Does Red Light Therapy Tan You? The Science Explained

Red light therapy (RLT) has gained huge popularity for skin rejuvenation, anti-aging, and overall wellness. Yet one question keeps coming up: does red light therapy tan you? Many people wonder if the glowing effect they notice after a session is similar to a UV tan. In this guide, we’ll break down the science behind tanning, how red light therapy works, and what you can really expect from regular treatments.

What Is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy uses low-level wavelengths of visible red and near-infrared light, typically between 600–900 nanometers. Unlike UV light, red light does not damage skin cells. Instead, it penetrates the skin to stimulate cellular repair, boost collagen production, and increase circulation.

Key benefits include:

• Reducing fine lines and wrinkles
• Supporting wound healing and tissue repair
• Improving skin tone and texture
• Easing inflammation and muscle recovery

How Does Tanning Work?

To understand whether red light therapy can tan you, it’s important to know how tanning occurs.

• UVB rays stimulate melanocytes to produce melanin, the pigment responsible for darker skin.
• UVA rays oxidize melanin, deepening the tan.
• This process is your body’s defense against UV damage.

Since tanning requires UV exposure, red light therapy alone cannot trigger melanin production.

Does Red Light Therapy Tan You?

The short answer: No, red light therapy does not tan your skin.

RLT does not contain UV wavelengths.

It cannot activate melanin or cause your skin to darken.

The “healthy glow” you notice after a session comes from improved circulation and oxygen flow, not tanning.

Red Light Therapy vs UV Tanning

Common Misconceptions

1. "My skin looks darker after RLT."
   What you see is a temporary flush from increased blood flow, not melanin production.
2. "Red light beds are the same as tanning beds."
   True red light therapy beds do not use UV. Some hybrid devices do, so read product specifications carefully.
3. "More exposure gives better results."
   Overuse doesn’t speed results and may irritate your skin. Consistency, not excess, delivers long-term benefits.

Safety and Best Practices

• Choose FDA-cleared or CE-certified devices.
• Wear protective goggles when using high-intensity light panels.
• Follow manufacturer guidelines for session length and frequency.
• If you have photosensitivity, skin conditions, or take light-sensitive medications, consult a dermatologist first.

Conclusion

Red light therapy does not tan your skin. Unlike UV exposure, it works at the cellular level to support skin health, promote healing, and restore a youthful glow—without the risks of premature aging or skin cancer.

If your goal is a cosmetic tan, you’ll need UV exposure or sunless tanning products. But if you want healthier, firmer, and more radiant skin, red light therapy is a safe and science-backed choice.