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Guide•October 30, 2024
How to Use Red Light Therapy: Frequency, Duration, and Best Practices
6 min read
You've got a red light therapy device. Now what? Getting results requires more than just turning it on occasionally. Here's how to use it effectively.
Schedule
Frequency Guidelines
For most goals, 3-5 sessions per week is the sweet spot. Consistency matters more than frequency.
- Skin health/Anti-aging: 3-5 times per week
- Hair growth: 3-4 times per week minimum
- Pain/Recovery: Daily for acute issues, 3-4x for maintenance
- General Wellness: 3-5 times per week
Timing
Session Duration
10-15 min
High Power
Per area
20-30 min
Low Power
Per area
Biphasic Dose
More isn't always better. Excessive exposure can reduce benefits due to the biphasic dose response. Stick to the guidelines.
Setup
Distance & Clothing
- 6 inches: Max intensity, best for targeted treatment
- 12-24 inches: Larger coverage, lower intensity
- Clothing: Light cannot penetrate thick clothes. Expose skin directly.
When to Use
Timing Your Sessions
- Morning: Energy and alertness
- Pre-workout: Performance and injury prevention
- Post-workout: Accelerated recovery
- Evening: Fine for most, but watch for overstimulation
Avoid These
Common Mistakes
- Inconsistency: Sporadic use won't work
- Impatience: Results take 8-12 weeks
- Too much distance: Reduces energy delivery
- Barriers: Makeup, sunscreen, or clothes blocking light
The key to success is simple: consistent use over time. Make it part of your routine and give it time to work.