“If you’re keeping your eyes open, the light can cause damage,” says Bowe. Next, your red light device, nor your skin, should never be hot, or even warm. “If the wavelengths of light are creating heat, that can trigger pigment producing cells in your skin to pump out more melanin, so you want to be especially cautious that it isn’t emitting heat if you are prone to hyperpigmentation.”
Murphy-Rose adds that it’s best to chat with your medical provider prior to using red light if you have any conditions that make you more photosensitive or take medications that increase your photosensitivity. And before you buy that pricey device, make sure it’s been properly vetted. “I would always recommend doing your research before investing in an LED device,” says Newman. “Not all LEDs are made the same, it’s very important to check that your device operates at the correct wavelengths to offer the results you are looking for and has been tested for safety.”
Still, the non-invasive treatment is largely side effect-free. Whether you opt to treat skin conditions in-spa or try light treatment at home, the positive effects of red light therapy are worth your time and dollar direction.
How to Find the Best Red Light Therapy Device for You
Interested in giving red light therapy a try? When choosing the best device for you, Ruth says “you should consider factors such as wavelength, power output, and treatment-area coverage of the device.”
“Opt for a device with wavelengths between 630 and 850 nanometers, as these wavelengths have shown optimal penetration for skin rejuvenation,” she says. And of course, a stamp of approval from the Food and Drug Administration never hurts. “I instruct patients to look for FDA-cleared devices to ensure safety and efficacy,” Ruth notes.
Do red light therapy devices work?
“With continued red LED treatments, clients can trust that their skin will look firmer and they will have a more even tone and texture,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dennis Gross. So the devices work, but how? “LED works just like any other topical ingredient,” says Gross. “Our skin cells have receptors for LED, meaning light will enter the skin cell, connect to a unique LED receptor, and trigger the body to convert light energy into cellular energy. With red light devices, the red LED enters the fibroblast cell and stimulates collagen production—the key to healthy, younger-looking skin—and diminishes fine lines and wrinkles.” Gross adds that red LED also increases circulation and decreases redness, reducing inflammation and hyperpigmentation with consistent use.
Is there a difference between infrared and red light therapy?
“The main differences between infrared and red LED light are visibility, wavelength length, and depth of penetration,” Gross explains. “Infrared light is invisible and has a longer wavelength than red light. This allows it to penetrate deeper into the body and facilitate wound healing and cellular repair.” On the other hand, red light is visible, and—because it has a shorter wavelength—it targets the skin’s surface. “Red LED increases cellular energy to stimulate fibroblast growth factors to boost collagen synthesis,” Dr. Gross continues. “It also decreases matrix metalloproteinases activity, which is what breaks down collagen.” Generally speaking, red light therapy utilizes 630 to 700 nm wavelength of light, whereas near-infrared uses 800 to 1200 nm of light.
What skin types most benefit from red light therapy?
“Nearly every skin type can benefit from red light therapy,” Hartman says. “Even patients with skin conditions like eczema and rosacea can find relief from symptoms as red light can help reduce skin inflammation. Acne-prone skin benefits greatly from red light therapy too, as the light can reduce sebum production, which is one cause of acne, plus reduce the appearance of current inflammatory breakouts.” Those with mild to moderate fine lines and wrinkles will also find red light therapy beneficial, Hartman says, as red light promotes collagen and elastin production.
