You probably noticed it gradually. Slightly less firmness. Some more fine lines. A skin that used to bounce back quickly, but now takes a little longer. It's one of the most common concerns for people in their 30s, 40s and beyond, and it's often accompanied by a frustrating question: Is there actually anything you can do about it?
An area that is receiving increasing attention is red light therapy. More specifically: or exposing your skin to certain wavelengths of red and near-infrared light can support your skin's natural collagen activity. This article explains what the research suggests, how to build a realistic routine and which ones Mvolo devices are worth considering.
Key insight: Red light at certain wavelengths can damage the skin cells responsible for collagen production support, so that your skin works more efficiently from within.
Why does collagen decrease as you age?
Collagen is the structural protein that keeps your skin firm, supple and resilient. Think of it as the scaffolding beneath the surface.
As you get older, your skin naturally produces less of it. Sun exposure, stress and poor sleep can speed up this process. The result is skin that feels thinner, looks less full and develops fine lines and wrinkles more easily.
The cells responsible for collagen production are called fibroblasts. They are found in the deeper layers of your skin and are the reason why young skin looks so resilient. Supporting fibroblast activity is one of the main goals of many science-based skin care approaches, and that's exactly where red light therapy comes into the picture.
How does red light support collagen production in the skin?
Red light at specific wavelengths can stimulate skin cells that produce collagen, without heat, chemicals or damage to the skin's surface.
When red or near-infrared light is absorbed through the skin, it reaches the mitochondria in the skin cells. Mitochondria are often described as the energy factories of the cell. Research suggests that certain wavelengths of light can support mitochondrial activity, which in turn can promote cellular energy production (ATP).
With more cellular energy available, fibroblasts can become more active. Some studies indicate that this increased activity may be related to greater collagen synthesis in the skin. The mechanism is often referred to as photobiomodulation, which simply means using light to influence biological processes.
The wavelengths most commonly studied for these effects are in the range 630nm to 660nm for red light, and 800nm to 850nm for near infrared light, which penetrates deeper into the skin.
What does the research actually say?
Some early research and clinical observations suggest that regular exposure to red light may support improvements in skin texture, firmness and collagen density.
Multiple small-scale studies have reported improvements in skin appearance, fine lines and self-reported skin quality in participants who regularly used red light devices. However, most of these studies are small-scale, and further research is still being done. Results may vary based on device quality, wavelength, frequency of use and individual skin characteristics.
Red light therapy is not a quick fix or a guaranteed outcome. It is better understood as an agent that can support the skin's natural processes when used consistently over time. Think of it as supporting your skin from within, rather than camouflaging things from the outside.
What can you realistically expect?
Most people who use red light therapy for skin support report subtle, gradual changes rather than dramatic results overnight.
Frequently heard experiences with consistent use are:
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Skin that feels smoother or better hydrated
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A more even skin tone
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Reduced visibility of fine lines after a few weeks
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Skin that looks more rested and fresh
Changes usually become more visible after four to eight weeks of consistent use, with some people noticing improvements in texture and appearance earlier. Individual results vary and depend on factors such as age, skin type, device quality and frequency of use.
How do you build a simple red light routine for your skin?
A consistent, accessible routine is the most realistic way to support your skin with red light therapy.
Here's a practical approach:
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Clean your skin first. Remove makeup, sunscreen or heavy moisturizers before your session. Clean skin allows light to penetrate more effectively.
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Position the device correctly. Follow the recommended distance for your specific device, typically 4 to 12 inches depending on the product.
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Session duration from 10 to 20 minutes. Most home devices are designed for sessions in this time range. Regularity counts more than session duration.
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Use it four to five times a week. Daily use is not always necessary. A few sessions per week, sustained over a longer period of time, is the most practical approach for most people.
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Apply a moisturizer afterwards. A good moisturizer or serum after your session can keep your skin hydrated and supported.
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Be patient. Collagen changes take time. Give yourself at least six to eight weeks before assessing the results.
It's not about doing more. The point is to do it regularly.
Which Mvolo device best suits this purpose?
The correct device depends which part of your skin you want to support, how much coverage you need and how you prefer to use red light therapy on a daily basis.
