Red Light Therapy Eyes Open or Closed – Important Guidelines to Follow

Introduction: Understanding Eye Safety in Red Light Therapy

Red light therapy is a side-effect-free and non-invasive treatment that has become a sensation in both the clinical and cosmetic worlds. Individuals across the globe are applying it to naturally heal from various conditions and achieve smoother, more youthful, and firmer-looking skin. But many users of red light therapy around the eyes, particularly for dark circles, keep asking: "Is red light therapy safe for the eyes?" Drawing from AI-analyzed data from 2,633 positive human-focused studies (2025 edition), we've integrated wavelength success rates and pre-built modes from our Total Spectrum devices to guide safe ocular use.

It's a good question because during laser treatments, you're always told to wear eye protection. But red and near-infrared light from a high-quality at-home red light therapy panel don't have the same intensity. Even with that, however, it's still vital to approach this therapy with caution. Here, we will discuss why eye protection is so crucial and what you should know before your session.

What is Red Light Therapy? How Does it Work?

Red light therapy, also called photobiomodulation, uses certain red and near-infrared wavelengths. These penetrate deep into the cells and stimulate the mitochondria to make more energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP enables cells to function effectively and facilitates faster healing and regeneration.

Red light therapy impacts at a cell level, boosting your body's ability to stay well and heal naturally. It also enhances blood flow, ensuring cells have better access to oxygen and nutrients. Red light therapy has achieved immense success due to its capability to ease pain, inflammation, and oxidative stress naturally. It is extremely beneficial for your skin, hair, and joints.

Red Light Therapy Eyes Open or Closed – Why It's a Common Question

Many individuals are still unsure and tend to compare the effects of lasers and tanning beds. But not all types of light are the same. People who use red light therapy on their face are concerned because the eyes are particularly vulnerable. The question, "Should I keep my eyes open or closed during red light therapy?" is relatively common. Since red light uses much more gentle wavelengths, people are left asking if the same rules apply.

The Science Behind Red Light and Eye Exposure

Red light therapy is a safe and gentle method that does not harm your skin. Similarly, it does not cause any harm to your eyes when used correctly with a high-quality device like those from the RLT Home Total Spectrum series. In fact, studies have even suggested that certain wavelengths of red light may support eye health by improving mitochondrial function in retinal cells. However, remember that the eyes are among the most sensitive organs in the body. You should never compromise on their safety. Always use a good-quality device and avoid direct exposure if you are using a high intensity of near-infrared light. The 600-1000 nm range provides a therapeutic window with minimal absorption, allowing safe photoreceptor activation without damage.

Key Wavelength Insights for Eye Health (from 2,633 Positive Human Studies & Recent Reviews)

Summary: Focus on 660-670 nm for direct benefits; always prioritize FDA-approved devices to ensure safety.

Scientific Research on the Effects of Red Light Therapy on Eye Health

Researchers have shown that some wavelengths of red and near-infrared light can make your retinal cells' mitochondria work better. This helps these delicate cells recover and regenerate more effectively. Even more exciting, research suggests that red light therapy may also delay the development of myopia (nearsightedness) in kids and improve defective color vision in some cases.

Surely, the key lies in running a good machine and following instructions well so as to maximize this therapy in the safest possible manner. Recent 2025 reviews confirm RLT's promise for retinal diseases like AMD and myopia, with no long-term adverse effects reported.

