How to Buy Red Light Therapy: A Step-by-Step Guide
Red light therapy (RLT) is a powerful wellness tool that supports skin health, pain relief, hair growth, and cognitive function. Choosing the right device ensures you get the best results for your specific needs. This guide will walk you through the selection process step by step.
This process gives you the right wavelengths to pinpoint the best device for your situation. Take this shortcut for an easy way to buy red light therapy.
How to Buy Red Light Therapy (3 Steps)
Here are the steps to choosing a red light therapy device:
- Name your therapeutic goals.
- Find the correct device types for those goals.
- Find devices for your goals that have the correct therapeutic wavelengths.
Step 1: Identify Your Therapeutic Goals
The first step is to name your therapeutic goals. Red light therapy is helpful for skin care, hair growth, pain relief, and brain issues. This guide shows you how to pick the correct acne, aging, hyperpigmentation, hair growth, pain relief, dementia, and brain injury for your needs.
Before purchasing a red light therapy device, it’s essential to determine what you want to achieve. RLT is used for a variety of concerns, including these below.
Therapeutic Goals:
- Skin: Acne, Wrinkles, Eczema, Psoriasis, Rosacea, Dermatitis, Cellulite
- Pain: Acute, Chronic, Muscle, Nerve, Joint, Arthritis Pain
- Hair: Hair Growth
- Brain: Dementia, Parkinson’s, Brain Injury
- Weight: Fat Loss
Skin Health and Anti-Aging
Red light therapy is widely used to improve skin texture and elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and combat acne. It also helps with conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation.
Aging Skin Red Light Therapy
Here are my choices for skin health red light therapy:
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- The Novaa Glow Therapy Mask rejuvenates your skin for an age-defying glow.
- It reduces lines and wrinkles.
- The mask eliminates acne and pimples, revealing a healthier complexion.
- It reduces redness and evens skin tone, brightening your skin.
- The red light mode boosts cell vitality and blood circulation, stimulating collagen and fiber tissue regeneration.
- The blue light mode targets acne symptoms and breakouts by eliminating acne-causing germs.
- The yellow light mode reduces redness and improves microcirculation, enhancing oxygen function in skin cells.
- The purple light mode soothes and calms your skin while aiding in rejuvenation and eliminating pimples.
- The infrared light mode penetrates deeply, stimulating collagen production and refining pores.
- The combined red and infrared light mode amplifies anti-aging and repair effects, targeting fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation.
- It is non-invasive, utilizing light wavelengths to stimulate cellular processes in the skin.
- It uses quality materials and is certified for safety and performance.
- The mask is easy to use for just 10 minutes per day.
- Novaalab offers a 60-day money-back guarantee and free shipping to the US.
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- The Lux Collection dpl IIa LED Treatment Panel is an all-in-one at-home light therapy device for various skin concerns.
- It only takes 3 minutes per day to use.
- The panel reduces wrinkles and inflammation.
- It destroys acne-causing bacteria and banishes breakouts.
- It stimulates collagen production to reveal smooth skin and minimize pores.
- It treats hyperpigmentation and improves skin texture and tone.
- The device is skin-safe and effective for all skin tones.
- It is FSA- and HSA-approved.
- Its larger size allows treatment of a larger area, including the face, neck, chest, and back.
- Visible results, such as acne reduction, can often be seen in as little as two weeks.
- Over 97% of consumer study participants reported visible skin texture and tone improvements after 10 weeks.
- It comes with a 1-year warranty.
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- The MitoPRO+ series offers exceptional value, delivering high light energy for every dollar spent.
- Its multi-wavelength design targets peak bioactive spectra, enhancing Cytochrome C Oxidase (CCOX) activity.
- Users can select red light alone, near-infrared alone, or both combined for customized therapy.
- The digital control panel with a timer function makes session management simple.
- It comes in six different sizes with versatile mounting options, including floor, vertical, and horizontal stands.
- Mito Red Light devices may temporarily increase local blood circulation and relieve stiffness.
- They may also support cellular function, relaxation, and mitochondrial energy production.
