How Often Should You Do Red Light Therapy?
Not sure how often to use red light therapy—or if you’re even using it right in the first place?
Whether you’re just getting started or trying to make the most of your device, finding the right rhythm can be weirdly confusing.
We’ll break down how often to use red light therapy based on what you’re trying to treat—skin, muscle, hair, or beyond—and how to get the best results over time.
Key Notes
Different conditions require different treatment frequencies, from daily use to 2-3 times weekly.
Treatment duration typically ranges from 3-20 minutes depending on device power and condition.
Most skin benefits appear after 4-12 weeks of consistent use following recommended schedules.
Overuse can potentially diminish benefits through cellular adaptation and light saturation effects.
Red Light Therapy: Basics and Benefits
Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation or low-level light therapy, uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular function.
Unlike UV light, these wavelengths are completely safe and don't cause damage to skin tissues.
The primary benefits of red light therapy include:
Skin rejuvenation: Reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and improving overall texture
Collagen production: Enhancing skin elasticity and firmness
Hair growth stimulation: Addressing pattern baldness and thinning hair
Pain relief: Decreasing inflammation and accelerating healing
Improved circulation: Promoting better blood flow to treated areas
Muscle recovery: Reducing soreness and speeding up recovery after exercise
Red light therapy works cumulatively, meaning consistent sessions over time yield better results than sporadic, intensive treatments.
Condition-Specific Protocols
Different conditions respond best to tailored frequency protocols:
For skin rejuvenation:
Initial phase: Daily 10-minute sessions for 4-6 weeks
Maintenance: 2-3 sessions weekly
Best results for anti-aging occur when treating the face 4-5 times weekly
For hair growth:
Consistent schedule of 3-5 times weekly
Minimum 10-minute sessions
At least 3-6 months of regular use before evaluating results
How long does it take to see results from red light therapy?
Results timeline varies by condition:
Skin texture improvements: 2-4 weeks
Reduced joint pain: 1-2 weeks
Hair growth: 2-3 months
Significant skin rejuvenation: 3-6 months
Timing Considerations for Maximum Effectiveness
When you schedule your red light therapy sessions can impact their effectiveness:
Morning sessions may help:
Regulate circadian rhythm
Boost energy levels throughout the day
Improve alertness and cognitive function
Evening sessions may:
Aid in relaxation and stress reduction
Prepare the body for restful sleep
Support overnight cellular repair processes
Post-exercise sessions can:
Accelerate muscle recovery
Reduce delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS)
Improve athletic performance over time
For optimal results, maintain a consistent schedule rather than randomly fitting in sessions when convenient.
Choosing the Right Device: Quality and Specifications
The effectiveness of your red light therapy regimen directly correlates with the quality of your device.
When selecting a device for red light therapy at home, consider these factors:
Wavelength specifications: Look for devices offering the appropriate wavelengths for your needs (630-670nm for skin, 810-850nm for deeper tissues)
Power output: Higher-quality devices deliver more light energy, potentially reducing necessary treatment time
Treatment area size: Larger panels treat bigger areas simultaneously, while targeted devices work best for specific concerns
FDA clearance: Provides assurance of safety and manufacturing standards
Practical Implementation: Tips for Home Use
Implementing red light therapy at home requires a thoughtful approach:
Start gradually: Begin with shorter, less frequent sessions (5 minutes, 2-3 times weekly) and increase as your body adapts
Create a consistent routine: Schedule sessions at similar times to build a sustainable habit
Prepare properly: Clean skin, remove makeup, and avoid photosensitizing products before treatment
Maintain proper distance: Follow manufacturer guidelines for optimal positioning (usually 6-12 inches from the device)
Track your progress: Keep a journal of sessions and results to identify what works best for your body
Adjust based on results: Increase frequency during intensive treatment phases, then reduce for maintenance
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use red light therapy if I'm taking photosensitizing medications?
Consult with your healthcare provider before starting red light therapy if you're taking medications that increase sensitivity to light, such as certain antibiotics or retinoids. These medications may increase the risk of skin reactions during treatment.
Is red light therapy safe to use with other skincare treatments like retinol or chemical exfoliants?
Most people can safely combine red light therapy with other skincare treatments, but it's best to separate them by at least 30 minutes. Apply active ingredients after your red light session for optimal absorption, and reduce frequency if you notice any irritation.
Will red light therapy help with my specific skin condition (eczema, psoriasis, etc.)?
While red light therapy shows promise for various skin conditions, effectiveness varies by individual. Research supports benefits for anti-aging, wound healing, and inflammation reduction, but specific conditions may respond differently. Consider a consultation with a dermatologist for personalized guidance.
Can I wear makeup during red light therapy sessions?
For best results, use red light therapy on clean, makeup-free skin. Makeup can block light penetration, reducing treatment effectiveness. Cleanse your face thoroughly before each session to maximize light absorption into your skin.
Conclusion
If you’re using red light therapy for skin, stick to daily 10-minute sessions for the first 4–6 weeks, then scale back to 2–3 times a week for maintenance.
Hair growth: Aim for 3–5 sessions weekly for at least 3 months. Muscle recovery and joint pain often need less time—just a few targeted sessions post-workout or during flare-ups.
Whatever your goal, results come from consistency, not cramming.
Use a quality device, keep sessions around 10–15 minutes, and track what’s working. Don’t overdo it—more light doesn’t mean better results. Find your rhythm and let your skin (or hair or muscles) do the rest.
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