L’Oréal brings infrared light technology to hair and skincare with two new beauty tech innovations at CES 2026
L’Oréal unveils infrared-powered hair and skincare devices at CES 2026, introducing Light Straight + Multi-styler and LED Face Mask innovations.
L’Oréal Groupe has unveiled two new beauty technology innovations that apply infrared light to hair and skin, reinforcing its long-term focus on science-led product development. Introduced at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, the Light Straight + Multi-styler and the LED Face Mask both received CES 2026 Innovation Award Honoree recognition, highlighting their use of advanced light-based technologies to enhance performance while addressing common concerns around hair damage and skin ageing.
The announcement continues L’Oréal’s multi-year push to integrate scientific research, digital capabilities and hardware innovation into consumer beauty products. The company positions these developments as part of its broader ambition to evolve from a traditional beauty brand into a beauty technology leader, using scientific discovery to create more personalised, effective and preventative beauty solutions.
Barbara Lavernos, Deputy CEO in charge of Research, Innovation and Technology at L’Oréal Groupe, said the company’s latest showcase at CES reflects a long-standing belief that beauty and science are closely linked. She noted that L’Oréal continues to combine scientific advances with creativity to design beauty experiences that are both more effective and better adapted to individual needs, building on more than a century of research heritage.
Infrared light redefines heat styling with Light Straight + Multi-styler
The Light Straight + Multi-styler addresses one of the most persistent challenges in hair styling: heat damage. Traditional hair straighteners often reach temperatures of 400°F or higher, exceeding the threshold at which keratin begins to denature. Over time, this can weaken the hair cuticle, lead to breakage and reduce shine. According to a 2024 US consumer study conducted by L’Oréal, 58 percent of women surveyed said their hair damage was caused by heat styling.
Developed by L’Oréal Research and Innovation, the Light Straight + Multi-styler uses patented infrared light technology to deliver styling results at lower temperatures. The device’s glass plates never exceed 320°F, a significant reduction compared to conventional straighteners. Instrumental tests carried out by L’Oréal indicate that the device works three times faster than leading premium hair stylers while leaving hair twice as smooth.
At the core of the device is near-infrared light, which sits just beyond the visible light spectrum. This wavelength penetrates deeply into the hair fibre, reshaping the internal hydrogen bonds that determine hair texture and form. By targeting these bonds directly, the Light Straight + Multi-styler aims to achieve the desired styling effect while preserving the integrity of the hair cuticle, keeping hair smoother, shinier and stronger over time.
Guive Balooch, Global Vice President of Augmented Beauty and Open Innovation at L’Oréal Groupe, described the device as a shift from corrective styling to preventative care. He said limiting cumulative heat exposure from the outset helps protect the natural structure of hair, setting a new standard for precision styling and redefining expectations within the hairstyling category.
Beyond straightening, the Light Straight + Multi-styler is designed as a versatile, multi-function tool. It can also be used to curl hair, offering users greater flexibility without requiring multiple devices. The product incorporates smart internal sensors powered by proprietary algorithms and machine learning, allowing it to adapt to user gestures and deliver more personalised results.
The launch builds on L’Oréal’s earlier introduction of the Airlight Pro hair dryer, first revealed at CES 2024, which also uses infrared light technology. Together, the two devices form a complete infrared-based hairstyling routine focused on minimising damage while maintaining performance. Research and development of the Light Straight + Multi-styler is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, with the global launch timeline to be announced at a later date.
LED Face Mask targets visible ageing with precision light therapy
Alongside its hairstyling innovation, L’Oréal also introduced the development of an LED Face Mask, further expanding its use of light technology into skincare. Currently in prototype form, the ultra-thin mask is made from flexible silicone and is designed to deliver targeted light therapy directly to the face. It was developed in collaboration with iSmart, a specialist in LED device innovation.
The LED Face Mask uses a combination of red light and near-infrared light, which L’Oréal believes will help combat visible signs of ageing, including fine lines, sagging and uneven skin tone. Each session lasts 10 minutes and is automatically timed, allowing the device to fit easily into daily skincare routines without adding complexity.
A key feature of the mask is its transparent support structure, which integrates a skin-safe microcircuit to precisely control light emission. The device delivers two specific wavelengths: red light at 630 nanometres and near-infrared light at 830 nanometres. These wavelengths are selected for their ability to visibly firm and smooth skin while promoting a more even tone, according to L’Oréal’s testing assumptions.
The design prioritises comfort and usability. Its lightweight, non-invasive construction allows it to sit closely against the skin, ensuring consistent light delivery across the face. By focusing on controlled, targeted exposure, L’Oréal aims to maximise visible results while maintaining safety and ease of use.
The LED Face Mask is expected to launch in 2027. In the United States, its release will be subject to the FDA 510(k) premarket notification process. As with the Light Straight + Multi-styler, pricing and additional specifications will be shared closer to commercial availability.
Together, the two CES 2026 showcases underline L’Oréal’s continued investment in longevity science, personalised beauty and device-led innovation. With a global research network spanning 21 centres across 13 countries and thousands of scientists and digital specialists, the group is positioning light-based technology as a core pillar of its future product strategy, extending beyond topical formulations into hardware that reshapes how consumers approach haircare and skincare at home.
