Lasers & Light
Red Light Therapy: what it is, what to expect and where to find it
What is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy, also called LED light therapy or photobiomodulation, exposes the skin to low levels of red and near-infrared light. Medical spas offer it in panels, beds or face masks, alone or as an add-on to facials, for skin tone and texture, and some clinics market it for recovery.
How Red Light Therapy works
Unlike lasers, these devices do not heat or damage tissue. The light is thought to be absorbed by parts of cells involved in energy production, which may support skin repair and collagen. Research for skin uses is promising but still developing, and results depend on the device, the light dose and how often sessions happen.
What to expect at the appointment
- A short consultation and removal of makeup from the area being treated.
- Eye protection while you sit or lie under the light panel or wear a mask.
- A session that feels gently warm and is usually relaxing.
- A suggested schedule of repeat sessions.
Recovery and downtime
There is generally no downtime. People can go straight back to normal activities.
Safety and suitability
- Tell the provider about photosensitising medicines, light-triggered conditions and any history of skin cancer.
- Home devices are usually lower in output than clinic equipment.
- Benefits are typically gradual and need regular sessions.
- It is a complement to, not a replacement for, medical treatment of skin disease.
Questions to ask before you book
- Which wavelengths does your device use, and why?
- How many sessions do you recommend, and how often?
- Can this be combined with my other treatments?
- Is eye protection provided?
Red Light Therapy FAQ
Is red light therapy the same as a tanning bed?
No. Tanning beds use ultraviolet light, which damages skin. Red light therapy uses red and near-infrared light, which does not tan the skin.
How often should I do red light therapy?
Clinics usually suggest several sessions a week at first, then less often. The right schedule depends on the device and your goal, so ask your provider.
Does red light therapy help with acne?
Blue light is more commonly used for acne, sometimes combined with red light to calm inflammation. A provider can suggest whether light therapy suits your skin.
This is general information, not medical advice, and results differ from person to person. Talk to a licensed provider before booking if you have a skin condition, are pregnant or take medicines that affect your skin.
Written and fact-checked against our editorial rules (no prices, statistics or promised results) by the MedSpa Listings editorial team. Last reviewed 2026-11-03.
Where to find Red Light Therapy
City pages for Red Light Therapy appear once at least three listed clinics in a city name it on their own website. Browse med spas by state.
6 listed clinics name Red Light Therapy on their own website (MedSpa Listings service scan).