- Mito Red Light ensures product durability through industry-leading aging testing and individual inspection.
- The automated patching technology for PCB boards ensures exceptional quality and longevity.
- Verified buyers report benefits such as improved skin, reduced inflammation, faster healing, and better sleep.
Acne Skin Red Light Therapy
Here are the red light therapy devices I’d buy for acne:
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- Treats skin and muscle/joint conditions on the face, chest, arms, legs, and body.
- Addresses acne, wrinkles, and pain/aches with specialized settings.
- Allows for easy positioning and hands-free operation during treatment sessions.
- Provides optimal coverage area for face and body treatments with a large panel size.
- Offers durable construction and consistent light delivery for clinical and spa environments.
- Reduces wrinkles on the skin for anti-aging effects.
- Treats acne and helps prevent future blemishes.
- Treats joint and muscle pain anywhere on the body.
- Molds over body parts for close, consistent treatment due to its shape-taking design.
- Addresses chronic pain, reduces inflammation, and improves circulation for soothing relief.
- Reduces workout soreness and prevents stiffness of joints and muscles.
- Includes protective tinted eye goggles (optional), a power supply with global adapters, and a user manual.
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- Red and near-infrared wavelengths reduce wrinkles on the face and neck.
- Blue light, in combination with red light, helps prevent breakouts while reducing the appearance of acne.
- Includes an international adapter kit for global travel.
- Compact size fits easily into a travel bag.
- Rechargeable batteries allow for remote use.
- Offers two treatment modes for acne and aging skin.
- Battery-powered design provides mobile convenience.
- Easy operation with treatment timer and start/pause capability.
- Reduces mild to moderate acne vulgaris.
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles.
- Reduces inflammation and increases circulation.
- Sized perfectly for eyebrows to chin coverage.
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- Blue light combined with red light helps prevent breakouts and reduces the appearance of acne .
- Red and near-infrared wavelengths diminish the appearance of wrinkles, promoting healthier, younger-looking skin .
- Red and near-infrared light therapy reduces pain in areas like the leg, back, neck, and arm .
- The Celluma LITE offers a built-in battery for cordless convenience and multiple treatments before recharging .
- It can be plugged into an outlet for use while charging .
- A built-in timer and treatment pause feature enhance usability .
- It can be used before and after workouts to reduce muscle pain and decrease recovery time .
- It reduces inflammation and increases circulation .
- The device is sized for full-face coverage, from eyebrows to chin .
- It’s suitable for post-workout recovery, reducing muscle soreness and joint pain .
- Light therapy aids recovery from accidents or injuries to joints or muscles .
- It may serve as an alternative or supplement to pain medications .
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$362.70- Covers face and neck!
- The MEGELIN LED light therapy face mask is made of flexible silicone material with adjustable straps for superior comfort.
- It offers upgraded light therapy with 7 colors of light at a power density of 35mW/cm to address various skin problems. These are actual separate wavelengths, not color combinations, giving you the widest variety of healing wavelengths available in any face mask.
- Use for acne, wrinkles, eczema, psoriasis, redness, plumping and oil control.
- Regular use, 3-4 times a week for 10-20 minutes, can help improve skin condition.
- It’s eye-friendly and lightweight, equipped with eye pads for protection and a comfortable fit.
- The mask is rechargeable and cordless, allowing for hands-free use and portability.
- Customers report improvements in skin tone, acne reduction, and overall skin health.
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- Addresses wrinkles, uneven skin tone, dark spots, and acne using light-based care.
- Red and near-infrared lights stimulate collagen, reducing wrinkles by 89% and improving skin firmness by 93% in 2–3 weeks.
- Blue light targets breakouts, visibly reducing acne and excess oil within 3–5 days.
- Green and yellow light help brighten dark spots and calm skin sensitivity.
- Provides powerful irradiance for skin transformation, delivering consistent energy.
- Offers full-face coverage with 288 LEDs for smooth and even results.
- Features a soft-touch silicone design that contours comfortably to the face.
