What to do after a red light therapy session?

After the Glow: Nurturing Your Skin After Red Light Therapy

Red light therapy, with its promises of boosted collagen, reduced inflammation, and overall skin rejuvenation, is gaining popularity as a non-invasive treatment option. But achieving optimal results doesn’t end the moment the lights go off. What you do after your session is just as important for maximizing the benefits and keeping your skin healthy and happy.

Forget the heavy-duty routines and intense scrubs; post-red light therapy, your skin needs gentle TLC. Think of it like this: your skin has just undergone a workout of sorts, stimulating its natural processes. Now it’s time to cool down and nourish.

The Golden Rule: Gentle Cleansing is Key

The first order of business after your red light therapy session is cleansing. However, this isn’t the time for your usual deep-pore cleansing routine. Instead, prioritize gentle, hydrating cleansers. Think of it as a refreshing, soothing experience for your newly stimulated skin.

Here’s why a gentle approach is crucial:

• Maintain Moisture Balance: Red light therapy can, in some cases, temporarily draw moisture to the surface of the skin. Stripping away this moisture with harsh cleansers will defeat the purpose of the therapy.
• Avoid Overstimulation: The therapy itself has already stimulated your skin. Exfoliants, scrubs, and other aggressive treatments can over-stimulate the skin, potentially leading to irritation, redness, or even breakouts.

Seek Out Skin-Soothing Ingredients

When choosing your post-therapy cleanser, look for ingredients known for their hydrating and soothing properties. Two superstars to keep an eye out for are:

• Glycerin: This humectant acts like a moisture magnet, drawing water from the air to your skin, keeping it hydrated and supple.
• Aloe Vera: Renowned for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera can help calm any temporary redness or sensitivity after your session.

The “No-No” List: What to Avoid

Just as important as what to use is knowing what to avoid. Here’s a quick rundown of skincare practices to skip immediately after red light therapy:

• Harsh Exfoliants: Steer clear of physical exfoliants (like scrubs with beads or sugar) and chemical exfoliants (like AHAs or BHAs) for at least 24 hours, or even longer if you have sensitive skin.
• Strong Active Ingredients: Retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and other potent actives can be too much for your skin right after therapy. Give your skin a break from these ingredients to prevent irritation.
• Hot Showers or Saunas: Excessive heat can potentially exacerbate any inflammation. Opt for a lukewarm shower and avoid saunas for a few hours post-treatment.

Beyond Cleansing: Completing Your Routine

While gentle cleansing is the cornerstone of your post-red light therapy routine, it’s not the only step. Follow your cleanser with:

• Hydrating Serum: A hydrating serum featuring hyaluronic acid or peptides can further boost moisture levels and support collagen production.
• Gentle Moisturizer: Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to lock in hydration and protect your skin’s barrier.
• Sunscreen: Always, always apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, even if you’re staying indoors. Red light therapy can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure you’re maximizing the benefits of your red light therapy sessions and keeping your skin healthy, radiant, and happy. Remember, consistency and gentle care are the keys to long-term success!