Red vs Blue Light for Skin: Which Do You Need?

Red light (633nm) is primarily used for anti-ageing, collagen production, and skin texture improvements, while blue light (415nm) targets acne-causing bacteria and is used for acne treatment. Many people benefit from devices that offer both wavelengths to address multiple concerns.

Key Takeaways

• Red light (633nm): Anti-ageing, collagen, fine lines, texture
• Blue light (415nm): Acne treatment, bacteria reduction
• Near-infrared (830nm): Deeper penetration, recovery, inflammation
• Combination devices offer flexibility for multiple concerns
• Wavelength matters: different colours target different skin issues

Red Light (633nm)

What It Does

Red light penetrates into the dermis (deeper skin layer) and is believed to:

• Stimulate collagen production
• Improve skin texture and tone
• Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Support skin healing and recovery
• Reduce inflammation

Best For

• Anti-ageing concerns: fine lines, wrinkles, loss of firmness
• Texture improvements: rough or uneven skin
• General skin health: overall glow and radiance
• Recovery: post-treatment healing, reducing redness

How It Works

Red light is thought to work by:

• Stimulating mitochondria (energy-producing parts of cells)
• Increasing blood flow and circulation
• Promoting cellular repair processes
• Supporting collagen and elastin production

Typical Use

• Frequency: 2–3 sessions per week
• Session length: 10–15 minutes
• Results timeline: Often visible after 4–8 weeks of consistent use

Blue Light (415nm)

What It Does

Blue light penetrates less deeply than red light and is primarily used to:

• Kill acne-causing bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes)
• Reduce active breakouts
• Prevent new acne formation
• Calm inflammation associated with acne

Best For

• Active acne: current breakouts and blemishes
• Acne prevention: reducing future breakouts
• Oily skin: may help regulate oil production
• Bacterial skin issues: targeting specific bacteria

How It Works

Blue light works by:

• Targeting and killing acne-causing bacteria
• Reducing inflammation in acne-affected areas
• Potentially regulating sebum (oil) production

Typical Use

• Frequency: 3–4 sessions per week for active acne
• Session length: 5–10 minutes (shorter than red light)
• Results timeline: May see improvement in 2–4 weeks for acne

Near-Infrared Light (830nm)

What It Does

Near-infrared penetrates even deeper than red light and is used for:

• Deep tissue recovery
• Enhanced collagen production
• Reducing deeper inflammation
• Improving skin texture and firmness

Best For

• Advanced anti-ageing: deeper wrinkles and loss of firmness
• Recovery: post-workout, post-treatment healing
• Deep texture issues: significant texture concerns
• Combination with red light: enhanced anti-ageing benefits

Choosing the Right Wavelength

For Acne-Prone Skin

Primary choice: Blue light

• Essential for targeting acne-causing bacteria
• Can be combined with red light for additional benefits
• Look for devices with both blue and red options

For Anti-Ageing

Primary choice: Red light or red + near-infrared

• Red light for collagen and fine lines
• Near-infrared for deeper penetration and enhanced results
• Blue light is less important for anti-ageing

For Combination Concerns

Best choice: Multi-wavelength device

• Devices offering red, blue, and near-infrared
• Allows you to target multiple concerns
• Provides flexibility as your skin needs change

For General Maintenance

Good choice: Red light

• Supports overall skin health
• Improves texture and glow
• Safe for most skin types

Combination Devices

Many modern LED masks offer multiple wavelengths, allowing you to:

• Use different colours in the same session
• Switch between colours based on your current needs
• Target multiple concerns simultaneously

Example routine: Use blue light for active acne, then switch to red light for anti-ageing benefits in the same session.

Safety Considerations

Red Light

• Generally considered very safe
• Suitable for most skin types
• Can be used more frequently than blue light

Blue Light

• Higher energy than red light
• Requires eye protection (never look directly at blue LEDs)
• May cause temporary sensitivity in some people
• Use with caution if you have light-sensitive conditions

Near-Infrared

• Penetrates deepest
• Generally safe but use appropriate intensity
• May feel warm during use

FAQ

Can I use red and blue light together?

Yes, many devices allow you to use both wavelengths in the same session or alternate between them. This can be beneficial if you have both acne and anti-ageing concerns.

Which is more effective for wrinkles?

Red light and near-infrared are more effective for wrinkles and fine lines. Blue light doesn't target anti-ageing concerns—it's specifically for acne treatment.

Do I need both red and blue light?

It depends on your concerns. If you only have anti-ageing concerns, red light may be sufficient. If you have acne, blue light (or a combination device) is important. Many people benefit from devices that offer both for flexibility.

Can blue light damage skin?

When used appropriately (with eye protection, proper session length, and not overused), blue light is generally safe. However, it has more energy than red light, so follow device instructions carefully and monitor your skin's response.