- Includes seven wavelengths to target various skin concerns.
- Easy to use at home, offering salon-level therapy without needing to go out.
- Backed by a 60-day money-back guarantee.
- Offers multiple installment payment options.
- Comes with a 1-year warranty.
- Many users report seeing positive changes such as smoother skin and reduced wrinkles.
- Affordable compared to pricier brands while still delivering results.
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Pain Management
Red and infrared light are effective for relieving muscle soreness, joint pain, and inflammation. These benefits make RLT popular among individuals with arthritis, chronic pain, and sports-related injuries.
Chronic Pain Red Light Therapy:
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- Provides focused relief to specific body parts
- Lightweight and compact, making it perfect for travel
- Compliant with IEC 60601 safety and performance standards, ensuring quality and reliability
- Features TriChip™ technology with 1,215 LED chips for comprehensive coverage
- Offers precise and targeted light therapy with independently functioning LED chips
- Delivers four wavelengths: 630nm, 660nm, 810nm, and 850nm
- May provide temporary increase in local blood circulation
- May provide relief of stiffness
- May support cellular function
- May promote relaxation
- May support mitochondrial energy production
- Can be powered by a wall outlet or a power bank for freedom of movement
- Offers five intensity levels and the ability to use red or NIR light alone or together
- Designed for intuitive and safe interaction
- Safe and effective for use in homes
- Complies with standards for light-based medical equipment
- May be a great adjunct to diet and exercise as part of a comprehensive weight loss program
- Features more LED chips compared to lower quality belts
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- Provides temporary relief of minor pain and stiffness in the back, knees, and neck.
- Effectively alleviates mild pain and supports the relaxation of muscles.
- Offers a drug-free, non-invasive option for gentle relief of mild aches and pains.
- The Novaa Light Pad includes medical lights with 300 x Infrared 850 nm lights + 150 x 660 nm lights for a total of 450 light chips.
- Customers report fast pain relief and decreased inflammation.
- Deep healing is achieved with the device reaching 2.0″.
- 94.8% of customers are satisfied with the product.
- It is easy to incorporate into a daily routine by wearing it 20 minutes a day, anytime, anywhere.
- Delivers medical-grade red and infrared light that promotes recovery and provides relief from minor aches and discomfort.
- The device revitalizes your body and promotes overall well-being.
- Helps temporarily reduce tension, relieve pain, and promote local circulation, enhancing your overall sense of comfort.
- Designed to the highest standards, Novaalab devices include a 1-year warranty with the option to extend for an additional 2 years.
- Try the products for 60 days with confidence, offering hassle-free returns if you’re not satisfied.
- Lightweight, easy to use, and comfortable to wear compared to large, bulky panels.
- Uses medical-grade materials that are durable and non-toxic.
- Clinically tested and recognized as a medical device.
- Can help to relieve minor back pain and stiffness associated with inflammation.
- Can help to relieve minor neck pain and stiffness by promoting relaxation.
- Offers pain relief, ease of use, comfort, and effectiveness for joints and arthritis.
- Is safe to use at home.
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- Chronic pain relief
- Muscle relief
- Handheld control
- Faster results
- Portability
- Extra strength
- May help reduce arthritic pain
- Good for tendon healing
- Provides relief to exercise more to improve healing of injuries
- Can be used to complete physical therapy with less pain
- Promotes faster healing by enhancing cellular repair and regeneration
- Helps reduce inflammation and pain
- Improves joints condition by stimulating collagen production
- Boosts overall well-being by improving circulation, enhancing mood, and increasing energy levels
- Easy to use
- Portable with a battery that lasts for one week of therapy
- Clinically proven to reach deep tissues
- Offers a 60-day risk-free trial
- Includes a 1-year warranty with the option to extend
- Activates cell regeneration
- Increases collagen production
- Penetrates deep to activate cell auto-repair
Acute Pain Red Light Therapy:
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- Chronic pain relief
- Muscle relief
- Handheld control
- Faster results
- Portability
- Extra strength
- May help reduce arthritic pain
- Good for tendon healing
- Provides relief to exercise more to improve healing of injuries
- Can be used to complete physical therapy with less pain
- Promotes faster healing by enhancing cellular repair and regeneration
- Helps reduce inflammation and pain
- Improves joints condition by stimulating collagen production
- Boosts overall well-being by improving circulation, enhancing mood, and increasing energy levels
- Easy to use
- Portable with a battery that lasts for one week of therapy
- Clinically proven to reach deep tissues
- Offers a 60-day risk-free trial
- Includes a 1-year warranty with the option to extend
- Activates cell regeneration
- Increases collagen production
- Penetrates deep to activate cell auto-repair
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- Combines three red light therapy devices into one
- Helps save time, space, and money
- Provides clinically proven medical relief
- Treats large areas of the body with its Pain-Relief Head
- Offers medical-grade laser power for faster results on deeper tissues
- Helps solve skin issues like acne, eczema, and psoriasis
- Adjustable heads for custom needs
- Delivers benefits of reduced pain, smoother skin, and faster recovery
- Choose the head attachment to match your needs
- Includes options for skin care, pain relief, or deep tissue regeneration
- Rejuvenates deep joints, nerve, skin, and muscles with the Extra-Strength Laser Head
- Reduced inflammation and accelerated recovery with the Pain-Relief Head
- Relieves everyday pain and aids recovery from injuries
- Treats wrinkles, redness, spots with the Skin-Perfect LED Head
- 60-day risk-free trial and a 1-year warranty
- Easy application to targeted areas
- Proven quality from Novaalab with 70,000 satisfied customers in the US
- Offers faster, reliable shipping to US-based customers
- Best-in-class customer service with a 4.86/5 customer rating.
Hair Growth
RLT can stimulate hair follicles, promoting hair growth and preventing thinning. It is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing hair loss due to aging or medical conditions.
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- Stimulates hair growth and strengthens hair follicles.
- Increases blood flow to the scalp for healthier hair.
- FDA-cleared for hair growth and scalp health.
- Reduces hair shedding and thinning.
- Portable, cordless design for easy use.
- 10-minute daily treatments for optimal results.
- Zero EMF emissions for safe therapy.
- Includes 120 medical-grade LEDs at 650nm wavelength.
- Adjustable strap for a comfortable fit.
- 120-day money-back guarantee and one-year warranty.
- Boosts energy and supports overall wellness.
Revitalize your scalp and grow healthier hair effortlessly!
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$2,198.00- Promotes Hair Growth: The helmet utilizes clinically proven wavelengths to stimulate hair follicles and enhance overall scalp health .
- Non-Invasive and Safe: Red light therapy is a non-invasive and chemical-free alternative to traditional hair loss treatments, without harmful side effects .
- Optimal Scalp Coverage: Equipped with 162 Class II lasers, the MitoGROW™ provides unparalleled coverage of the scalp .
- User-Friendly Design: The helmet is lightweight and adjustable, designed to fit most head sizes comfortably for easy use at home .
- Short Treatment Sessions: Recommended use is only 12 minutes every other day, making it a convenient option .
- Improved Blood Circulation: Red light therapy increases nitric oxide levels, dilating blood vessels and improving circulation to the hair follicles .
- FDA Cleared: The MitoGROW™ is FDA cleared, ensuring it meets safety and efficacy standards .
- Professional Grade Quality: Engineered with precision and backed by research, offering salon-like results at home .
- Mobile and Battery Operated: Rechargeable controller allows you to roam freely while using the helmet .
- Adjunct Products Available: Synergistic botanical formula RLT+™ Hair Mist can be used to augment the benefits of red light therapy .
10/13/2025 01:05 am GMT
Brain Health
Studies suggest that near-infrared light can support cognitive function and may help individuals with dementia, brain injuries, and neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease.
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- Assists with Recovery: Perfect for assisting with recovery from TBI, concussion, hematoma, and trauma.
- Wavelengths: 650nm, 810nm, 850nm, 950nm, 1040nm, 1070nm
- Improve Brain Health: The kit promotes overall brain health and mental acuity.
