Maximizing Your Red Light Therapy Results
Whether you use the BioLight Shine and Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand like LPO’s founder Anastasia or you have another favorite red light device, you may be wondering where to fit red light therapy into your skincare routine or what products and practices will enhance your results.
We’ll go through the top uses for red light therapy and share some quick tips for getting the most out of your red light sessions at home.
The Benefits of Red Light
NASA scientists uncovered the skin healing benefits of red light therapy in the 1990s while experimenting with the effects of LEDs on plant growth. The discovery? Red light stimulates the mitochondria, improving circulation and reducing inflammation.
Fast forward to today, and we now can buy advanced red light devices to boost our skin’s radiance from the comfort of home.
5 Skin Benefits of Red Light Therapy to Love:
- Accelerated wound healing
- Acne relief
- Reduced redness and hyperpigmentation
- Smoother skin
- Improved eczema and psoriasis symptoms
Let’s shine some light on the ins and outs of using red light therapy at home!
Getting the Most Out of Red Light Therapy
What You Need to Know
When should I use red light therapy in my skincare routine?
Red light therapy is best incorporated after thorough cleansing and gentle exfoliation. If you wish, you can apply a serum before using your red light device. Or, you can choose to use your device with clean, bare skin and apply a serum and moisturizer after your treatment instead.
To avoid irritation and reap the full benefits of red light therapy, always remove makeup and sunscreen before using your red light device.
What serums work best with red light?
Which serum will work best for you depends on your skin’s sensitivity and your skincare goals. Some users swear by retinol-based serums while others prefer vitamin C or a retinol-vitamin C combination. For those with sensitive skin, vitamin C may be best used after red light therapy rather than before, or in some cases, not at all.
Soothing ingredients like rosehip, plumping ingredients like hyaluronic acid, and reparative ingredients like sea buckthorn and chamomile are common favorites on the red light scene. We recommend consulting with your dermatologist or esthetician to find the right balance for your skin before making drastic changes to your skincare routine.
Yes! Applying a moisturizer after red light therapy is an ideal way to enhance your skin’s tone and texture, as red light therapy primes your skin for optimal nutrient absorption.
It depends. Every device is different, and exposure varies based on your distance from the light, the strength of your light, and whether or not you’re focusing the beams near your eye area. Some devices may come with explicit warnings to use eye protection. If you’re on the fence, ask your optometrist or reach out to the makers of your device.
Can I combine red light therapy with any other treatments or routines?
Yes! Many people who use red light therapy at home also use an infrared sauna. Staying hydrated, protecting your skin from daily stressors, choosing skin-loving foods, and getting enough rest can extend the benefits of red light therapy and help you see even better results.
Starting small and being aware of how your skin is reacting to changes in your routine can help prevent sensitivity and negative effects from overdoing it.
What are some of your favorite tips for incorporating red light therapy at home?
Tell us why you love red light therapy and what serums have helped you get the best results!
ANNIE CELENTANI
Annie Celentani is a freelance writer who loves nature, traveling and Italian wine. When she's not writing, you can find her researching natural foods & skincare products or out on a walk with her husband Paul, hoping to meet a dog to pet along the way.
