Benefits of Red Light Therapy

As scientists learn more about how different colors of light impact living organisms, the benefits of red light therapy have made their way to the beauty industry. The cutting-edge technology involved in red light therapy is the latest skincare trend to emerge in the United States, though places like Europe and Latin America have already embraced its advantages. Studies suggest that exposing the body to low-wavelength red light can rejuvenate cells, improve collagen production, assist in healing, and help with pain management. For the beauty-obsessed, this type of cellular repair and rejuvenation is the closest thing to reversing time with a sip from the fountain of youth. Barrett Plastic Surgery recommends red light therapy to combat signs of aging, improve the look of your skin, and elevate your daily beauty routine. Our red light therapy face mask utilizes the power of near-infrared (NIR), red, blue, and amber/yellow light to target various skin concerns with unparalleled precision. Keep reading to learn more about the history and benefits of red light therapy. 

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What is light therapy?

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Light therapy involves regularly exposing the skin to specific types of light for fixed amounts of time. Different colors and wavelengths of light have varying benefits and penetration levels. For example, red light boosts cellular activity, making it great for anti-aging, while blue light eliminates acne-causing bacteria, and amber light works to promote a balanced complexion. The most common association with light therapy is the treatment of babies with jaundice under special lamps to help their livers work correctly. Humans have been using light to treat medical conditions throughout history — ancient Egyptians, Greecians, and Indians all practiced “heliotherapy” (therapeutic exposure to the sun’s natural rays) to treat skin diseases. Florence Nightingale famously advocated that sunlight has extensive health benefits. In 1903, Dr. Niels Finsen won the Nobel Prize for his treatment of numerous diseases with light radiation, and by the 1990s, using light therapy for various medical and neurological conditions was commonplace. 

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What is red light?

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Modern scientists continue to study the numerous advantages of artificial and natural light. Now, we know that every light color has its own wavelength, and our eyes detect differences in wavelength and energy as differences in color. We measure these differences on a spectrum from violet to red — the light toward red has longer wavelengths and lower energy, and light toward violet has shorter wavelengths and higher energy. Different light colors penetrate the skin at varying levels and have unique benefits when used for light therapy. 

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Though Dr. Niels Finsens's Nobel Prize-winning discovery that concentrated red light accelerated the healing of sores happened in the early 20th century, Endre Mester, in 1967, noticed that laser light helped promote hair growth and wound healing in rats, bringing the world closer to unlocking red lights skin benefits. The science of this discovery was built upon by NASA in the 1990s through experimentation with LED lights as an alternative to natural light for growing plants in space. Scientists found that red light helps improve overall cell function by stimulating the mitochondria, which are responsible for creating the energy that keeps cells alive. Like many scientific achievements, the accidental side effects of the experiments turned out to be as beneficial as the original hypothesis. While working with the plants under the lights, the scientists noticed that the abrasions on their hands began to heal faster than usual, leading to more testing of red lights for medical and therapeutic purposes. 

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How does red light therapy work?

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Scientists use the term photobiomodulation to refer to the process of red light absorption through the skin. In the 1990s, the U.S. Navy SEALs began using LED light therapy for wound healing and regenerating damaged muscle tissues. While more testing is needed to back all of the benefits, there is evidence that red light therapy assists overall skin health. By accelerating cell production, red light therapy could relieve oxidative stress caused by external toxins that can lead to increased symptoms of aging, diabetes, cancer, and inflammation. 

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Red light therapy applies specific wavelengths of red light that can penetrate 2 to 3 millimeters below the skin and trigger photobiomodulation. With more stimulated mitochondria, the cells can repair themselves faster and increase collagen production, leading to healthier and rejuvenated skin. 

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To undergo red light therapy, patients use an LED device to transmit red light to the skin. This device can be a mask, wand, panel, or even a full lamp bed. A 2023 study found that out of 67 test patients, all reported observable improvement in skin quality (as measured through reduced wrinkles and increased skin elasticity) after using a red light therapy device. 

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What are the benefits of red light therapy?

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As we age, we want to keep as many cells alive and healthy as possible to combat fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging. Red light therapy achieves this by promoting overall cell health and function while producing more collagen. Collagen is the primary protein that gives our skin, bones, and joints structure — the older we get, the less our bodies naturally produce collagen, leading to increased skin laxity. With more collagen, the skin takes on a firmer, smoother, and more youthful appearance. But collagen production isn’t the only advantage of red light therapy. Photobiomodulation allows the cells to work at the top of their potential, leading to the possibility of many other valuable benefits like:

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• Improves stretch marks
• Accelerates wound healing
• Treats burns
• Combats sun damage
• Increases blood circulation 
• Reduces inflammation
• Assists with muscle repair
• Alleviates joint pain
• Stimulates hair growth
• Improves skin texture
• Evens skin tone
• Treatments of specific skin conditions like acne, scars, eczema, and psoriasis

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Outside of skincare, red light therapy is currently being studied to treat conditions like dementia, alopecia, depression, and arthritis, as well as assist with pain management and alleviate side effects from cancer treatment. 

Is red light therapy safe? 

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Research shows that red light therapy is safe when used correctly. Red light therapy is a nontoxic, noninvasive procedure that does not use cancer-causing UV light. However, when red light is misused, it can damage the eyes and skin, so it’s essential to follow instructions carefully. 

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What are the risks?

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Dermatologists report that red light has no significant side effects. However, it’s essential to know that scientists are still actively studying the therapy to determine all benefits and risks, and there isn’t much research on long-term safety and effects. There have been some reports of lesions, burns, and blistering after using red light therapy devices for longer than instructed or using faulty equipment. Overusing the device, not adhering to the instructions, or using an incorrect wavelength setting constitutes misuse. Prolonged or high-intensity exposure can cause skin damage.

People taking Accutane (Accutane users should avoid all types of red light therapy) for acne or experiencing skin rashes should not use LED light therapy. To avoid risks and complications, the best course of action is to consult a licensed, board-certified dermatologist or cosmetic practitioner before beginning treatments. Pregnant people should avoid red light therapy. 

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Can red light therapy help with dermatological conditions?

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Ongoing evidence shows that red light therapy can help treat conditions like eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and perioral dermatitis. Its inflammation-relieving qualities are thought to help with various medical conditions, but further testing is needed. Patients with dermatological conditions should consult their medical practitioner before trying red light therapy. 

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How long does it take to see results? Are they permanent?

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Red light therapy immediately affects the skin, but the device must be used consistently to see a visible difference. Most people see visible results after around three weeks of 15-20 minute use three to five times a week. Red light therapy provides permanent results for some conditions, while others require consistent sessions.

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What kind of devices produce red light for skin care purposes? Can I do red light therapy at home?

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Red light therapy is quickly growing in popularity, leading to a plethora of LED devices marketed for at-home use. LED masks are the most popular device for targeted skincare use, while some prefer LED wands to treat smaller areas. Other devices include LED panels or beds for full-body exposure. Always wear goggles or use masks with cutouts to protect the eyes. 

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How can I get started with red light therapy?

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For at-home red light therapy, Barrett Plastic Surgery engineered an LED mask that utilizes not only red light but two other therapeutic light colors to target a multitude of skin conditions. The red light feature is optimal for anti-aging; amber light reduces inflammation while soothing irritated skin; and blue light targets bacteria, making it ideal for acne treatment. Incorporate The Barrett Red Light Therapy Face Mask into your skincare routine to take advantage of all of light therapy's benefits.

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The Barrett Red Light Therapy Face Mask is designed for personal, home use only and should not replace professional medical or dermatological advice. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new skincare regimen or treatment.

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