What Do Dermatologists Think of Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy (RLT), also known as photobiomodulation or low-level laser therapy, has surged in popularity for its potential to address skin concerns like wrinkles, acne, and inflammation. Dermatologists have been using it in clinical settings for years, and with the rise of at-home devices, it’s become a staple in many skincare routines.

Dermatologists’ Perspectives on Red Light Therapy

Dr. Rachel Nazarian, Board-Certified Dermatologist

There is no doubt that red light can be very, very beneficial to skin. What it's actually doing is stimulating the cells to create new energy. LED, or light emitting diodes, create a narrow wavelength that can penetrate the deepest into the tissue, which is probably why it has all this potential to help skin. This is not going to mean you don't do your Botox Cosmetic, your fillers, your lasers — that's separate, those are done in the doctor's office, but these red lights are really fantastic because you have the power to do them at home and safely for most people. It helps to look for something that says 'FDA cleared,' and that sits in the low energy red light spectrum.

Dr. Heather Rogers, Board-Certified Dermatologist

Low-level therapy devices that emit red light and infrared light are the most effective option for skin rejuvenation and wound healing. When exposed to red and infrared wavelengths, the cells in our bodies absorb energy from the light, become more efficient in their use of oxygen, and are better able to make cell fuel, or ATP. As an anti-aging treatment, low-level light therapy with red and infrared wavelengths can improve how skin cells work. With more fuel, the cells become more active and better at doing their jobs, including DNA repair, collagen synthesis, and calming inflammation. For best outcomes, the device needs to be touching or nearly touching your skin to ensure the energy is being absorbed into your skin.

Dr. Dendy Engelman, Board-Certified Dermatologist

Red light therapy is a low-level laser light therapy that exposes the skin to low wavelengths of light in order to address a number of skin concerns. The light causes cells to work more efficiently and regenerate and repair damage, without pain or downtime. This technology is so great because it is completely painless and doesn’t cause damage to the skin or downtime, like some other light therapies do. RLT induces skin regeneration, whereas other therapies stimulate tissue repair by causing controlled damage to the outermost layer of the skin. This is why RLT has huge benefits of reducing wrinkles, scars, and acne. For those looking to get the full benefit from red light therapy, I recommend considering a clinical setting with in-office medical-grade devices.

Dr. Apple Bodemer, Board-Certified Dermatologist

Red light therapy, sometimes called photobiomodulation, applies specific wavelengths of light (usually around 630 nanometers) onto your skin. These wavelengths can penetrate two to three millimeters below the skin, and cause positive reactions in the cells just under your skin. Specifically, a type of cell organelle called mitochondria absorb the light, stimulating the cell. Stimulated mitochondria are beneficial because they can produce more energy and be more active, increasing collagen production. Red light therapy can also increase blood circulation to tissues, providing anti-inflammatory benefits.

Dr. Anthony Rossi, Board-Certified Dermatologist

Red light is something dermatologists have been using for quite some time now. I'm a big proponent of red light therapy, because I use it in a clinical setting. Red light − a spectrum of visible light around 600 nanometers in wavelength − shows promise as a safe way of healing the skin of many problems. It stimulates the production of adenosine triphosphate, or ATP, an energy compound described as the gasoline of our body. Seeing a board-certified dermatologist who does red light therapy is probably your best bet, because the tools that they're using are medical grade, they're standardized, they know how to use them, they know how to properly place them.

Dr. Jean Charles, Board-Certified Dermatologist

Red light therapy is so new that the dermatologic community hasn’t even settled on one name for it. Various research studies refer to it as low-level laser therapy, cold laser therapy, phototherapy, photomodulation, and a variety of other names. While dermatologists and research scientists haven’t decided on one name for this cutting-edge treatment, red light therapy is quickly gaining popularity thanks to the skin-rejuvenating results researchers are noting in research studies. Dermatologists don’t often recommend treatments that are considered experimental or under development, but red light therapy is a minimally invasive, safe treatment that has shown significant improvement for many people, so dermatologists have started utilizing and recommending this procedure.

Dr. Jennifer Levine, Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon

Red light therapy involves exposing skin to specific wavelengths of red light — between 630 to 670 nanometers (nm) — and near-infrared light (between 810 to 850 nm), which act on the mitochondria, energizing cells and allowing them to function more efficiently. Cells’ energy is created in the mitochondria, and red light exposure may produce a positive biochemical effect that strengthens the mitochondria, allowing cells to function more efficiently and rejuvenate and repair themselves. If a patient’s goal is to reduce dark spots, then the provider may use a combination of treatments that will produce results faster than red light therapy alone.

Dr. Nour Kibbi, Clinical Assistant Professor of Dermatology

Before red light gained a reputation in the beauty industry, dermatologists used it for early-stage treatment of precancerous and early, thin skin cancers. Red light applied at a specific wavelength in conjunction with a topical drug kills skin cells, a type of treatment called photodynamic therapy. (Red light, alone, does not destroy skin cancer.) When applied to damaged or diseased skin cells, such as cancer cells, those cells die off and allow for the growth of new skin. There is promise and scientific evidence to back some uses in a clinical dermatology setting, particularly for hair growth and skin rejuvenation.

FAQ

What skin conditions can red light therapy treat?

Red light therapy is used to address a variety of skin concerns, including wrinkles, fine lines, acne, rosacea, psoriasis, scars, and hyperpigmentation. It’s also shown promise for promoting hair growth in cases of hereditary hair loss and aiding wound healing. Dermatologists often recommend it as a complementary treatment alongside other therapies like medicated creams or microneedling.

Is red light therapy safe for all skin types?

Yes, red light therapy is generally safe for all skin types and tones, as it doesn’t cause thermal damage or UV exposure. However, individuals with photosensitive conditions like lupus, those taking photosensitizing medications, or people with a history of eye disorders should consult a dermatologist before use. Eye protection is also recommended to avoid potential damage from bright lights.

How does at-home red light therapy compare to in-office treatments?

At-home devices are convenient and FDA-cleared options are considered safe, but they are typically less powerful than professional equipment used in dermatologists’ offices. In-office treatments deliver stronger, more concentrated light, often yielding faster and more noticeable results. At-home devices are better suited for maintenance or mild concerns, requiring consistent use over weeks or months.

How long does it take to see results?

Results vary depending on the device, frequency of use, and skin condition. Some people notice improvements after a few sessions, but most require 8–12 weeks of consistent use (3–5 times per week) for visible changes, such as reduced wrinkles or improved skin texture. In-office treatments may show results sooner due to their higher intensity.

Are there any side effects?

Side effects are rare and usually mild, including temporary redness or dryness. Overuse or malfunctioning devices may cause burns or blistering. Avoiding the eye area or using protective goggles is crucial to prevent discomfort or potential eye damage. Consulting a dermatologist can help minimize risks, especially for those with sensitive skin or medical conditions.

Can red light therapy be combined with other treatments?

Yes, dermatologists often use red light therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. It pairs well with treatments like Botox, fillers, chemical peels, or microneedling to enhance results, reduce inflammation, or speed recovery. Combining red light with blue light therapy can also target acne by addressing both inflammation and bacteria.