What Are the Benefits of Photobiomodulation (Red Light Therapy)?

Light can do more than help us see—it can actually help our skin heal and look younger. This process is called photobiomodulation, also known as light therapy. It works by using specific colors, or wavelengths, of light to stimulate the body’s natural healing process.

How It Works: Energy From Light

Inside each of our cells are tiny structures called mitochondria. Think of mitochondria as the “power plants” of the cell—they make the energy our bodies need to repair and grow.
Red light therapy targets these mitochondria, helping them produce more energy. With more energy, your cells can repair damage faster, reduce inflammation, and boost skin renewal.

Blue Light vs. Red Light

Not all light is the same!

• Blue light helps calm inflammation and fights bacteria. This makes it helpful for reducing redness and swelling, especially after procedures.
• Red light, on the other hand, stimulates collagen production, improves circulation, and supports skin rejuvenation. It’s widely used to reduce signs of aging such as fine lines and uneven tone.

Our Use of Light Therapy After Laser Treatments

At Oregon Cosmetic and Reconstructive Clinic, we use medical-grade photobiomodulation as part of our post-laser healing plan. After laser skin resurfacing, your skin needs time and support to heal. Light therapy helps speed recovery, reduces downtime, and enhances your results. Many patients notice their skin looks calmer and feels more comfortable after treatment.

Medical-Grade vs. Consumer-Grade Devices

While there are now many at-home light therapy devices on the market, it’s important to know the difference.
Medical-grade light therapy delivers higher power and deeper penetration, reaching the layers of skin where true healing happens. Consumer devices can be useful for maintenance, but professional treatments produce stronger, longer-lasting benefits.

In Summary

Photobiomodulation, or light therapy, is a safe and effective way to boost your skin’s natural repair system. By targeting the mitochondria, red and blue light can energize your cells, reduce inflammation, and improve healing after procedures. When used under professional supervision, it’s an excellent tool to enhance recovery and rejuvenate your skin.

Learn more about CO2 laser skin resurfacing with Dr. Jenq, or book a consultation.

Frequently asked questions

What is photobiomodulation?

Photobiomodulation, also called light therapy, uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate the body’s natural healing. Red light targets the mitochondria, the energy-producing parts of cells, helping them repair damage, reduce inflammation and renew the skin.

What is the difference between red and blue light therapy?

Blue light helps calm inflammation and fights bacteria, which makes it helpful for reducing redness and swelling after procedures. Red light stimulates collagen production, improves circulation and supports skin rejuvenation.

Why use light therapy after laser skin resurfacing?

At Oregon Cosmetic and Reconstructive Clinic, medical-grade photobiomodulation is part of the healing plan after laser skin resurfacing. It helps speed recovery and reduce downtime, and many patients notice their skin looks calmer and feels more comfortable.

Are at-home red light devices as effective?

Medical-grade light therapy delivers higher power and deeper penetration. Consumer devices can be useful for maintenance, but professional treatments produce stronger, longer-lasting benefits.