Red Light Therapy has become an increasingly popular option in both wellness and skincare routines, thanks to its non-invasive approach and a growing body of research into its benefits. You might see Red Light beds at gyms, spas, or wellness centers, and you may have also come across smaller Red Light skincare devices designed for at-home use.

But what exactly does a Red Light bed do, and how does it compare to other Red Light devices? Let's talk about the differences between these technologies so you know which option best fits your goals.

What Are Red Light Beds and How Do They Work?

Red Light beds are large, full-body devices that resemble traditional tanning beds but use a completely different type of light. Instead of ultraviolet (UV) rays, Red Light beds emit visible Red and Near-Infrared wavelengths, typically ranging from about 600 to 900 nanometers. You’ll often find these beds in wellness centers, gyms, and spas, where they are used for a variety of wellness purposes.

The technology behind Red Light beds centers on the use of specially-developed Deep Red Light and Near-Infrared Light panels. These wavelengths are chosen for their ability to penetrate the skin and reach deeper tissues. When you lie inside a Red Light bed, the device bathes your entire body in this light energy. A typical session lasts anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes, during which you simply relax while the bed delivers consistent, gentle light across your skin.

As the light penetrates the skin, it is absorbed by cells and said to help support natural processes in the body. Many people use Red Light beds to promote overall wellness, support muscle recovery after exercise, and experience temporary relief from minor aches and stiffness.

Unlike tanning beds, Red Light beds do not expose you to UV radiation, so there is no risk of tanning or UV-related skin damage. Instead, the focus is on harnessing specific wavelengths of light to support your body’s natural functions and help you feel your best.

What Does a Red Light Bed Do?

Red Light beds are widely used for their potential to support overall wellness and aid in tissue repair and recovery.

One of the most common reasons people turn to Red Light beds is to help with muscle recovery after exercise. Many athletes and fitness enthusiasts use these beds as part of their post-workout routine, as the exposure to Red and Near-Infrared light may help reduce feelings of muscle soreness and inflammation, and support the body’s natural recovery processes.

Another popular use of Red Light beds is for promoting relaxation and general wellness. The gentle warmth and calming environment of a Red Light bed session can encourage relaxation, making it a favored option for those looking to unwind and de-stress.

Red Light beds are also used for the temporary relief of minor joint and muscle pain. The light energy is thought to penetrate the skin and reach deeper tissues, which may help ease discomfort from everyday aches or stiffness.

While individual experiences can vary, many people find regular sessions help them feel more comfortable and support their overall sense of well-being.

Do Red Light Beds Do the Same Thing as Red Light Skincare Devices?

You cannot achieve the same visible skincare benefits from a Red Light bed that you would from a Red Light Therapy mask or wand, and vice versa. Each device is purpose-built for its intended use, whether that’s full-body wellness or focused skincare, so it’s important to choose the right tool for your specific goals.

Red Light skincare devices, such as facial masks and handheld wands, are specifically engineered for use on the face and other targeted areas. These devices are designed to deliver precise wavelengths of light directly to the skin to target appearance-based concerns like reducing the look of fine lines and smoothing the appearance of wrinkles.

Skincare devices often utilize a range of Light Therapy types, including Deep Red Light Therapy and Near-Infrared Light Therapy for visible rejuvenation, Amber Light Therapy to improve the look of uneven skin tone and reduce the appearance of puffiness, and Blue Light Therapy to help destroy acne-causing bacteria and deter future pimples by reducing sebum production.

Each device is built and designed with the exact type of bulb and technology to deliver the right intensity and wavelength for facial skin, which is why skincare devices, muscle recovery devices, and medical light therapy devices cannot be used interchangeably.

Choosing the Right Light Therapy Device for Your Needs

Selecting the right Light Therapy device starts with identifying your primary goals. If you’re looking to support overall wellness, promote relaxation, or aid in muscle recovery after exercise, a Red Light bed or full-body panel may be the best fit. These devices are designed to deliver light energy across large areas of the body, making them ideal for broad wellness benefits and temporary relief from minor aches.

However, if your focus is on improving the appearance of your skin — such as reducing the look of fine lines, smoothing the appearance of wrinkles, or visibly brightening dark circles — a targeted Red Light skincare device is the better choice. Red Light face masks and wands are engineered to deliver precise wavelengths and intensities of light directly to the skin, supporting visible rejuvenation and helping you achieve a refreshed, luminous look.

It’s a common misconception that one device can do it all. Red Light panels and beds are not optimized for the targeted, appearance-based results you get from skincare devices, and facial masks and wands are not intended for full-body wellness. Choosing the right device ensures you get the most out of your Light Therapy routine, tailored to your specific needs.

Best Red Light Device for Skincare

If you’re seeking a professional-grade, at-home solution for visible facial rejuvenation, consider the Wrinkle Retreat Light Therapy Face Mask. This mask is designed to deliver multiple forms of Light Therapy, including both Red and Near-Infrared Light, directly to your skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines, visibly rejuvenate your complexion, and support a healthier-looking glow across your entire face with just 10-minute treatments that fit right into your regular skin routine!

Conclusion

Red Light beds and Red Light skincare devices each serve unique purposes, with beds designed for full-body wellness and muscle recovery, and skincare devices created for targeted, appearance-based results on the face. While both use similar light-based technology, they are designed in a way that optimizes each device for different outcomes. 

Devices made for skincare and devices made for muscle recovery and wellness are not interchangeable, so selecting the right tool is key to achieving your desired benefits. For the best results, choose the device that aligns with your specific goals, whether you’re seeking overall wellness support or visible improvements in your skin’s appearance.

Ready to start your Red Light skincare journey? Take our Skin Quiz here to get tailored recommendations for devices based on your skin and your goals!

Sources:

1. Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation | FDA 

2. Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) in skin: stimulating, healing, restoring - PMC 

3. Photobiomodulation in human muscle tissue: an advantage in sports performance? - PMC 

4. Low-intensity LASER and LED (photobiomodulation therapy) for pain control of the most common musculoskeletal conditions - PMC