Only buy devices that are cleared by the FDA. Red light therapy devices can range from $200 to over $1,000 depending on their size. Many devices are made for specific areas of your body, such as red light therapy masks that target your face.

Don’t cover up the area you are treating. Red light can’t penetrate your skin if you are wearing clothes and accessories. Near infrared light can move through your clothes, but it is still best to remove them. [4] X Research source Sunscreen may also reduce red light therapy’s effectiveness. If you apply sunscreen daily or use makeup with SPF, you may want to complete your sessions in the morning before you put on these products. [5] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source

Perform a patch test before treating larger areas to see how your skin reacts. Find a suitable location for your device where you can sit or stand for 20 minutes at a time. You will dedicate a lot of time to this area, so spruce it up and make it relaxing with candles, music, and aromatherapy. [7] X Research source

If you are using red light therapy for non-visible benefits, like muscle recovery and pain management, keep a journal to monitor how you are feeling each week.

While many people report improvements to their skin, most do not see a reduction in their acne with red light therapy alone. Work with your dermatologist to find a treatment that you can use alongside red light therapy. [14] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source There isn’t enough evidence to suggest that red light therapy will cure eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea, but it might be able to lessen your discomfort.

Use red light therapy before you exercise to protect your muscles from damage. Then use it after you exercise to ease and relax your muscles. Though red light therapy is not a cure, it can be helpful in managing arthritis.

While red light therapy is completely safe, most doctors prefer to err on the side of caution if you are pregnant. Doctors also don’t recommend using red light therapy if you have active skin diseases, are undergoing chemotherapy, or if you have epilepsy or a history of seizures.

The long-term safety and effects of using red light therapy is not currently known.

If you want quicker results, complete a few professional therapy sessions and then use an at-home device to maintain your results. [22] X Research source