- Helps with Disorders: It’s designed to aid in the treatment of neurodegenerative and cognitive disorders.
- Enhances Focus: Regular use may enhance focus and alleviate symptoms of brain fog.
- Eases Depression: It may help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
- Supports PTSD Treatment: The kit may provide additional support to PTSD and CPTSD treatments.
- Reduces Inflammation: Regular use can help lessen inflammation in the brain.
- Raised Blood Flow: Enhances blood flow to the brain, supporting better function.
- FDA Registered: It is an FDA-registered Class II Medical Device, ensuring safety.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for medical professionals, patients, or wellness enthusiasts.
- Detailed Guide: Comes with a detailed frequency chart for easy reference.
- Ideal for Home and Clinic: Can be used conveniently at home or in a professional setting.
- Multiple Programs: Includes manual and automatic programs for various conditions.
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- Modular design delivers laser-like irradiance with the safety of LEDs.
- Alpha mode induces a relaxed mental state.
- Gamma mode induces a focused mental state.
- Patented intranasal photobiomodulation technology delivers near-infrared energy through the nose to the underside of the brain .
- 5 Vie-LED modules emit pulsed 810nm near-infrared light at 10 Hz (Alpha mode) and 40 Hz (Gamma mode) to stimulate brain cells without generating heat .
- Adjustable to target any brain area for personalized therapy .
- Bypasses hair and enables full contact for effective light delivery .
- 2-year warranty and 6-month return policy provides peace of mind .
- 20 minutes per session makes it easy to incorporate into a daily routine .
- May improve cognition, memory, and functional creativity .
- May increase focus, information processing, memory, and brain energy levels .
- May offer support for mindfulness, learning, relaxation, and sleep improvement.
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- Modular design delivers laser-like irradiance with the safety of LEDs.
- Medical grade technology is used by everyday people, researchers, and elite athletes.
- Adjustable to target any brain area for personalized therapy.
- Bypasses hair and enables full contact for effective light delivery.
- The patented intranasal photobiomodulation technology delivers near-infrared energy through the nose to the underside of the brain.
- The Neuro Gamma 4 has 5 Vie-LED modules that emit pulsed 810nm near-infrared light at 40 Hz to stimulate brain cells without generating heat.
- Induces a more focused mental state because of its neuromodulating effect on Gamma brain waves.
- 20 minutes per session makes it easy to incorporate into a daily routine.
- May improve focus, memory, mental clarity, and brain energy.
- Offers a nasal gateway to the brain as the olfactory bulb is directly connected to the brain regions responsible for keeping long-term memories, and the ventromedial prefrontal cortex is vital for cognitive processes
- Backed by a 2-year warranty and 6-month return policy, providing peace of mind.
- The intranasal applicator allows the device to bypass the blood-brain barrier for direct access to brain tissue.
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- Modular design delivers laser-like irradiance with the safety of LEDs.
- Alpha mode induces a relaxed mental state, helpful for mental coordination, mindfulness, and learning.
- Patented intranasal photobiomodulation technology delivers near-infrared energy through the nose to the underside of the brain.
- 5 Vie-LED modules emit pulsed 810nm near-infrared light at 10 Hz (Alpha mode) to stimulate brain cells without generating heat
- Adjustable to target any brain area for personalized therapy
- Bypasses hair and enables full contact for effective light delivery
- 2-year warranty and 6-month return policy provides peace of mind
- 20 minutes per session makes it easy to incorporate into a daily routine.
- May improve cognition and creativity.
- The intranasal applicator allows the device to bypass the blood-brain barrier for direct access to brain tissue
- The device is safe and well-tolerated by most users.
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1. Advanced Technology: The MitoMIND™ Helmet offers near-infrared light therapy with an impressive 256 810nm LEDs for enhanced brain health and performance.
2. Wide Variety of Settings: The helmet features six preset programs to cater to various needs such as boosting concentration and aiding relaxation.
3. Medical-Grade Device: The MitoMIND™ Helmet features cutting-edge technology and is backed by scientific research, ensuring safe and efficient results.
