Red light therapy is a treatment that dermatologists have used for years for skin concerns such as acne and scarring, rosacea and skin discoloration, and wrinkles. These days, you can bring this treatment home with devices designed for daily use.
Whether you’re looking to reduce the appearance of stretch marks or smooth years-old acne scars, a great red light therapy device, such as top pick Aphrona Moonlight LED Facial Mask, may help.
You’ll want to select a red light therapy device that’s the right size for the area of your body you want to treat. Larger panels of lights can cover more of your body, such as your full torso. On the other hand, if you’re looking to treat a smaller, more targeted area, you may want a hand-held red light therapy device.
Red light therapy devices come in a wide range of prices. In general, larger panels of lights tend to cost more. So consider how much you’re able to spend on the new device and the size you need to get the job done.
While red light is the better-known light used to treat the skin, it's not the only wavelength that can make an impact. Some devices emit both red and blue light. Blue light is used to kill bacteria that may be clogging pores and causing acne, while red light is better for reducing redness and wrinkles. If you're interested in both treatments, look for a device that offers both red and blue light settings.
Some red light therapy devices have multiple power settings. This can be useful if you’re treating different parts of your body and want to apply varying amounts of red light. If you plan to use your device in more than one way, choose a model with more than one power setting.
Most practitioners of red light therapy like to stick to a regimen that includes a certain number of minutes of exposure per day. Using a device with a built-in timer helps you stick to your practice. Plus, it’s a helpful safety feature in case you forget to turn off the device when you’re done.
If you plan to use your red light therapy device directly against your skin, or very close to your body, be sure to check its heat emissions to make sure the experience won’t be too uncomfortable. Many devices top out around 100 degrees. Much hotter, and you may not want to apply it for the recommended 20 to 30 minutes.
There’s a significant range of prices. For smaller hand-held devices, expect to spend around $100. Large full-body light panels can cost upward of $300.
A. While the efficacy of red light therapy still needs research, it appears to be safe and there are no known side effects when used in the short term. The light emitted from a red light therapy device is not the same as potentially harmful UV rays that are associated with skin cancer.
When using red light on your face, however, it is important to use eye protection, as prolonged exposure to the red light can damage the eyes. And it’s best to seek your doctor’s opinion before starting any new health practice.
A. Red light therapy is meant to increase the effectiveness of the mitochondria in your cells. Mitochondria provide the energy your cells need to perform various functions, including healing wounds and scar tissue, reducing inflammation and fighting disease.
A. A few scientific studies suggest that red light therapy can help your cells produce collagen, for more elastic, firm skin and stronger joint and ligament connective tissue. It may also increase blood circulation, which can reduce inflammation and improve muscle recovery and strength-building.
Aphrona Moonlight LED Facial Mask
What you need to know: This is designed to apply powerful red and blue light directly to your facial skin at a close range to maximize results.
What you’ll love: It goes beyond red light and includes blue and green light settings that can treat various levels of scars, fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots.
What you should consider: This facial mask won’t work for other parts of the body.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Uupas Red Light Therapy Device
What you need to know: This budget-friendly red light therapy option targets deep into your skin to improve wrinkles, discoloration, and fine lines.
What you’ll love: This wand-like red light therapy stick is designed to apply targeted attention to trouble areas, particularly on your face. It’s lightweight and portable, which makes it great for travel.
What you should consider: You’ll need to hold it while in use, unlike panel-style red light therapy devices.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Bestqool Red Light Therapy Device
What you need to know: This midsized light panel at an affordable price is great for most parts of the body.
What you’ll love: It has a built-in timer and three power settings to target different areas.
What you should consider: It's a bit too bulky and heavy to be portable.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Lizzy Briskin writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
