LED Light Therapy Skincare Routine: What to Apply Before & After
Reviewed by the Beauty by Light Education TeamWhether you're new to LED light therapy or looking to optimise your skincare routine, this guide explains what to apply before and after your LED treatment to help support your skin goals.
Quick Answer
For most skincare routines, use your LED face mask on clean, dry skin before applying serums, moisturiser or SPF. Once your treatment is complete, continue with your usual skincare routine.
LED Skincare Routine at a Glance
| Product | Before LED | After LED |
|---|---|---|
| Cleanser | ✅ Recommended | — |
| Hyaluronic Acid | — | ✅ Recommended |
| Peptides | — | ✅ Recommended |
| Niacinamide | — | ✅ Recommended |
| Vitamin C* | — | ✅ Suggested |
| Retinoids | — | ✅ Evening |
| Moisturiser | — | ✅ Recommended |
| SPF 50+ | — | ✅ Morning |
*Note: This is a suggested routine for most users. Vitamin C can also be incorporated into your skincare routine according to your skin's needs and the directions provided with your skincare products.
Why LED Works Best on Clean Skin
LED light therapy works by delivering specific wavelengths of light to the skin. Applying treatment to clean, dry skin helps minimise anything that could interfere with light reaching the skin. Once your session is complete, you can continue with your normal skincare routine.
Consistency Delivers Results
Like most skincare routines, LED light therapy works best when used consistently. Follow the recommended treatment schedule for your Beauty by Light device and maintain a regular skincare routine to support ongoing results.
The Power Pairings: Supporting Your Skin
After your LED session, your skincare routine can continue with hydrating and targeted ingredients that complement your treatment.
LED + Hyaluronic Acid
After an LED session, applying a hyaluronic acid serum helps improve hydration, leaving skin looking plumper and smoother.
LED + Peptides
Both LED light therapy and peptides are popular for their skin-supportive properties. Together, they complement one another to support the appearance of firmer, smoother-looking skin. You can enhance these effects with our Anti Aging After Care Light Therapy Cream.
LED + Niacinamide
For sensitive skin, niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is a hero. When paired with the calming benefits of red and yellow LED light, it helps support the skin barrier while calming the appearance of redness.
Timing Your Actives for Best Results
Knowing when to apply active ingredients can help you get the most from both your LED treatment and your skincare routine:
- Retinoids & Exfoliants: These are generally best used as part of your evening skincare routine. If your skin is easily irritated, consider using them on alternate nights to your LED treatments.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C can be applied after your LED session as part of your daytime skincare routine.
- Occlusives: Avoid thick oils or heavy creams before your session, as they may block optimal light penetration.
The Beauty by Light Master Routine
Morning Protocol
- 1. Cleanse: Gentle, fragrance-free cleanser.
- 2. LED Session: 10-20 minutes on bare skin.
- 3. Hydrate: Apply Hyaluronic Acid or Peptide serum.
- 4. Protect: Moisturise and finish with SPF 50+.
Evening Protocol
- 1. Double Cleanse: Remove all impurities.
- 2. LED Session: (If not done in the morning).
- 3. Treat: Apply your chosen treatment, such as a retinoid or our Anti-Acne Moisturising Cream.
- 4. Recover: Finish with a nourishing night cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
For most skincare routines, apply serums after your LED session. Starting with clean, dry skin helps maximise light reaching the skin.
Yes, but it is often best to use them on alternate nights if you have sensitive skin.
Yes, Vitamin C works well as part of your post-LED daytime routine.
You can apply your moisturiser immediately after your LED session.
For most skincare routines, use your LED mask on clean, dry skin before applying moisturiser or serums.
Yes, you can proceed with your usual makeup routine immediately following your LED session.
No, you can proceed directly to your skincare routine after your session.
Yes, our devices are designed for consistent, daily use. Follow the recommended treatment time in your device instructions.
If you have a photosensitive condition, are taking medications that increase sensitivity to light, or have concerns about whether LED therapy is suitable for you, speak with your healthcare professional before use.
Ready to build your LED skincare routine?
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Shop Mask collectionDisclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. Beauty by Light LED devices are included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG).