Over the years, technology has made great strides, especially in helping with skin issues like sun damage, wrinkles, and acne. One such advancement is red light therapy, which uses specific light to treat various skin conditions. To get the most out of this therapy, it’s important to prepare your skin properly for optimal light absorption.
If you’re thinking about trying red light therapy, it’s a good idea to learn all you can about it. Check out reliable sources like LightTherapy.org to get a solid understanding of the basics.
Red light therapy (RLT) uses red and near-infrared light at specific wavelengths that your body cells absorb easily. This absorption boosts the function of mitochondria, the cell’s powerhouse, leading to increased energy production, or ATP, at the cellular level. ATP is the molecule that stores and delivers energy to your cells, and more energy means healthier skin and body.
The therapy enhances the cells’ ability to produce energy and regenerate, making it a great option for boosting collagen production, reducing skin inflammation, and minimizing scars and other skin damage. Sessions typically last about 20 minutes, and you might need up to ten sessions, depending on your skin condition and desired results. You might lie under the light or have a light-infused wand moved over your skin, depending on the clinic’s equipment and your treatment area.
Since red light therapy is non-invasive, there’s no downtime. You can continue your skincare routine and use makeup afterward. However, it’s crucial to apply sunscreen with strong UVA protection, as the therapy can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
Proper skin preparation is key to maximizing the benefits of red light therapy. Here are some tips to consider before your appointment:
1. Stick to your regular skincare routine in the days leading up to your session, but be gentle with your skin. Avoid irritating it and steer clear of strong products or excessive sun exposure.
2. Clean your skin with a mild, non-drying cleanser before the therapy to remove any mineral-based sunscreen or makeup with zinc. Products like lotions, foundation, or perfumes can reduce the therapy’s effectiveness.
3. Avoid using products with retinol or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) before your appointment, as they can increase skin sensitivity and cause irritation.
4. Exfoliate your skin after cleansing to remove dead skin cells, dirt, and oil that might block your pores. This step ensures the light can penetrate your skin fully. Exfoliate weekly and on the day of your appointment.
Besides preparing your skin’s surface, you can also take steps to improve your skin from within. Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated for the best results. Include foods that support skin hydration, like salmon, spinach, tomatoes, walnuts, bananas, egg yolks, and dairy. Nuts are rich in vitamin E, which helps maintain your skin’s lipid layer and hydration. Also, make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Red light therapy is becoming a popular choice for managing skin conditions like inflammation, acne, and wrinkles. Depending on your skin issues, it might be worth considering for its benefits. If you’re trying it for the first time, remember these preparation tips to achieve the best results.
