I Tried the $600 HigherDose Red Light Shower Filter, And Now My Bathroom Feels Like a Spaceship

Name: My Review of the HigherDose Red Light Showerhead Filter
Brand: Higherdose
Price: 599 USD

Author image: Deena Campbell Fashion and Beauty Director-at-Large

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Published Mar 30, 2026

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Original Photos by Deena Campbell/PureWow

If Gwyneth Paltrow took a shower in my bathroom, I imagine she would immediately install the HigherDose Red Light Showerhead Filter. It’s the latest shower filter that lives squarely at the intersection of beauty, wellness and who even thought of this? But, that’s where we are right now. We’ve optimized our skincare routines, our workouts, our sleep. Of course the next frontier is the shower.

On paper, the HigherDose Red Light Showerhead Filter is a lot. Red light therapy. Water filtration. Mood support. All in your shower. But after a few weeks of testing, I can confirm, it’s both excessive and weirdly genius.

Original Photo by Deena Campbell

How Does the HigherDose Red Light Shower Filter Work?

This is a showerhead filter that doubles as a wellness device, and part of a category that’s quietly booming. Global forecasts project the shower filtration market to grow at a 9.5% CAGR, reaching $1.44 billion by 2033, which tells you everything you need to know about how many of us are suddenly concerned about what’s coming out of our showerheads.

Inside the showerhead is a 10-stage filtration system that works as water flows through it. It’s designed to reduce chlorine, heavy metals, VOCs and microplastics—the usual suspects behind dryness and irritation.

Wrapped around the showerhead is a removable LED ring that emits dual wavelengths—650nm (red) and 850nm (near-infrared)—at a relatively high power density (200 mW/cm²). It’s designed to help your skin cells work more efficiently, which can translate to better circulation, improved radiance and less inflammation over time.

What makes this setup different from a traditional red light panel is the delivery. Instead of standing in front of a device for 10 minutes, you’re getting that exposure passively while you shower. The light is positioned to hit your face, neck and body at close range, and you can control the session with a 5-, 10- or 15-minute timer with the remote.

What Are the benefits of Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy targets mitochondria (the energy source of your cells) to help them function more efficiently. In practice, that can mean that consistent exposure to red and near-infrared light (like the 650nm and 850nm wavelengths used in the filter) has been shown to support collagen production and even reduce inflammation. Red light therapy has also been linked to supporting your circadian rhythm and helping your body shift into a more relaxed state, especially when used in the evening. The warm, low-level light mimics sunset tones, which can signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down.

Original Photo by Deena Campbell

My Review of the HigherDose Red Light Showerhead Filter

What I Like

easy installation
removable red light ring
instant mood boost
customizable timing

What I Don't Like

red light is very bright
pricey

Higherdose

Value: 16/20
Functionality: 17/20
Ease of Use: 20/20
Aesthetics: 20/20
Results: 19/20

Total: 92/100

For starters, installation was easy. Ok, fine. My husband installed it. But I didn’t see him pull out any tools or call Taskrabbit, so I’m counting it. It also looks sleek. But the first time you turn it on? The red light is…an experience. It casts this warm, almost sci-fi glow that makes your bathroom feel like a spa crossed with a spaceship. Not bad, just, sorta unexpected. My kids were both intrigued and slightly concerned.

Here’s what actually impressed me: the water quality difference is real. My skin felt less dry post-shower, and my scalp, especially in between wash days, felt calmer and less irritated. That tracks, because removing chlorine and heavy metals alone can make a noticeable difference, especially if you live somewhere with hard water.

There’s also something to be said for the mood shift. The red light gives everything a softer, calmer tone. It’s subtle, but I found myself lingering longer, which, in a life that is mostly rushing from one thing to the next, felt luxurious. And I love that it doesn’t require an extra step. No serum, no mask. You just shower.

Also, the flexibility is a nice touch. The red light ring is fully removable and comes with its own charging dock, offering up to 100 minutes of use per charge. The dock doubles as a stand, so you can take the glow beyond the shower if you want to get more targeted with it.

One major con is the price, and it doesn’t stop at the initial payment. Replacement filters run about $45 and need to be swapped every 75 days, which adds up quickly. Then there’s the red light itself. I get it, I respect the science, I’ve used red light panels before, but having it built into your shower is still a little odd at first. You do adjust, but there is a moment where you catch your reflection mid-shower and think, what is going on? Also: do not look directly into the light. You will be blinded, especially at night. (That said, I weirdly love the darkened, slightly ridiculous shower goggles.)

The tech is legit, you’re getting dual wavelengths plus a shower-safe remote. Some people will love that level of control. Personally, I found it to be another thing to keep track of. And if you’re anything like me, that remote will eventually live on the edge of your shower, just waiting to fall.

Fast Facts

Wavelengths: 650nm (red) + 850nm (near-infrared)
Color options: polished chrome, polished brass and matte black
Power Density: 200mW/cm2
Battery Life: 7 hours

How Long Until I See Results?

Most experts will tell you to give it at least three to six weeks before you start seeing improved tone, a bit more radiance and smoother texture. However, the immediate payoff is more about how your skin feels than how it looks. After the first few uses, I noticed less of that tight, post-shower dryness.

Is the HigherDose Red Light Showerhead Filter Worth The Money?

If you’re already invested in your skin, your hair and your overall beauty routine, this makes sense. The filtration alone is a strong sell. The red light is the bonus that makes it feel a touch indulgent. Would I recommend it? Yes. It’s not perfect, but if I’m going to be in there anyway, I might as well come out glowing.

$599 at higherdose

Original Photo by Deena Campbell

Is There Anyone Who Shouldn’t Use the HigherDose Red Light Showerhead Filter?

As low-lift as this feels, it’s not a universal fit. If you’re sensitive to light or prone to migraines, the red light component could be overstimulating, especially in a dark bathroom where the glow feels more intense. (And again, do not look directly at it.) Anyone with photosensitive conditions or taking medications that increase light sensitivity should check with a doctor before using red light therapy regularly.

It’s great for the wellness-curious who want an easy upgrade, but if you prefer a completely mindless, no-maintenance shower experience, this might feel like…a lot.

Deena Campbell

Fashion and Beauty Director-at-Large

Oversees fashion and beauty content.
Former Beauty Director at Marie Claire; editorial lead at Allure, Essence, and L’Oréal-owned beauty platforms
Advocate for inclusive storytelling in style, beauty, and wellness

read full bio