Red light therapy uses gentle light in the red to near-infrared spectrum to stimulate the body’s own healing processes. Unlike ultraviolet (UV) light, it doesn’t damage DNA. Its benefits have been studied for skin conditions, pain, nerve damage, and wound healing. It’s generally considered low-risk, though more research is needed in many areas.

1. Can red light therapy cause cancer?

Short-term use of red/NIR light does not increase cancer risk. UV light—but not red light—damages DNA and raises skin cancer risk. Red light doesn’t carry UV wavelengths and hasn’t been shown to cause malignancy urself in humans.

Regarding existing cancers, preliminary safety studies in animals and humans suggest it may even aid recovery without promoting tumor growth, but data are limited . Still, experts recommend caution: if you have (or had) cancer, consult your oncologist before using it .

2. Can red light therapy help neuropathy?

Yes—especially for diabetic or chemotherapy-induced neuropathy. Reviews show improvements in pain, nerve conduction, and sensation.

For example, one systematic review found RLT improved neuropathic pain and nerve conduction in diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Early studies even suggest quality-of-life improvements and fewer medications. Yet, devices aren’t FDA-approved for these specific uses, so it's important to consult your doctor .

3. Can red light therapy remove scars?

Yes, evidence suggests it can soften and flatten scars over time. A phase II trial found post-surgery LED red light improved scar appearance and pliability. Stanford reported scars healing twice as fast on treated versus untreated sides.

Red light increases collagen production, blood flow, and reduces inflammation—key to better scar healing . Results aren’t immediate—you may need weeks to months of consistent sessions. It can help both new and older scars, though older ones may take longer.

4. Can red light therapy make pain worse?

In most studies, it reduces pain. But a few reports indicate it may temporarily increase sensitivity. For some, mild skin redness, irritation, headache, or heightened nerve sensitivity occurred—usually shortly after treatment . One animal study even showed thermal hyperalgesia with visual exposure, though not necessarily from skin application.

These are generally mild and resolve quickly. To avoid issues, use devices as directed, start slowly, and protect your eyes. If pain worsens or persists, pause and consult a provider.

5. Can red light therapy help rotator cuff tear?

Some evidence supports RLT’s role alongside standard rehab for tendon injuries. A comparative study found combining red/infrared LED with ultrasound improved pain, mobility, and shoulder strength vs. ultrasound alone.

Also, after rotator cuff surgery, far-infrared therapy helped speed pain relief and recovery of motion and quality of life. That suggests it might ease healing and reduce pain when added to physical therapy, but key is professional guidance and following treatment protocols.

6. Can red light therapy help rosacea?

Yes—light therapy generally (including red LED and IPL) is well-supported for treating rosacea symptoms: redness, visible capillaries, and inflammation.

A case report showed combined blue/red LED reduced redness and lesions after several sessions . Systematic reviews confirm photodynamic and pulsed-dye lasers are safe and effective. Patients typically see improvement after a few treatments.

7. Can red light therapy help nerve damage?

Yes, early research is encouraging. Animal studies show red/NIR light aids nerve regeneration by increasing growth factors and reducing oxidative stress.

Human studies are more limited, but reviews of photobiomodulation report improved nerve conduction in peripheral nerves and reduced neuropathic pain. It’s a promising, non-invasive aid to nerve repair—but it shouldn’t replace standard care, and more clinical trials are underway.