KAIST develops MicroLED beauty mask that can improve skin elasticity by 3 times

According to news on October 29, a research team led by Professor Keon Jae Lee of the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) developed an LED beauty mask that stimulates deep skin. Clinical trials have proven that the mask can increase the elasticity of the dermal layer by 340%.

a. Optical image of the FSLED mask showing uniform surface illumination. Schematic diagram of FSLED mask. 2D to 3D conversion process. b. Difference in cosmetic results between FSLED masks and conventional LED masks in terms of deep skin elasticity, wrinkles and sagging (percent improvement over eight weeks). (Image source: KAIST)

It is reported that the traditional LED mask design cannot fit the contours of the skin. This limitation results in a large amount of light reflection, with the light reflectivity at 2 cm away from the skin being as high as 90%, thereby reducing the penetration of light, limiting the effective stimulation of deep skin, and affecting the regeneration effect of the skin.

To address these challenges, a team led by Professor Keon Jae Lee developed a Micro LED (face-conforming surface lighting micro-LED (FSLED)) mask that fits the face and can provide uniform light stimulation to the dermal layer. The key technology of this mask is its ability to evenly transmit light to deep skin tissue and adhere closely to the skin. Through a 3D origami structure, 3770 Micro LEDs and a flexible surface light diffusion layer are integrated to minimize the gap between the light source and the skin.

Image source: KAIST

In a clinical trial involving 33 participants, the FSLED mask significantly improved deep skin elasticity by 340% compared with traditional LED masks and proved to have a significant effect in reducing wrinkles, skin sagging and aging.

Professor Keon Jae Lee said that the FSLED mask can provide cosmetic effects to the entire facial dermis layer without causing side effects such as low-temperature burns, making home care anti-aging treatment possible. The product is made by KAIST's startup Fronics and is scheduled to go on sale in November.

This research result has been published in the academic journal "Advanced Materials", the article is titled "Clinical Validation of Face-fit Surface-lighting Micro Light-emitting Diode Mask for Skin Anti-aging Treatment".