4. Easy to Use: With clear instructions and user-friendly interface, the helmet is simple to integrate into your daily routine.
5. Comfortable Design: The MitoMIND™ Helmet is ergonomically designed and adjustable for a snug and comfortable fit during each therapy session.
6. Flexible Usage: With multiple presets and standard setting options available, the helmet can provide customized therapy based on personal needs.
7. Portable: The MitoMIND™ Helmet is light and compact, making it convenient for use at home or on the go.
8. Long Battery Life: It comes with a robust battery life allowing for extended periods of use between charges.
9. Risk-Free Trial: The purchase of MitoMIND™ Helmet comes with a 60-day risk-free trial, ensuring customer satisfaction.
10. Durable Construction: Made with high-quality materials, the helmet is designed to last, providing long-term health benefits.
11. Fast, Free Shipping: The MitoMIND™ Helmet comes with fast, free shipping for added convenience and savings.
12. Financing Option Available: Flexible payment options including financing is available, making the product more accessible.
13. HSA/FSA Eligibility: This helmet has the advantage of being HSA/FSA eligible which can help save costs.
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Weight Loss
Some users turn to red light therapy for its potential fat-reducing effects, particularly when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.
- The Nushape LipoWrap uses advanced 635nm-wave Red-Light Phototherapy technology for home use.
- It effectively promotes fat loss through fast lipolysis of fat cells.
- The wrap helps reduce the appearance of cellulite.
- It increases collagen formation, leading to skin rejuvenation.
- The device can drain toxins from fat cells and stimulate calorie burning.
- It boosts metabolism and enhances ATP production.
- Red light therapy improves cellular ATP energy synthesis and enhances glycogen synthesis.
- It reduces oxidative stress and protects against exercise-induced muscle damage.
- The wrap offers professional phototherapy treatments for pain relief, slimming, and anti-aging.
- It can also improve thyroid health, according to a study.
Step 2: Choose the Right Device Type
Red light therapy devices come in various formats, each designed for specific therapeutic goals. Selecting the right type ensures effective treatment.
Best device types for therapeutic goals:
- Skin: Panel, Face Mask
- Pain: Handheld, Pad/Wrap/Belt
- Hair: Hat, Head Gear
- Brain: Headset, Pad/Wrap
- Weight: Pad/Wrap/Belt
Handheld Devices
Best for: Targeted pain relief and small skin treatment areas. Handheld devices are portable and allow for precise application, but they require manual operation and take longer to cover larger areas.
Panels
Best for: Full-body treatments, anti-aging, and workout recovery. Panels emit powerful red and infrared light, covering a large area at once. They are ideal for home use but require dedicated space.
Face Masks
Best for: Skin health and anti-aging. These wearable masks are designed to target the entire face, reducing fine lines, acne, and uneven skin tone.
Wraps and Belts
Best for: Pain relief and fat loss. These flexible devices wrap around the body, making them effective for joint pain, muscle recovery, and weight loss efforts.
Hats and Headgear
Best for: Hair growth and brain health. Red light therapy caps stimulate hair follicles, while specialized headgear supports cognitive function and neuroprotection.
Step 3: Select the Right Wavelengths
Different wavelengths of light penetrate the skin at varying depths, influencing their therapeutic effects. The most common wavelengths used in red light therapy include:
Red Light (630-660nm)
Best for: Skin rejuvenation, collagen production, and surface-level healing. Red light enhances skin texture, reduces wrinkles, and promotes a healthy glow.
Near-Infrared Light (810-850nm)
Best for: Deep tissue healing, muscle recovery, joint pain relief, and cognitive function. Near-infrared light penetrates deeper into the body, making it effective for pain management and brain health.
Blue Light (400-470nm)
Best for: Acne treatment. Blue light helps kill acne-causing bacteria, reducing breakouts and inflammation.
Green Light (520-530nm)
Best for: Hyperpigmentation and migraine relief. Green light is known for its ability to even skin tone and may help alleviate headaches.
