Clinical Content Reviewed By

Dr. Dominika Andrys,

Last Modified: July 1, 2025

Does Red Light Therapy Help with Blackheads?

Author

Karmen Wiid

Published

July 1, 2025

Blackheads have a way of overstaying their welcome – even when you’re doing all the “right” things.

And with so many treatments out there (some harsh, some hyped), it’s hard to know what works.

One option that’s been getting more attention: red light therapy.

We’ll take a look at how it works, what the research says, and whether it can really help with blackhead-prone skin.

Key Notes

Studies found red light therapy reduces blackheads by 59%.
Best results appear within 2-8 weeks using 630-660nm wavelengths, 2-3x weekly.
Works better combined with salicylic acid, niacinamide, and retinoids than alone.

How Red Light Therapy Works

Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of light (typically in the 630–660 nanometer range) to penetrate the skin and support natural cellular processes.

Rather than targeting bacteria like blue light does, red light helps stimulate healing, reduce inflammation, and regulate oil production – all of which play a role in managing acne-prone skin.

Here’s what red light therapy does at a cellular level:

Boosts ATP production in mitochondria, giving skin cells more energy to repair and regenerate.
Stimulates collagen synthesis to strengthen skin structure and support healthier pores.
Reduces inflammatory responses that can lead to clogged or swollen pores.
Improves microcirculation, helping nutrients reach the skin more efficiently.

Can Red Light Therapy Help with Blackheads?

The short answer: yes, but with caveats.

Red light therapy shows modest effectiveness in reducing blackheads, especially when used consistently and as part of a broader skincare routine.

It doesn’t “suck out” blackheads or exfoliate dead skin directly, but it helps reduce the conditions that lead to clogged pores in the first place.

What the Research Says:

A study found red light therapy reduced non-inflammatory acne lesions (blackheads and whiteheads) by around 59% over several weeks.
However, the results weren’t permanent. Lesions often returned after discontinuing treatment.
A Cochrane review of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with red light found no significant difference between red light therapy and placebo for blackhead counts, highlighting mixed results across studies.

So while red light therapy can help improve blackhead-prone skin, it’s not a standalone cure. It works best as part of a long-term, well-rounded skincare approach.

Red Light vs. Blue Light for Blackheads

It’s easy to get confused between red and blue light therapy, so here’s the breakdown:

Light Type	Wavelength	Primary Benefit
Red Light	630–660nm	Reduces inflammation, stimulates collagen, supports healing
Blue Light	415–470nm	Kills acne-causing bacteria, reduces surface-level oil

Most at-home devices include both red and blue light settings so users can address multiple concerns.

If you’re dealing with both blackheads and occasional breakouts, a combination of red and blue light is ideal.

How to Use Red Light Therapy for Blackheads

To get the most out of red light therapy, consistency and technique matter.

Here’s how to integrate it into your skincare routine:

Before Treatment:

Start with clean, dry skin. Use a gentle cleanser to remove oil, dirt, and sunscreen.
Avoid strong actives like retinoids or acids *right before* your session to prevent irritation.
Skip thick creams or oils that could block light penetration.

During Treatment

Use a device that emits red light in the 630–660 nm range.
Position the mask or panel close to your skin – ideally within 1 inch.
Session time: 10–20 minutes, 2–3 times per week.
Wear protective eyewear if recommended.

After Treatment

Apply a hydrating serum (e.g., hyaluronic acid or peptides).
Follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to support the skin barrier.
If part of your evening routine, this is a good time to apply retinol or other actives – the skin is more receptive after red light therapy.
In the morning, always apply sunscreen.

When Will You See Results?

Most users start noticing improvements within 2 to 8 weeks, with consistent use:

Timeline	What to Expect
2–4 weeks	Skin feels calmer, slight reduction in oiliness and pore congestion
4–8 weeks	Fewer blackheads, smoother texture, less inflammation
Ongoing	Maintenance treatments help sustain results

Important note: Blackheads may return if treatment is stopped entirely. Like most skin routines, red light therapy works best when it becomes a habit.

Maximizing Results: What Pairs Well with Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy works even better when supported by science-backed skincare.

Here are a few ingredients that complement it:

Salicylic Acid (BHA): Deep pore-cleansing and exfoliating
Niacinamide: Reduces inflammation and helps regulate sebum
Peptides: Support skin repair and firmness
Retinoids: Increase cell turnover and prevent clogged pores
Hyaluronic Acid: Replenishes hydration post-treatment

These ingredients don’t replace red light therapy, but together, they address both surface-level buildup and underlying skin health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can red light therapy shrink the size of my pores?

Red light therapy doesn’t physically shrink pores, but by improving skin elasticity and regulating oil production, it can help them appear smaller over time.

Is red light therapy better than extractions for blackheads?

Extractions offer immediate results but can damage skin if done incorrectly. Red light therapy takes longer but supports skin health more sustainably and gently.

Can I use red light therapy during a breakout or flare-up?

Yes, red light can actually help calm inflammation and promote healing during active breakouts, making it safe to use during flare-ups.

Does red light therapy help with blackheads on areas other than the face?

Absolutely. You can use red light therapy on blackhead-prone areas like the chest, back, or shoulders – just ensure your device can safely treat those zones.

Conclusion

So, does red light therapy help with blackheads?

It can, but it won’t do all the heavy lifting alone.

Red light therapy is a gentle, supportive tool for reducing inflammation, improving skin health, and creating conditions where blackheads are less likely to form. It’s best viewed as part of a bigger skincare plan, not a silver bullet.

If you’re looking for a clinically supported, at-home way to manage blackhead-prone skin while also improving tone, texture, and signs of aging, our FDA-cleared 7-color LED face mask makes it easy to stay consistent. Shop now!