Should I Put Anything on My Skin Before Red Light Therapy?
If you are investing time in red light therapy, it is natural to wonder: Should I put anything on my skin before red light therapy? The answer depends on your goals, your skin type, and the products you plan to use.
Red light therapy works by delivering specific wavelengths of light to the skin. These wavelengths, typically in the 600 to 850 nanometre range, have been studied for their effects on skin appearance, collagen production, and inflammation.
Understanding how light interacts with clean versus product-covered skin can help you get the most out of your treatment.
How Red Light Therapy Interacts With the Skin
Red and near infrared light penetrate the skin at different depths. According to a review published in Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, red light in the 630 to 700 nm range and near infrared light in the 800 to 880 nm range can influence cellular processes, including mitochondrial activity and collagen synthesis, through a mechanism known as photobiomodulation.
Another review in Photomodulation Review explains that low-level light therapy has demonstrated improvements in skin complexion, texture, and collagen density in clinical settings.
For light to reach target tissues efficiently, it must pass through the outermost layer of the skin. Thick creams, heavy sunscreens, or opaque products may theoretically reduce light penetration. While there is limited direct research comparing bare skin versus product-layered skin during red light therapy, most clinical studies are performed on clean, product-free skin.
The General Recommendation: Start With Clean Skin
In most cases, the safest and most evidence-based approach is to begin red light therapy with clean, dry skin.
Cleansing removes:
- Makeup
- Sunscreen
- Dirt and excess oil
- Residual skincare products
This allows light to reach the skin without physical barriers. If you are using a device such as the PRANA LED Light Therapy Mask, applying it to freshly cleansed skin ensures optimal contact and even light distribution.
If your routine includes a strong exfoliating acid, retinoid, or other potentially sensitising product, it is generally advisable to avoid using those immediately before a light session unless directed by a skincare professional.
Red light therapy is typically considered non-thermal and non-invasive, but combining multiple active treatments at once may increase skin sensitivity in some individuals.
Can You Apply Skincare Before Red Light Therapy?
This is where the answer becomes more nuanced.
Some users choose to apply lightweight, water-based serums before treatment. The rationale is that certain ingredients may benefit from increased circulation and cellular activity stimulated by red light.
There is emerging interest in the idea that red light therapy may enhance transdermal delivery of topical agents, although this area is still being studied. A review in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine discusses how photobiomodulation can influence cellular metabolism and tissue repair mechanisms.
However, our Green Rooibos Pressed Serum has been clinically tested for use before red light therapy. The study concluded that red light therapy is more effective when used after green rooibos.
In fact, the results show 260% better results for skin rejuvenation when you combine the two!
Our Green Rooibos serum works by improving mitochondrial health and ATP output, helping speed up the pace at which cell mitochondria produce ATP, fastening cell regeneration, cell repair, and collagen synthesis.
What About Antioxidant Serums?
Antioxidants are frequently used in skincare to help protect against oxidative stress. If you are considering whether to apply an antioxidant serum before your session, it is important to check the texture and formulation.
Lightweight, nonocclusive serums are less likely to interfere with light penetration than thick creams.
One example is once again the Green Rooibos Pressed Serum, which is formulated with Aspalathin-enriched green rooibos extract and designed to provide antioxidant support and hydration. It helps support the skin barrier and visibly brightens the complexion.
If you choose to use a serum before treatment, apply a thin layer and allow it to absorb fully before turning on your device.
When It May Be Better to Wait
There are situations where you should avoid putting anything on your skin before red light therapy:
- Immediately after chemical peels
- After microneedling
- On broken or irritated skin
- When using prescription topicals, unless cleared by a clinician
Clinical studies on photobiomodulation generally exclude individuals with open wounds or active infections, and most protocols involve clean skin without occlusive layers.
If you are unsure, consult a board-certified dermatologist or healthcare provider, especially if you are undergoing medical treatments.
Applying Skincare After Red Light Therapy
Many users prefer to apply skincare after their session. There is a logical reason for this.
Red light therapy has been shown to increase local blood flow and influence cellular metabolism. One study found that low-level light therapy can enhance microcirculation and tissue oxygenation
Although more research is needed, applying serums and moisturisers after treatment may support hydration and barrier function at a time when the skin is metabolically active.
Post-treatment is often an ideal moment to apply:
- Hydrating serums
- Barrier supporting moisturisers
- Antioxidant formulas
Practical Guidelines
If you are still asking yourself, should I put anything on my skin before red light therapy, use this practical framework:
- Cleanse thoroughly and pat dry.
- If using a product beforehand, keep it lightweight and nonocclusive.
- Avoid heavy creams, thick sunscreens, or makeup.
- Consider applying the most active skincare products after the session.
- Always follow the device manufacturer’s instructions.
Devices such as the PRANA LED Light Therapy Mask are designed for use on clean skin and for consistent, even coverage at home.
The Bottom Line
So, should I put anything on my skin before red light therapy?
Applying proper products can certainly help improve your skin rejuvenation routine! However, you need to make sure that you are using proper products.
While lightweight serums may be used in some cases, heavy or opaque products may reduce light penetration and are best avoided during the session.
This is why it is recommended to use products formulated specifically for red light therapy support, such as Maysama’s skincare line.
By keeping your routine simple and consistent, you can help ensure that your red light therapy sessions are as effective and safe as possible.
As always, if you have a medical skin condition or are undergoing dermatological treatment, consult a qualified professional before beginning or modifying your LED routine.
