Red Light Therapy for Sunburn: Can It Really Speed Healing?

Spent too long enjoying the British sun and now your skin is crying for help? Before retreating to your Infrared Sauna or Outdoor Sauna, here’s the short answer: yes, red light therapy can help soothe sunburn and speed healing. Keep reading to learn how this gentle, non-invasive method works at a cellular level.

Understanding Red Light Therapy for Sunburn

How RLT Works on Sunburned Skin

Reducing Inflammation and Redness

Red light therapy helps calm inflammation caused by sunburn.
It reduces redness by regulating the body’s inflammatory response.
This is essential for faster healing and preventing further skin damage.

Stimulating Cellular Repair Mechanisms

Photobiomodulation boosts ATP production in skin cells.
More cellular energy helps tissues repair faster and promotes new cell growth.
This speeds up recovery and reduces long-term sun damage.

Supporting Collagen and Skin Elasticity

Specific wavelengths encourage collagen production.
This helps maintain skin elasticity and reduces peeling.
It also improves overall skin texture after sun exposure.

Red Light vs. Near-Infrared: Which Is Best?

Red light in the crimson spectrum works best for surface sunburned skin.
Near-infrared may reach deeper layers, but it’s less targeted for visible redness.

Is RLT a Standalone Treatment?

Red light therapy is effective on its own for mild sunburn.
For severe burns, it works best alongside traditional aftercare like moisturising, hydration, and sun avoidance.

How to Safely Use Red Light Therapy for Sunburn

Timing and Dosage

When to Start Treatment

Start red light therapy as soon as possible, ideally within 24–48 hours after sun exposure.
Early sessions reduce damage and accelerate healing.

Session Duration

Sessions typically last 5–20 minutes depending on device and skin sensitivity.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and adjust to comfort.

Device Choice: Wands, Panels, or Masks?

Handheld wands are ideal for targeting specific burnt areas.
Panels or masks can provide full-face coverage for more extensive sunburn.

Safety Precautions

Adjusting Intensity

Use lower intensity settings on sunburned skin to avoid irritation.

Avoid Heat Exposure

Keep the device cool, and avoid additional heat sources like Home Sauna sessions immediately after therapy.
Too much heat can worsen sunburn and counteract therapy benefits.

Combining Red Light Therapy with Traditional Sunburn Care

Moisturising and Hydration

Apply gentle moisturisers after treatment.
Stay hydrated to support your body’s natural repair mechanisms.

Sun Avoidance and Protection

Avoid further sun exposure until the skin fully heals.
Sunscreen and protective clothing remain essential alongside therapy.

Red light therapy can be a gentle, drug-free way to help your sunburned skin recover.
It works at a cellular level, reducing inflammation, supporting tissue repair, and improving elasticity.
For a relaxing complement to your sunburn recovery, consider an Infrared Sauna or a Traditional Outdoor Sauna—both can support overall skin health and wellness.