Red Light Therapy (RLT), also known as photobiomodulation, is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-level light wavelengths to stimulate cellular function. This technique relies on the absorption of specific light energy by the mitochondria within your cells. Proper preparation for each session is necessary to maximize the light’s penetration and overall therapeutic benefit.
Preparing Skin and Protecting Eyes
The skin must be clean and completely free of barriers before a red light therapy session. Makeup, lotions, heavy moisturizers, and especially sunscreen can absorb or scatter the light, significantly reducing the energy that reaches the target cells. Mineral-based sunscreens, for instance, are designed to block light, which impedes therapeutic wavelengths from penetrating the skin’s surface.
Use a mild cleanser to remove all surface oils and impurities just before treatment, ensuring the skin is clean and dry. This allows the red and near-infrared (NIR) light to reach the deeper layers of the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. After the session, you can resume your regular skincare routine, including moisturizers and sun protection.
Protecting the eyes is a necessary safety step, especially when using high-powered devices that emit near-infrared light. While red light is generally safe, the high intensity of the light source can cause temporary discomfort, strain, or potential damage to the retina. Specialized, opaque goggles or protective eyewear designed to block the specific wavelengths should always be worn during treatment, particularly for facial applications or when the device is close to the head.
Optimizing the Session Setting
Clothing must be removed from the target zone to ensure the therapeutic light reaches the area you are treating. Fabric prevents the red and near-infrared light from reaching the skin, making the session ineffective for any covered area. Direct, unimpeded exposure to the light panel is necessary.
Maintaining the correct distance from the device directly influences the intensity of the light dose, known as irradiance. Most manufacturers recommend 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 centimeters) for general skin treatments. For deeper tissue issues like muscle recovery, a closer distance of 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 centimeters) may be necessary to ensure NIR wavelengths deliver a sufficient dose.
The Inverse Square Law dictates that light intensity decreases dramatically the farther you move from the source, meaning increased distance significantly reduces the energy delivered. Measure the distance and set a precise timer based on recommendations, typically ranging from 10 to 20 minutes per session. Adhering to a consistent schedule and positioning is more effective than sporadic, high-intensity sessions.
Essential Health and Safety Checks
Before starting a red light therapy regimen, review any medications you are taking with a healthcare provider. Certain medications are photosensitizing, meaning they increase the skin’s sensitivity to light and can cause adverse reactions like burns or severe irritation when exposed to RLT. This group includes specific antibiotics, such as tetracyclines, topical retinoids, and St. John’s Wort.
A medical consultation is necessary if you have health conditions that may be contraindications. Individuals with active cancerous lesions, photosensitive disorders like lupus, or those who are pregnant should seek professional guidance before treatment. While RLT is generally safe, its effects on these specific conditions require caution.
For those starting treatment, especially with a new device, it is advisable to begin with a short duration, such as a three to five-minute session. This initial exposure acts as a patch test to gauge skin sensitivity and monitor for unexpected reactions. A slight warming or temporary pinkness is normal, but any prolonged irritation or pain should prompt you to reduce the frequency or duration of future sessions.