Red Light Therapy Explained: How It Works and Why Everyone’s Talking About It

Red light therapy (RLT) seems to be everywhere right now. You’ve probably seen it in skincare routines, wellness studios, and at-home masks. It’s often talked about as a simple way to support your skin without harsh treatments. But what actually is it? And does it really work?

Let’s break it down. 

What Is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy uses low levels of red or near-infrared light to help recover and regenerate damaged tissue. That’s why you may have seen it being used in sports recovery or chronic pain clinics. When it comes to skincare, red light therapy uses low-level LED wavelengths to boost collagen, reduce fine lines, treat acne, and improve skin texture.

Have you ever heard of blue light? Blue light helps get rid of any acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface, while red light is great for stimulating collagen and reversing signs of ageing. 

It’s not heat or a UV light. And it doesn’t damage your skin. Instead, it works by exposing your skin to specific wavelengths of light that can reach below the surface. It’s non-invasive, which is one of the reasons it’s become so popular.

This type of therapy is often used for:

• skin health and appearance

• reducing signs of aging

• supporting recovery and healing

• calming inflammation

The Science |  How Red Light Therapy Really Works

The science behind it is actually pretty simple. Wellness doesn’t have to be complicated to be effective.

When red light reaches your skin, it interacts with your cells. More specifically, it targets something called the mitochondria. Mitochondria are like the “energy centres” of your cells. Red light helps them work more efficiently. One of the reasons red light therapy stands out is how it reaches deeper layers of the skin.

When that happens, a few things follow:

• your cells produce more energy

• repair processes can improve

• inflammation may decrease

• collagen production can increase

Collagen is what helps keep skin firm and smooth. As we age, collagen naturally declines. Red light therapy may help support its production over time. So instead of forcing change, the therapy supports what your body already does.

Why Everyone Is Talking About It

Have you seen red light therapy all over social media? There’s a reason red light therapy has gone from niche to mainstream. It fits into how people want to take care of their skin today. Simple, consistent, and supportive rather than aggressive.

It’s Gentle

Unlike stronger treatments, red light doesn’t damage your skin's surface. There’s no peeling, no irritation, and no recovery time needed. Instead, it works gradually beneath the surface. That makes it easier to stay consistent, which is where the real benefits come from. Your wellness routine should feel like something you can return to, not something you have to push through.

Easy to Use at Home

Devices like masks make it simple to build into your routine. You don’t need to book appointments or plan your day around a treatment. You can use it while winding down, reading, or getting ready for bed. That ease is a big part of why people actually stick with it.

Works With Your Body

Red light therapy doesn’t force quick results. It supports natural processes like cell repair, circulation, and collagen production. Over time, that can lead to healthier-looking skin that feels more balanced. It’s a slower approach, but one that tends to feel more sustainable.

Backed by Growing Research

Studies show it may help with:

• fine lines and wrinkles

• acne and redness

• skin texture and tone

• wound healing

Some studies have shown improvements in skin texture and collagen density with consistent use. That said, it’s still an evolving area. Most experts agree the results are promising, but not everything is fully proven yet.

Is Red Light Therapy Safe?

For most people, red light therapy is considered safe when used correctly. It doesn’t use UV light, which means it won’t damage your skin the way sun exposure can. That’s one of the biggest reasons it’s become so popular for regular use. Most people don’t experience any side effects. When they do happen, they’re usually mild and temporary, like slight redness or a warm feeling after a session.

That said, a few tips can help you get the most out of your treatments. 

• Follow the recommended timing

• Protect your eyes when needed

• Be mindful of sensitive skin

• Check the products you’re using alongside it

• Speak to a professional if needed

Good to know: If you have a medical condition, are pregnant, or are treating a specific skin concern, getting guidance can give you more confidence. It’s also worth knowing that consistency matters more than intensity. Red light therapy works best when it’s used regularly over time, not pushed too hard all at once.

Overall, it’s a low-risk option that fits easily into a routine. Remember, it’s built to support your routine, not take it over. That balance of safety and simplicity is a big part of why so many people are comfortable using it at home.

How Often Should You Use a Red Light Mask?

Most people use red light therapy masks a few times per week. In many cases, 3–5 sessions weekly over several weeks is recommended to start seeing changes. Sessions are usually short, often around 10–20 minutes.

What Results Can You Expect?

Red light therapy is not an overnight fix. Results tend to build slowly and first show up in subtle ways.

In the beginning, you might notice your skin feels smoother, less red, or brighter. Over time, with consistent use, people often report softer fine lines, improved texture, and more even tone. Some studies even found that a high percentage of users noticed visible skin improvements after a few weeks of treatments.

Where Can Red Light Fit Into Your Wellness Routine?

Red light therapy works best as part of a consistent routine. It should fit into your everyday rhythm. It’s not meant to replace everything else you do. Instead, it complements it.

Upgrade your wellness routine with our red light therapy mask or our red light therapy panel. Both are designed to fit seamlessly into your day, so you can build simple, consistent habits that support your skin over time.

If you’re considering red light therapy, check out our range of red light therapy products, contact us or visit one of our Forme Showrooms. 

written by Steph Taylor, published on 13-03-2026

Steph Taylor is one of our Forme Go™ Reformer Pilates Instructors. She has been instructing Reformer Pilates classes for the past 6 years. One of the main things she loves about Reformer Pilates is that it is such a low impact form of exercise, so anyone can do it.

"It doesn't matter if you are a total beginner or have been doing Reformer Pilates for a long time, there is always something for everyone!"