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Advanced Red Light Therapy Bed

Will Red Light Therapy Work Through Clothes?

by Team House of Senti in Education Hub

Wearing socks during Red Light Therapy at Home? Bad news—your leggings are stealing the light show. Short answer: Red Light Therapy doesn’t work well through clothes. To glow like you mean it, bare skin is key. Keep reading to find out why Red Light Therapy Panels and Beds need full exposure!

Advanced Red Light Therapy Bed

What is Red Light Therapy (RLT)?

Red Light Therapy (RLT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-level red and near-infrared (NIR) light to stimulate cellular processes.

Typically, RLT devices operate within the 630nm to 880nm wavelength range, depending on the target tissue depth. These wavelengths are known for their therapeutic potential, particularly in skin rejuvenation, muscle recovery, and inflammation reduction.

How RLT Interacts with the Body

When red or near-infrared light hits the skin, it's absorbed by the mitochondria—our cells' energy producers.

This boosts ATP production (adenosine triphosphate), which energises cells and promotes healing and regeneration.

The process supports cellular repair, reduces inflammation, and encourages overall tissue recovery and health.

Depth of Red Light Penetration

Red light typically penetrates skin and soft tissue up to a few millimetres. Near-infrared light goes deeper—up to 5 centimetres, depending on the wavelength and device power.

Factors like distance from the source, light intensity, and whether there’s clothing in the way all impact penetration. For effective results, skin contact or proximity without obstruction is ideal.

The Impact of Clothing on Red Light Therapy Efficacy

Does Clothing Block Red Light?

In short—yes. Most fabrics will either block or significantly reduce the penetration of red and near-infrared light.

Think of it like sunscreen blocking UV rays. While some light may pass through, the amount that reaches your skin is greatly diminished.

How Different Fabrics Affect Penetration

Optimal Clothing for RLT:

  • Lightweight and breathable materials like thin cotton or linen

  • Light colours such as white or pastel shades

  • Loose-fitting garments that allow light to scatter and pass more easily

These options may still slightly reduce the light, but they’re far better than heavier alternatives.

Fabrics to Avoid:

  • Thick and dense materials like wool or denim

  • Dark-coloured clothing that absorbs rather than reflects light

  • Tight synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, or spandex, which block more light and trap heat

These materials significantly limit red light exposure and reduce the treatment’s effectiveness.

Diminished Efficacy vs. Complete Blockage

Clothing doesn’t always block light completely—but it does reduce the intensity reaching the skin.

This means your session might need to be longer to achieve similar benefits, though that’s not always effective. Reducing the obstruction is always the better choice.

Recommendations for Optimal Red Light Therapy Sessions

Direct Skin Exposure: The Gold Standard

For maximum therapeutic benefit, direct skin contact is best.

This is especially true when treating issues involving deep tissue, joints, or muscles, where light needs to penetrate further.

When Wearing Clothes is Necessary

If you can’t go without clothing, opt for loose, light-coloured, and breathable fabrics.

Avoid layering, and keep the fabric as minimal as possible in treatment areas.

Other Factors Affecting RLT Effectiveness (Beyond Clothing)

To get the most from your red light therapy sessions, consider the following:

  • Always start with clean skin – free of makeup, lotions, or SPF

  • Position the Red Light Therapy Panel correctly and maintain an appropriate distance

  • Stick to a consistent schedule

  • Ensure you’re using the correct wavelength and power for your treatment goal

Conclusion: Maximising Your Red Light Therapy Results

Advanced Red Light Therapy Bed

Summary of Key Takeaways

  • Red and near-infrared light struggle to pass through clothing

  • Lightweight, light-coloured fabrics allow some penetration—but bare skin is better

  • Fabric thickness, colour, and fit all affect how much light reaches your body

  • Clean skin and correct device setup are crucial for best results

Consulting a Professional

If you're unsure about how to set up your Red Light Therapy at Home routine—whether you're using Red Light Therapy Panels or full-body Red Light Therapy Beds—speak with a healthcare provider or RLT expert.

They can help you customise your setup for maximum benefit, especially if you have specific medical concerns or treatment goals.

Stuart Goldfinch profile picture

Stuart Goldfinch

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