In the sea of beauty trends, everyone can find their pick – from more invasive and dramatic makeovers to subtle facial enhancements. Some of the most popular treatments provide multiple cosmetic benefits and don't require downtime. Red light therapy is among them. Initially used to heal injuries, it quickly gained popularity for its cosmetic, rejuvenating effects.
This article explains how red light therapy for skin works, what benefits to expect, and how long it takes to see results.
What Is Red Light Therapy for Skin?
Red light therapy (RLT) is a type of phototherapy that helps improve various skin conditions and reverse aging signs. It involves a laser or LED device emitting red and near-infrared light of different wavelengths (630 to 830 nm). The light penetrates deep dermal layers and improves the skin on a cellular level.
Red light therapy has been used in medical settings for decades to help heal wounds, repair muscles and tissues, relieve pain, and alleviate allergies. Only recently has it garnered attention as an effective cosmetic treatment.
How Does Red Light Therapy for Skin Work?
The light is delivered via a laser device, LED, face mask, or a hand-held wand. The red light penetrates the skin and reaches the cells, where the mitochondria, the cells’ “powerplant,” absorb the light and make more energy, enhancing cellular function and repair.
During this process, red light also stimulates fibroblasts (cells that help form connective tissue), prompting them to secrete more collagen and elastin. These skin-building proteins are essential in maintaining a healthy, youthful look. The treatment also improves circulation and reduces inflammation, improving skin health.
Red Light Therapy for the Skin Benefits
Red light therapy is an emerging cosmetic treatment promising various skin benefits. More clinical trials with human subjects are needed to confirm the treatment’s effectiveness. However, existing studies and user experience suggest RLT can significantly reduce aging signs and other skin concerns.
Reduces Inflammation
Red light therapy increases blood flow to damaged tissues, helping to alleviate inflammation. It can ease the symptoms of skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
Note: Find out how holistic treatments can relieve eczema.
Helps with Acne
Acne is an inflammatory skin condition. By reducing inflammation, RLT helps balance sebum production and eliminate acne-causing bacteria, decreasing breakouts. The treatment also has a healing effect, helping to repair the skin after breakouts. Dermatologists often combine blue light and RLT for more effective results.
Decreases Sun Damage
Light therapy is an established treatment for age spots and other forms of sun damage. It helps lighten and even out skin tone by boosting collagen, reducing inflammation, and preventing the overproduction of melanin. It also stimulates the skin’s natural repair processes, increasing cell turnover.
Minimizes Wrinkles
By stimulating fibroblast activity, RLT increases collagen and elastin production, helping to smooth the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Note: Learn how red light therapy works for wrinkles.
Increases Skin Elasticity
Collagen gives the skin its structure, and elastin helps maintain elasticity. Red light therapy promotes the production of both proteins, helping to tighten and tone the skin.
May Help Reduce Cellulite
Red light therapy increases blood flow, potentially helping to break up fat cells and reduce the appearance of cellulite. Its collagen-enhancing abilities also contribute to the skin’s smoother appearance.
Helps Heal Wounds
Because of its anti-inflammatory and collagen-boosting effects, red light therapy is an established practice in hospitals to help repair wounds such as burns, surface injuries, surgery incisions, and scars.
How Long Does Red Therapy Take to Work?
Red light therapy builds collagen, which is a gradual process. The results are unique to each patient. Some people notice an improvement in their appearance after several weeks. Wrinkle reduction and more significant changes in skin tone and texture usually appear after three to four months.
How Often Should You Use Red Light on Your Skin?
Red light therapy requires multiple treatments. Depending on the type of skin issue and chosen RLT device, patients typically need at least three weekly sessions for several weeks or months.
When using a home device, users are advised to start with a few minutes per week and increase the frequency to three times, or according to the user manual.
Red Light Therapy for Skin Side Effects
Patients who go to reputed medical professionals for red light therapy sessions usually don’t experience any side effects. However, improper use of at-home RLT devices and seeing inexperienced cosmetic providers can lead to:
- Redness
- Burns
- Blisters
- Eye damage
Can Red Light Therapy Cause Cancer?
There is no evidence that red light therapy causes cancer. The treatment is widely used as part of photodynamic therapy to destroy skin cancer and some other types of cancer cells. It is also a promising treatment for alleviating the negative effects of cancer therapy.
Red light therapy uses low-level red light that doesn’t damage the skin. The treatment doesn’t use UV light, which is linked to skin cancer.
Should Anyone Avoid Red Light Therapy for Skin?
Red light therapy is a gentle treatment generally considered safe. However, people with certain medical conditions should consult their doctor about potential risks. The conditions include:
- Pregnancy and nursing
- History of skin cancer
- Eye disease
- Thyroid disorder
- Medications that increase skin or eye sensitivity
- Open wounds
- Epilepsy
How Much Does Red Light Therapy for the Skin Cost?
At Vibrant Skin Bar, red light therapy for skin costs $45 per session. The total price depends on the severity of your skin concern and your desired goals.
The treatment targets fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots, redness, and inflammation.
Conclusion
Red light therapy shows promising potential in treating various cosmetic concerns, from redness and acne to dark spots and wrinkles. Though research is ongoing, satisfied patients worldwide testify to the treatment's beneficial effects.
Contact our medical team at Vibrant Skin Bar to find out more about red light therapy and how it can help you achieve your beauty goals.
