasser Hospital with oxygen blood levels so low he was again admitted to ICU. Unable to get the care he needs Still, Nasser Hospital could not provide Amr with everything he needed. Intravenous nutrients are not available, Nasser's head of pediatrics, Dr. Ahmed al-Farra, said. The fortified milk Amr needed disappeared from the market and the hospital after weeks of Israel's blockade. He has lost about half his weight. When he came out of the ICU, Nour shared his bed with him at night and administered his medication. She grinds rice or lentils into a paste to feed him through a syringe connected to his stomach. 'We have starvation in Gaza. There is nothing to eat,' said his aunt, who is a trained nurse. 'There is nothing left.' The care Amr has missed is likely to have long-term effects. Immediate care for brain injuries is critical, Haj-Hassan said, as is follow-up physical and speech therapy. Since the Israeli blockade on Gaza began in March, 317 patients, including 216 children, have left the territory for medical treatment alongside nearly 500 of their companions, according to the World Health Organization. Over 10,000 people, including 2,500 children, await evacuation. Amr is one of them. COGAT, the Israeli military body in charge of civilian affairs in Gaza, coordinates medical evacuations after receiving requests from countries that will take the patients and security screenings. In recent weeks, over 2,000 patients and their companions have left for treatment, COGAT said, without specifying the time period. Tess Ingram, spokesperson for the U.N. children's agency, said the only hope for many critically injured who remain in Gaza is to get out. Countries need to 'open their hearts, open their doors and open their hospitals to children who survived the unimaginable and are now languishing in pain,' she said. Amr's aunt reads his every move. He is unhappy with his diapers, she said. He outgrew them long ago. He was a smart kid, now he cries 'feeling sorry for himself,' said Nour. He gets seizures and needs tranquilizers to sleep. 'His brain is still developing. What can they do for him? Will he be able to walk again?' Nour asked. 'So long as he is in Gaza, there is no recovery for him.' Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. 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San Francisco Chronicle
a day ago
- San Francisco Chronicle
A boy in Gaza with brain damage fights for his life amid blockade
BEIRUT (AP) — It's as if the whole weight of Israel's war in Gaza has fallen on Amr al-Hams. The 3-year-old has shrapnel in his brain from an Israeli strike on his family's tent. His pregnant mother was killed. His father is paralyzed by grief over the death of his longtime sweetheart. Now the boy is lying in a hospital bed, unable to speak, unable to move, losing weight, while doctors don't have the supplies to treat his brain damage or help in his rehabilitation after a weekslong blockade and constant bombardment. Recently out of intensive care, Amr's frail body twists in visible pain. His wide eyes dart around the room. His aunt is convinced he's looking for his mother. He can't speak, but she believes he is trying to say 'mom.' 'I am trying as much as I can. It is difficult,' said his aunt Nour al-Hams, his main caregiver, sitting next to him on the bed in Khan Younis' Nasser Hospital in southern Gaza. 'What he is living through is not easy.' To reassure him, his aunt sometimes says his mother will be back soon. Other times, she tries to distract him, handing him a small ball. The war has decimated the health system The war began Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas-led militants stormed into Israel and killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took 251 people captive. Israel's retaliatory campaign has killed over 57,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's Health Ministry, which says women and children make up most of the dead but does not specify how many were fighters or civilians. Nearly 21 months into the conflict that displaced the vast majority of Gaza's 2.3 million people, it is nearly impossible for the critically wounded to get the care they need, doctors and aid workers say. The health care sector has been decimated: Nearly half of the territory's 36 hospitals have been put out of service. Daily bombings and strikes overwhelm the remaining facilities, which are operating only partially. They struggle with shortages of anything from fuel, gauze and sutures to respirators or scanners that have broken down and can't be replaced. Israeli forces have raided and besieged medical facilities, claiming Hamas militants have used them as command centers. Doctors have been killed or were displaced, unable to reach hospitals because of continued military operations. For more than 2 1/2 months, Israel blocked all food, medicine and other supplies from entering Gaza, accusing Hamas of siphoning off aid to fund its military activities, though the U.N. said there was no systematic diversion. The population was pushed toward famine. Since mid-May, Israel has allowed in a trickle of aid, including medical supplies. Gaza's Health Ministry estimates that 33,000 children have been injured during the war, including 5,000 requiring long-term rehabilitation and critical care. Over 1,000 children, like Amr, are suffering from brain or spinal injuries or amputated limbs. 