Red Light Therapy Before or After Shower? What's Best?

A common question: should I use red light therapy before or after my shower? The short answer: before your shower, on clean skin. Here's why and how to optimize your routine.

RLT Before Shower (Recommended)

Using RLT before your shower is generally recommended because:

• Clean skin absorbs light better — no oils, sweat, or skincare products blocking penetration
• You can apply skincare immediately after RLT — when skin is primed for absorption
• Shower after RLT won't wash off benefits — RLT effects are cellular, not surface
• You can rinse off any post-session sweat

RLT After Shower

Using RLT after your shower is also fine, with some considerations:

• Pat skin dry first — water droplets can scatter light
• Don't apply moisturizer before RLT — apply after
• Skin is warm and circulation is good — may slightly enhance RLT effects
• Convenient for morning routines — shower, RLT, then skincare

The Optimal Routine

1. Cleanse your face. Remove all makeup and skincare products.
2. Pat skin dry. If you just showered, pat skin completely dry.
3. Use RLT for 5–10 minutes. On bare, clean, dry skin.
4. Apply skincare immediately after. Vitamin C serum, then moisturizer. RLT enhances absorption.
5. Apply sunscreen (morning only). As the last step in your morning routine.
6. Shower whenever convenient. RLT effects are cellular — shower won't wash them off.

Frequently Asked Questions