How to Use Whole-Body Red Light Therapy: Step-by-Step Guide
To maximize benefits and safety, follow these best practices for full-body red light therapy (RLT) sessions.
1. Choose the Right Device
For home use: High-quality LED panels (e.g., Merican Red Light Therapy Panel M1/M2N).
For clinics/spas: Professional RLT beds or full-body pods.
Wavelengths: Look for 660nm (red) + 850nm (near-infrared) for deep tissue benefits.
2. Prepare for Your Session
✅ Bare Skin Works Best
Wear minimal clothing (shorts/sports bra) or go nude (light penetrates clearer without fabric).
Remove makeup, lotions, or sunscreen (they can block light absorption).
✅ Hydrate & Protect Eyes
Drink water before/after to support detox.
Wear protective goggles (especially with near-infrared).
✅ Positioning & Distance
Stand or sit 6–12 inches from the panel (follow manufacturer guidelines).
For full-body coverage, rotate positions (front/back/sides) if needed.
3. Session Duration & Frequency
Goal Session Time Frequency
General wellness 10–15 mins 2–3x/week
Muscle recovery 15–20 mins 5–7x/week
Chronic pain 15–20 mins Daily → taper to 3x/week
Anti-aging/skin 10–15 mins 3–5x/week
Start slow: Begin with 5–10 mins to test tolerance, then increase.
4. During the Session
Relax & Breathe: No movement needed (light works passively).
Cover areas to avoid (e.g., eyes, thyroid if hyperactive, tattoos if sensitive).
Use a timer (many devices auto-shut off).
5. Post-Session Care
Hydrate to flush toxins.
Moisturize skin (RLT can temporarily dry skin).
Track progress (take photos/notes for skin/pain changes).
6. Enhance Results
Combine with exercise (use RLT post-workout for recovery).
Pair with collagen supplements for skin/joint benefits.
Consistency is key (effects build over 4–12 weeks).
What to Avoid
❌ Don’t use with photosensitizing medications (check with your doctor).
❌ Avoid overuse (stick to recommended times; more ≠ better).
❌ Don’t stare directly at LEDs (even with goggles).
Sample Routine
For muscle recovery & anti-aging:
Monday/Wednesday/Friday: 15 mins front + 15 mins back.
Post-workout: 10 mins targeting sore areas.
For chronic pain:
Daily AM: 20 mins full-body.
After 2 weeks: Reduce to 3x/week.
Final Tips
Morning/evening?
AM: Boosts energy.
PM: May improve sleep (red light supports melatonin).
Cleaning: Wipe panels monthly to maintain LED efficiency.