Red light therapy is a non‑invasive treatment that uses low‑level red and near‑infrared light to support skin health, wound healing and pain management, although research is still emerging and results vary between people (Healthline, 2018; Brown Health, 2025).
Consequently, it attracts strong interest in beauty and wellness because it promises skin rejuvenation without injections or surgery, yet it still requires realistic expectations and safe use (Brown Health, 2025).
What red light therapy is
Red light therapy exposes your skin to specific wavelengths of red or near‑infrared light, usually between 600 and 1000 nanometers (Healthline, 2018).
These wavelengths can penetrate the skin and are thought to stimulate cellular energy production in mitochondria, which are the cell’s powerhouses (Healthline, 2018).healthline
Moreover, researchers often call this approach photobiomodulation or low‑level light therapy (Healthline, 2018).
Unlike laser resurfacing or intense pulsed light, it uses non‑ionising, low‑heat light and does not damage the surface of the skin (Healthline, 2018).healthline
How red light therapy works
When red light reaches the skin, it can be absorbed by chromophores such as cytochrome c oxidase in mitochondria, which may increase production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the main cellular energy molecule (Healthline, 2018).
As a result, with more ATP available, cells may repair and regenerate more efficiently, which underpins many proposed benefits (Healthline, 2018).healthline
In addition, because red light can also influence blood flow and inflammation, it may support tissue oxygenation and reduce inflammatory signalling (Gundersen Health System, 2025; Brown Health, 2025).
This combination of improved energy and circulation, therefore offers a plausible mechanism for benefits seen in wound healing, pain reduction and skin rejuvenation (Gundersen Health System, 2025; Brown Health, 2025).
Skin and beauty benefits
Many people first encounter red light therapy in the context of anti‑ageing skincare (Healthline, 2018; UCLA Health, 2025).
Clinical studies suggest that regular treatments can improve skin complexion, increase collagen production and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time (Healthline, 2018; UCLA Health, 2025).uclahealth+1
Furthermore, dermatology clinics use red light to support treatment of conditions such as psoriasis, acne and sun damage, often alongside other therapies like topical agents or microneedling (Healthline, 2018; Baylor Scott & White Health, 2025).
Some research also reports reduced redness and faster healing after cosmetic procedures when red light is added to the aftercare plan (Baylor Scott & White Health, 2025).bswhealth+1
Wound healing and scars
Red light therapy has been studied for its role in wound healing and tissue repair, particularly in slow‑healing or chronic wounds (Healthline, 2018; Baylor Scott & White Health, 2025).
By stimulating cellular energy and improving local circulation, it appears to speed up the repair process and support better tissue quality (Healthline, 2018; Baylor Scott & White Health, 2025).
Because of this effect, clinicians sometimes use red light devices to reduce the appearance of scars following acne, surgery or injury, with reports of softer, flatter and less noticeable scar tissue over time (Baylor Scott & White Health, 2025). However, optimal treatment parameters and long‑term outcomes still need further high‑quality research, so practitioners remain cautious and evidence‑based (Brown Health, 2025).brownhealth+1
Pain relief and muscle recovery
Beyond beauty, red light therapy is gaining attention for pain management and muscle recovery (Gundersen Health System, 2025; Brown Health, 2025).
Studies suggest that by reducing inflammation and supporting tissue repair, red light can ease chronic pain from conditions such as arthritis, joint pain and tendon problems (Gundersen Health System, 2025; Brown Health, 2025).
Additionally, athletes sometimes use red light devices before or after training to reduce muscle soreness and support performance recovery, although protocols vary widely between products (Gundersen Health System, 2025).
Some evidence indicates that red light, used alongside rehabilitation or medication, can improve comfort and function more than standard care alone in certain pain conditions (Brown Health, 2025).
Cognitive and neurological effects
Emerging research explores red and near‑infrared light applied to the head or intranasally for brain health (UCLA Health, 2025).
Early studies in people with dementia have shown improvements in cognitive function after several weeks of daily red light sessions, with minimal reported side effects (UCLA Health, 2025).
Researchers think these effects may relate to improved mitochondrial function, reduced oxidative stress and better cerebral blood flow (Healthline, 2018; UCLA Health, 2025).
Nevertheless, because this field is still young, these applications should be viewed as experimental and always discussed with a healthcare professional (UCLA Health, 2025).
Hair growth and scalp health
Red light therapy also appears in hair regrowth treatments, especially for androgenetic alopecia (Healthline, 2018).
Clinical trials suggest that low‑level red light can stimulate hair follicles, increase hair density and reduce hair shedding when used consistently over several months (Healthline, 2018).
Most devices for hair use take the form of caps, combs or helmets that deliver light evenly across the scalp (Healthline, 2018). While results can be encouraging, therapy often works best when combined with established treatments such as topical minoxidil or medical evaluation for underlying causes (Healthline, 2018).healthline
Safety, risks and side effects
For most healthy adults, red light therapy is considered low risk when used correctly and for recommended durations (Healthline, 2018; Brown Health, 2025).
