Does Red Light Therapy Work?

Red light therapy has captured the attention of skincare enthusiasts and professionals alike, thanks to scientific evidence of its ability to penetrate and reach the dermis to produce stunning skincare results. 

This non-invasive treatment is celebrated for its ability to visibly rejuvenate and revitalize aging skin, and with companies like Solawave creating professional-grade red light therapy devices for home use, the commonly asked question is: does red light therapy really work? Spoiler: the answer is a resounding yes, so let’s talk about this incredible technology and how you can use it to bring your skincare routine to the next level.

What Is Red Light Therapy and How Does It Work?

Red light therapy is a type of photobiomodulation that harnesses light wavelengths of 630 to 700 nanometers (aka red light) to stimulate biological processes that are beneficial for the skin. Specifically, red light therapy is known to stimulate collagen production in the skin. 

Collagen is a compound responsible for providing structure to the skin, contributing to the appearance of a firm, healthy, full-looking complexion. With age, natural collagen production decreases, which is why skin aging is seen with signs like wrinkles, lines, and sagging. Red light therapy can help to rebuild  our skin’s natural collagen production, which is why its effects are so pronounced when it comes to targeting the visible signs of skin aging. 

Red light therapy is non-invasive, and can revitalize the skin's texture by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well as helping to diminish the appearance of post-hyperpigmentation and redness caused by acne. 

By stimulating the skin at the cellular level, red light therapy aims to rejuvenate and energize the complexion, offering a promising solution for those seeking to improve their skin's overall look and feel without cosmetic surgery or costly in-clinic treatments. 

Does Red Light Treatment Actually Work?

Red light therapy treatment has shown promising results in multiple studies and anecdotal reports, indicating its potential for enhancing skin appearance. A study looking at red and near-infrared light therapy specifically for targeting signs of skin aging like fine lines, wrinkles, roughness, and collagen density found that the individuals who received treatment had significant improvement among all skin concerns compared to the control group. The study’s results stated that both types of light therapy demonstrated safety and efficacy for skin rejuvenation and support of healthy collagen production. 

That’s just one of many studies and publications that have been released on red light therapy over the past decade during its development and refinement for consumer use, and when you factor in the seemingly endless string of positive reviews and consumer experiences, it’s clear that this skin treatment really does work and it’s backed by both science and consumer results. 

How Long Does Red Light Therapy Take To Work?

The time it takes for red light therapy to show noticeable results can vary depending on individual skin types and the specific concerns being addressed. Generally, users may begin to see improvements in skin appearance within a few weeks of consistent use, with optimal results often becoming more apparent after several months. It’s recommended to use your device at least three days per week for ten minutes per treatment to achieve and maintain the desired outcomes. 

Do At Home Red Light Therapy Devices Work?

At-home red light therapy devices can be effective when used consistently and correctly, offering a convenient alternative to in-clinic treatments. These devices utilize similar wavelengths of red light as those found in clinical settings, aiming to support collagen levels and improve skin appearance from the comfort of home. 

While the power and intensity may vary compared to professional equipment and among different manufacturers, many users experience positive results such as reduced appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and blemishes. 

On that note, not all at-home red light therapy devices are made the same. For example, many manufacturers will only utilize red light therapy in their devices, even though as shown by the study above, it works synergistically with near-infrared light therapy and can deliver even more benefits when combined. 

That’s why we use both red light therapy at 630 nm and near-infrared light therapy at 830 nm in our Wrinkle Retreat Red Light Therapy Mask, and that’s on top of also being FDA-cleared and made with medical-grade silicone (two features you won’t find in most consumer-available red light devices). 

Benefits of Red Light Therapy 

Red light therapy’s benefits are primarily centered around addressing skin aging concerns, and when combined with other types of skincare and/or light therapy such as near-infrared and blue light, it works to accomplish even more. 

• Reduction in the Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Red light therapy stimulates collagen production, which helps to smooth out the skin and reduce the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles, promoting a more youthful appearance.
• Diminished Appearance of Blemishes and Redness: By targeting the deeper layers of the skin, red light therapy can help to reduce the appearance of redness and scarring caused by acne, leading to a clearer and more even complexion.
• Brightening of Dark Circles: Red light therapy paired with therapeutic warming techniques can help support circulation and collagen production, which can help to brighten the appearance of dark circles under the eyes, making the skin look more refreshed and awake. 
• Rejuvenation of Skin: Red light therapy is known to result in overall skin rejuvenation, and when paired with near-infrared light therapy which can make skin look more radiant, the outcome is a complexion that looks healthier and more vibrant. 
• Depuffing of Skin: Red light therapy paired with facial massage techniques can help to reduce the appearance of puffy, irritated skin, leading to a more contoured and toned appearance.

What Are the Negatives of Red Light Therapy?

