What Is Red Light Therapy And Should You Incorporate It Into Your Beauty Routine?

I’m not easily convinced when it comes to beauty creams, oils, or treatments that sound simple and promise you the world. But after doing some research, it seems to me that there is actual data that suggests red light therapy has major benefits for your skin. We know that sunlight has a major impact on your overall health, so it makes sense that red light would also be good for you. 

What Is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy can be defined as low wavelength, red light to help improve the appearance of the skin, such as reducing scars, acne, wrinkles, and redness, and potentially other medical conditions. This is still a new type of treatment without a ton of clinical trials, so we have yet to determine exactly how effective it could be. 

The science behind this kind of therapy shows that the red light acts as a power source in your body’s cells. The cells will absorb light wavelengths, and the mitochondria in your cells are given the energy to work more efficiently to produce new cell growth and repair and rejuvenate the skin. RLT may be beneficial for production of collagen, increasing blood circulation within the tissues, and reducing cell inflammation. 

Benefits of RLT 

The SCMS Journal describes the effects of red light, otherwise known as low level light therapy (LLLT),  explaining, “Stem cells can be activated, allowing increased tissue repair and healing. In dermatology, LLLT has beneficial effects on wrinkles, acne scars, hypertrophic scars, and healing of burns. LLLT can reduce UV damage both as a treatment and as a prophylactic measure. In pigmentary disorders such as vitiligo, LLLT can increase pigmentation by stimulating melanocyte proliferation and reduce depigmentation by inhibiting autoimmunity. Inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis and acne can also be managed. The noninvasive nature and almost complete absence of side effects encourage further testing in dermatology.”

In a nutshell, this means that red light therapy has the potential to help improve or prevent wrinkles and acne scars, help with skin pigmentation issues, and manage inflammatory diseases. And the best part is that so far we have seen little to no risk or side effects. Upon further testing, this might be a very promising form of treatment for an array of issues. Our skin responds to light better than any other organ (which makes sense since it’s the largest organ most exposed to light). 

RLT for Alopecia

People who suffer from hair loss know that it’s not an easy fix, but there is great potential in treating it with red light therapy. A 2017 study found that subjects receiving RLT at 650nm had a 51% increase in their hair count. During the trial, low level laser treatment of the scalp was used every other day for 17 weeks on healthy females between the age of 18-60 with Fitzpatrick skin Types I to IV and Ludwig-Savin Baldness Scale I-2 to II-2 baldness patterns.

This kind of therapy is thought to stimulate hair growth by positively affecting the hair follicles, promoting blood flow to the scalp, and helping create new capillaries. The major problem with RLT to treat alopecia is that there aren’t many studies on it yet, and some of the studies that have been done are not consistent with each other. But hopefully more studies will be conducted that help us fully understand the benefits. Fortunately, the side effects are little to none and it’s worth giving a try because there is no long-term risk. 

Here’s How To Use RLT

Now that you know the science behind it and the potential benefits, you might be wondering how to actually go about incorporating this into your own beauty routine. My go-to is always seeking out the professionals first. Chances are they have studied red light therapy and know the best way to get the most out of it. They’re likely to use the safest and most effective equipment. Look for a wellness center, dermatology office, or clinic that performs this service. 

For those wanting to attempt it at home, there are options, but you will still spend a pretty penny depending on what you get. It also depends on what you’re using it for. There are several different forms of RLT tools, such as wands, masks, caps for your head, and a standing light. Here are some options. 

LED Light Energy Mask, $25 

Trophy Skin RejuvaliteMD Red Light Therapy, $250 

Red Light Advanced Skin Care Wand, $149

Ultima 9 Classic LaserComb, $199

Each product is a bit different but has the same foundational concept: exposing your skin or scalp to red light. If you’re wanting something hands-free, the mask is probably the most convenient, as you simply wear it for a period of time. The wand and laser comb might take a bit more effort, but are still simple to use. To get the benefits of red light therapy, you must spend several minutes on each region of your skin, and be consistent. It’s not a one and done treatment, and the results will come over time. 

Closing Thoughts

If you’re a natural skeptic, you might see headlines for red light therapy and wonder if it’s a scam. But after researching the science behind it and reading studies, I do think it has the potential to be a risk-free, powerful tool for skin care and alopecia. Women need more products on the market that are natural and harmless. Everything is filled with toxins, side effects, and long-term risks. I’m excited to see the potential that red light therapy has!

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