Is the Solawave red light therapy wand worth it? I tested it for 21 days

New York Post

9 hours ago

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If you've been on TikTok, Instagram, or in an Ulta Beauty skincare aisle lately, you've probably seen the Solawave Wand. It's a compact, FDA-cleared skincare tool that promises to reduce fine lines, fade dark spots, and deliver brighter skin through red light therapy, microcurrent stimulation, warming massage, and facial sculpting, all in one tiny device.
Many people online have found this tool to make a truly significant difference. But does it really work, or is it just another beauty gadget we'll all forget about in six months? I spent three weeks using the Solawave Wand daily to find out.
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Pros: Compact and travel-friendly
Reduces redness and post-acne inflammation
Easy to incorporate into nightly skincare
Doesn't require a full face mask
Cons: Time-consuming if you want to treat the full-face
Not as strong as professional-grade red light tools
Requires patience and consistency
Combining red light therapy, galvanic current, therapeutic warmth, and facial massage, this multitasking wand is designed to reduce fine lines, dark circles, and puffiness to leave skin noticeably smoother and more radiant.
Pair it with the Solawave Renew Complex Serum, recommended by the brand, to achieve a soothing, all-natural formula infused with aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, and other beneficial ingredients, maximizing the benefits of each treatment.
In just three minutes per area, you'll feel the warmth and see the glow as it targets the forehead, under eyes, cheeks, and jawline with its 180-degree rotating head. It's lightweight, rechargeable, and travel-ready with a protective case. Overall, I highly recommend it, and it comes in three lovely shades of rose gold (which I enjoyed), gold, and charcoal.
If you're interested in testing other competitors, read our LYMA Laser review or consider shopping full-face LED masks recommended by dermatologists to cover the entire face with one hit.
Number of therapies: Four | Battery life: Up to a week | Results: Up to 21 days
Solowave Review
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Does Solawave work? Yes, but it depends on what you're using it for to get quick and easy results.
The Solawave is a handheld skincare wand designed to deliver results that mimic in-office treatments but from your bathroom mirror. The company has also launched a Solawave mask ($349), which offers full-face red light exposure.
However, the wand remains one of its most popular products, thanks to its portability; I even brought it along on weekend getaways. It worked wonders before my friend's baby shower, right before I (regrettably) popped a very juicy zit. I used the Solawave, and the blemish was barely noticeable the next morning.
How to use a Solawave
A lot of people are curious about how to use a Solowave. I read the directions and thought it would be complicated, but it was incredibly easy to use. Just plug it in to charge for up to two hours. Once it's ready, press the button and boom, as Sabrina Carpenter says, 'hot to go.'
It's built to be used for just a few minutes per day, starting at three or if you begin to feel uncomfortable, but it can eventually be worked up to 12 minutes over time in one setting.
Emma Sutton-Williams
But before we dive in any further, I should give you a brief history of my skin so you can compare it to yours. As a child, I was burned with 3-degree burns, and later, a windshield of glass went through my face, so it has more uneven bumps and scarring that won't be taken away without plastic surgery and most definitely not a wand. And don't get me started on acne growing up — it was a pimple patch.
While testing this wand, I've also been dealing with a rollercoaster of stress due to health issues, things entirely out of my control. Like clockwork, my skin tends to react under pressure, so I kept that in mind while testing.
The Solawave Wand combines four skin therapies:
Red light therapy to stimulate collagen and reduce inflammation
Microcurrent to tone facial muscles and lift
Facial massage to depuff and stimulate circulation
Therapeutic warmth to help with product absorption and relaxation
Begin by cleansing your face thoroughly and then gently pat it dry. Solowave recommends using its 2-in-1 Face Cream & Neck Cream or you can buy the 4-in-1 Red Light Therapy Wand & Activating Serum Kit for a more effective session. The substance feels velvety and a bit thick for my preference, but anything to help improve my fine lines and even out my skin tone. I also like that it helps the wand glide effortlessly across my skin.
I tested it by applying it to half of my face and the other half with my standard moisturizer. I wish I could tell you I saw a night and day difference, but I haven't noticed any massive changes — yet. However, these things do take time, and the ingredients in the serum are supposed to brighten dark spots and leave the skin feeling refreshed and balanced.
@solawave
Get more from your light therapy with LightBoost topicals! Works with any device brand. ♬ original sound – Solawave – Solawave
Using any water-based serum will work; however, avoid oils, as they can interfere with the microcurrent. If you're unfamiliar with microcurrents, it's a non-invasive treatment that mimics the natural currents in your body to boost cellular activity and reduce the appearance of aging. Who doesn't like that?
The wand activates automatically when it touches your skin, so once it's on, slowly glide it over your face in upward and outward motions. After each use, wipe the wand clean with a soft cloth and recharge it as needed.
Final Verdict
If you're looking for a convenient, effective red light therapy tool under $200 that targets red spots, the Solawave Wand is one of the best options on the market. It's easy to use, visibly helps with redness, and adds a calming moment to your nighttime routine.
I wanted my Solawave before and after shots to be mind-blowing, but there is a very minimal difference at first glance. But when my skin was agitated, it reduced the redness significantly.
It's not a miracle worker, and it won't give you laser-like results because nothing except lasers can smooth over your skin with a deep peel. It will help your skin recover faster, glow a little more, and feel noticeably healthier over time. And for that, I'm keeping it in my skincare drawer.
How we tested
Over the course of three weeks, I used the Solawave 4-in-1 Facial Wand nightly as part of a consistent evening skincare routine. Each session lasted five minutes, focusing on areas with fine lines, puffiness, and uneven tone. I paired the wand with the brand's Activated Serum and evaluated changes in skin texture, hydration, and overall glow, tracking both immediate post-use effects and longer-term improvements.
FAQ
How often should I use the Solawave wand?
For best results, it's recommended to use the wand 3–5 times per week for about 5 minutes per session. Consistency is key to seeing lasting improvements in tone and texture. We also suggest using it for 8 weeks before you make up your mind.
Can I use the Solawave wand every day?
Yes, many users (myself included) use it nightly. Just make sure to listen to your skin. If you experience irritation, take a day or two off, as it can cause your skin to become red if you're not careful.
Do I need to use the Renew Complex Serum with it?
While not required, the Renew Complex Serum is designed to enhance conductivity and results. Using a conductive serum ensures the wand's microcurrent function works properly.
When will I start seeing results?
Some people notice a glow or temporary lift after the first few uses. More noticeable improvements — like reduced puffiness or fine lines, typically show up after consistent use for 2–3 weeks.
Is it safe for sensitive skin?
Generally, yes. The wand is designed to be gentle, but if you have very sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea, it's best to do a patch test or consult your dermatologist. Starting with shorter sessions may also help minimize any reaction.
Can I use it over acne or breakouts?
It's best to avoid active breakouts, especially if they're inflamed. Instead, use the wand to support healing in surrounding areas and return to breakout spots once the skin has calmed down.
This article was written by Emma Sutton-Williams, New York Post Commerce Writer/Reporter and resident fashionista. Emma is one of the best-dressed ladies in The Post's office, and also known for finding an unbelievable deal on any one of her stylish outfits. Divulging on everything from the most-popular and most-underrated purse brands to her honest thoughts on Kim Kardashian's Skims undergarments and apparel, Emma has cultivated an eye for style and an expertise for identifying the clothes and accessories worth your coin. At the same time, she proudly models the products she picks so you can see their fit and function first-hand. Emma has been creating shopping guides for The Post since 2024, and previously held bylines in Rolling Stone, Oprah Daily, Parents, InStyle, StyleCaster and more.
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