Red light therapy: Should your eyes be open or closed? (Updated guidelines for 2025)

Red light therapy (RLT) is widely used for skin rejuvenation, pain relief, and even vision improvement. But one common question remains: Should you keep your eyes open or closed during treatment? The latest research and expert recommendations provide clarity.

1. The Short Answer

√ Closed eyes are safest for most red light therapy sessions.
√ Special protective goggles are recommended if eyes are exposed to high-intensity near-infrared (NIR) light.
√ Eyes-open therapy is only safe under strict conditions (low-intensity, red-only wavelengths).

2. Risks of Exposing Eyes to Red & Near-Infrared Light

A. Potential Benefits (Under Controlled Conditions)

• Low-level red light (630-660nm) may support retinal health in some cases (studies show promise for age-related vision decline).
• Controlled medical devices (like those used in optometry clinics) can deliver safe, targeted eye therapy.

B. Risks of Unprotected Exposure

• Near-infrared (810-850nm) can penetrate deeply, potentially causing thermal damage or lens opacity over time.
• High-intensity red/NIR light may lead to temporary photophobia (light sensitivity) or discomfort.
• Lack of FDA approval for most consumer RLT devices for direct eye treatment.

Never stare directly into high-power LED panels without protection.

3. Updated 2025 Guidelines for Eye Safety

A. When to Keep Eyes CLOSED

✔ Using full-body RLT beds or high-power panels (50+ mW/cm²).
✔ Near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths are present (810-850nm).
✔ No FDA-cleared eye protection is available.

B. When Eyes-Open Therapy May Be Safe

✔ Using low-intensity red light (630-660nm only) under professional supervision.
✔ FDA-cleared devices specifically designed for ocular therapy (e.g., some optometry-grade tools).
✔ Wearing medical-grade protective goggles if NIR is involved.

4. Best Practices for Eye Protection

• Use blackout goggles (preferably FDA-cleared) for high-power RLT.
• Keep eyes closed if unsure about the device’s safety profile.
• Avoid DIY eye treatments—only use ophthalmologist-approved devices for vision therapy.

5. Special Case: Can Red Light Therapy Improve Vision?

• Emerging research suggests low-level red light (670nm) may help with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and retinal health.
• However, these studies use carefully calibrated medical devices—not standard RLT panels.
• Do NOT self-treat eye conditions without a doctor’s guidance.

Final Verdict (2025 Guidelines)

Bottom Line: When in doubt, keep your eyes closed or use protection. Only expose eyes to red light under medical supervision.