LED Light Therapy 101: Red Light, Blue Light & When to Use Them

When it comes to skincare trends that actually work, LED light therapy is in a league of its own. Originally developed by NASA to help astronauts heal wounds faster in space (yes, really 🚀), this non-invasive treatment has become a go-to in high-end spas and at-home routines for its ability to improve skin health from the inside out.

Whether you’re looking to boost collagen, calm inflammation, or stop breakouts before they start, understanding the difference between red light and blue light is the key to getting real results. Here’s your complete guide to LED light therapy for the face, what it is, what it does, and how to make it part of your glow ritual.

What Is LED Light Therapy?

LED (Light Emitting Diode) light therapy uses specific wavelengths of light energy to stimulate natural processes in your skin. The light penetrates at different depths, triggering a cascade of cellular activity–no heat damage, no downtime, no needles.

In facials, LED light therapy is usually a final step, layered in after your skin has been cleansed, exfoliated, and nourished. The light essentially “coaches” your cells to behave better, whether that means calming redness, increasing collagen production, or destroying acne-causing bacteria.

The Benefits of LED Light Therapy for Skin

Consistent LED treatments can:

• Boost collagen + elastin for firmer, bouncier skin

• Calm inflammation and soothe redness or sensitivity

• Speed healing after extractions, microneedling, or peels

• Clear acne by targeting bacteria beneath the surface

• Reduce fine lines + wrinkles over time

• Improve overall skin tone + texture for a long-term glow

Red Light vs. Blue Light: What’s the Difference?

The color you choose matters. Each wavelength works differently.

Red Light (Anti-Aging + Healing)

• Wavelength: ~630–660nm

• Penetration Depth: Deeper into the skin’s dermis

• Best For: Boosting collagen, reducing fine lines, calming inflammation, speeding healing

• How It Works: Red light energizes your mitochondria (aka your cells’ powerhouses), increasing collagen and elastin production while improving circulation. Think of it as a full recharge for your skin cells.

Red light is your go-to if you’re focused on anti-aging, repairing sun damage, or calming chronic redness.

Blue Light (Acne + Bacteria Control)

• Wavelength: ~405–470nm

• Penetration Depth: Targets the upper dermis and sebaceous (oil) glands

• Best For: Killing acne-causing bacteria, regulating oil production

• How It Works: Blue light interacts with P. acnes bacteria, creating a reaction that destroys it—without harming surrounding skin.

Blue light is ideal for those prone to breakouts, especially inflammatory acne.

Pro Tip: Some professional LED devices combine both red and blue light in one session, giving you anti-aging and acne-fighting benefits in a single treatment.

How Often Should You Do LED Light Therapy?

For best results, consistency is key. While you’ll see an instant glow after one session, LED light therapy works cumulatively, meaning the more regularly you do it, the better your results.

• In-spa treatments: Monthly as part of your regular in-spa treatments

• At-home devices: 3–5 times per week, following your device’s instructions

Is LED Light Therapy Safe?

Yes, LED light therapy is non-invasive, painless, and safe for all skin types. There’s no UV exposure, no downtime, and minimal risk of side effects when used correctly. Just be sure to:

• Remove makeup before your session

• Use on clean and dry skin, before you apply your serums and moisturizers

• Wear protective goggles during in-spa treatments

• Avoid use on open wounds or active skin infections

Bottom Line

LED light therapy is science-backed skincare that delivers. Whether you choose red light for collagen and healing, blue light for breakouts, or both, regular sessions can transform your skin over time. Pair it with a customized facial, and you’ll get the ultimate inside-out glow.

Want to experience professional-grade LED results? Book your next LED facial session here.