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What Should I Put On My Skin Before Red Light Therapy

Date

Updated Mar 13, 2025

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8 Min

Article by

David Johnson

4. What Should You Apply After Red Light Therapy?
5. How to Use a Red Light Therapy Panel at Home for Maximum Skincare Benefits
6. Red Light Therapy Panel vs. Other Devices
7. How Often Should You Use Red Light Therapy?
8. How Long Should Each Session Last?
9. Do You Need Eye Protection for Red Light Therapy on Your Face?

References

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There are several routines people practice today to maintain healthy skin. The search for new and better ways of improving skin conditions is not ending soon. The use of wavelengths of light is one of the techniques that is gaining popularity in skincare.

The primary light wavelengths used in skincare are red and near-infrared (NIR) lights. Red light therapy (RLT) has promising results in rejuvenating and treating some skin conditions. But how should you use red light therapy for optimal results and avoid its dangers?

This article will answer the above question for you and help you determine if you need additional products on your skin during therapy. Keep reading to understand the benefits of red light therapy for your skin health.

What Should I Put On My Skin Before Red Light Therapy

The Benefits of Red Light Therapy for Your Skin

It is essential to understand how red light therapy works and the benefits of the treatment. RLT features devices that produce red or near-infrared light in specific wavelengths. Red light therapy is also known as LED therapy because the devices use light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

The wavelengths penetrate the skin surface, and the cells in the skin absorb the light photons. The action gives cells a healthy biochemical reaction called photobiomodulation. There are many benefits of using red light for your skin health, including:

1. Increases Production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP)

When you expose your skin to low-level red light wavelengths, the skin's cells absorb the light particles in the mitochondria. The light photons help the mitochondria produce ATP, the energy a cell uses to function. More ATP makes the cells more energetic and work better in fighting skin conditions.

2. Increasing collagen density

More collagen increases skin elasticity, which helps to improve appearance. Wavelengths of red light lift and tighten lax skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles.

3. Helps in blood circulation

Red light increases blood circulation in the skin tissues. Optimal blood circulation in tissues helps deliver vital elements like oxygen and minerals. It also helps in carrying away impurities not excreted by the skin.

4. Encourages growth of new skin

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) encourages new skin and blood vessel growth. RLT will help heal chronic wounds better. Red light helps in angiogenesis (formation of blood vessels) and increases fibroblasts in the skin, both of which help to soreness.

5. Helps in the treatment of acne

Red light therapy shows evidence of reducing inflammatory and noninflammatory lesions resulting from acne vulgaris. RLT also causes sebum oil excretion in the skin. In combination with blue light therapy, red light helps to reduce acne-causing bacteria.

6. Hair growth

Applying a specific red light band helps stimulate hair follicle proliferation. The idea can help to treat pattern hair loss. However, there is a need for more clinical research on the subject to obtain conclusive recommendations.

A dermatologist may also recommend using red light therapy to treat the following common skin concerns.

● Sun damage
● Eczema
● Hyperpigmentation
● Age spots
● Stretch marks
● Rosacea

Should You Put Anything on Your Skin Before Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy is a revolutionizing skincare routine. However, knowing how to prepare your skin for optimal results is crucial. So, should you put anything on your skin before red light therapy?

Here is how to prepare your skin for optimal results using red light therapy.

1. Ensure your skin is clean

You must thoroughly cleanse your overall skin before starting your red light therapy session. Cleaning your skin removes makeup, excess oil, and dirt, allowing red light to penetrate effectively.

Use a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type. Avoid products that can cause skin irritation and act as the skin's natural barrier.

2. Apply a moisturizer

After cleansing your skin, apply a moisturizer or hydrating toner lotion. It hydrates your skin by giving it an initial layer of moisture that helps to balance your skin's pH.

We recommend using a moisturizer with active ingredients like chamomile, vitamin C, or aloe vera. Such a product helps calm the skin and receives optimal benefits from red light therapy.

3. Apply an antioxidant

Using an antioxidant-rich product will protect your skin from free radicals. LED therapy also enhances the rejuvenating effects.

Please choose a product with active ingredients like vitamin C and green tea, which have anti-aging benefits. They also help to improve your skin texture and tone.

4. You can apply a serum with vitamin C

It helps to boost antioxidant protection, which enhances results. Vitamin C serum prepares your skin to absorb the therapy light.

5. Use a targeted serum

Consider applying a targeted serum before your red light therapy session for optimal results. Look for a serum that expressly works with red light therapy.

The serum should feature marine collagen, coenzyme Q10, and niacinamide. These ingredients enhance skin rejuvenation, provide antioxidant protection, and boost elastin.

6. Use a product with Salicylic Acid & BHAs

Products with these ingredients penetrate deep into the skin and clear clogged pores. They help reduce inflammation and also exfoliate dead skin cells.

Such products can complement red light therapy effectively if you have sensitive skin. They are good if you prefer non-chemical treatment for acne.

7. Applying Anti-Aging creams

Red light therapy can reduce the appearance of fine lines. Applying an anti-aging serum or cream before LED light therapy may accelerate results. The best anti-aging products for red light therapy are peptides, vitamin C, argan oil, or retinol.

Why Skip Any Product Before LED Light Therapy?

There are many skincare products available on the market that have different effects on your skin. There are some of these products that you should skip before LED light therapy. They include products containing:

1. Retinoids

These are ingredients that can increase skin sensitivity and irritation. Retinoids can exacerbate the effects of red light, and we advise you to skip them before your therapy session to prevent possible adverse reactions.

2. Exfoliating Acids

Strong exfoliating acids like glycolic acid can increase skin sensitivity. Applying such products right before the LED light therapy session might lead to skin irritation and discomfort.

