Red Light Therapy: What It Is, How It Works, and Whether It’s Worth IT

Michael Zomick
May 17
5 min read

Red light therapy (RLT), also known as low-level light therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation (PBM), is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular function. Originally developed for wound healing and muscle recovery, red light therapy is now widely used for skin health, anti-aging, inflammation, hair growth, and even mental well-being.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Ulike. As always, all opinions expressed by Doctor ER are our own and based on independent review and medical expertise.

What Is Red Light Therapy? How Does Red Light Therapy Work?

Red light therapy works by delivering wavelengths of light between 600 and 850 nanometers to your skin and cells. These wavelengths penetrate deep into tissue, where they interact with mitochondria, the energy-producing parts of your cells.

This light exposure may:

Boost ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production (aka cellular energy)
Increase collagen and elastin synthesis
Improve blood flow and oxygenation
Reduce oxidative stress and inflammation

Top Benefits of Red Light Therapy (Backed by Research)

Anti-Aging and Wrinkle Reduction

Red light therapy stimulates collagen and elastin, which help tighten skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Multiple studies have shown improved skin texture, elasticity, and hydration after consistent RLT use.

Acne and Skin Clarity

Red and blue light therapy are commonly used for acne. Red light reduces inflammation, while blue light targets acne-causing bacteria. Together, they help prevent breakouts and heal blemishes faster.

Hair Regrowth

Near-infrared light (around 830nm) can stimulate hair follicles, making RLT a popular treatment for androgenetic alopecia (male/female pattern baldness).

Muscle Recovery and Pain Relief

Used by professional athletes and physical therapists, red light therapy has been shown to reduce delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and support joint and tissue healing.

Mental Health and Sleep

Some studies suggest that red and near-infrared light exposure may support circadian rhythm, improve melatonin production, and reduce anxiety—especially when used before bed.

Is Red Light Therapy Safe?

Yes, when used correctly. Red light therapy is FDA-cleared for many conditions and has minimal side effects. It’s non-invasive, doesn’t use UV light, and doesn’t cause burns.

However, be cautious of:

Overuse (follow recommended treatment times)
Cheap devices that lack clinical-grade power or safe construction
Pre-existing medical conditions (check with a doctor if you have skin cancer, eye conditions, or are pregnant)

Best Red Light Therapy Devices in 2025

If you're new to red light therapy, choosing the right device matters. Look for:

Clinical wavelengths (630–660nm red, 810–850nm near-infrared)
LED density and power output
Even light distribution
FDA clearance
Skin-safe construction

Doctor ER Recommends: Ulike ReGlow LED Face Mask

Dr. Jordan Wagner (aka Doctor ER) recently reviewed the Ulike ReGlow, an at-home red light therapy mask designed for safe, effective skincare results.

Why it stands out:

Dual light modes: red light (630nm) and blue light (460nm)
132 medical-grade LEDs for full-face coverage
Comfortable design, skin-safe silicone, and auto shut-off
FDA-cleared for at-home use

Get your Ulike ReGlow LED Light Therapy Mask at Ulike.com using this link https://us.ulike.com/4jwzdry and code "DOCTORER" for a discount + free gift.

Watch the full Doctor ER review on YouTube: This Red Light Therapy Mask Is Crazy | Ulike ReGlow

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often should I use red light therapy?

For best results, most people benefit from 3 to 5 sessions per week, with each session lasting between 10 and 20 minutes depending on the area being treated and the device's power output. Clinical studies have shown that consistency is key—red light therapy works cumulatively, meaning results build over time.

If you’re using a high-quality at-home device like the Ulike ReGlow LED mask, start with every other day for the first 2 weeks, then gradually increase to daily use if your skin tolerates it well. Just like going to the gym, the benefits are tied to regular, repeated exposure—not a single session.

How long does it take to see results from red light therapy?

Some users report seeing visible improvements in skin tone, texture, and brightness within the first 2–4 weeks. However, clinical data suggests the most significant results appear after 8 to 12 weeks of consistent use.

Here’s a general timeline:

Week 1–2: Increased hydration and a subtle “glow”
Week 3–6: Reduction in inflammation, redness, and minor breakouts
Week 8–12: Noticeable smoothing of fine lines, improvement in acne scars, and more even pigmentation

Your skin’s natural cell turnover cycle takes about 28 days, so stick with it for at least one full cycle before evaluating results.

Can red light therapy help with scars, dark spots, or hyperpigmentation?

Yes. Red light therapy has been shown to:

Stimulate fibroblasts, which support collagen production and wound healing
Reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Improve acne scars, sun damage, and age spots

For raised scars (hypertrophic or keloid), RLT can help soften and flatten the tissue over time, though it’s most effective when combined with other treatments like silicone gel or microneedling. Consistency is critical for fading discoloration and encouraging even tone.

Is red light therapy safe for all skin types and tones?

Yes—red light therapy is safe for all Fitzpatrick skin types, from I (very fair) to VI (deeply pigmented). Unlike lasers or chemical peels, RLT:

Doesn’t rely on heat
Doesn’t cause photosensitivity
Doesn’t increase melanin production (which can trigger pigmentation in darker skin tones)

That said, always follow usage instructions and avoid overexposure. If you have a skin condition like melasma, rosacea, or lupus, consult with your dermatologist before starting treatment.

Can I use red light therapy with skincare products?

Absolutely—and in some cases, red light therapy can actually enhance the absorption and effectiveness of your skincare products by increasing circulation and cellular permeability.

Here’s how to do it right:

Before RLT: Cleanse your skin. Use hydrating serums like hyaluronic acid or peptides, which can pair well with RLT.
Avoid light-sensitizing ingredients (unless instructed by a professional): Retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, and benzoyl peroxide can make skin more reactive to light and should be used with caution.
After RLT: You can apply moisturizers, antioxidants like vitamin C, or barrier-repair creams to lock in hydration.

Bonus: The Ulike ReGlow mask is designed to sit comfortably over cleansed, product-free skin—but you can experiment with light-compatible serums based on your skincare routine.

Conclusion: Should You Try Red Light Therapy?

If you're serious about improving your skin, reducing inflammation, or accelerating recovery—red light therapy is worth considering. And thanks to innovations like the Ulike ReGlow LED mask, you don’t need a $200 spa visit or prescription to get results at home.