Does Sunscreen Block Red Light Therapy?
If you use sunscreen every day, you may wonder whether it affects your red light therapy sessions.
The simple answer is yes. Applying sunscreen before using a red light therapy device can reduce the amount of light that reaches your skin. Fortunately, this is easy to avoid by using each product at the right time in your routine.
Red light therapy works by delivering specific wavelengths of light directly to the skin. When sunscreen is already sitting on the surface, it creates a protective barrier that can interfere with how much light reaches your skin.
For the best experience, your skin should be clean and free of sunscreen, makeup, and heavy skincare products before each session.
This doesn't mean you should skip sunscreen, it simply means it should be applied after your treatment rather than before.
The Best Way to Combine Sunscreen and Red Light Therapy
If You Use Your Device in the Morning:
Start by cleansing your skin to remove any overnight products.
Complete your red light therapy session on clean, dry skin according to your device's recommended treatment time.
Once finished, continue with your usual skincare routine, then apply a broad spectrum sunscreen as the final step before heading outdoors.
If You Prefer Evening Sessions
Many people choose to use their device at night because it naturally avoids any sunscreen concerns.
Cleanse your skin thoroughly to remove sunscreen, makeup, and daily buildup before your session. Afterward, finish with your preferred evening skincare products and moisturizer.
Both morning and evening treatments can fit into your routine. It simply comes down to personal preference.
Does Red Light Therapy Make Your Skin More Sensitive to the Sun?
No. Red light therapy devices do not produce ultraviolet (UV) light and are not intended to increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight.
Even so, wearing sunscreen every day remains one of the most important steps in protecting your skin whenever you'll be spending time outdoors.
Don't Forget About Hidden SPF
Sunscreen isn't always found in traditional SPF products. Many everyday skincare and cosmetic products also contain sun protection, including:
Moisturizers with SPF
Tinted moisturizers
Foundations
BB and CC creams
If a product contains SPF, it's best to apply it after your red light therapy session rather than beforehand.
Keep Both in Your Daily Routine
Red light therapy and sunscreen work well together when used in the proper order. Complete your session on clean skin first, then apply your skincare products and sunscreen afterward if you'll be outside.
With a simple routine and consistent use, you can enjoy the benefits of both without them getting in each other's way.
