Beauty trends come and go. As a beauty editor, even I sometimes find it quite a task to keep up with the latest buzz ingredients and techniques, from facial massages to retinol. But one big craze that's here to stay is red light therapy, and I've had so many questions about it.
© InstagramRed light therapy used to be something that only celebrities experimented with, from Victoria Beckham to Kim Kardashian, but these days, there are a variety of devices on the market, and the masses seem to have embraced it into their beauty routine.
Not simply reduced to horror film-style face masks, you can now purchase a device to target pretty much any part of your body, from head to toe. If you're feeling confused, read our advice on where to start.
What is Red Light therapy?
Red light therapy is when one exposes skin to levels of infrared light through a treatment or at-home device.
Red light may look intimidating, but it doesn’t generate heat like a sunbed, for instance, which uses UV light. It's loved by many due to the fact that it is very good for the skin and helps reduce age spots, boost cell collagen, and increase blood flow.
If you expose your skin to RLT regularly, it can help to improve your complexion and reduce signs of ageing. It's something that you can add to your existing skincare routine, which will ultimately elevate your skin's texture in the long run.
Is red light therapy safe?
"In terms of safety, red light therapy is generally well tolerated when used as directed," explains Fleur Chenevoy, Head of New Product Development at Magnitone. "It does not contain ultraviolet light and therefore does not cause tanning or UV-related skin damage. However, it remains important to follow manufacturer guidelines, avoid overuse, and wear eye protection where recommended, as exposure to bright light may cause discomfort for some users," Fleur notes.
"When appropriately selected and used consistently, it can be a useful, non-invasive option for those looking to support overall healthy-looking skin, particularly concerns such as uneven tone, dullness, or post-breakout redness," she adds.
© @ritaoraRed Light therapy treatments
Red light devices can be pretty expensive, so before you invest, it can be a good idea to head to a specialised clinic to discover if it's for you with an initial treatment.
Kate Kerr, award-winning Aesthetic Facialist and Director of Kate Kerr London Clinic, explains the procedure to HELLO!. "In my clinic, we specialise in treating acne and rosacea and find LED therapy to be an excellent adjunctive treatment alongside other modalities and clinical-grade skincare.
"It supports the skin’s health by enhancing ATP production, the energy source for cells, which improves all essential cellular processes, giving the skin a big boost. While LED rarely achieves full results on its own, it’s a fantastic tool to complement a tailored skincare regime and clinical treatments for optimal outcomes."
What's the difference between LED and infrared?
"LED therapy and infrared light are both forms of light therapy but differ in their wavelengths and how deeply they penetrate the skin," says Consultant Dermatologist and Founder of Self London, Dr Anjali Mahto.
"LED (Light Emitting Diode) typically uses visible light wavelengths (for example, blue, red, and near-infrared) while infrared light operates at longer wavelengths beyond what the human eye can see. In skincare, LED red light penetrates superficially to stimulate collagen and reduce inflammation, whereas infrared light penetrates deeper into tissues and muscles, offering potential benefits for circulation and healing," the professional explains.
Best LED face masks
There are a plethora of face masks out there, and as I mentioned earlier, they pretty much look like they ought to be in The Silence of the Lambs. But don't be deterred! They are actually very comfortable, and I find the whole experience very relaxing. It forces you to switch off for a few minutes, which is why they have a balancing effect on cortisol, setting off happy hormones that are triggered by the light itself.
CurrentBody is one of the leading brands in the LED world, and the wraparound style of the 'LED Light Therapy Face Mask: Series 2' is an upgraded version of their initial offering. I like how it delicately fits the head with the adjustable straps; it's so comfortable and sits under the chin. It seems more powerful than others I've tried and has three wavelengths to select. I noticed a difference straight away.
If you want more of a mask-type design that fits the head without the restriction of straps, the 'LUSTRE® RENEW Pro Facewear' moulds to fit the contours of the face. It targets blemishes while also firming, toning, and brightening your complexion. I like how it is hands-free, so you can do various chores without carrying it around.
Red light therapy for hair growth
Interestingly, red light therapy isn't just for anti-ageing; it can also activate your hair follicles.
Working in the same daily fashion as the LED mask, it is thought to stimulate hair growth and is great for treating specific areas of hair loss, if your hair is thinning. This design by NOOANCE works a treat on hair that needs some TLC.
Carole Amar, founder of NOOANCE, explains: "By combining laser and LED technologies, our device delivers a dual-action - it lasers directly to stimulate hair follicles to encourage growth, while LEDs enhance cellular energy and improve overall scalp health. This synergy creates the optimal conditions for stronger, healthier hair."
LED therapy for hands
We all know that hands are the windows to the soul, and their texture often shows the first signs of ageing.
LED for the hands is an ingenious idea and works similarly to a face mask. Margaret Dabbs London has just launched the 'AstraeaNatura™ LED Hand Mitts.' These professional-grade portable mitts use a powerful combination of Red, Near-Infrared, and Green LED light, which targets specific concerns. Like the mask, it encourages collagen production and enhances skin elasticity, making hands appear firmer and more youthful. They also help to reduce pigmentation, evening out skin tone and fading sunspots.
Slipping these on of an evening when you're watching Netflix feels like the ultimate in self-care.
Margaret Dabbs OBE, told HELLO: "Our hands are one of the first places to show signs of ageing, yet they’re often overlooked in skincare. The AstraeaNatura™ LED Hand Mitts are a breakthrough in hand rejuvenation; they are completely wireless and effortless to use. Unlike other LED mitts that treat one hand at a time, ours come as a pair, allowing both hands to receive the treatment simultaneously. In just six weeks, they help to smooth fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation, restoring a more youthful appearance. Red Light Therapy boosts collagen and elasticity, Near-Infrared Light firms sagging skin, and Green Light Therapy evens out skin tone. This innovative treatment makes maintaining healthy, youthful hands easier than ever."
Red Light Therapy For The Body
A flexible, wearable solution for red light therapy on the go, This Works’ Red Light Body Wrap, £100, can be secured wherever (and we mean absolutely anywhere) your body needs it most. It delivers a dual-action treatment, combining red light (660nm) with near-infrared light (850nm) to support the skin’s surface and deeper layers, helping to calm inflammation and encourage cellular repair. The key is consistency, according to founder Dr Anna Persaud, who recommends using it three to five times a week.
In conclusion
Buying an at-home red LED device is a big expense, and I can see why people may be sceptical. But there's no denying that the self-care practice does harbour results, and incorporating it alongside a great skincare regime is the natural way to look younger, without turning to aesthetics.
