Summer can be challenging for your skin because of sun exposure, heat, sweat, and air conditioning. Red light therapy is researched for various skin and tissue applications, but it should be treated as a complementary part of a skincare routine rather than as protection from UV exposure.
What does the sun do to your skin?
UV exposure can contribute to photoaging, pigmentation changes, and other skin effects. Sunscreen, shade, clothing, and sensible sun protection remain the primary ways to reduce UV exposure.
Where can red light therapy fit in?
Red and near-infrared light are studied within photobiomodulation. Research outcomes vary by wavelength, irradiance, dose, treatment time, treatment area, device, and protocol. Research on PBM does not automatically prove that a specific consumer device will produce the same outcome.
How should you use it in a summer routine?
Follow the instructions for your specific device rather than applying a universal session time or frequency. Red light therapy does not replace sunscreen or other sun-protection measures.
A simple summer routine
- Morning: cleanse and apply appropriate sun protection.
- Daytime: protect and hydrate your skin as needed.
- Evening: cleanse and, if appropriate for your device and routine, follow the recommended red light therapy protocol.
Realistic expectations
Red light therapy is a researched wellness technology, but outcomes vary between people and protocols. Avoid treating a general PBM research finding as a guarantee for a specific home device.
Conclusion
Use red light therapy as a complement to a sensible skincare and sun-protection routine. Follow the device instructions and evaluate the technology based on its complete protocol rather than broad marketing claims.
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