Using a Red Light Therapy bed isn’t as intimidating as it looks, think of it as lying down for a glow-up nap. Short answer: you use it by prepping your skin, positioning yourself evenly, and following safe timing guidelines. Most people overthink it, but it’s surprisingly simple once you know the basics. If you want smoother skin, faster recovery, or just better sessions overall, this guide walks you through everything step-by-step.
A Red Light Therapy bed works best when you treat it like a routine rather than a one-time experiment. The light needs consistent exposure to help your cells repair and recharge. The more regularly you use it, the more noticeable your results become. Think of it like the gym: steady effort beats occasional sessions every time.
Clean skin helps the light penetrate more effectively. Remove anything that could block absorption, including oils, sweat, or leftover skincare. A quick wash or wipe-down is usually enough. Just make sure your skin is completely dry before you get into the bed.
Makeup and heavy products act like tiny shields that stop the light reaching your cells. Sunscreen in particular blocks red and near-infrared wavelengths almost entirely. If you want real results, your skin needs to be bare. This simple step can dramatically improve how well each session works.
Your cells respond better when you're hydrated. Drink water 1–2 hours before your session and again afterward to support your body’s natural repair processes. Proper hydration helps with circulation and overall recovery. It’s a small habit that makes a big difference.
You can wear underwear, swimwear, or nothing at all, whatever you’re comfortable with. Less fabric means more light exposure, so many people prefer minimal clothing. Avoid dark or tight fabrics because they absorb light instead of letting it through.
Red and near-infrared light are safe for most people, but eye protection is still recommended. Use goggles or eye shields provided by the facility or included with your device. If you’re photosensitive or on certain medications, eye protection becomes essential.
Most beginners start with 10–12 minutes and gradually move up to 15–20 minutes. Shorter sessions help your skin and tissues adjust without irritation. Increase the time only when you feel comfortable and after seeing how your body responds.
Lie flat and keep your body centered so the light reaches everything evenly. You don’t need to do anything during the session, just relax. Some people meditate, others listen to calming music. You’ll feel gentle warmth but no burning or discomfort.
Most people feel relaxed or slightly energised afterward. Some notice a mild warmth or temporary redness, which is normal and fades quickly. Your skin may also look a little brighter, especially after consistent use. It’s a subtle but satisfying boost.
You can return to your usual skincare after your session. Light serums, moisturisers, or hydrating products pair well with Red Light Therapy. Avoid harsh exfoliants or strong active ingredients right away if your skin feels sensitive.
For overall health and maintenance, 2–3 sessions per week is a great starting point. This keeps your cells consistently energised without overwhelming your skin. Most people start noticing small improvements within a few weeks.
If you're targeting muscle recovery, pain relief, or specific skin concerns, you may benefit from 3–5 sessions per week. This higher frequency gives your body more regular stimulation. Just make sure you monitor how you feel and adjust as needed.
Everyone reacts to Red Light Therapy slightly differently. Pay attention to how your skin and muscles respond during and after each session. If something feels off, take a break or shorten your next session.
More sessions don’t always mean faster results. Overuse can lead to temporary redness or irritation. Stick to recommended timings and avoid back-to-back multiple sessions in a single day.
A quick shower before your session is helpful because it removes oils and products. Afterward is optional, some people wait to let their skin absorb skincare products more effectively.
Yes, it’s recommended. Even though Red Light Therapy is gentle, extended exposure can strain sensitive eyes. Goggles provide quick, simple protection.
Technically you could, but it’s not ideal. Screens block some of the light from reaching your face, and bright displays reduce the relaxing experience. Plus, you’ll get fingerprints all over your phone. Try using the time to disconnect instead.
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