If you assumed that surgical procedures were the only way to achieve transformative skin rejuvenation, then we have some exciting news for you. Red light therapy is a non-invasive procedure offering powerful anti-aging benefits and boosting overall skin health.
Not only is it completely painless, it can even be used as part of a low-risk pain management strategy. To help you prepare for your first red light therapy session, we’re exploring what you can expect before and after your facial treatment.
What to expect from red light therapy
Phototherapy can deliver drastic results. But before we dive into the benefits of red light therapy, let’s discuss what you can expect before, during, and after treatment.
What happens before a red light therapy treatment?
Before receiving red light therapy, you’ll consult with your esthetician to discuss your skin type, goals for treatment, and any existing skin conditions you have. They will create a customized treatment plan to help you achieve your desired results.
While there isn’t much hands-on prep required for phototherapy, you should arrive for your appointment with clean skin free of any topical products. After cleansing your skin again, your provider may apply specialized products known to compound the effects of red light therapy before placing protective goggles over your eyes.
Can you get red light therapy as part of a facial?
Absolutely! LED red light therapy is a frequent addition to professional facial treatments, including after:
- Exfoliation, extraction, or a nourishing face mask
- Anti-aging facials and acne treatments
- Microneedling
- Chemical peels
- Laser treatments
How soon can you see results?
The benefits of red light therapy are gradual and cumulative, so consistency is key. You may notice improvements to your complexion in as little as one to three sessions, while it may take several months to see the effects on acne scars, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Related: Laser Skin Resurfacing: What To Expect Before and After Treatment
What results can you expect after red light therapy?
How, exactly, does red light therapy support full-body wellness, promote pain relief, and stimulate wound healing? These treatments use red and near-infrared lightwaves to kickstart your body’s natural healing processes. As blood circulation increases, anti-inflammatory markers drop, and collagen levels rise, leading to some pretty remarkable results, including:
Improved skin tone
Sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and a blotchy skin tone are no match for professional red light therapy. With consistent treatments, you should see your skin color begin to even out. Additionally, red light therapy can help even skin tone for a healthier complexion.
Smoother skin
As red light therapy stimulates collagen production, blood flow, and faster cellular regeneration, you may notice that rough, bumpy patches begin to soften and dead skin cells are less apparent. Your skin will become more plump, filling in fine lines and improving your overall skin texture.
Improvements with acne
When combined with blue light therapy, red light waves can reduce inflammation, kill acne-causing bacteria, and speed up the healing process of active blemishes. Many clients experience decreased swelling and redness within a week, and fewer breakouts as this treatment remains part of a regular skincare routine.
Better skin hydration
Red light boosts microcirculation, bringing fresh, oxygen-rich blood to your chosen treatment area and nourishing your moisture barrier. In turn, your skin can retain more vital hydration. Your skin may feel more supple and less tight, amplifying your glow factor.
Faster wound healing
Phototherapy can accelerate the healing process following skin care treatments like microneedling and chemical peels. When you receive red light therapy before or after another cosmetic procedure, the side effects may be less intense and resolve more quickly.
Related reading: PRP Facial Benefits and Tips To Prep
What factors can affect the results of red light therapy?
While the before-and-after effects of red light therapy are undeniable, a few factors can impact your unique results.
Skin type and concerns addressed
Your starting point matters, and it’s important to note that some conditions respond more quickly than others. Naturally, superficial blemishes will usually improve faster than tissue damage deep within the skin.
Additionally, clients with lighter skin tones can absorb light waves more readily than those with higher melanin concentrations. Your esthetician can offer realistic timelines to help you develop an appropriate treatment plan and maintain practical expectations.
Treatment frequency and duration
If you purchase a red light therapy device for personal use, you may bask in the carmine glow three to five times per week for 10 to 20 minutes at a time.
Professional photofacials are often limited to once or twice a week, as they use more powerful (and effective!) devices. However, you may see results more quickly from less frequent spa treatments, as the quality of home models can be questionable.
Light energy and wavelength
Different wavelengths penetrate different levels of the skin:
- Red light (630-660 nm): Epidermis and upper dermis
- Near-infrared light (810-850 nm): Deeper tissues
- Combination wavelengths: Full spectrum of skin and deeper tissues
Additionally, the light energy output refers to the density of light emitted. Higher irradiance requires shorter treatment times, while lower irradiance requires longer sessions.
Related: How Much Is Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Explore our targeted skincare services at The Wellness Club!
At The Wellness Club, we take a holistic approach to skin care and whole-body health. From red light therapy to weight loss solutions, we do it all! Book a consultation today to get started.