Shark CryoGlow Mask Vs. Omnilux Contour Face

Vivien Moon

Editor

It seems like anywhere you look, if you're on the hunt for the latest and greatest in beauty products, all roads lead back to red light therapy. What was developed by NASA for non-aesthetic purposes has become the trendiest treatment option with many at-home devices seemingly popping up one by one. That's why, in a time of product overload and decision fatigue, sometimes it's easier to make a decision when your friend can walk you through your options. Consider me that friend.

For years, this is a market I've made myself familiar with, having been a beauty writer and having tried both in-office red LED light therapies and at-home devices.

Previously, we spoke with Dr. Reshimi Kapoor, a board-certified dermatologist, on the benefits of the up-and-coming treatment option. “Red LED light has been shown to stimulate the fibroblast, a cell that plays a role in collagen production, which could help reduce signs of photoaging and improve fine lines and wrinkles,” she explained. And when it comes to the science, experts note to look for red light products with wavelengths of 630 to 700 nanometers which hit the sweet spot and are able to penetrate the skin. Certain studies also note that it can help with hair growth, too.

Now while the science can be confusing, I’m going to do my best to break it down so you can make a decision that’s right for you and your wallet.

I have had the Omnilux mask for at least four years and have been using it consistently, both traveling with it and using it at home. The Shark Cryoglow mask, on the other hand, has been in my arsenal for nearly three months, and I have been using it consistently during that time period. I have also taken it on a vacation to test its portability.

With each mask and treatment, I used it on clean, dry skin, which is what both brands recommend.

With a flexible shell and easy-to-clean design, this portable mask makes doing a quick 10-minute treatment a breeze from anywhere.

Because I've had this mask for years (I was gifted it but not by the brand), I can go on and on about what we've been through together. What I love the most is how easy it is to both travel with and keep at home. I never worry if it will fall off my nightstand and break, or if I pack it that something will crush it.

The flexible design also means I can put it on other areas of my body I'd like to get some TLC too, like my neck or chest. Overall, it's quiet, compact and has adjustable straps that also make it a good fit for most faces since it contours to you.

The timeframe for use is just 10 minutes and the brand says to do it up to five times a week for six weeks and then as needed, which I did at first and then slowed down depending on the season. When it comes to cleaning it, I just use a reusable towel and micellar water to give it a wipe both before and after each use and it's ready to go!

Because I’ve had this mask longer, I can’t specify if I have seen results per se, but I know that it’s been a key part of my anti-aging routine and has helped me revive my dull skin after a night of indulging or a long vacation.

I will note that while I have loved having this mask for years, there are a few drawbacks to consider. It only has one setting and while it does its job, this might not be enough for some who want the additional blue light in their mask.

Another personal drawback for me was that the mask, while portable, can't really be worn to do chores around the house since it is a bit bright and after a few failed attempts at wearing it while doing housework, I opted to just wear it before going to bed while winding down.

After having it for years, I have also noticed a little wear and tear and the wire to the controller has seen the worst of it, with the wire not working unless it's plugged in a certain way.

Reap the anti-aging and acne-clearing benefits of blue, red and infrared light therapy with this innovative LED face mask, which also features under-eye cooling.

The latest product on the market to make headlines (and win awards) is the Shark CryoGlow mask. Having launched last year in 2024, it made waves for offering a handful of treatments and packing a punch in its offerings.

There are four treatment options: the red and infrared light for anti-aging, blue and infrared light for acne treatments, a four-minute setting for daily maintenance and the cooling cryo mode that focuses on de-puffing the eye area. Each setting comes with its own time and you can pick your treatment via the handy controller that you can also attach to your clothing if you decide to use it while doing chores.

The cooling under-eye pads can be made cooler or turned off, but when it's on, the mask makes a hovering sound. What's considerate is the backup under-eye patches that can be attached on top for those who might need it.

The adjustable straps make it easy to wear, and I never had any issues with the fit, having also put it on my friends to have them try it out and check that it does fit most face shapes. Cleaning it is even easier than the Omnilux since the only part that touches the face is the eye sockets which make for easier TV watching by blocking out the lights.

When researching both masks to get further insight, I came across a variety of hesitations from shoppers regarding both masks. Some online reviewers note that the hard shell of the Shark CryoGlow is slightly uncomfortable, feeling weighed down and as though it’s dragging on the face. What I also noticed is that when the cooling pads are on, the device makes a louder noise as it works harder to power the eye pads. This isn’t a deterrent for me, but for some, it might be.

Additionally, the cold under-eye patches are not removable and do take up some quality real estate when it comes to your face. While having the patches on the area won't completely cut off the red/blue/infrared benefits, it is still a large spot that gets covered up for all treatments.

The CryoGlow mask is also not as easy to pack. I took it on a weekend getaway, placing it cautiously in my favorite weekender bag, but still felt uneasy with it just sitting there. I don't love a hard shell for this specific reason and often worry when I have it on my nightstand that I didn't place it down securely enough.

While I stand by my hesitations when it come to the Shark CryoGlow mask, I think that it does make for a better pick due to a few factors. For one, it just offers more bang for your buck. While the Omnilux mask can be used in a variety of innovative ways that can benefit those looking for just red light therapy, if you want a little more and don't mind the covering of the under-eye area as well as the sound of the cooling pads being on, the Shark CryoGlow is best. It won a Beauty Award during our most recent Shop TODAY Beauty Awards for being the best innovative beauty tool and I agree, it is a good investment, just not the most portable.

The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources and use our own personal experiences with the product and brand to make shopping easier for our readers.

Vivien Moon is a commerce editor for Shop TODAY who has been with the team for over two years and who oversees and covers everything from beauty, fashion, sales and more. She has a background in beauty and nearly a decade of experience in the editorial space.

Vivien Moon is a commerce editor for Shop TODAY, overseeing the news and trending verticals.