If you have rosacea and you’ve been reading about red light therapy, you might be wondering whether it’s worth trying. This page doesn’t tell you whether it will suit your skin, because that’s a decision for you and your doctor. Instead, it sets out the questions worth asking and the checks worth making first.
Please see a dermatologist or your GP before trying red light therapy or any new skin device if you have rosacea, or think you might. They can confirm what’s going on with your skin and talk you through the options that suit you.
This is general information, not medical advice. It sits under our red light therapy for skin hub.
Why talk to a dermatologist or GP before trying any new skin device?
Rosacea is a medical condition. It needs a proper diagnosis and a plan from a doctor, and it can look similar to other skin conditions. A dermatologist or GP can:
- confirm whether it’s rosacea or something else
- look at your skin type, your history and anything that seems to set off your symptoms
- talk through the options that suit you, and where any device might or might not fit
- check any medicines or skin products that may make your skin more sensitive to light
Searching “red light therapy rosacea” online brings up a lot of confident claims. A doctor who has seen your skin can give you advice that fits you, which a website or a device box can’t.
What questions could you ask your dermatologist about light-based devices?
Writing a few questions down before your appointment can make it easier. You might ask:
- Is a light-based device something you’d consider reasonable for my skin, or would you advise against it?
- Are there any reasons I should avoid light or warmth on my face, given my skin and medicines?
- If I did try a device, what settings, session length and frequency would you be comfortable with?
- What signs would mean I should stop straight away and come back to see you?
- How does an at-home device compare with options you offer in the clinic?
- LED mask rosacea questions: is a mask that sits close to my face a sensible choice, or would something else be better? (See mask vs panel.)
- Is there anything in my current skin routine I should change first?
It’s fine to bring a device’s specifications or instruction booklet to the appointment so your dermatologist can see exactly what you’re asking about. For what to look for in a device, see how to choose a device.
How do you check the ARTG listing and use a device as instructed?
In Australia, a device that’s promoted for a therapeutic purpose generally needs to be included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). Being on the ARTG doesn’t mean a device will work for you or for rosacea. You can:
- look for an ARTG number on the packaging, website or instructions, then check it on the public register
- read what the entry actually covers, and compare it with what the device is being promoted for
- be cautious of any device that’s advertised for rosacea without an ARTG entry
Our guide to TGA and ARTG explains how to search the register.
Once you have a device, use it exactly as the maker instructs. Stick to the stated distance, session time and frequency, and don’t add extra sessions in the hope of a bigger result. If your dermatologist suggests something different, follow their advice.
General comfort and safety: what should you keep in mind?
Is red light safe for sensitive skin? There’s no single answer, because skin and devices vary. Read is red light therapy safe? before you start. Some general points:
- Heat. Some devices get warm during use. If warmth tends to bother your skin, mention this to your dermatologist and check how warm the device runs.
- Sensitivity. If your skin is reactive, ask your dermatologist before using any new device, and start with the shortest session the instructions allow.
- Patch testing. Follow the maker’s patch-test advice, if it gives any, before using a device on your whole face.
- Eye protection. Use the eye protection the maker recommends. Don’t look directly into the light.
- Stop if irritation happens. If you notice burning, stinging, increased redness, swelling or anything else unusual, stop using the device and talk to your dermatologist or GP.
Be wary of anything sold as a quick answer for rosacea. See red light therapy myths vs facts for help spotting hype.
Where can you find reliable information?
Good places to start are:
- Your GP. They can assess your skin and refer you to a dermatologist if needed.
- A dermatologist. Dermatologists are specialist doctors who can give you a diagnosis and a personal plan.
- The Australasian College of Dermatologists. The college publishes patient information on skin conditions, including a rosacea page in its A–Z of Skin.
When you read anything online, check who wrote it, whether they’re qualified, and whether they’re selling something.
FAQ
Can I use red light therapy if I have rosacea? That’s a question for your dermatologist or GP. They can look at your skin and your medicines and give you personal advice.
Is an LED mask OK for rosacea? We can’t say. Ask your dermatologist whether a mask, or any device, is suitable for your skin.
Is red light safe for sensitive skin? It depends on the device and your skin. Follow the maker’s instructions, patch-test if advised, protect your eyes, and stop if irritation happens. See is red light therapy safe?
Does being on the ARTG mean a device works for rosacea? No. ARTG inclusion is a regulatory step, not proof that a device suits you. See our guide to TGA and ARTG.
Where can I read more? Your GP, a dermatologist and the Australasian College of Dermatologists’ patient information are good places to start.
Please see a dermatologist or your GP before trying red light therapy or any new skin device if you have rosacea. If anything you try irritates your skin, stop and get personal advice.
