Can red light therapy help your skin? Here's what the science says.
If you've been curious about red light therapy, you've probably seen some pretty big claims.
It reduces wrinkles.
It boosts collagen.
It fades scars.
It helps eczema.
It calms psoriasis.
So…what's actually true?
The good news is that red light therapy isn't just another wellness trend. Researchers have been studying photobiomodulation (the scientific name for red light therapy) for decades, and while it's not a miracle cure, there is growing evidence that it can support healthier skin in several meaningful ways.
At Barre West, we use the FDA-cleared LightStim ProPanel and LED Bed, which combine clinically researched red and near-infrared wavelengths designed to support skin health, circulation, and the body's natural healing processes.
Let's look at what the research actually says:
How Does Red Light Therapy Work?
Every cell in your body contains tiny structures called mitochondria, often referred to as the "powerhouses" of the cell. Red and near-infrared light penetrate the skin and are absorbed by the mitochondria, helping them produce more ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the primary source of cellular energy.
With more available energy, cells can perform normal repair and regeneration processes more efficiently. Researchers also believe red light therapy may:
Reduce inflammation
Increase local circulation
Stimulate fibroblasts (the cells responsible for making collagen)
Support tissue repair
Reduce oxidative stress
Rather than changing your skin from the outside in, red light therapy works by supporting your body's natural healing processes from the cellular level upward.
Can Red Light Therapy Reduce Wrinkles and Improve Collagen?
This is one of the best-studied uses of red light therapy. Collagen is the protein responsible for giving skin its firmness and elasticity. As we age, collagen production naturally slows, leading to fine lines, wrinkles, and thinner skin. Multiple clinical studies have shown improvements in:
Fine lines
Skin texture
Skin smoothness
Collagen density
Overall skin complexion
In one randomized controlled trial involving 136 participants, researchers found significant improvements in skin complexion, skin roughness, and intradermal collagen density after regular red light treatments compared to the control group.
While red light therapy won't replace sunscreen or a great skincare routine, it can be a valuable addition to a long-term healthy aging plan.
Can Red Light Therapy Help Eczema?
The research here is promising, but still developing. Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is driven by inflammation and an impaired skin barrier. Because red light therapy helps reduce inflammatory signaling, researchers have investigated whether it can improve eczema symptoms. Some clinical trials have shown improvements in:
Redness
Itching
Swelling
Overall eczema severity
If you have eczema, think of red light therapy as a complementary wellness tool, not a replacement for care recommended by your dermatologist.
Can Red Light Therapy Help Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is another inflammatory skin condition that researchers continue to study. Several studies suggest that specific wavelengths of LED light may reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis plaques and improve symptoms for some individuals.
Red light therapy may offer additional support by helping calm inflammation and improving skin comfort without exposing skin to ultraviolet light.
Can Red Light Therapy Improve Scars?
Scar healing is one of the most exciting areas of ongoing research. Scientists believe red light therapy may help regulate fibroblast activity, the cells responsible for producing collagen during wound healing.
Rather than simply producing more collagen, healthy healing depends on producing organized collagen, which may improve scar appearance over time.
Clinical studies have found that red light therapy is safe following surgery and may improve certain aspects of scar quality, including pliability and appearance. Like most skin treatments, consistency matters, and results develop gradually rather than overnight.
What About Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks occur when the skin stretches faster than collagen and elastin fibers can adapt. While there isn't strong research proving red light therapy can eliminate stretch marks, scientists believe its ability to stimulate collagen production and support tissue remodeling may improve their overall appearance over time.
Many dermatologists consider this an emerging area of research with encouraging early findings, but more clinical trials are needed before strong conclusions can be made.
Why We Chose the LightStim ProPanel & LED Bed
Not all red light therapy devices deliver the same wavelengths or energy output. At Barre West, we use LightStim's FDA-cleared professional systems, which combine multiple clinically researched wavelengths, including 630 nm, 660 nm, 855 nm, and 940 nm, to support both surface skin health and deeper tissue wellness.
Unlike tanning beds, the LightStim system uses red and near-infrared LED light only. It does not emit ultraviolet (UV) radiation, meaning treatments won't tan your skin or expose it to the risks associated with UV light.
LightStim devices are FDA-cleared medical devices for specific indications, including improving the appearance of facial wrinkles, treating mild to moderate inflammatory acne (with designated devices), temporarily increasing local blood circulation, relaxing muscles, and temporarily relieving minor muscle and joint aches and pains.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
Red light therapy isn't a one-and-done treatment. Like exercise, healthy eating, or skincare, consistency is what produces results. Many people notice improvements in how their skin feels after several sessions, while visible changes in skin tone, texture, or fine lines often develop over several weeks of regular treatments.
Your results will depend on:
Your skin concerns
Your age
Treatment frequency
Lifestyle habits
Sun exposure
Overall skin health
The Bottom Line
The science behind red light therapy continues to grow, and current research suggests it may support healthier skin by encouraging collagen production, reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and supporting your body's natural healing processes.
While it's not a miracle treatment, and shouldn't replace medical care for skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, it can be a valuable addition to a comprehensive skin wellness routine.
At Barre West, we believe in combining evidence-based technology with consistency, education, and realistic expectations. Whether your goal is healthier-looking skin, improved recovery, or simply carving out twenty relaxing minutes for yourself, our LightStim ProPanel and LED Bed are designed to help support your wellness from the inside out.
Read to give red light therap a try? Get a week of unlimited sessions for $99 with our new client special.