Is Red Light Therapy Safe for Brown Skin?

Red light therapy has become one of the most talked-about skincare trends, with countless influencers and dermatologists praising its rejuvenating effects.

But for South Asians, a key question lingers. Is it safe for brown skin?

According to Google data, curiosity around the treatment is at an all-time high.

The term ‘red light therapy’ now attracts 40,500 monthly searches in the UK, marking a 49% increase from last year and a 22% rise compared to the last quarter.

The broader search term ‘red light’ also sees around 22,000 searches each month, a 23% year-on-year increase.

Despite this interest, many still don’t fully understand how it works or whether it’s suitable for melanin-rich complexions.

Longevity expert Ralph Montague hopes to change that by breaking down the science and safety behind this increasingly popular treatment.

What Exactly is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy, also known as low-level laser or LED light therapy, involves exposing the skin to red wavelengths between 620 and 750 nanometres.

Near-infrared (NIR) light, which extends beyond that range, is often used alongside red light to enhance results.

Together, they stimulate cells to boost collagen production, increase blood flow, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.

Unlike ultraviolet (UV) light, red light therapy does not damage DNA or increase the risk of skin cancer, making it safer for regular use.

According to Montague, the treatment uses safe, low-intensity light to encourage the skin’s natural repair and rejuvenation processes.

For brown skin tones, its non-thermal and non-invasive nature makes it particularly appealing compared to treatments that rely on heat or chemicals, which can cause hyperpigmentation.

How to Maximise Results Safely

The key to seeing benefits from red light therapy lies in consistency and proper usage.

Ralph Montague suggests finding a routine you can maintain, with many users preferring morning sessions for an energising start to the day.

A typical session lasts between 15 and 20 minutes, depending on the device’s strength and the user’s skin sensitivity.

Scientific reviews also recommend keeping sessions under 20 minutes, followed by a cooldown period, to prevent heat buildup.

For darker skin tones, dermatologists often suggest using slightly lower light intensities or pulsed modes for gentler penetration.

Gradual introduction helps the skin adapt safely while maintaining results.

It’s also advised to use FDA-approved or dermatologist-reviewed devices to ensure wavelength accuracy and safety standards.

The Benefits Behind the Buzz

Red light therapy offers a broad range of benefits that go far beyond skincare.

It has been scientifically shown to reduce inflammation, accelerate wound healing, and improve skin elasticity and texture.

For many, it’s a go-to solution for anti-ageing, acne reduction, and pigmentation control.

Studies also highlight its potential in promoting hair growth and supporting joint and muscle recovery.

Athletes increasingly use it for faster healing and improved performance, while others report enhanced mood and energy levels due to improved cellular activity.

For South Asians, consistent use may help even out skin tone and soften post-acne scars without irritating melanin-rich skin.

However, visible improvements are gradual, typically appearing after several weeks or months of continued use.

Safety for Brown Skin

Dermatologists agree that red light therapy is generally safe for all skin types, including darker tones, when performed correctly.

The main concern for brown skin lies in potential heat buildup, which can sometimes trigger temporary dark spots if the device is low-quality or overused.

To avoid this, experts recommend selecting certified LED devices and keeping exposure times within the recommended range.

Optimised protocols for melanin-rich skin may include using higher wavelengths within the near-infrared range, which penetrate deeper while generating less surface heat.

This ensures gentle yet effective results for pigmentation balance and skin rejuvenation.

South Asian, Middle Eastern, and African users have reported noticeable radiance, smoother texture, and reduced scarring from consistent, safe application.

Eye and Device Safety

While red light therapy is considered low-risk, it’s essential to protect your eyes during use.

Direct exposure to the light can cause discomfort or potential eye damage, so protective goggles are always advised.

Home-use red light masks, panels, and wands vary widely in quality, with some cheaper models lacking clinical regulation.

Dermatologists recommend investing in devices reviewed by the FDA or seeking professional guidance to ensure you’re using the correct wavelength and intensity.

Overuse or unverified devices can compromise results and potentially irritate the skin.

Safety-conscious use ensures both short-term comfort and long-term effectiveness, especially for brown skin that may retain heat more easily.

Red light therapy continues to captivate the skincare and wellness industries for its ability to repair and rejuvenate naturally.

Its gentle wavelengths make it one of the most inclusive treatments available, suitable for all skin tones when used properly.

For South Asians and other melanin-rich individuals, its non-invasive nature means it can brighten, calm, and renew the skin without risking pigmentation issues.

With steady use, a quality device, and mindful practices, results can be both visible and lasting.

Ultimately, red light therapy appears to be a safe, scientifically backed way for brown skin to glow, proving that the future of skincare may just be lit by red.