Clinical Studies on Red Light Therapy Applications for Vision and Eye Care

1. Study 1: Safety of Low-Level Red Light Therapy in Children with Myopia (2024).
   The aim of the study was to see if repeated low-level red light treatment (LLLT) is safe to apply in myopic children. The results indicate that low-level red light therapy is safe for schoolchildren with myopia. Although the therapy resulted in mild thickening of the macula, it had no adverse influence on blood flow in the retina. No cases of permanent vision loss were reported; temporary afterimages resolved within 6 minutes. [2]
2. Study 2: Photobiomodulation Therapy Using 650 nm Red Light for Childhood Myopia (2024).
   The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of short-term PBM therapy using a 650 nm low-energy semiconductor laser. The research indicates that photobiomodulation with 650 nm red light can decrease myopia progression in children over three months without clinically significant adverse effects. [1]
3. Study 3: FDA-Authorized PBM for Dry AMD (2025).
   A form of light therapy, called photobiomodulation, is the first non-invasive treatment authorized by the FDA for use in treating dry AMD. Multiwavelength PBM improved visual acuity and reduced drusen volume in trials, with excellent safety profile.
4. Study 4: Illuminating Eye Care: Promise of RLT in Ophthalmology (2025).
   This review summarizes advances in RLT for eye health, including mechanisms like mitochondrial stimulation and safety data from clinical applications. No significant ocular risks identified at therapeutic doses.

Optimized Total Spectrum Mode for Eye Therapy

For safe eye-area treatments like dark circles or periorbital rejuvenation, use the Skin & Anti Aging mode on our Total Spectrum devices. It limits deep NIR to prevent potential discomfort while maximizing red light for superficial benefits.

Duration: 10 mins | Pulse: OFF | Beginner Distance: 3+ feet away. Eyes closed or use goggles; target under-eye area gently. For deeper retinal support (e.g., AMD), consult a specialist and consider Mental Health & Brain mode with eyes protected.

Tips for Safe and Effective Red Light Therapy Sessions

Red light therapy is drug-free and non-invasive and does not result in any side effects, even when applied near your eyes. Nevertheless, it should be used sensibly.

The initial step involves the selection of an appropriate device. An effective device should produce the right wavelength of light and be FDA-approved. Check for features such as good quality LEDs and adjustable levels. For detailed instructions on safe usage, always follow the manufacturer's guidelines precisely. Begin with sessions 3–5 times a week, for a period of 10–20 minutes, with the device held 6–12 inches away from the face. While red and near-infrared light are generally safe for your eyes, wearing protective goggles is recommended if you're using a high-intensity device on your face. Recent guidelines emphasize starting with eyes closed for NIR sessions to minimize afterimages.

Conclusion: Best Practices for Eye Care During Therapy

Briefly, we can conclude that red light therapy is safe to use and works well, even near delicate areas such as the eyes. You do not have to be anxious since red light therapy is harmless for your eyes when applied correctly and with an appropriate device. With FDA-approved products emitting therapeutic wavelengths, you can perform red light therapy in a safe and confident manner. As 2025 research advances, RLT continues to show promise for proactive eye health without compromising safety.

FAQs: Red Light Therapy Eyes Open or Closed

Should you cover your eyes when doing red light therapy?

You do not need to cover your eyes during red light therapy because it is a safe method that does not cause any discomfort to your eyes. However, for NIR-heavy sessions, protective goggles or closed eyes are advisable.

Does light therapy work if your eyes are closed?

Yes, light therapy still works even if your eyes are closed. The red and near-infrared light can penetrate your eyelids and reach the targeted areas.

Can red light therapy affect your eyesight?

No, red light therapy does not negatively affect your eyesight when used properly. In fact, it has been shown to have potential benefits for various eye conditions, such as slowing AMD progression.

Is 670 nm safe for direct eye exposure?

Yes, 670 nm is among the safest and most beneficial wavelengths for eyes, with studies showing no adverse effects at therapeutic doses.

References

1. Short-term effectiveness and safety of photobiomodulation on low-to-moderate myopia.
2. Effects of repeated low-level red-light therapy on macular retinal thickness and microvascular system in children with myopia
3. Photobiomodulation in ocular therapy: current status and future... (2025)
4. FDA Authorizes Light Therapy for Dry AMD (2025)
5. Illuminating eye care: the promise and future of red light therapy... (2025)

Learn More About Red Light Therapy and Eye Health

• The Science of How RLT Affects the Human Eye
• Can Red Light Therapy Improve General Eyesight?
• A Guide to RLT for Myopia
• Treating Dark Circles Under the Eyes