While red light therapy is considered a safe and effective skincare treatment when used as directed by manufacturer’s instructions, some individuals may encounter a few downsides depending on which device they use, the brand they purchase, and the specific goals they’re looking for. 

• Temporary Redness and Irritation: While red light therapy is generally a good fit for all skin types, some users may experience mild redness or irritation immediately after treatment, which typically subsides fairly quickly with no lasting effects. 
• Dryness of the Skin: Overuse of red light therapy (either for longer than the recommended treatment session or more often than the recommended frequency of treatments) can lead to temporary dryness, requiring additional moisturizing.
• Variable Effectiveness of At-Home Devices: The results from at-home devices may not be as pronounced depending on which device is purchased (which is why it’s important to trust a red light therapy brand with overwhelmingly positive user results and actual studies to back their claims. Hint - it’s us! Check out our red light therapy before and after results for yourself!). 
• Need For Consistency: Achieving noticeable results requires regular and consistent use over time, which may be challenging for some individuals who find it hard to stick to a routine. We recommend incorporating red light therapy into your regular skincare routine on specific days; it goes right after cleansing and right before your products!
• Initial Investment Cost: High-quality red light therapy devices can be expensive, though this can be mitigated by keeping an eye out for sales or by taking advantage of options to split the payment into smaller increments. 

Who Should Not Use Red Light Therapy?

Individuals with certain conditions or sensitivities should avoid using red light therapy. Those with photosensitivity disorders, Fitzpatrick Skin Type V or VI, or who are taking medications that increase light sensitivity may experience adverse reactions. Pregnant women and individuals with severe skin conditions should consult with a healthcare professional before starting treatment. Additionally, people with a history of skin cancer or those who are undergoing treatment for cancer should avoid red light therapy unless advised otherwise by their doctor. Finally, individuals under age 22 are advised against light-based skincare treatments due to the still-developing nature of the skin. As with any and all new types of treatment, if you have any questions or concerns about whether or not it’s a good fit for you, consult your primary care provider or dermatologist.

Comparing Red Light Therapy To Other Treatments

When comparing red light therapy to other skincare treatments, several distinct advantages and considerations emerge. Unlike invasive procedures such as chemical peels or laser resurfacing, red light therapy is non-invasive and generally free from significant side effects, making it a gentle option for addressing skin aging. While some ingredients in topical formulas can also promote collagen production and improve skin texture, red light therapy offers the unique benefit of penetrating deeper into the skin to stimulate cellular activity. Additionally, unlike some in-clinic treatments that require significant recovery time, red light therapy allows users to continue their daily activities immediately after sessions, and can even be done multiple times per week. The primary counterpoint when it comes to opting for at-home red light therapy over other professional in-clinic treatments is that results from at-home red light therapy devices may take longer to become apparent and require consistent use, whereas some other treatments may provide more immediate results.

Cost and Accessibility of Red Light Therapy

The cost and accessibility of red light therapy can vary widely depending on the method of treatment chosen, the specific device, and the brand (for at-home options). Professional treatments at dermatology clinics or spas typically offer treatments that utilize high-strength devices, but these sessions can be expensive, often ranging from $50 to $200 per session. On the other hand, at-home red light therapy devices provide a more cost-effective and convenient alternative, with initial investments ranging from $100 to $500 for quality devices. While the upfront cost of at-home devices may seem high, they can be more cost-effective over time compared to repeated professional sessions. Additionally, the convenience of at-home treatments allows users to incorporate therapy into their daily routines without the need for appointments or travel. This accessibility makes red light therapy an attractive option for those seeking to improve their skin appearance on their own schedule.

Conclusion

Red light therapy has proven to be an effective, safe, non-invasive option for targeting skin concerns related to skin aging, including wrinkles, fine lines, blemishes, and collagen decrease. With professional-grade, at-home red light therapy devices available, consumers have access to a scientifically proven, convenient solution for rejuvenating their skin without the use of invasive and costly in-clinic treatments. While individual results may vary, the growing body of evidence and positive user testimonials underscore red light therapy’s potential benefits. 

By choosing high-quality devices, following recommended guidelines, and maintaining consistent use, individuals can effectively incorporate red light therapy into their skincare routines. As research continues to evolve, red light therapy stands out as a valuable tool in targeting skin aging using science-based treatment tools. 

Sources:

1. Photobiomodulation: Lasers vs Light Emitting Diodes? - PMC 
2. Decreased Collagen Production in Chronologically Aged Skin - PMC 
3. A Controlled Trial to Determine the Efficacy of Red and Near-Infrared Light Treatment in Patient Satisfaction, Reduction of Fine Lines, Wrinkles, Skin Roughness, and Intradermal Collagen Density Increase 
4. TABLE 1, Fitzpatrick Classification of Skin Types I through VI - Cutaneous Melanoma - NCBI Bookshelf