Here's a quick overview of all five Mvolo options relevant to skin and collagen:
|
Device |
Coverage area |
Most suitable for |
Session format |
|
Full face and neck |
Daily facial routine, hands-free use |
Wear and relax |
|
|
Face |
Beginners or lighter facial treatment |
Wear and relax |
|
|
Targeted spot areas |
Hands, décolleté, jawline, specific areas |
Manual, portable |
|
|
Upper or lower body |
Broader skin and recovery support |
Standing or hanging panel |
|
|
Full body |
Whole body approach, advanced users |
Standing or hanging panel |
LED Face Mask with Neck
This mask covers the entire face and neck in one session, making it a practical choice for anyone who wants consistent coverage without having to move the device. It's hands-free, so you can use it while you wind down in the evening or read a book. A good choice for people who want a simple daily facial routine want.
LED Face Mask Lite
A lighter, more compact option suitable for people who being new to LED therapy or prefer an easier entry point. It covers the face and works well for people who want to explore red light for skin support without immediately investing in a larger device.
ReliefTorch
The ReliefTorch is a portable spotting device, making it well suited for targeted areas that a mask is less likely to reach. Think of the jawline, neck, décolleté, the back of the hands or other specific areas where you notice early signs of skin aging. It requires more active use than a mask because you're holding and moving it yourself, but that flexibility can be helpful if you want precise, localized sessions.
Elite Series 206
A panelDevice that emits red and near-infrared light delivers over a larger surface area. It's a good option for people looking to expand red light therapy beyond the face, supporting skin on the chest, arms, or upper body in addition to their skin care goals. It is also suitable for people who already use red light for recovery or general well-being and want one device that covers multiple uses.
Elite Series 306
The larger panel in the Elite Series, designed for people who want broader full-body coverage in one session. It is the most versatile option in the Mvolo range and is suitable for users who are committed to a regular red light practice and want the flexibility to treat different body areas without having to reposition frequently.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take for red light therapy to show results for the skin? Most people notice gradual changes after four to eight weeks of consistent use. Collagen changes happen slowly, so patience and regularity are more important than the intensity of the session.
Which wavelength of red light is best for collagen? Wavelengths in the 630 to 660nm range are most commonly associated with skin and collagen-related research. Near-infrared wavelengths around 800 to 850nm penetrate deeper and can also play a role in skin support.
Can I use red light therapy every day? Many people use it daily, especially with home facial devices. Regularity counts more than frequency. Four to five sessions per week is a realistic and effective approach for most people.
Is red light therapy safe for all skin types? Red and near-infrared light therapy is generally considered safe for most skin types. If you have a skin condition, are taking photosensitizing medications, or are pregnant, it is worth consulting a healthcare provider first.
Does red light therapy replace a skin care routine? No. Red light therapy works best as a supplement to a good skin care routine, not as a replacement. Cleansing, moisturizing and sun protection remain important daily habits.
Will I see faster results if I use the device for longer? Not necessary. Most red light devices are designed for 10 to 20 minute sessions. Longer sessions don't always lead to better results, and some research suggests there is a dose-response relationship where too much light may be less effective. Follow the guidelines for your specific device.
Sources
The following peer-reviewed studies and review articles have substantiated the scientific claims in this article.
About the effects of red and near-infrared light on skin, collagen and fibroblasts
Wunsch, A.; Matuschka, K. (2014). A controlled trial to determine the efficacy of red and near-infrared light treatment in patient satisfaction, reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, skin roughness, and increase in intradermal collagen density. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24286286/
Lee, S.Y. et al. (2017). Effect of LED red light on skin. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28222287/
Lim, W. et al. (2011). The effects of near-infrared LEDs on human fibroblasts. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21227530/
Barolet, D.; Boucher, A. (2009). Proliferation of human fibroblasts induced by a He-Ne laser: photobiomodulation. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19961965/
Barolet, D.; Roberge, C.J. (2009). Suppression of early response genes to thermal stress in human skin by red and near-infrared LEDs. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19961964/
Deng, F. et al. (2024). Visible light accelerates wound healing in skin and relieves scar formation in mice by modulating STAT3 signaling. Nature Communications Biology. https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-024-06973-1
About LED light therapy in dermatology
Jagdeo, J. et al. (2018). Light-emitting diodes in dermatology: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29356026/
Barolet, D. (2008). Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) in dermatology. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18681888/
About photobiomodulation and mitochondria
Hamblin, M.R. (2017). Mechanisms and Mitochondrial Redox Signaling in Photobiomodulation. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29164625/
Hamblin, M.R. (2017). Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation. PubMed / PMC. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5523874/
de Freitas, L.F.; Hamblin, M.R. (2016). Proposed mechanisms of photobiomodulation or low-level light therapy. IEEE Xplore. https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/7457366
About dose response
Huang, Y.Y. et al. (2009). Biphasic dose response in low-level light therapy. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19622912/
