Red light therapy has gained popularity as an alternative to traditional treatments for wrinkles and acne. But is it safe? Doctors say yes, but with some caveats.
The therapy uses LED light directed at the skin to stimulate cells that rejuvenate the skin, increasing collagen production to reduce wrinkles and scarring. NASA was a pioneer in red light therapy, using it to improve skin health for astronauts.
However, doctors warn that red light won’t replace existing treatments like Botox. Instead, it’s best used as a complementary treatment. Home devices require regular use, but they won’t give the same results as in-office laser treatments.
Before buying an at-home device, check if it’s cleared by the FDA. Low-level light devices can only be “cleared,” not “approved.” Red light is one of several LED therapies, with blue light being best for acne-prone skin due to its antibacterial properties.
As research continues, red light therapy is expected to shine brighter in 2025. Expect to see more uses for post-surgical healing, athletic performance improvement, and at-home devices. But remember to do your research before investing in a device, as marketing claims can be misleading.
Source: https://www.axios.com/2024/12/04/red-light-therapy-masks-doctor-recommendations