I turned 40, and like many people hitting this milestone, I started noticing my skin changing in ways I hadn’t expected. In my search for things that could support my skin, I kept coming across red light therapy.
At first, I thought it was just another flashy wellness trend, but the more I read, the more curious I became. Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of light (usually between 600–900nm) to stimulate the cells in your skin to produce more energy. The science suggests this can help with collagen production, healing, and calming inflammation.
Why I Decided to Try It
I was already experimenting with tretinoin and microneedling, but both can leave skin sensitive. Red light therapy caught my eye because it’s supposed to be gentle and non-invasive — more of a supportive tool than an aggressive treatment.
I liked the idea that a few minutes in front of a panel could help my skin recover, especially when I’m layering in other treatments. I also noticed people mentioning unexpected benefits like improved mood and sleep, which made me even more curious.
My First Impressions
I decided to invest in a large panel rather than a mask or handheld device. For me, the benefit was clear: I preferred being able to treat my entire body instead of just my face. While masks can be great if you only want to target your skin from the neck up, I felt a full panel offered more flexibility — and honestly, more value — even though it cost a lot more.
So far, I’ve been using it a few minutes at a time, a few days a week. I don’t expect dramatic results overnight, but I’ve come to enjoy the ritual. It feels calming, almost meditative, and it forces me to pause — something I don’t do enough of.
I usually do my sessions after workouts, when circulation and oxygen levels are higher. Red light therapy works by stimulating the mitochondria (the energy centers in our cells) to produce more ATP, which is basically cellular fuel. Since mitochondria need oxygen to do this efficiently, using the panel when my body is already delivering more oxygen feels like stacking the benefits of movement with the light.
I’m not expecting miracles — the research points to steady, measurable improvements with consistent use a few times a week, not daily.
What I’m Keeping in Mind
- Consistency matters. Using it regularly seems to be more important than cranking up the intensity.
- It’s not a replacement. I still rely on sunscreen, tretinoin, and hydration as the foundation of my skincare.
- Quality counts. I learned that not all panels are the same, and cheap ones may not deliver the right wavelengths or power.
Closing Thoughts
Red light therapy isn’t a miracle cure, but it feels like a supportive step I can layer into my 40s skincare journey. For me, it’s less about chasing quick results and more about experimenting with tools that make my skin feel stronger, calmer, and better supported.
I’ll keep using my panel and see how things go over the next few months. For now, I’m enjoying the pause it gives me — and the curiosity of seeing what it might add to my routine.
Disclaimer
This is not medical advice. I am not a dermatologist or licensed esthetician. This post reflects my personal experience.
40skincare™ 
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