Step 4: Consider Additional Features
Beyond wavelengths and device types, several factors can enhance your red light therapy experience.
Power and Intensity
Higher power output results in shorter treatment times. Look for devices with high irradiance levels for optimal effectiveness.
Size and Coverage Area
Larger panels and wraps provide broader coverage, reducing the time needed for treatment. If you only need spot treatment, a handheld device may suffice.
Portability and Convenience
Battery-powered options allow for mobility, while corded devices typically offer more power. Consider your lifestyle and where you’ll use the device.
Safety Features
Look for built-in eye protection or consider using safety goggles, especially for high-intensity devices. Some models offer automatic shut-off timers to prevent overuse.
Step 6: Make Your Purchase
Once you’ve identified the best device for your needs, check for promotions or discount codes. Some brands offer seasonal sales or bundle deals for added savings.
Table: Best Red Light Therapy Device Types for Specific Therapeutic Goals
- For skin issues (wrinkles, sagging, acne, eczema, psoriasis and rosacea), use a handheld, panel or face mask.
- For acute pain, use a handheld.
- For chronic pain, use a handheld or panel.
- For hair growth, use a hat or helmet.
- For brain therapy, use a heat, headset or helmet.
- For weight loss, use a neoprene wrap.
Sometimes, you will need two devices to get the best therapy. However, you might find a device that works well for multiple goals. I’ll show you how to do that below.
Face Mask Facts
- Face masks are excellent for the skin.
- They deliver light directly to the face, so there’s no question that the light is reaching the target.
- Unlike a handheld, face masks deliver light to the whole face rather than one spot at a time.
- Get a silicone mask; the plastic ones are uncomfortable.
- You should keep your eyes closed to protect them from bright light.
Face Mask Pros
- They deliver light directly to the skin, making them better at reaching your skincare goals.
- They deliver light to the entire face at once, not one spot at a time.
- Battery-operated face masks allow you to move around.
- Face masks are easy to pack.
Face Mask Cons
- Some masks don’t have mouth or nose holes, so it’s hard to get air.
- Masks can be tight. Eye protection under the mask can make the mask too tight for comfort.
- Corded masks tether you to the wall. Battery-operated masks are portable.
- Masks are too bright to view your phone or a TV during therapy.
- Face masks are hard to use for other jobs such as pain relief and brain therapy.
Panel Facts
- Panels are excellent for skincare and exercise recovery.
- Panels usually come in Handheld, Tabletop, half-height, full-height, and mega sizes. I’ve separated handhelds and panels, but handhelds, panels, and tabletops are all similar, just different sizes.
- Panel red light tends to be too bright. Wear eye protection or at least close your eyes.
- Panels run on electric power and not batteries.
- The distance from the panel to your body affects the dose of light. Most manufacturers prescribe a 6 inch distance.
- Panels can sit on the floor, hang from a door, hang on the wall, or get a stand to hold the panel.
- Stands with wheels allow you to move panels around.
Panel Pros
- Panels deliver whole-body therapeutic light.
Panel Cons
- Panels are large, and so is a storage problem. You need to have room for them.
- Panels tend to be very bright. Wear eye protection.
- The red panel light is bright and obscures a TV or phone screen. Infrared light without red does not have this problem.
- Panels are more expensive than smaller red light therapy choices.
- Panels do not sit directly on the skin. Over time, they relieve pain and inflammation, but on-skin devices are better for immediate pain relief.
- You must stay in one place.
- Panels don’t travel well.
Flexible Pad/Dome Facts
- A dome is either a hard shell or a flexible pad secured to a stand.
- Flexible pads are great for pain relief as they touch the skin and wrap around any body part.
- Plastic shell domes are fixed in place with no flexibility.
Flexible Pad/Dome Pros
- Domes are excellent for skincare, concentrating light on the face and neck.
- Domes are hands-free.
- Flexible-pad domes are also good for wrapping around body parts for pain relief.
Flexible Pad/Dome Cons
- Plastic domes are hard to use on other body parts.