3. Products with added perfumes

Skincare products with added Perfumes can cause skin irritation. When combined with the heat and light from the device, the added fragrance can cause adverse effects. Choose fragrance-free options to minimize the risk.

4. Heavy oils

Thick oils can create a barrier on the skin, preventing the wavelengths of red light from penetrating effectively. It's best to use non-comedogenic and lighter oils that can't interfere with the therapy.

5. Makeup and sunscreen

Sunscreen's primary purpose is to block ultraviolet light. However, it can also hinder the red and NIR lights from penetrating the skin. To ensure RLT's effectiveness, cleanse off any makeup and sunscreen before your therapy session.

What Should You Apply After Red Light Therapy?

Although red light therapy has many benefits, following your dermatologist's recommendations to maintain healthy skin is essential. After a session of red light therapy, you need to continue your skincare routine to avoid other conditions.

You can apply the following after red light therapy:

● A serum rich in hyaluronic acid to moisturize your skin
● A gentle moisturizer for skin nourishment
● An antioxidant cream with vitamin C
● An aloe vera gel to cool your skin
● If your therapy session is in the morning, apply sunscreen before

going outdoors.

How to Use a Red Light Therapy Panel at Home for Maximum Skincare Benefits

Today, it's possible to have red light therapy at home for maintaining your skin tone. Various devices can help you get this revolutionary treatment in your home's comfort. One such device is the red light panel, like the RedliteX Pro series.

Red light therapy panels are robust and deliver multiple wavelengths of light. However, knowing how to use a red light therapy panel at home for maximum skin benefits is essential.

Step-by-step guide of using red light therapy panel at home for maximum skincare benefits

● Read and understand the manufacturer's instructions on usage

and operation

● Power your device

● Prepare yourself for the therapy by cleansing your skin and applying

the recommended ointment.

● Wear goggles if the instructions recommend so

● Position yourself at the recommended distance from the panel

● Ensure your exposure time is as per the recommendations

● Maintain a consistent use of the device to achieve optimal results

● Follow the recommendations above after your therapy session to

maintain healthy skin

Red Light Therapy Panel vs. Other Devices

LED light therapy devices for the Face come in many designs. The most common LED light devices for use at home include:

● Face masks
● Eye masks
● Eye patches
● Panels
● Hand-held devices that target a small area
● Caps and helmets

Some of these devices only apply to facial red light therapy. However, red light therapy panels can serve you in other treatments and target a larger skin area.

Our RedliteX Pro panels can work with up to five wavelengths. It produces 480nm, 630nm, 660nm, 810nm, 830nm, 850nm, and 1060nm. These multiple wavelengths make our panel effective in treating testosterone levels, arthritis, back pains, and much more.

How Often Should You Use Red Light Therapy?

Recommendation for Red light therapy sessions 3-5 times per week. We advise you to start lower and increase as you get used to the therapy.

For treatment of various skin conditions, here is how often you should use red light therapy:

How long you should continue with red light therapy is unclear. You must be consistent with treatment for 3 weeks or more to notice positive results.

There are no known side effects of red light, and you can continue with therapy for an extended period. However, you should keep track of your progress and signs of any adverse effects. If you see any side effects on your skin after using red light, consult your healthcare provider.

Always consult a red light therapy professional before starting the therapy. You should also seek a healthcare provider's opinion to see if any other underlying issue is causing your condition.

How Long Should Each Session Last?

The device used is the primary determinant of a red light therapy session. Red light devices for use at home come with varying capabilities in terms of wavelengths. Devices with higher wavelengths have shorter session periods than those with lower wavelengths.

Do You Need Eye Protection for Red Light Therapy on Your Face?

Unlike other wavelengths of light, red light may not have a big impact on your eyes. However, if your red light device manufacturer recommends wearing eye protection, you should do so.

We also recommend wearing protection using small devices that target a specific area when treating surfaces near the eyes. The brightening light can have some effect on your retina, which can cause eye damage.

References

1. Dynamic spine & sport (2023, November 2)How Long to Use Red Light Therapy on the Face?

2. Thera light (2023, October 09) How to Prepare Your Skin For Red Light Therapy

3. Solawave (2023, June 14) How To Maximize Your At-Home Red Light Therapy Sessions

4. Redlitex ()Redlitex Pro Series

Article by

David Johnson

David Johnson is a co-founder of RedliteX and a healthcare professional with extensive experience in red light therapy. He specializes in the research and application of red light therapy panels for therapeutic and wellness purposes, with a deep understanding of the science behind light-based treatments. Committed to education and evidence-based insights, he focuses on how red light therapy can support healing, pain management, recovery, and overall well-being.

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What Should I Put On My Skin Before Red Light Therapy

In This Article

The Benefits of Red Light Therapy for Your Skin

1. Increases Production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP)

2. Increasing collagen density

3. Helps in blood circulation

4. Encourages growth of new skin

5. Helps in the treatment of acne

6. Hair growth

Should You Put Anything on Your Skin Before Red Light Therapy?

1. Ensure your skin is clean

2. Apply a moisturizer

3. Apply an antioxidant

4. You can apply a serum with vitamin C

5. Use a targeted serum

6. Use a product with Salicylic Acid & BHAs

7. Applying Anti-Aging creams

Why Skip Any Product Before LED Light Therapy?

1. Retinoids

2. Exfoliating Acids

3. Products with added perfumes

4. Heavy oils

5. Makeup and sunscreen

What Should You Apply After Red Light Therapy?

How to Use a Red Light Therapy Panel at Home for Maximum Skincare Benefits

Red Light Therapy Panel vs. Other Devices

How Often Should You Use Red Light Therapy?

How Long Should Each Session Last?

Do You Need Eye Protection for Red Light Therapy on Your Face?

References

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