Blue, Red, and Green Light Therapy: What You Need to Know

Light therapy has grown in popularity for skin care, pain management, and wellness. Different colors of light penetrate skin at different depths and trigger distinct biological effects. Understanding each type helps you choose the right therapy for your needs.

Red Light Therapy

Wavelength: ~620–700 nm (visible red) & near-infrared 700–1100 nm
How It Works: Penetrates deeper into skin to stimulate mitochondria, boosting ATP production and cellular repair.
Benefits:

• Reduces wrinkles and fine lines

• Fades scars and stretch marks

• Improves skin tone and elasticity

• Accelerates muscle recovery and healing
  Best For: Aging skin, wound healing, post-workout recovery

Blue Light Therapy

Wavelength: ~405–470 nm
How It Works: Targets sebaceous glands and bacteria on the skin surface.
Benefits:

• Kills acne-causing bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes)

• Reduces active acne and inflammation

• Helps prevent future breakouts
  Best For: Acne-prone skin, oily skin, teen or adult acne

Green Light Therapy

Wavelength: ~520–560 nm
How It Works: Penetrates superficially to calm melanocytes and regulate pigment.
Benefits:

• Reduces hyperpigmentation, age spots, and sun spots

• Soothes sensitive or irritated skin

• Brightens overall skin tone
  Best For: Uneven skin tone, pigmentation issues, redness-prone skin

Combination Therapy

Many devices now combine red + blue or red + green for enhanced results:

• Red + Blue: Treat acne while repairing skin and reducing inflammation

• Red + Green: Anti-aging + brightening, reduces wrinkles and pigmentation

Safety Tips

• Avoid eye exposure; use goggles when required

• Do not exceed recommended session times (typically 5–20 minutes per area)

• Start with short sessions to see how your skin responds

• Consult a dermatologist if you have sensitive skin or medical conditions

Key Takeaway

Choosing the right color depends on your skin goals, and combining colors can target multiple concerns simultaneously.