Alright, so you’ve heard about red light skin therapy (RLT). Maybe your best friend swears by it, maybe you saw someone raving on TikTok, or maybe you just walked by a spa in Virginia Beach and saw the glowing red booth calling your name. Either way—you’re curious. And honestly? You should be.
Unless you live under a rock, you might have heard of red light skin therapy. Maybe your best friend tried it not can’t stop raving about it. Or maybe you show celebrities swearing by it on TikTok and Insta reels. Either way, it’s enough to peak your curiosity over it
But here’s the thing: if you’re new to RLT, it’s super easy to have either way-too-high expectations (“my wrinkles will vanish overnight!”) or none at all (“this can’t possibly work”). The truth, as always, is somewhere in the middle. So let’s break it down like a neighbor would—what to expect, how often to go, and how to set yourself up for results you’ll actually notice.
What Red Light Therapy Actually Does
First off, let’s clear the air: red light therapy isn’t magic. You don’t walk in looking tired and walk out looking 21 again. What it does do is use low-level red light to stimulate collagen, boost circulation, and help repair skin cells. Over time, this means smoother skin, fewer fine lines, better tone, and even help with scars and sun damage.
And yes—folks around here also use it for muscle recovery, inflammation, and just that “ahh, I feel good” boost.
How Often Should Beginners Start?
Okay, here’s the part everyone wants a straight answer to: how many sessions do you actually need?
- At the start: Most dermatologists and tanning spa near me recommend 2–3 sessions per week. Think of it like hitting the gym—you don’t build muscle from one workout. Your skin needs consistency to “train” too.
- After a month or so: You can taper down to 1–2 times per week for maintenance.
- Long-term: Some people make it part of their self-care routine forever, like yoga or regular facials.
So no, don’t expect miracle results from a single session. But give it a few weeks, and suddenly your friends are saying, “Did you do something different with your skin?”
What It Actually Feels Like?
This one always surprises beginners—it’s not painful, it’s not hot, and you won’t feel zapped. The light is warm, relaxing, and kind of like sunbathing without the UV damage. Honestly, I’ve seen people nearly fall asleep during sessions.
Quick Note: Prepping Skin Matters
Here’s a little secret: your results aren’t just about the light—they’re about your skin prep. Think of it like getting a spray tan (we love those here in Virginia Beach, especially before a big night out or vacation). The prep rules overlap big time:
- Exfoliate the day before. Gets rid of dead skin so the light (or tan solution) absorbs evenly.
- Show up bare. No lotions, oils, deodorants, or makeup. They act like shields on your skin.
- Loose, comfy clothes after. Whether it’s a tan or RLT, tight jeans and sticky bras aren’t your friends.
Doing these steps means you’ll get way more out of your session.
Setting Realistic Expectations
This might be the most important part: be patient. For some people, the glow-up is noticeable fast (plumper skin, calmer redness). For others, it’s a few weeks before they start seeing big changes. Don’t write it off too soon.
It’s also not a replacement for sunscreen, moisturizer, or, you know, drinking water like your body actually needs it. Think of RLT as the cherry on top of your skincare sundae, not the whole dessert.
FAQs
Q: How do I prep for red light therapy?
Same as spray tanning: exfoliate, skip the oily lotions, and come in with clean skin.
Q: How long does a session last?
Usually around 15–20 minutes. Just enough time for a little mental reset.
Q: Can I combine RLT with a spray tan?
Absolutely! In fact, healthier skin from RLT makes your tan look smoother and last longer.
Q: Will I feel anything during red light therapy?
Just warmth. No pain, no tingling—just a cozy glow.
Q: How many sessions before I see results?
Some notice subtle changes right away, but real results usually show up after 3–4 weeks of regular use.
Q: Is it safe for everyone?
Yep. It’s non-invasive, safe for all skin types, and dermatologist-approved.
Q: What should I wear after a session?
Loose, breathable clothes. Same advice as after a spray tan—comfort beats style here.
The Glow-Down
If you’re new to red light therapy, think of it as a marathon, not a sprint. Give your skin time, stay consistent, and pair it with good skincare habits (and hey, maybe even a spray tan for instant beach-ready vibes).
And if you’re in the Virginia Beach area, locals will tell you that spots like Sundays Sun Spa Shop make it super easy to start. They’ve been trusted around here for years for everything from red light therapy to tanning, and honestly—it’s just nice having a place where the staff actually knows skin care.
So, what to expect? Warm light, a little relaxation, and a glow that builds up in a way no fad ever could. Stay consistent, stay patient, and your skin will thank you.
