Red light therapy (RLT) is celebrated for its non-invasive benefits, from pain relief to skin rejuvenation. But is red light therapy really safe for everyone? While most users experience few side effects, there are important risks and contraindications to consider.
Understanding these potential pitfalls and how to avoid them will help you maximize the benefits of RLT while protecting your health.
Key Takeaways
- Protect your eyes with goggles to prevent retinal damage during red light therapy sessions.
- Start with short sessions and follow device guidelines to avoid skin irritation and burns.
- Consult your doctor before using RLT if you take photosensitizing medications or have light-sensitive conditions.
- Avoid RLT on cancerous lesions, during pregnancy, or if you have epilepsy, unless cleared by your healthcare provider.
- Choose FDA-cleared devices and reputable brands to minimize risks from overuse or poor-quality products.
1. Eye Damage-Why Eye Protection Is Essential
Red and near-infrared light can penetrate deep into tissues, including the eyes. Direct exposure to RLT devices may cause eye strain, headaches, or, in rare cases, retinal damage-especially with high-powered or improperly used devices¹. The risk is higher when treating the face or scalp, as users may inadvertently look at the light source.
How to avoid it:
- Always wear protective goggles during RLT, especially for facial or scalp treatments¹.
- Never look directly at the light source, and avoid pointing the device at your eyes¹.
- If you have a history of eye disease, recent eye surgery, or conditions like glaucoma or cataracts, consult your eye doctor before starting RLT².
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2. Skin Irritation, Redness, and Burns
While RLT is gentler than UV-based therapies, overexposure or improper use can cause skin irritation, redness, itching, or even blistering³. These side effects are usually mild and temporary but can be more severe in people with sensitive skin or those who exceed recommended session times.
How to avoid it³:
- Start with shorter sessions and gradually increase as tolerated.
- Follow manufacturer guidelines for distance, duration, and frequency.
- If you experience persistent redness, swelling, or blisters, stop treatment and consult your healthcare provider.
3. Medication and Photosensitivity Risks
Certain medications and medical conditions can increase your sensitivity to light, making you more prone to side effects like burns or rashes⁴. Antibiotics, acne medications (like isotretinoin), some antidepressants, and anti-inflammatories are common culprits. Medical conditions such as lupus, porphyria, and albinism also heighten risk.
How to avoid it:
- Review all your medications for photosensitivity warnings before starting RLT⁴.
- Consult your doctor if you have a history of light-sensitive conditions⁴.
- If you notice unusual skin reactions, discontinue use and seek medical advice⁴.
4. Contraindications: Who Should Avoid Red Light Therapy?
RLT is not for everyone. There are situations where it should be avoided or used only under strict medical supervision:
- Active cancer or suspicious lesions: RLT stimulates cellular activity, which could be risky if you have cancer or undiagnosed tumors⁵.
- Pregnancy: There is limited research on RLT’s safety during pregnancy, especially on the abdomen or lower back⁵.
- Seizure disorders (epilepsy): Flickering or flashing light from some devices can trigger seizures in susceptible individuals⁵.
- Recent wounds, burns, or infections: Avoid RLT on open or infected areas unless directed by a medical professional⁵.
How to avoid it:
- Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any of these conditions or concerns before starting RLT⁵.
Related: Avoid These 5 Shocking Red Light Therapy Risks-Is It Really Safe?
5. Overuse and Device Quality Concerns
Using red light therapy too often or with unregulated devices can increase the risk of side effects³. Not all home-use devices are FDA-cleared, and some may deliver inconsistent or excessive light doses.
How to avoid it:
- Choose FDA-cleared devices and buy from reputable sources³.
- Stick to recommended session lengths (usually 10–20 minutes) and frequency (2–5 times per week)³.
- Monitor your skin and overall response, adjusting use if you notice any adverse effects³.
Related: How Often Should You Use Red Light Therapy? The Ideal Schedule for Fast Results
Troubleshooting and Practical Safety Tips
- Headaches or eye strain: Wear goggles, close your eyes, and reduce session brightness or duration¹.
- Skin discomfort: Lower the intensity, increase distance, or take longer breaks between sessions³.
- Sleep issues: Some people report insomnia if RLT is used too late in the evening; try morning or afternoon sessions instead³.
- Device maintenance: Clean your device regularly and inspect for damage to ensure safe operation³.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can red light therapy cause cancer?
There is no evidence that RLT causes cancer in healthy tissue, but it should not be used on known or suspected tumors due to its cell-stimulating effects⁵.
Related: 10 Red Light Therapy Myths Debunked: What Truly Works for Body Wellness
Is red light therapy safe for children?
RLT is generally safe for children under medical supervision, but session times and intensity should be reduced, and a healthcare provider should be consulted first⁵.
What should I do if I have a reaction?
Stop treatment immediately and consult your healthcare provider if you experience severe redness, swelling, blistering, or other unusual symptoms³.
Integrate RLT Safely into Your Wellness Routine
Red light therapy can be a valuable addition to your health regimen when used safely and responsibly. For a comprehensive overview of RLT’s benefits, best practices, and advanced protocols, visit our Ultimate Science-Backed Guide to Red Light Therapy for Pain Relief & Longevity.
Conclusion
Red light therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated, but it’s not entirely risk-free. Understanding potential side effects, contraindications, and the importance of proper device use is essential for maximizing benefits and minimizing harm.
By following safety guidelines, consulting your healthcare provider when needed, and starting slow, you can confidently enjoy the advantages of red light therapy while protecting your health.
References
- Brown Health. (2025, April 15). Red Light Therapy: Benefits, Safety and Things to Know. https://www.brownhealth.org/be-well/red-light-therapy-benefits-safety-and-things-know
- American Academy of Dermatology. (2024, September 14). Is red light therapy right for your skin? https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/safety/red-light-therapy
- WebMD. (2024, May 14). Red Light Therapy: Effectiveness, Treatment, and Risks. https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/red-light-therapy
- Krysus HP. (2024, April 10). Red Light Therapy Side Effects. https://www.krysushp.com/learn/red-light-therapy-side-effects/
- Lumivisage. (2025, May 1). Red Light Therapy Contraindications: 10 Things To Watch Out For. https://lumivisage.com/blog/red-light-therapy-contraindications/
- American Academy of Dermatology. (2024, September 14). Is red light therapy right for your skin? https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/safety/red-light-therapy
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