Red light therapy has gained recognition as a non-invasive solution for various skin concerns, including hyperpigmentation, aging, and wrinkles. With the rise of at-home red light therapy devices, more people can now experience its benefits firsthand.
However, the warm glow of red light therapy devices which can resemble the radiance of a tanning bed can lead many, especially those new to the treatment, to wonder: does red light therapy darken the skin?
Explore how red light therapy interacts with the skin and how it differs from UV radiation with our team at Rojo Light Therapy US.
The answer is ‘no.’ Red light therapy does not tan your skin.
Tanning is a biological defense mechanism. When skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays, particularly UVA and UVB, melanin production increases to absorb radiation and protect the skin from DNA damage. This kind of light usually falls within the 100–400 nm range and carries high-energy photons capable of penetrating the skin and altering melanin production.
Controlled skin exposure to this kind of light results in a darker skin tone, however, excessive exposure can result in sunburn.
On the other hand, red and near-infrared (NIR) light ranges between 600–850 nm. These wavelengths do not stimulate melanin at all. Instead, they penetrate deeper into the skin to stimulate a variety of cellular processes that produce the skin benefits the therapy is known for.
Red light therapy does not carry UV rays that damage the skin at any level, meaning it can’t tan the skin at all.
In some cases, users of red light therapy at home may experience slight, temporary skin redness, especially with overuse. However, this is a different effect altogether from that produced by tanning.
Another major difference between the two treatments is the effect on skin health. UV exposure is a double-edged sword. It may produce a desirable tan but at the cost of premature aging, sunburn, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
Red light therapy does the opposite. It supports skin repair, reduces oxidative stress, and promotes circulation, all without damaging DNA or accelerating aging. This process all happens from a cellular level to improve overall skin health, making it a completely different experience from UV exposure.
While many people love that sun-kissed glow, the medical community generally considers tanning unsafe. The only way to tan safely is through tanning lotions or self-tanning sprays. These generally don’t cause irritation to the skin and wash away after a few days.
For those who may experience sun-damaged skin, however, red light therapy is an excellent solution. It boosts cellular energy through an increased production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) or the cell’s fuel, which then makes the cells’ natural healing process more effective. This helps accelerate the skin’s healing process.
Additionally, red light therapy at home increases the body’s production of collagen and elastin, two essential proteins that help the skin maintain its strength and firmness. They also help repair skin damage, hyperpigmentation, and scarring.
The treatment also helps reduce inflammation and the pain that can come with skin damage from too much sun exposure.
The biggest advantage of this treatment is it comes with very little to no side effects unlike chemical peels and topical creams. This allows the skin to continue healing without further irritation or disruption.
If your goal is healthier, more radiant skin, red light therapy is a safer, more effective option than tanning. While it won’t give you a bronzed look, it will improve your skin’s overall tone, texture, and resilience without the risk of sun damage.
At Rojo Light Therapy, we offer high-quality red and near-infrared light therapy panels designed for home use, making it accessible to experience the benefits without leaving your home. Explore our red light therapy at home range now or contact us for more inquiries.
