Preparing your skin properly before using red light therapy can maximize the effectiveness of the treatment and ensure you get the best results. Here are some steps to follow in order to prepare your skin before each red light therapy session:
1. Cleanse Your Skin
- Remove Makeup and Dirt: Before starting red light therapy, ensure that your skin is free from makeup, sunscreen, dirt, or oils. These can block the light from penetrating your skin effectively.
- Gentle Cleanser: Use a mild, non-stripping cleanser to wash your face or the treatment area. Avoid harsh scrubs or cleansers with strong chemicals, as they could irritate the skin before treatment.
- Avoid Harsh Exfoliation: Do not use exfoliating products or treatments immediately before your session (like chemical exfoliants, scrubs, or retinoids), as this could make your skin more sensitive and prone to irritation.
2. Pat Skin Dry
- After cleansing, gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel. Avoid rubbing your skin, which could cause irritation.
3. Apply a Thin Layer of Serum (Optional)
- Hydrating Serums: Some people like to apply a light serum or oil to their skin after cleansing. Serums that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, or antioxidants can be beneficial because they provide hydration and nutrients to the skin. The benefits of red light therapy are enhanced when paired with products that promote skin repair and rejuvenation.
- Avoid Heavy Creams: Don’t apply thick creams, oils, or heavy moisturizers right before your session, as they could interfere with the light’s ability to penetrate the skin.
4. Remove Any Jewelry or Accessories
- Take off any jewelry, watches, or accessories that may block the light from reaching your skin. The light needs direct access to the treatment area to be effective.
5. Avoid Strong Skincare Treatments
- Avoid Chemical Peels & Strong Exfoliants: If you’ve recently had a chemical peel, dermabrasion, or microdermabrasion treatment, it’s best to wait a few days before using red light therapy. Your skin may be more sensitive and prone to irritation after such procedures.
- Avoid Retinoids/Retinol: Retinoids can make the skin more sensitive, so it’s a good idea to wait at least 24 hours after using them before doing red light therapy.
6. Protect Your Eyes (If Necessary)
- Red light therapy is generally safe for the eyes, but prolonged exposure to intense light can be harmful. If your device does not come with built-in eye protection, or if you are sensitive to light, consider wearing protective glasses or goggles designed for LED light therapy to shield your eyes from the direct light.
7. Check Device Settings
- Make sure that your red light therapy device is set to the appropriate wavelength and intensity. For skin rejuvenation and anti-aging purposes, the common wavelength is around 600–650 nm (red light). Higher intensity may be used for more targeted or professional treatments, but ensure it’s within the recommended range for your device and skin type.
8. Test the Device Before Use
- If you’re using a new device, test it on a small area of skin first (such as your jawline or inner forearm) to ensure there is no irritation or sensitivity.
9. Set Up Your Treatment Area
- Comfortable Environment: Ensure you are in a comfortable space where you can relax for the duration of your treatment. You’ll need to stay still, so set up a chair, couch, or place where you can sit or lie down without distractions.
- Proper Distance: Position the red light therapy device at the correct distance from your skin. Typiquement, this is between 1 à 6 pouces, depending on the device. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for the ideal distance.
10. Stay Hydrated
- Drinking water before your session can help your skin maintain hydration and optimize the healing processes stimulated by the red light therapy. Hydrated skin responds better to the therapy, making it more effective.
Summary:
To get the best results from red light therapy, clean your skin thoroughly to remove any dirt or makeup, apply a light serum if desired (but avoid heavy creams), and protect your eyes if necessary. Also, avoid using harsh skincare products (like exfoliants or retinoids) just before treatment. Position the device correctly, follow the recommended treatment time, and stay consistent for optimal results. By preparing your skin well, you’ll enhance the benefits of the therapy and promote healthier, rejuvenated skin.
