Red light therapy has grown in popularity over the past few years due to its various skin and health benefits, from improving skin tone to aiding muscle recovery. But, when it comes to using red light therapy close to sensitive areas like the eyes, many people wonder: Is red light therapy bad for your eyes?

In this blog, we’ll explore the safety of red light therapy for your eyes, whether it can benefit your eyesight, and if it’s better to keep your eyes open or closed during treatment. Let's dive into it!

Of course the answer is NO.

One of the most common concerns about red light therapy is whether the light could harm the eyes. The good news is, red light therapy is generally safe for your eyes, provided you follow the guidelines and use the device as instructed.

Red light therapy typically uses low-energy wavelengths (usually between 600-650 nm) to penetrate the skin, promoting collagen production and tissue healing. This low energy means it’s unlikely to cause direct harm to the eyes, as opposed to more intense forms of light, like UV light.

However, exposure to direct light from LED devices may still cause discomfort or temporary vision issues if you stare directly at the light. Therefore, it’s essential to use the therapy with care and avoid focusing the light directly into your eyes.

Now you know that red light isn't harmful for eyes, then you may wonder if it benefit your eyes?

Interestingly, red light therapy is not just safe for your eyes—it can actually provide some benefits! Recent studies suggest that red light therapy can help with eyesight, particularly for certain eye conditions.

For example, red light therapy has been shown to improve vision and reduce age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by stimulating the cells in the retina. It may help improve blood circulation to the eyes, reduce inflammation, and enhance overall eye health. Some research has even suggested that red light therapy can enhance visual performance, particularly in low-light conditions.

While it’s not a cure for eye diseases, regular exposure to red light therapy may improve eye health and function, especially for those experiencing conditions related to aging or light sensitivity.

Another common question people have is whether they should keep their eyes open or closed while using red light therapy. The answer depends on how close the device is to your eyes and the intensity of the light.

• Eyes Closed: For most treatments involving red light near the face or eyes, it’s safer to keep your eyes closed. This will help protect them from any potential discomfort and prevent excessive exposure to the light. The gentle light won't penetrate the eyelids significantly, so you can still enjoy the benefits for your skin without worrying about your eyes.
• Eyes Open: If you're using red light therapy for general facial treatment and the device isn’t pointed directly at your eyes, it should be fine to leave your eyes open. However, if the light is very bright or too intense, it's better to keep your eyes closed to avoid any strain or discomfort.

Most of the red light masks or eye beauty devices, etc. will be designed to be non-harmful to the eyes and will not be exposed to direct light, you can fully open your eyes while using the mask for red light exposure and it will not affect your ability to perform other behaviors such as reading.

So, we know that red light isn't harmful for eyes, and it’s generally considered safe when used properly. In fact, it can even benefit your eyesight by stimulating healing and improving circulation to the eyes. Whether you keep your eyes open or closed during treatment largely depends on the device’s intensity and your personal comfort level.

For best results, always follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe usage, and if you're unsure about using the device near your eyes, consult with a healthcare professional. With proper care, red light therapy can be a valuable part of your skincare and wellness routine, offering numerous benefits without posing harm to your eyes.