What to Look for When Buying a Red Light Therapy Device

Red light therapy (RLT) has gained popularity for its potential to improve skin health, reduce pain, and support recovery. With a flood of devices on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This guide compiles key considerations to help you select a high-quality RLT device that meets your needs.

Key Factors to Consider

Wavelength

Wavelength is just as important as irradiance. Generally, red light therapy devices deliver one or more wavelengths of red or near infrared light. All of Hue Light USA’s red light devices, for example, provide a range of red and NIR wavelengths (from about 660 to 850 nm). Plus, our best-in-class photobiomodulation bed also delivers green light, which benefits the skin. In general, look for a red light device that offers a range of visible red wavelengths (630-680 nm), as well as infrared light (800-830 nm), which studies show are the most beneficial. Wavelength affects the penetration depth of the light. Research suggests visible wavelengths (around 660 nm) don’t penetrate as deeply as NIR light, and these visible wavelengths are typically recommended for treating the skin. For deep tissues, like sore muscles or joints, near-infrared light is ideal.

Irradiance

Irradiance, as it relates to red light therapy, refers to the intensity of the light delivered to the skin or target tissue. Imagine a red light device is like a shower head spraying light particles. Irradiance is a measure of how much light energy hits a specific area over a set time. In other words, if you want to measure dosage, the output of the “shower head,” its irradiance so to speak, matters a lot. Look for panels with higher irradiance and check the wavelengths—ideally, a mix of red (around 660 nm) and near-infrared (around 850 nm) light.

Device Type and Coverage

During your comparison shopping process, you’ll want to think about where you’ll want to apply red light therapy and how well will a device cover your desired treatment area. The size and coverage can vary, from laser-like pinpoints to a full red light therapy bed, which surprisingly looks a lot like a tanning bed. While they can work for in-office use at the doctor’s, these larger options often aren’t a viable option for at-home use. RLT panels and beds are suitable for larger areas like the back or legs. A red light pad offers coverage for specific areas like the stomach or chest. Masks and wands offer targeted RLT for the face or smaller areas. Also, the device should offer comfort. Avoid a device that you’ll need to hold very close to your body for long periods of time to receive the desired irradiance.

Number of LEDs

When buying an LED light therapy device, the number of LEDs matters more than you might think. More LEDs mean better coverage and faster results, especially for larger areas like your back or legs. Although there’s not a specific amount to look for, here are some estimates: Facial panels typically have about 3000-4000 LEDs, while smaller devices might have 200-500. 

Safety and Certifications

As such, the rise of trying red light therapy devices at home has made the market vulnerable to products produced solely for cashing in on the trend. Always look for standards, FDA status or certificates that attest to the device’s authenticity and safety to prevent buying a fake or unsafe red light therapy device. Standards to look out for include those relating to the safety of the parts used and those that refer to light calibration. Most important is that the Red Light Therapy device that you are considering should be FDA listed or cleared. This means that the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reviewed this product and has determined that this particular device has met its standards and is safe. Be aware that many foreign-made Red Light Therapy devices sold on online marketplaces are not FDA listed, and so their safety and quality cannot be assured.

Budget and Warranty

Red light therapy devices range from $100 for basic handheld models to over $2,000 for professional-grade full-body panels. A higher price doesn’t always mean better quality, but extremely cheap devices may lack the necessary power and reliability.

When comparing prices, consider:

• Wavelength accuracy – Some budget devices don’t provide the right wavelengths for effective therapy.
• Irradiance levels – Lower-cost options may have weaker power output.
• Build quality – A durable device lasts longer and maintains effectiveness over time.
  

Additional Considerations

Brand Reputation

Before I commit to spending hundreds or thousands of dollars on a new gadget, I always research the brand I’ll be buying from. Many manufacturers of red light devices (especially those sold on Amazon) have no expertise with red light therapy. Instead, they simply resell or white-label devices manufactured in China, because they’ve realized how big the red light device market is. I prefer purchasing from brands that focus on red light therapy and have the necessary expertise and desire to manufacture effective products (that they use themselves).

Customer Reviews and Warranty

Lastly, customer satisfaction and testimonials can show how a particular red light therapy device works in real life. Some customers leave details regarding results, ease of use, actual light intensity, and whether the device is prone to damage or requires some maintenance investment. Customers will also let you know if the company offers customer-friendly returns and replacement procedures. Warranty and Repair Service: Last but not least, there should be a warranty plus a repair policy, in case your device ever needs to be serviced after the warranty expires.

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FAQs

1. What is the difference between red light and near-infrared light?

Red light (typically 630-680 nm) is visible and best for surface-level treatments like skin rejuvenation. Near-infrared light (800-850 nm) is invisible, penetrates deeper, and is ideal for muscle recovery or joint pain relief. Many devices combine both for versatile benefits.

2. How often should I use a red light therapy device?

Most devices recommend 10-20 minute sessions, 3-5 times per week, depending on the treatment goal. Consistency is key, but follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid overuse, which could irritate the skin.

3. Are cheaper devices as effective as expensive ones?

Not always. While price doesn’t guarantee quality, cheaper devices may have lower irradiance, incorrect wavelengths, or poor durability. Look for FDA clearance, proper wavelengths (660 nm and 850 nm), and strong customer reviews to ensure effectiveness.

4. Can red light therapy devices be used on all skin types?

Yes, RLT is generally safe for all skin types. However, people with darker skin tones may be more sensitive to visible red light, which could lead to hyperpigmentation if overused. Consult a dermatologist if you have concerns.

5. What should I avoid when buying a red light therapy device?

Avoid devices with unclear wavelength specifications, no FDA clearance, or exaggerated claims (e.g., curing diseases). Also, steer clear of brands with poor customer service or no warranty, as these may indicate low-quality products.