How to Prepare Your Skin for Red Light Therapy: 5 Proven Tips for Best Results

young-woman-doing-self-care-treatment-home
Red light therapy is becoming a go-to solution for skin rejuvenation. It helps stimulate collagen, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation. But to get the most out of your session, how you prepare your skin for red light therapy matters just as much as the treatment itself.
Whether you’re stepping into a red light therapy pod for the first time or already a fan, these five tips will help you maximize the benefits.

 

Feed Your Skin With the Right Ingredients

Your skin absorbs more nutrients after exposure to red light. That’s why it’s smart to nourish it before your session.
Use products with ingredients like:
  • Salicylic Acid (BHA) to clear pores
  • Retinol to stimulate cell turnover
  • Vitamin C for antioxidant support
  • Peptides to boost collagen
These ingredients prep the skin and ensure the red light can work even deeper. Just remember to patch test if you’re trying something new.

 

Skip Sunscreen Before Your Session

We all know sunscreen is a skin-care must. But before red light therapy, it can get in the way.
Sunscreen blocks UV rays—and unfortunately, it can also block red and near-infrared light. These gentle wavelengths need to penetrate your skin to activate the therapy’s full benefits.
So, cleanse your face thoroughly and skip sunscreen right before your session. You can reapply after if you’re heading outdoors.

 

Exfoliate Gently to Remove Dead Skin

Dead skin cells can block the red light from reaching deeper layers where it does its best work. A gentle exfoliant clears the surface and helps the light penetrate better.
Look for mild:
  • AHAs like glycolic acid
  • BHAs like salicylic acid
Avoid harsh scrubs. You want to remove buildup—not irritate your skin.

 

Get Your Blood Flowing

Improved blood circulation means better delivery of nutrients and oxygen to your skin. This complements the effects of red light therapy beautifully.
Try using a face roller, gua sha, or gentle massage before your session. Even a short walk or light stretching can help get your circulation moving.
When your blood is flowing, your skin is better prepared to respond to red light exposure.

 

Stick to Your Skin-Care Routine

Red light therapy isn’t a replacement for your regular skincare—it’s a powerful addition. Keep using your daily cleanser, moisturizer, and any serums that work well for your skin.
Consistency is key. Your usual routine sets the foundation, while red light therapy takes things to the next level.
By combining both, you give your skin everything it needs to glow from the inside out.

 

Final Thoughts

Red light therapy can be a game-changer, but how you prep your skin makes all the difference. Clean, nourished, exfoliated skin responds better to light therapy, helping you see results faster.
Use these tips to prepare like a pro and let your red light therapy sessions truly shine.
For more expert tips and red light therapy insights, visit our homepage and explore everything we offer to support your skin health journey.
Share the Post: