The Benefits of Red Light Therapy for Skin, Sleep and Mood
Red light therapy has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly through discussions by Andrew Huberman on the Huberman Lab podcast. Backed by emerging research, this form of LED light therapy offers measurable benefits for skin health, sleep regulation, and brain function.
What is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy is a type of LED light therapy that uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to penetrate the skin. These wavelengths support cellular repair, improve circulation, and stimulate collagen production—making it a popular option for both skin health and facial rejuvenation.
Skin Health and Facial Rejuvenation
One of the most well-known uses of red light therapy is for improving skin health. By stimulating collagen and elastin production, it helps to:
- Reduce fine lines and wrinkles
- Improve skin tone and texture
- Support healing in conditions like acne
- Enhance overall facial rejuvenation
Red light therapy may also help calm inflammation associated with acne, making it a useful adjunct to clinical treatments.
At our clinic, we combine red light therapy with cosmetic acupuncture and facial acupuncture. This integrated approach supports circulation, encourages collagen production, and addresses both the internal and external factors affecting the skin.
Sleep, Melatonin and Cortisol
According to insights shared by Andrew Huberman, light exposure plays a critical role in regulating the body’s internal clock. Red light therapy, particularly when used in the evening, may support the natural production of melatonin—the hormone responsible for sleep.
Unlike blue light, which can suppress melatonin, red wavelengths are less disruptive and may help:
- Improve sleep quality
- Support a more consistent sleep cycle
- Reduce evening stimulation
Additionally, healthy light exposure patterns can help regulate cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, which follows a natural daily rhythm. Supporting this rhythm can have a positive effect on both sleep and overall function.
Neurotransmitters and Brain Function
Red light therapy has also been explored for its effects on brain health. Research suggests it may influence mitochondrial function and support the production of key neurotransmitters involved in mood and cognitive performance.
Huberman discusses how light exposure can impact brain signalling pathways, potentially improving focus, mood regulation, and mental clarity. While more research is ongoing, these findings highlight the broader potential of LED light therapy beyond the skin.
Curious, and want to know how we use it in clinic?
Red light therapy is a simple, non-invasive treatment with growing evidence supporting its role in skin health, sleep regulation, and neurological function. When combined with treatments like cosmetic acupuncture and facial acupuncture, it offers a comprehensive approach to addressing concerns such as acne, ageing skin, and poor sleep.
As always, treatments are most effective when tailored to the individual, making professional guidance an important part of achieving optimal results.
Further reading about cosmetic acupuncture:
Meet the Author
Dr Katika Funnell (BHSc TCM) is the founder of Spring Fertility and a Registered Acupuncturist with AHPRA. With over 22 years of clinical experience, she focuses on acupuncture and TCM to support patients with skin health, hormone support and women's health. She always combines traditional acupuncture with current evidence and collaborative healthcare. To learn more about Dr Funnell's qualifications, experience and patient-centred approach, visit the Practitioner Profile.
