Red light therapy can do amazing things for your skin, energy, mood, and recovery when it’s done right. However, many people don’t see results simply because they’re using it incorrectly.
Here are 5 common mistakes people make when using red light therapy and how to avoid them so you can actually get the benefits you’re after.
1. Using a Weak Device
Let’s start with the obvious: not all red light therapy devices are created equal.
Most of the inexpensive ones (especially LED face masks) simply don’t deliver enough power to reach the deeper layers of your skin, where real change occurs.
You need clinically proven wavelengths (such as 630nm and 850nm) and sufficient irradiance (light power) to make a difference.
✔️ Fix: Use a high-powered panel designed for therapeutic use, not a gimmicky gadget.
Check out our Desktop Panel here
2. Not Being Consistent
Red light therapy is not a one-and-done treatment. Like going to the gym or eating healthy, results come from consistent use over time.
Most studies show benefits after using red light therapy three to five times per week for several weeks in a row.
✔️ Fix: Make it part of your daily routine, even just 5–10 minutes a day while you do your skincare, stretch, or relax.
3. Sitting Too Far Away
Distance matters. If you’re sitting too far from your panel, the light becomes less effective. The power drops off the further you are from the source.
✔️ Fix: Aim to sit around 6–12 inches away from your red light therapy panel for best results — close enough to get deep penetration without it being uncomfortable.
4. Only Treating One Area
Many people only treat their face, but red light therapy actually benefits the whole body.
It can help with:
– Inflammation
– Muscle recovery
– Mood
– Sleep
– Hormonal balance
– Joint pain
✔️ Fix: Choose a device that covers a larger surface area (like your face and neck or chest) — especially if you want full-body or systemic benefits.
5. Giving Up Too Soon
This is probably the biggest one. You try it for a week or two, don’t see instant results, and give up.
But red light therapy works at the cellular level, and that takes time. Studies show improvements in skin and recovery after 4–8 weeks of consistent use.
✔️ Fix: Give it a proper chance. Track your skin, sleep, or pain levels weekly and compare after a month. The difference might surprise you.
Final Thoughts
Red light therapy can be a game-changer for your health, skin, and overall well-being — but only if you’re using it correctly.
Avoid these mistakes, stay consistent, and choose a high-quality panel that actually delivers results.
Explore our Clinical-Grade Red Light Therapy Panels here
Questions? Message us on Instagram @modern.therapies — we’re always happy to help.