Because it uses non‑ionising light and relatively low energy, it does not tan the skin or increase the risk of skin cancer in the way that ultraviolet light does (Healthline, 2018).brownhealth+1
However, overuse, poor‑quality devices or incorrect eye protection can still pose risks, including temporary irritation, headaches or eye strain if safety goggles are not worn (Healthline, 2018).
People taking photosensitising medications or with specific medical conditions should therefore always seek medical advice before starting treatment (Brown Health, 2025).brownhealth+1
At‑home devices vs clinic treatments
Red light therapy is available in dermatology clinics, wellness centres and beauty salons, as well as through home devices such as masks, panels and handheld units (Healthline, 2018; UCLA Health, 2025).
Professional equipment often offers more precise control over wavelength, intensity and treatment area, usually under clinical supervision (UCLA Health, 2025).
Such professional devices are offered by providers such as Vital Red Light, a United States-based supplier.
By contrast, home devices provide convenience and can support long‑term consistency, which is important because many benefits rely on repeated sessions over weeks or months (Healthline, 2018).
When choosing a device, shoppers should therefore consider wavelength range, irradiance, safety certifications and realistic claims rather than relying on marketing alone (Healthline, 2018).
Red light therapy in a beauty routine
For skincare, red light therapy is usually used on clean, dry skin, often before applying serums or moisturiser (UCLA Health, 2025).
Because the light targets deeper structures, treatments can also pair well with topical products that support barrier function and collagen, such as gentle retinoids or peptides, introduced with care (UCLA Health, 2025).uclahealth
Most protocols recommend several sessions per week, each lasting a few minutes, depending on device strength and area treated (Healthline, 2018; Baylor Scott & White Health, 2025).
Therefore, maintaining a consistent schedule and tracking changes through photographs or skin diaries can help users adjust routines and manage expectations (Baylor Scott & White Health, 2025).
Who should avoid red light therapy
Although red light therapy is generally safe, some people should approach it with caution (Healthline, 2018; Brown Health, 2025). Those with photosensitive conditions, active skin infections or a history of skin cancers should consult a dermatologist before use (Healthline, 2018).
In addition, individuals on medications that increase light sensitivity, such as certain antibiotics or acne medicines, may risk irritation or adverse reactions under bright LEDs (Brown Health, 2025).
Pregnant people and those with implanted electronic medical devices should also seek medical advice because data in these groups are limited (Brown Health, 2025).brownhealth
Evidence gaps and realistic expectations
Despite promising findings, red light therapy is not a miracle cure and should not replace medically proven treatments for serious conditions (Brown Health, 2025; Healthline, 2018).
Many trials involve small sample sizes, varied devices and inconsistent treatment parameters, which makes it hard to compare results across studies (Brown Health, 2025).
Because of these limitations, professional bodies often describe red light therapy as an adjunct or complementary option rather than a stand‑alone solution for most conditions (Brown Health, 2025).
Consequently, users should expect gradual, modest improvements rather than sudden transformations, and they should review progress with a qualified practitioner when possible (Brown Health, 2025; UCLA Health, 2025).
Reference list
Baylor Scott & White Health (2025) ‘5 benefits of red light therapy for healthier skin’. Baylor Scott & White Health. Available at: https://www.bswhealth.com/blog/5-benefits-of-red-light-therapy (Accessed: 12 January 2026).
Brown Health (2025) ‘Red light therapy: Benefits, safety and things to know’. Brown Health. Available at: https://www.brownhealth.org/be-well/red-light-therapy-benefits-safety-and-things-know (Accessed: 12 January 2026).
Bynder (2025) ‘12 tips for writing SEO-optimized content in 2025’. Bynder. Available at: https://www.bynder.com/en/blog/12-tips-for-writing-seo-optimized-content/ (Accessed: 12 January 2026).
ContentWriters (2023) ‘SEO basics: How to write an SEO-friendly blog post’. ContentWriters. Available at: https://contentwriters.com/blog/seo-basics-how-to-write-an-seo-friendly-blog-post/ (Accessed: 12 January 2026).
Gundersen Health System (2025) ‘Exploring the benefits of red light therapy’. Gundersen Health System. Available at: https://www.gundersenhealth.org/health-wellness/aging-well/exploring-the-benefits-of-red-light-therapy (Accessed: 12 January 2026).
Healthline (2018) ‘Red light therapy: Uses, benefits, and risks’. Healthline. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/red-light-therapy (Accessed: 12 January 2026).
Pencil Speech (2022) ‘How to write an SEO article for a blog: Copywriting’. Pencil Speech. Available at: https://pencilspeech.com/en/seo-content/how-to-write-an-seo-article-for-blog-copywriting/ (Accessed: 12 January 2026).
UCLA Health (2025) ‘5 health benefits of red light therapy’. UCLA Health. Available at: https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/5-health-benefits-red-light-therapy (Accessed: 12 January 2026).
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