Red light therapy (RLT) has gained popularity as a non-invasive skincare treatment that helps with collagen production, skin rejuvenation, and inflammation reduction. However, to get the best results, proper skin preparation is essential.
In this guide, we’ll cover six key steps to help you prepare your skin for red light therapy, ensuring maximum absorption and effectiveness.
Clean Your Skin Thoroughly
Before starting red light therapy, your skin should be free from dirt, oil, makeup, and other impurities. A clean surface allows better light penetration, enhancing the therapy’s effects.
How to properly cleanse before RLT
- Use a gentle cleanser – Harsh cleansers strip the skin’s barrier and can cause irritation. Choose a mild, fragrance-free cleanser.
- Avoid oil-based products – Oils can create a barrier that blocks light absorption. Stick to water-based cleansers.
- Pat dry your skin – Instead of rubbing with a towel, gently pat dry to avoid micro-tears in the skin.
Common mistakes to avoid
❌ Skipping cleansing – Even if you have no makeup on, sweat and oil can interfere with red light penetration.
❌ Using harsh exfoliants – Avoid scrubs and strong acids right before a session, as they can cause irritation.
Exfoliate (But Not Right Before Treatment)
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, allowing red light to penetrate deeper into the skin. However, timing matters—exfoliating immediately before a session may cause sensitivity.
Best exfoliation practices for RLT
- Use gentle exfoliants – Try AHAs (glycolic or lactic acid) or enzyme exfoliants to smooth skin without irritation.
- Exfoliate 1-2 days before therapy – This gives your skin time to recover and optimize light absorption.
- Hydrate afterward – Use a lightweight moisturizer to prevent dryness after exfoliation.
When to avoid exfoliation
❌ If your skin is red, irritated, or peeling
❌ If you’re using strong actives like retinol or acids that make your skin more sensitive
Be Cautious with Active Skincare Ingredients
Some skincare ingredients enhance red light therapy, while others increase sensitivity and should be avoided before treatment.
Safe ingredients to use with RLT
- Hyaluronic acid – Helps retain moisture and keeps skin plump.
- Niacinamide – Reduces inflammation and strengthens the skin barrier.
- Peptides – Promote collagen production, complementing red light therapy.
Ingredients to avoid before RLT
❌ Red light therapy with retinol – Retinol makes the skin more sensitive to light. It’s best to use it after your session, not before.
❌ Acids (AHAs/BHAs, vitamin C) – These increase photosensitivity, leading to irritation.
❌ Benzoyl peroxide – Can oxidize under light exposure and cause dryness.
Red light therapy before or after skincare?
Always use red light therapy on clean skin before applying serums or moisturizers.
After therapy, use hydrating and soothing products to nourish your skin.
Stay Hydrated to Improve Results
Hydration is essential for maximizing red light therapy (RLT) benefits. Well-hydrated skin absorbs light more effectively, enhancing collagen production, accelerating healing, and improving overall results.
How to Keep Your Skin Hydrated for RLT?
- Drink plenty of water
Aim for at least 8 glasses daily to maintain skin moisture from within.
- Use a hydrating mist
Spritz a facial mist before and after your session to boost hydration.
- Apply a lightweight moisturizer
Choose a water-based, non-comedogenic formula with hyaluronic acid or aloe vera to lock in moisture.
- Use a humidifier
In dry climates, a humidifier helps prevent dehydration and keeps skin supple.
How to Maximize Red Light Therapy?
To maximize the benefits of red light therapy, keep your skin hydrated, as moist skin absorbs light more effectively, promoting faster healing and collagen production. Consistency is crucial—regular sessions paired with proper skincare yield the best results.
Additionally, gentle exfoliation removes dead skin cells, allowing deeper light penetration. By following these steps, you can enhance the effects of red light therapy for healthier, glowing skin.
Protect Sensitive Areas
While red light therapy is safe, certain areas of the skin may need extra care to avoid irritation.
What to protect during treatment?
- Eyes – If the light is too bright, wear protective goggles or close your eyes during facial treatment.
- Recent wounds or cuts – Avoid treating open wounds until they have started healing.
- Tattooed skin – Some tattoos may fade or react to red light exposure. Test a small area first.
When is the best time to do red light therapy?
Morning sessions can help wake up the skin and boost circulation. Evening sessions are ideal for skin repair and relaxation before bedtime.
Apply the Right Skincare After Treatment
After a red light therapy session, your skin is more receptive to hydration and repair products. Choosing the right post-treatment skincare can enhance results.
What is the best thing to put on your face after red light therapy?
- Hyaluronic acid – Helps retain moisture and plumps the skin.
- Aloe vera gel – Soothes and cools the skin.
- Niacinamide – Reduces inflammation and protects the skin barrier.
- Peptide-based serums – Help with collagen production.
What to avoid after red light therapy?
Retinol (if your skin is sensitive) – Wait a few hours or use it on alternate days.
Harsh exfoliants (scrubs, acids) – May overstimulate the skin.
Heavy occlusive creams – Can trap heat, making the skin feel irritated.
Final Thoughts: How to Get the Best Results from Red Light Therapy
To get optimal benefits from red light therapy:
- Be consistent – Use red light therapy at least 3-5 times per week for best results.
- Time your sessions properly – Mornings for circulation boost, evenings for skin repair.
- Follow a good skincare routine – Cleanse, hydrate, and use skin-friendly products before and after treatment.
- Stay hydrated – Well-hydrated skin responds better to RLT.
- Protect sensitive areas – Use eye protection and avoid direct exposure to injured skin.
Are you worried about not choosing the right red light therapy bed? Click to check out MERICAN’s high-quality machines! By following these six essential steps, you can maximize the effectiveness of red light therapy, improve your skin health, and achieve glowing, youthful skin over time.
