The Ultimate Guide to Incorporating Red Light Therapy into Your Skincare Regimen

Blame it on the Hollywood elite or the fact that us mere mortals have always had a soft spot for the ‘cool’ science stuff – Red Light Therapy (RLT) is having its moment under the skincare sun.

But what’s all the buzz about, and more importantly, should you hop on the red light bandwagon?

Join me as I take you on an illuminating (quite literally) exploration of RLT and how it might just be the cherry on top of your skincare routine.

Shedding Some Healthy Light on RLT

You’ve probably heard of red light therapy wand products in whispers among self-care gurus, seen them lighting up advertisements with the promise of perfect skin, or stumbled upon one in your Instagram feed, looking like a scene from a sci-fi movie.

But beyond the glowing (and not just metaphorically) testimonials, what is RLT, and does it stand under the scrutiny of a magnifying mirror?

What is Red Light Therapy?

Also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), RLT involves exposing the skin to red or near-infrared light.

The idea has been brightening the course of scientific research for some time, with early origins in NASA experiments.

Red light wavelengths have been suggested to promote healing in the body’s tissues and cells.

What Does the Science Say?

Pretend for a minute that you’re a plant in a sunny window, soaking in light energy. Red light excites the skin cells, much like the chlorophyll in plants.

But unlike plants, this excitement triggers a cascading effect in our mitochondria, boosting the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is like the currency of cellular energy.

This heightened activity can allegedly lead to benefits such as increased collagen production, reduced inflammation, and enhanced wound healing.

Can I DIY or Do I Need a Pro?

You do-you, of course, but there are different approaches when it comes to RLT:

Professional Sessions: You can visit a dermatologist or a specialized clinic for concentrated RLT treatments.
At-Home Devices: A booming market offers a variety of portable RLT devices, prescribing a more long-term and consistent approach to light therapy.

The Hybrid Glow-up: Amalgamating RLT with Skincare

Skincare is a personal pursuit, like a fingerprint – unique to you. RLT is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and it’s more like adding a spice to your routine – some swear by it, while others can’t be bothered.

But, if you’re the adventurous type, here’s how you can blend RLT into your existing skincare regimen.

Step 1: Cleanse and Prep

It all starts with a clean slate.

Before your RLT session, ensure that your skin is free from makeup and any product buildup. A gentle cleanser like myrrh-scented foam or charcoal-infused bliss should do the trick.

Step 2: Light Up

This is the main event. You’ve done the research, invested in a device, and found the perfect room to create your ‘light box’ setup.

Sit back (not too close, now…remember, it’s low-level light) and enjoy your Red Light Ritual, meditating on the possibility that you’ll emerge from your cocoon like a butterfly.

Or at least with slightly more invigorated skin.

Step 3: Follow with a Hearty Moisturizer

After your RLT treatment, seal the deal with a good moisturizer. This step helps lock in the benefits from your RLT session and provides additional hydration that your skin may crave.

The Glow Down

To RLT or not to RLT, that is the question (or at least it was in Hamlet’s imaginary skincare routine). The bottom line is that RLT has the potential to be a complementary boost in your skincare lineup.

It’s crucial to manage expectations and remember that skincare, like life, is a marathon not a sprint. Consistency is key, and RLT, if it tickles your fancy, should be a gentle part of your routine, not a harsh spotlight.

In a world where the beauty industry often feels like a maze navigated under the judgmental gaze of a magnifying mirror, it’s refreshing to find an addition that isn’t all smoke-and-mirrors (unless you’re into face masks, in which case, that’s a different article entirely).

Image Source: Freepik