Red light therapy is known for its skin and health benefits, but many people wonder: Can it still work through clothing?
The Short Answer: No, It Doesn’t Work Well Through Clothing
For best results, red light therapy should be used directly on bare skin. Most clothing—even thin fabrics—can block or weaken the light, reducing its effectiveness.
Why Clothing Blocks the Light
-
Red and near-infrared light need to penetrate the skin to reach cells and stimulate healing.
-
Fabric absorbs or reflects light, especially darker or thicker materials.
-
Even light fabrics can reduce the light’s intensity and limit the therapy’s benefits.
What You Should Do
-
Expose the bare skin area you want to treat.
-
Remove clothing from the targeted zone during the session.
-
Make sure the light source is close to the skin (usually within 6–12 inches).
Final Thoughts
To get the full benefits of red light therapy, direct skin contact is key. Clothing acts as a barrier and can reduce how much healing light reaches your cells.