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Struggling to find clear answers on red light therapy for your skin tone? You're hearing amazing things but worry that the melanin in your skin might be blocking the benefits—and your investment.
Yes, red and near-infrared light therapy is effective for all skin tones, from the palest white to the richest black. While melanin does absorb some light, the specific wavelengths used in quality devices are chosen for their ability to penetrate deep into the tissue and deliver therapeutic benefits.
Red light therapy is a universal wellness tool.
Ever wonder what's really happening when you're sitting in front of that glowing red panel? It can seem like futuristic magic, but without understanding the "how," it's easy to get misled by hype.
Red and near-infrared light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation1, uses specific, clinically proven wavelengths of light to stimulate your cells. This light penetrates the skin and is absorbed by mitochondria—the power generators of your cells—triggering increased energy (ATP), reduced inflammation, and enhanced healing.
RLT gives your cells a powerful energy boost.
Think of your mitochondria as tiny batteries. Over time, due to stress, aging, or injury, they run low. Red and near-infrared light act like a charger. Light photons help mitochondria produce more ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)—the cell's energy currency.
More ATP = More cellular power = Faster repair, less inflammation, better skin and hair health.
Many people with brown or black skin wonder: Does melanin block the light and reduce RLT's effectiveness?
Yes, melanin absorbs light—but mostly UV and blue wavelengths. Red (660nm) and near-infrared (850nm) light pass through melanin much more easily3.
Red light's longer wavelengths bypass most melanin.
The best results come from light in the 600–1100nm range. These wavelengths reach deep tissues without being heavily absorbed by melanin or water.
Irradiance = how much light energy your skin absorbs per area (measured in mW/cm²). It's a deal-breaker for results, especially on darker skin.
Although early research focused on lighter skin, studies now confirm: the underlying biology is the same across all skin tones.
In one study in the Journal of Lasers in Medical Science4, red light therapy showed positive outcomes regardless of skin type—what mattered was wavelength and dosage.
Dermatologists use the Fitzpatrick scale5 to classify skin from Type I (very pale) to Type VI (deep brown/black).
This scale is vital for UV-based treatments—but not for red light therapy. We're not targeting melanin, we're going past it.
A person with Type VI skin might need slightly longer exposure time—but with a high-irradiance device, that difference is minor.
Red light therapy benefits are universal—but results improve when used consistently and on the right areas.
Targeted application yields the best results.
The market is flooded with options—but many don't deliver real results. Here's what to look for:
Safety & Quality Certifications:
For use on the face, it is recommended not to exceed 50mW/cm², we have a dedicated mode for the face available.
FDA / CE / ETL: Meets electrical and radiation safety standards6.
ISO 134857: Top-tier quality control for medical device manufacturing.
Check the label for proof of quality and safety.
A company like REDDOT LED, with over 15 years of manufacturing experience and ISO-certified processes, is playing a different game. These manufacturers focus on evidence-based design, real testing labs, and customization to suit all users—including those with darker skin tones.
Red light therapy works on all skin tones.
Don't let myths about melanin stop you from enjoying the benefits. Focus on the science, choose a high-quality device, and you'll see results—regardless of how light or dark your skin is.
References:
Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation, Published: Jan 3, 2017 ↩
Controlled Trial on Red and Near-Infrared Light for Skin Rejuvenation, Published: Feb 2014 ↩
Absorption Spectrum of Eumelanin, Published: Oct 1, 2021 ↩
Red Light for Temporomandibular Joint Pain, Published: Jul 17, 2021 ↩
Fitzpatrick Skin Types, Published: Mar 8, 2023 ↩
ISO 13485 – Medical Device Quality Management