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As la rentrée is here, I’ve been thinking back on this summer and our holiday in the Alps (which I highly recommend). I managed to take a real break in moments that were time-bound and guilt-free. I visited the spa at least twice. The dream.

In the spa lobby, there was a red light mask on display, advertising a 30-minute therapy session. You know, the eerie, glowing ones, worn in the dark. They seem to be everywhere these days and this one was impossible to miss as I walked in. Of course, I’m wondering whether a single half-hour under it could really make a difference, or if I’d just be comfily sitting under a nice, useless glow.

With three little kids in tow, I’m always on the lookout quick, easy wins. So this week, I dug into what the science actually says about red light therapy. Will I be my kids’ new night light? Possibly.

🚨 Red Light, Explained

Red light therapy (RLT) uses low-level red or near-infrared light (600–1000 nm) to stimulate your cells. Light at these wavelengths penetrates the skin and is absorbed by mitochondria, the tiny power plants in your cells. The key player is an enzyme called cytochrome c oxidase, which uses that light to make more ATP (your cell’s energy currency).

With more ATP, cells work faster and repair better. This ripple effect explains many of the reported benefits: increased collagen, reduced inflammation, faster healing. Respondents in one study reported results lasting up to one month!

Where the evidence is strongest:

✨ Skin rejuvenation + anti-aging

• Multiple trials show RLT increases collagen, smooths texture, and reduces wrinkles, discoloration, and roughness.

• In one study, 90% of patients noticed softer skin, lighter spots, and less redness after sessions.

🩹 Wound healing + tissue repair

• Red light speeds up healing by stimulating fibroblasts (cells that make collagen) and increasing blood flow.

• Studies show faster recovery after surgery, burns, or UV-related skin damage.

🌋 Acne + inflammation

• Red light calms inflammation and helps blemishes heal.

• When paired with blue light, results could be even better, but many studies are small and protocols vary.

Where evidence is emerging (but not conclusive):

• Hair growth: Some devices stimulate follicles in androgenic alopecia, but effects are moderate.

• Joint pain / fibromyalgia: Early trials show reduced inflammation and pain, but more robust studies are needed.

• Brain & cognition: Animal and pilot studies suggest benefits in dementia and mood, but still very preliminary.

• Vision health: New evidence hints at benefits for eye blood flow and myopia, but this is experimental.

Limitations to keep in mind:

• Many studies are small, inconsistent, or lack placebo controls.

• Results can vary depending on wavelength, dose, and device quality.

• Safety: Generally safe with few side effects. But don’t overuse, and wear eye protection.

💬 Do you use your red light mask every night? Are you convinced?