'Gaza will be dealing with future generations of kids living with all sorts of disabilities, not just brain, but limb disabilities that are consequences of amputation that could have been prevented if the health system was not under the pressures it is under, wasn't systematically targeted and destroyed as it was,' said Tanya Haj-Hassan, a pediatric intensive care specialist who has volunteered multiple times in Gaza with international medical organizations. A fateful journey north In April, one week before her due date, Amr's mother, Inas, persuaded her husband to visit her parents in northern Gaza. They trekked from the tent they lived in on Gaza's southern coast to the tent where her parents live. They were having an evening meal when the strike hit. Amr's mother and her unborn baby, his grandfather and his brother and sister were killed. Amr was rushed to the ICU at Indonesian Hospital, the largest in northern Gaza. A scan confirmed shrapnel in his brain and reduced brain function. A breathing tube was inserted into his throat. 'He is 3. Why should he bear the weight of a rocket?" his aunt asked. His father, Mohammed, was too stunned to even visit the ICU. His wife had been the love of his life since childhood, the aunt said. He barely spoke. Doctors said Amr needed advanced rehabilitation. But while he was at the hospital, Israeli forces attacked the facility — encircling its premises and causing damage to its communication towers, water supplies and one of its wards. Evacuation orders were issued for the area, and patients were transferred to Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. Another treacherous journey But Shifa was overwhelmed with mass casualties, and staff asked the family to take Amr south, even though no ambulances or oxygen tanks could be spared. The father and aunt had to take Amr, fresh out of ICU with the tube in his throat, in a motorized rickshaw for the 25-kilometer (15-mile) drive to Nasser Hospital. Amr was in pain, his oxygen levels dropped. He was in and out of consciousness. 'We were reading the Quran all along the road,' said his aunt, praying they would survive the bombings and Amr the bumpy trip without medical care. About halfway, an ambulance arrived. Amr made it to Nasser Hospital with oxygen blood levels so low he was again admitted to ICU. Unable to get the care he needs Still, Nasser Hospital could not provide Amr with everything he needed. Intravenous nutrients are not available, Nasser's head of pediatrics, Dr. Ahmed al-Farra, said. The fortified milk Amr needed disappeared from the market and the hospital after weeks of Israel's blockade. He has lost about half his weight. When he came out of the ICU, Nour shared his bed with him at night and administered his medication. She grinds rice or lentils into a paste to feed him through a syringe connected to his stomach. 'We have starvation in Gaza. There is nothing to eat,' said his aunt, who is a trained nurse. 'There is nothing left.' The care Amr has missed is likely to have long-term effects. Immediate care for brain injuries is critical, Haj-Hassan said, as is follow-up physical and speech therapy. Since the Israeli blockade on Gaza began in March, 317 patients, including 216 children, have left the territory for medical treatment alongside nearly 500 of their companions, according to the World Health Organization. Over 10,000 people, including 2,500 children, await evacuation. Amr is one of them. COGAT, the Israeli military body in charge of civilian affairs in Gaza, coordinates medical evacuations after receiving requests from countries that will take the patients and security screenings. In recent weeks, over 2,000 patients and their companions have left for treatment, COGAT said, without specifying the time period. Tess Ingram, spokesperson for the U.N. children's agency, said the only hope for many critically injured who remain in Gaza is to get out. Countries need to 'open their hearts, open their doors and open their hospitals to children who survived the unimaginable and are now languishing in pain," she said. Amr's aunt reads his every move. He is unhappy with his diapers, she said. He outgrew them long ago. He was a smart kid, now he cries 'feeling sorry for himself,' said Nour. He gets seizures and needs tranquilizers to sleep. 'His brain is still developing. What can they do for him? Will he be able to walk again?" Nour asked. 'So long as he is in Gaza, there is no recovery for him.'
