Skip to content
    Skin Rejuvenation

    Red Light Therapy

    Red light therapy, also called photobiomodulation or low-level light therapy, uses red and near-infrared light on the skin. It is offered in medspas as panels, beds and handheld devices. Devices and settings vary, so ask what the device is cleared for and how sessions are run. This guide is for education only and is not medical advice. Talk to a licensed clinician about whether any treatment is right for you.

    Red Light Therapy treatment at a luxury medical spa

    Average Cost

    Varies by provider. Ask for a written, itemized quote.

    Session Duration

    Often a short appointment. Ask the clinic.

    Results

    Individual experiences differ. No outcome is guaranteed.

    Downtime

    Ask your provider what to expect for your situation.

    How Red Light Therapy Works

    1. 1

      Skin and medication check

    2. 2

      Eye protection is fitted

    3. 3

      Light session at the settings the provider chooses

    4. 4

      Aftercare advice

    Benefits of Red Light Therapy

    • Non-invasive and usually no recovery period
    • Often offered as a series of visits
    • Devices differ a lot, so the specifications matter

    Risks & Side Effects

    • Eye strain unless eyes are protected
    • Skin irritation in some people
    • Some medicines and conditions increase light sensitivity

    Red Light Therapy Cost Guide

    Average Cost: Varies by provider. Ask for a written, itemized quote.

    Ideal Candidate: Adults who have checked for light sensitivity, photosensitising medicines and eye safety with the provider.

    Read full cost guide

    Before & After Tips

    • Write down your questions and your full medical history before the consultation.
    • Tell the provider about every medication, supplement and condition, including allergies and pregnancy.
    • Ask for the written aftercare instructions and who to call if something feels wrong.
    • Do not rely on before and after photos alone. Ask how typical or atypical they are.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is red light therapy the same as a tanning bed?
    No. Red and near-infrared light are different from the ultraviolet light in tanning beds, but you should still protect your eyes.
    What research is available?
    Our research round-up for red light therapy links to the published studies on PubMed.
    Questions to ask a provider before Red Light Therapy
    Ask who performs and supervises the treatment, and what licence they hold. Ask what the treatment is approved or cleared for, by which regulator, and what is outside that. Ask for a written, itemized quote and the cancellation and refund policy. Ask what happens if you have a bad reaction and who is on site.
    Is this Red Light Therapy guide medical advice?
    This guide is for education only and is not medical advice. Talk to a licensed clinician about whether any treatment is right for you.

    Alternatives to Red Light Therapy

    LED facialsMicrocurrent facialsOther skin treatments on this site

    More on Red Light Therapy

    Medical Disclaimer

    The information on MedSpa Listings is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not create a provider-patient relationship. Always consult with a board-certified physician or qualified healthcare provider before undergoing any medical spa treatment. Individual results may vary. MedSpa Listings does not endorse any specific provider, treatment, or product.