5 benefits of red light therapy for healthier skin

Red light therapy is making waves in wellness and skincare circles. From reducing signs of aging to improving skin health, red light therapy is often heralded as a key to fresher-looking skin. But does it actually work?

Let’s dive into the benefits of red light therapy and why it has become so popular.

What is red light therapy?

Red light therapy (sometimes known as RLT) uses low-wavelength red light to penetrate layers of skin and stimulate cellular activity. Unlike ultraviolet (UV) light, which can damage the skin, red light therapy is known to boost natural cell processes, including enhanced collagen and elastin production, improved blood circulation and faster wound healing.

This type of therapy is most commonly used at dermatology clinics to address conditions such as acne, fine lines, scarring and more. However, there are many devices, such as red light therapy masks, panels or wands, designed for at-home use.

How red light therapy works

Red light therapy uses low-wavelength red light to penetrate the skin at a cellular level. This process stimulates cellular activity, boosts circulation and enhances the production of collagen and elastin—two key components for maintaining firm, youthful skin.  The anti-inflammatory effects and promotion of wound healing are how it also helps with treating acne.

Difference between red and infrared light therapy

While both red light and infrared light therapies boost wellness, they serve slightly different purposes. Red light is visible to the human eye and works on surface-level issues like skin health and healing. Infrared light, on the other hand, penetrates deeper into the skin and is more commonly used for pain relief and internal conditions. Unlike red light, infrared light produces heat, which requires professional-grade equipment.

5 benefits of red light therapy

Red light therapy has been researched for its impact on acne, anti-aging and hair loss. There are recent studies that demonstrate each of these conditions can be improved when using red light therapy, especially in combination with other prescribed treatments. 

Some of the benefits include:

1. Anti-aging

One of the biggest draws of red light therapy is its ability to keep your skin looking youthful. The red wavelengths penetrate below the surface of the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production. These two proteins are essential for maintaining firm, smooth and youthful skin. With consistent use, people may see improvements in skin texture, reduced fine lines and a significant decrease in wrinkles.

2. Acne treatment

Red light therapy has been proven to be effective in the management of acne. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness and swelling, as well as target bacteria responsible for breakouts.

3. Hair growth

For people dealing with hair thinning or certain types of hair loss, red light therapy can help by improving blood flow to the scalp and energizing hair follicles. This type of therapy helps to promote thicker, healthier hair over time.

4. Improved skin tone and texture

Regular users of red light therapy often report a more even skin tone, minimized pores and “glowing” skin. Red light therapy encourages skin renewal and repair at the cellular level, alleviating dullness and other imperfections.

5. Accelerated wound healing

Clinical research has shown that red light therapy speeds up the wound healing process by promoting tissue repair and reduces the appearance of scars from acne, surgery or injury.

Are there any risks or side effects?

In the short term, red light therapy appears to be safe. Unlike UV light, which can cause skin cancer, research hasn’t found that red light can cause any type of cancer. The most common side effects are mild. People should keep the following in mind:

• Temporary side effects: Some people develop temporary mild pain or irritated skin from red light therapy. 
• Interaction with medications: Red light could interact with a medication that you're taking or worsen a different medical condition than the one you're wanting to treat. 
• Improper device use: Whether at home or in a clinic, follow device instructions carefully. Always wear goggles if recommended to protect your eyes.

Make sure to use FDA-cleared devices for safety and follow the recommended instructions, as improper use could lead to skin irritation or diminished results.

How to incorporate red light therapy into your wellness routine

When incorporating red light therapy into your routine, it's essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure safe and effective usage. By adhering to best practices, you can achieve optimal results while reducing the likelihood of any adverse effects. Here are some key tips to help you safely and successfully start your red light therapy journey:

1. Consult with your dermatologist first

Before starting red light therapy, it’s wise to consult your dermatologist. Red light therapy isn’t for everyone, so discuss your skin goals and confirm the right treatment plan for you.

2. Start with an FDA-cleared at home device or consider professional sessions

If you’re looking to try red light therapy from the comfort of your home, products like red light therapy masks or handheld wands can be great options. These devices are designed for ease of use and come in a variety of price ranges.

If you’re seeking faster results, in-office treatments with higher light intensities often deliver more effective outcomes.

3. Follow the instructions

Whether at home or in a clinic, consistency is key. Most at-home devices recommend treatments between 10 to 20 minutes for two to three times a week.

4. Manage your expectations

Red light therapy is best suited for consistent, long-term use. This is not a one-and-done treatment. When using a red-light device at home, you’ll need to use it regularly. The amount of time needed varies, so follow the directions that come with the device. Keep in mind that it takes time to see the results and not everyone sees them. Most devices require 10 to 20 minutes repeated weekly or twice weekly.

Tips to maximize your results

Red light therapy is most effective when used in combination with a regular skin care routine. Some tips to maximize your results include:

• Start slowly, test the device on a small area of skin to ensure you don’t have a reaction.
• Pair red light therapy with a solid skincare routine, including sunscreen, hydrating serums or acne medication for amplified benefits.
• Commit to a routine and stay consistent with your treatments for noticeable improvements.

Are at-home red light therapy devices worth it?

If the idea of red light therapy at home sounds appealing to you, you may be wondering: “Are at-home devices worth it?”

The cost of at-home devices can range from $100 to $1000. So, when investing in this, it's a good idea to research that the device is FDA-cleared and for the condition you're wanting to treat.  For example, purchase an acne red light if you want to treat acne and follow the device’s recommended treatment schedule. 

The bottom line: Should you add red light therapy to your skin care routine?

Red light therapy is more than just a fad, it’s a science-backed solution for glowing skin and well-being. Whether you’re looking to reduce wrinkles, improve acne or boost hair growth, this versatile technology delivers impressive results with minimal risk.

If you’re ready to start your red light therapy journey, begin by consulting a dermatologist to find the best option for you. Find a dermatologist near you.