Belts (Wraps/Pads) Facts
- Wraps are excellent for pain relief.
- Most wraps are neoprene and have Velcro-like attachments.
- Wraps can be battery-powered or corded.
Belts (Wraps/Pads) Pros
- Belts are excellent for pain relief.
- Most belts are neoprene and have Velcro-like attachments.
- Belts can be battery-powered or corded.
Belts (Wraps/Pads) Cons
- Corded belts are not portable.
- Belts are excellent for pain relief but are not as powerful as handhelds.
Handheld Facts
- Handhelds are excellent for pain relief.
- Most handhelds are battery-powered.
Handheld Pros
- Handhelds are easy to pack.
- Handhelds are portable.
- Handhelds can press on the skin to ensure little or no light escapes.
- Handhelds are excellent for pain relief in humans and animals.
Handheld Cons
- Handhelds treat small areas and take longer than other devices to cover everything.
Hat and Headgear Facts
- Hats are excellent for ed light therapy hair growth r.
- Brushes and bands also work for hair growth.
- Head wraps and headsets work well for brain injury and dementia therapy.
Hat and Headgear Pros
- Hats and headgear are easy to pack.
- Hats and headgear are portable.
- Hats and headgear can press on the skin to ensure little or no light escapes.
- Hats and headgear are excellent for head-centered therapy.
- Soft hats and wraps are comfortable to wear.
Hat and Headgear Cons
- Hats and headgear are not easy to use on other body parts.
- Hard helmets and headsets can be uncomfortable to wear.
- Helmets tend to be heavy.
Step 3: Find the Correct Wavelengths
Red light therapy is more than red light. The visible colors and infrared (primarily invisible) have healing properties. Every therapeutic goal I’ve covered on this website responds to red and infrared light. Some also respond to other colors. Acne does well with blue light. Reducing migraine headaches does well with green light. These extra wavelengths are unnecessary for a significant red light therapy experience, but they will optimize your results.
Skin Wavelengths
Handhelds, panels, tabletops, and face masks are best for skin issues. The best wavelengths for hyperpigmentation are red and green or red and yellow. The best wavelengths for skin dullness are near-infrared, red, green, or yellow.
Acne and Eczema Wavelengths
The best wavelengths for acne and eczema are near-infrared, red, and blue.
Wrinkles and Sagging Wavelengths
The best wavelengths for wrinkles, lines, and sagging are near-infrared and red.
Hair Growth Wavelengths
Caps and specialized handhelds are best for hair growth. The best wavelengths for hair growth are near-infrared and red.
Pain Wavelengths
Handhelds and wraps are best for pain and inflammation relief. The best wavelengths for pain and inflammation are near-infrared, red, and optionally green.
Brain Injury and Dementia Wavelengths
Handhelds and specialized headsets are best for brain injury and dementia. The best wavelength for brain injury and dementia is near-infrared. Red light helps indirectly.
How to Easily Choose Wavelengths (Video)
A Closer Look: Why Face Masks Are a Skincare Favorite
Of all the device types, red light therapy face masks have become incredibly popular, especially for those focused on skin health. Their design offers some unique advantages for your daily self-care ritual.
First, they are effective because the LEDs are so close to your skin. This position delivers a high concentration of light energy right where you want it.
Second, they are incredibly convenient. A mask treats your entire face at once, which saves a ton of time compared to using a handheld device to target different areas one by one. You can simply relax for 10-20 minutes while the mask does all the work.
When choosing a mask, look for one made of flexible, medical-grade silicone if you can. As beauty experts suggest, they are typically more comfortable and conform better to your facial contours than rigid plastic models.
Finally, always prioritize safety. The light is bright, so keep your eyes closed during a session or use the blackout eye goggles that often come with the mask. This simple step protects your eyes while you enjoy your rejuvenating treatment.
Final Thoughts
Red light therapy is a versatile and effective wellness tool, but choosing the right device is key to achieving your desired results. By identifying your goals, selecting the right type of device, and ensuring it has the appropriate wavelengths and features, you can confidently invest in a product that supports your health and well-being.
