Red Light Therapy for Acne: A Natural Approach
A Beginner’s Guide to Clearer Skin without Harsh Chemicals
Why Try Red Light for Acne?
Struggling with breakouts, irritated skin, or scarring but tired of drying creams and aggressive prescriptions? You’re not alone. Many people are turning to red light therapy as a gentler, research-backed approach to reduce acne, inflammation, and skin redness.
At Oxygen and Light in Lynnwood, WA, we offer non-invasive red light therapy options for acne that target the problem at its root: inflammation and impaired skin healing.
What Is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy (also called low-level light therapy or photobiomodulation) uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to stimulate your cells. When applied to the skin, it encourages:
Reduced inflammation
Faster skin repair
Balanced oil production
Improved skin tone and texture
Unlike blue light, which targets bacteria, red light focuses on reducing inflammation and supporting tissue healing, making it especially helpful for ongoing breakouts or post-acne marks.
How It Works: The Science Behind Red Light and Acne
Red light penetrates the skin and activates mitochondria, the energy centers of your cells. This boost in cellular energy helps calm inflammation, support new tissue formation, and regulate the overproduction of sebum (oil) linked to acne.
A 2021 meta-analysis published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that red light therapy significantly improved acne severity in people with moderate to severe acne vulgaris, especially when used consistently over several weeks.
Another clinical study comparing red light therapy with isotretinoin, a powerful acne medication, showed comparable results for moderate to severe acne, but without the side effects associated with oral drugs.
A 2022 systematic review published in Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine confirmed red light’s benefits in improving both acne lesions and skin texture.
What to Expect at Our Clinic
At Oxygen and Light, we use FDA-cleared red light systems including:
A full-body red light therapy station to support both facial and body acne
A targeted red light panel for treating breakout-prone areas like the jawline or back
LED red light facials that support skin clarity and post-acne healing
Key Research Findings
Hamblin (2017) describes how red light helps downregulate inflammatory pathways linked to acne, making it a powerful tool for calming breakouts from the inside out.
Ngoc et al. (2023) analyzed dozens of studies and found that red light improves not only active acne but also post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Li et al. (2022) compared red and blue light, finding red light to be gentler and particularly effective in reducing inflammation-driven acne.
Zeitouni et al. (2021) highlight best practices for using red light with 5-ALA photodynamic therapy, an advanced combo often used for resistant or cystic acne.
Who Should Consider Red Light Therapy for Acne?
Red light may be an ideal option if:
You want to avoid long-term use of antibiotics or hormonal treatments
Your skin is irritated or sensitive to topical prescriptions
You’re managing body acne, hormonal acne, or recurring cystic breakouts
You’re interested in a clean, drug-free approach to skin health
Other Treatment Options
While red light therapy is an excellent drug-free option, some individuals may benefit from a combination of treatments depending on the severity and type of acne.
Topical treatments: These include retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid. A 2022 network meta-analysis (Mavranezouli et al.) found topical combinations (like benzoyl peroxide + retinoids) effective for mild to moderate acne.
Oral medications include antibiotics, hormonal therapy, or isotretinoin for more severe cases. While effective, these can come with side effects and require medical supervision.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT): Often paired with red light and a compound like 5-ALA, PDT is useful for treatment-resistant acne. Zeitouni et al. (2021) report its benefits in more severe or cystic cases.
Blue light therapy: Targets acne-causing bacteria but may be more drying. Li et al. (2022) found red light better tolerated, especially for those with sensitive or inflamed skin.
Daily Hygiene and Skin Health Tips
Consistency and care matter. Here’s how to build a routine that complements red light therapy:
Cleanse twice daily with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser.
Avoid over-exfoliating, which can compromise your skin barrier.
Wash pillowcases and towels regularly to reduce bacterial transfer.
Use clean hands or tools when applying skincare.
Moisturize daily with a non-comedogenic lotion.
Wear sunscreen to protect healing skin and prevent dark spots.
Manage stress through mindfulness, sleep, or light exercise. (Elevated cortisol can make acne worse!)
Good hygiene paired with a balanced routine can make your red light sessions even more effective.
Our Natural Acne Support Method
We recommend combining red light therapy with lifestyle-based skin support:
Hydration and a nutrient-rich diet
Stress reduction tools (acne is linked to cortisol!)
Gentle skincare with non-comedogenic products
We also offer custom treatment plans based on skin type, severity, and personal goals.
Final Thoughts
Red light therapy offers a safe, effective alternative for those dealing with acne-prone skin. With regular use, it can help reduce inflammation, speed healing, and promote clearer, calmer skin naturally.
Visit Oxygen and Light in Lynnwood, WA to try a session and experience the benefits for yourself. Your skin deserves light, and so do you.
References
Wu Y, Deng Y, Huang P. Application of red light therapy for moderate-to-severe acne vulgaris: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021;20(11):3498–3508. doi:10.1111/jocd.14369.
Zhang L, Yang Y, Wang B, et al. Modified red light 5-aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy versus low-dose isotretinoin therapy. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2023;89(6):1141–1148. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2023.07.1023.
Ngoc LTN, Moon JY, Lee YC. Utilization of light-emitting diodes for skin therapy: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed. 2023;39(4):303–317. doi:10.1111/phpp.12841.
Hamblin MR. Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation. AIMS Biophys. 2017;4(3):337–361. doi:10.3934/biophy.2017.3.337.
Mavranezouli I, Daly CH, Welton NJ, et al. A network meta-analysis of acne treatments. Br J Dermatol. 2022;187(5):639–649. doi:10.1111/bjd.21739.
Li J, Li J, Zhang L, et al. Comparison of red and blue light therapies for mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed. 2022;38(5):459–464. doi:10.1111/phpp.12769.
Zeitouni NC, Bhatia N, Ceilley RI, et al. Photodynamic Therapy with 5-ALA and Red Light. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2021;14(10):E53–E65.
Ablon G. Treating Medical and Aesthetic Skin Conditions with LED. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2018;11(2):21–27.
