We have NASA to thank for red light therapy.
Before the skin-loving, hair-follicle stimulating benefits were discovered, the LED was used by astronauts to combat injury on space missions before becoming a fixture in professional clinics.
The world’s leading aesthetics harnessed red light after NASA’s data revealed its impact on the skin’s reparative process, stimulating collagen, calming inflammation, busting breakouts and improving the appearance of pigmentation.
It has been predicted that red light therapy will be one of 2025’s biggest wellness trends, harking back to NASA’s original intentions for its creation. “Consumers will increasingly incorporate LED devices into their self-care routines not just for skin rejuvenation, but also for overall wellness”, suggests Dr Treacy, owner of Ailesbury Clinic Dublin and Cork. “This shift will position LED light therapy as a versatile tool, bridging the gap between beauty and health, and making it a staple in both skincare regimens and wellness practices.”
What do the experts say? To decode everything you need to know about red light therapy, we called on Emma Wedgwood, Advanced Nurse Practitioner and Natalia Armaganova, Heleo4 Brand Director to find out more.
What is red light therapy?
Armaganova explains, “Red light therapy (RLT) is a gentle, non-invasive treatment that uses low-wavelength red light to penetrate the skin and to stimulate cellular function. It’s often used in dermatology and aesthetic treatments to rejuvenate the skin and speed up the healing process.
“With wavelengths typically between 630 and 850 nanometers, red light therapy helps to boost collagen production and improve circulation, making it effective for reducing wrinkles and treating acne”.
Wedgwood adds, “In addition to skincare, red light therapy improves blood circulation, making it effective for treating muscle pain, reducing joint inflammation, promoting hair growth, and even supporting better vision. Its versatility has made it a popular choice not only in aesthetics but also in broader wellness treatments”.
How do red light therapy devices work?
“Red light therapy devices work by emitting low-wavelength red light that penetrates into the skin and tissues”, says Armaganova. “Once the light reaches the cells, it stimulates the mitochondria, which are like the powerhouses of the cells”.
Continuing on, Wedgwood reveals, “This light boosts cellular energy production, enabling cells to repair and regenerate more rapidly. As a result, it improves skin tone, reduces signs of ageing, and accelerates the healing of damaged skin. The therapy also stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, helping to keep skin firm and radiant”.
Both draw attention to red light therapy’s improvement of blood circulation, which Wedgwood adds, “further enhances the skin’s regenerative processes”. She says too that it “has even been shown to improve minor vision issues”.
Armaganova ends by explaining that “The treatment is gentle and non-invasive, making it a popular choice for people looking to improve their skin’s health without downtime or discomfort”.
Are home red light therapy devices worth it?
“Home red light therapy devices can be a convenient and affordable option for improving your skin from the comfort of your home. However, it’s important to manage expectations”, Wedgwood cautions. “While home devices can deliver results, professional treatments are generally more powerful and produce quicker, more noticeable improvements. For home devices, results may take longer to appear and are more suited to long-term use”.
Armaganova agrees, adding that “If you’re looking for subtle improvements or maintenance, a home device might be an option, but for more significant concerns like deeper wrinkles, severe acne, and faster results, in-clinic treatments are likely to be far more effective”.
What makes a good red light therapy device?
Look out for the following, according to Wedgwood.
- Wavelength: A high-quality red light therapy device should operate within the optimal wavelength range of 600 to 1000 nanometers, ensuring it effectively boosts skin repair and collagen production. Power: The device should have sufficient power to penetrate deeply into the skin, and a larger surface area can make treatments faster by covering more skin at once.
- Clinically tested: Look for devices that have been clinically tested or are FDA-approved to ensure safety and efficacy.
- Medical professional: While red light therapy is generally considered a safe treatment, it’s always wise to consult with a medical professional before starting, especially if you have any underlying conditions.
Shop the best red light therapy devices below
