What not to do after LED light therapy?

After LED light therapy, avoid applying harsh skincare actives, direct sun exposure, heavy makeup, and hot water on the treated skin — all of which can disrupt the photobiomodulation process your skin is still responding to.

LED light therapy at wavelengths like 633nm red and 415nm blue works cumulatively, meaning the skin continues reacting after the session ends. Applying exfoliating acids, retinoids, or vitamin C immediately after can cause irritation because the skin's barrier is in a heightened state of sensitivity. Sun exposure without SPF is a particular concern — the increased cellular activity triggered by LED therapy makes unprotected skin more vulnerable to UV damage in the hours following a session.

• Avoid retinoids and exfoliating acids for at least 24 hours after an LED light therapy session.
• LED face masks with 633nm red light increase cellular activity, raising UV sensitivity post-session.
• Hot showers or steam directly after LED therapy can compromise the skin barrier while it is still responding.
• Heavy makeup application immediately after LED therapy can clog pores when skin absorption is elevated post-session.
• Recommended post-session window before reintroducing actives: 12–24 hours, depending on skin sensitivity.