At some point in the last year, a woman on TikTok stared directly into my soul through a glowing red face mask and said, “This changed my skin.”
She looked peaceful.
I did not look peaceful.
So naturally, I bought it.
What Is a Red Light Mask?
According to the internet:
✨ collagen ✨ inflammation ✨ glow ✨ cellular rejuvenation ✨ vibes ✨
According to me, while wearing it on my couch at night:
“I look like a low-budget sci-fi villain who just wants clear skin and inner peace.”
The Ritual
You don’t just use a red light mask.
You commit.
Step 1: Put on the mask
Step 2: Sit completely still
Step 3: Question every life decision that led you here
Step 4: Wonder if it’s working or slowly cooking your face
Step 5: Stay because you already paid for it
It’s quiet. It’s red. It’s intimate.
You are alone with your thoughts — and your pores.
How It Makes You Feel
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Like you’re doing something without actually doing anything
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Like your skin might improve even if your life doesn’t
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Like healing is happening, but legally no one can confirm it
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Like this is definitely self-care and not avoidance
You can’t scroll.
You can’t snack.
You just sit there… glowing… reflecting… marinating.
Is It Backed by Science?
Some science.
Enough science.
Science-adjacent.
But more importantly:
It feels expensive, which is half of healing.
Who Is This For?
This is for women who:
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Have tried everything except relaxing
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Love a routine that looks intentional
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Think, “This will fix me” at least once a month
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Believe skincare is a personality trait
This is for women who see this photo and think:
“Yes. That makes sense.”
Final Thoughts
Will this mask change my skin?
Maybe.
Will it change my life?
No.
Will I keep using it because I already committed and now it’s part of my identity?
Absolutely.
Because sometimes self-care isn’t about results.
It’s about sitting on your couch, glowing red, fully convinced this is the answer.