How Often Should You Do Red Light Therapy?

Medically reviewed by Karen Wolters, RN and Joanna Fearnley, LPN

When it comes to deciding on how often you should practice red light therapy, it’s important to get it right so you can see maximum benefits. Reaping the benefits of red light therapy is dependent on how often you use the red light therapy pads, where exactly you are experiencing pain and how intense the pain is. Different manufacturers will recommend different times when asked how often you should do red light therapy, so it’s best to follow the instructions you are provided with, as machines can differ in light strength.

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Get Your Red Light Therapy Duration Right

The frequency of red light therapy will depend on various factors such as the specific condition being treated, the intensity of the light, the duration of each session, and the individual’s response to the therapy.

In general, it is recommended to start with a few sessions per week and gradually increase the frequency as tolerated. For most conditions, three sessions per day for 20 minutes each can be sufficient to achieve significant benefits. However, some people may require longer or more frequent sessions to achieve the desired results. Performing three treatments of 20 minutes a day should work best and longer than this could be damaging. 

It is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific device being used and consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new therapy. Additionally, it is essential to protect the eyes and skin from exposure to the light, as prolonged or intense exposure may cause harm.

Can You Do Red Light Therapy Every Day? 

Yes, you can do red light therapy every day, providing you follow the recommended guidelines for intensity and duration of exposure to the red and infrared light. 

For some people, a daily session of 10-20 minutes is sufficient to achieve the desired benefits, but this may vary depending on the condition being treated and the intensity of the light. It is also important to protect the eyes and skin from exposure to light, as prolonged or intense exposure may cause harm.

It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new therapy, especially if you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications that may affect the therapy’s efficacy or safety.

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Can You Do Too Much Red Light Therapy?

Many wonder if you can do too much red light therapy when they’re using their red light pads and experiencing pain. The answer is no. Red light therapy cannot be overdone for most people. If you notice any extraordinary results, stop treatment, and contact your physician. Unlike many other health treatments, red light therapy is safe to use every day, is non-invasive, and has virtually zero risks and side effects. At HealthLight, we recommend utilizing the therapy pads up to three times per day to achieve the benefits of pain relief and circulation improvement. 

The Benefits of Red Light Therapy 

Now you know the answer to the question: can you do red light therapy everyday. By using your red light therapy pad three times per day, you will get maximum benefit from your treatment. If your pain starts to subside, it is recommended to keep performing the therapy a few days after to ensure the pain stays minimal or absent. Not only should you see pain reduction as one of the benefits of red light therapy, but also improved circulation and much more.