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What’s the Best Time of Day to Use Red Light Therapy?
23.05.25
At Baxter Blue, one of the most common questions we’re asked is: “When is the best time to use red light therapy?” The answer depends on your wellness goals. Whether you’re seeking better sleep, increased energy, or healthier skin, timing your sessions right can make all the difference.
This guide explores how morning and evening Red Light Therapy can support different outcomes—and how to get the most from your sessions.
What is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy (RLT), also known as low-level light therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation, is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to support skin health at the cellular level.
These wavelengths penetrate the skin to stimulate mitochondrial activity in your cells, which helps produce more ATP (energy), reduces oxidative stress and promotes tissue repair and collagen synthesis.
Morning vs Evening: When is the Best Time to Use Red Light Therapy?
There’s no universal “perfect time” for red light therapy, but studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that both morning and evening treatments offer unique benefits.
Morning Red Light Therapy: A Natural Energy Boost
Using red light therapy in the morning can help:
* Stimulate cellular energy production (ATP)
* Support mental clarity and focus
* Enhance mood and performance
Exposure to red and near-infrared light early in the day mimics natural sunlight, giving your circadian rhythm a helpful nudge. This makes morning sessions ideal if you’re aiming to improve energy levels, cognitive function, or athletic performance.
Evening Red Light Therapy: Your Wind Down Companion
Prefer to unwind before bed? Evening red light therapy may help:
* Increase melatonin production naturally
* Reduce stress and calm the nervous system
* Prepare your body for restful, high-quality sleep
Because red and near-infrared wavelengths don’t interfere with melatonin like blue light does, evening sessions are perfect for winding down and setting the stage for better sleep.
Before or After Skincare?
If you’re using red light therapy for skin rejuvenation, acne, or anti-ageing, timing also matters in relation to your skincare routine.
Always use your red light therapy device before applying skincare products.
This ensures the light can penetrate your skin barrier effectively without being blocked by creams or serums.
After your session, you can apply your regular routine—this sequencing can actually enhance product absorption and effectiveness.
Can You Use Red Light Therapy Daily?
Yes. Red light therapy is safe for daily use and is non-invasive with no downtime.
We recommend starting with 3–5 sessions per week for the first month, with each session lasting 10–20 minutes, depending on your device and the area being treated. Once you start seeing results, you can maintain benefits with 2–3 sessions per week.
When Should You Avoid Red Light Therapy?
While red light therapy is generally safe, here are a few things to keep in mind:
* Avoid sessions right before intense screen time at night if you’re aiming to wind down (combine therapy with a screen-free period).
* Don’t use red light immediately after applying heavy or opaque skincare products.
* If you have a photosensitive condition or are taking medications that increase light sensitivity, consult your doctor before use.
Final Thoughts: It’s All About Consistency
Red light therapy works best when it becomes part of your daily wellness ritual. Whether you prefer a morning boost or a nighttime wind-down, choosing the right time for red light therapy can amplify its impact on your energy, sleep, skin and overall wellbeing.
Explore Baxter Blue’s range of Red Light Therapy devices - designed to fit effortlessly into your lifestyle, and engineered for maximum results.
FAQs
Can I use red light therapy more than once a day?
Yes, but once daily is usually sufficient. More frequent use may be helpful for specific concerns—just be sure to allow a few hours between sessions.
Is red light therapy safe to use before bed?
Absolutely. In fact, using red light therapy in the evening can help improve sleep by supporting your body’s natural melatonin cycle.
Can I wear makeup during red light therapy?
No. For best results, apply red light to clean, bare skin to allow optimal light penetration.
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