Skin Quality
Fine lines, dull tone, and uneven texture, with collagen support over time.
Red Light Therapy in Easley, SC
FDA-cleared, non-invasive
Session Time:10 to 20 minutes
Wavelengths:Red 630-660nm and near-infrared 810-850nm
Downtime:None, return to your day immediately
Frequency:3 to 5 sessions per week to start
What it is
How Red Light Therapy Supports Skin, Pain and Recovery
Light, used as medicine
Many of our patients arrive frustrated. Skin looks duller than it used to. Knees, shoulders, or low backs ache after long days. Workouts take longer to bounce back from than they did a few years ago. Topical creams help only so much, oral medications come with trade-offs, and time-consuming routines fall apart in real life. You want something simple, safe, and grounded in evidence, not another pricey gadget that overpromises and underdelivers.
Red light therapy offers a different path. Using carefully calibrated red and near-infrared wavelengths, the treatment delivers light energy to your skin and underlying tissues. This process, called photobiomodulation, is being actively studied for its effects on collagen production, tissue repair, and cellular energy. At Riverstone Wellness, we use FDA-cleared devices, set realistic expectations, and combine sessions with the rest of your care plan, including vitamin injections at Riverstone Wellness in Easley, SC when appropriate.
Treatment Timeline
Treatment Time
10 to 20 minutes per session
First Signs
Some patients notice changes in 2 to 4 weeks
Full Effect
8 to 12 weeks of consistent use
Frequency
3 to 5 sessions per week to start, then maintenance
What Is Red Light Therapy?
The science of photobiomodulation
Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation (PBM) or low-level light therapy (LLLT), uses specific wavelengths of visible red and near-infrared light to stimulate biological activity in skin and deeper tissues. FDA-cleared devices in this category are authorized for indications such as temporary relief of minor muscle and joint pain, improvement of skin appearance, and treatment of certain forms of hair loss, with the cleared indications varying by device.
The light is absorbed by mitochondria, the energy-producing structures inside your cells. Research published on PubMed (NIH) suggests this absorption can boost ATP (cellular energy) production, support collagen synthesis, and modulate inflammation. Unlike UV light from the sun or tanning beds, red and near-infrared wavelengths do not damage DNA, do not tan the skin, and do not require recovery time. To learn more about the FDA's role in clearing photobiomodulation devices, see FDA.
Benefits of Red Light Therapy
Gentle, non-invasive care
2000+ Satisfied patients
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Non-Invasive
No needles, no incisions, and no medication required for the session.
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No Downtime
Walk in, lie back for a short session, and return to your day.
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No UV Exposure
Uses red and near-infrared light only, not ultraviolet rays.
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Comfortable Sessions
Most patients describe a soothing, gentle warmth.
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Versatile Use
Supports skin, pain, and recovery in one short visit.
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Pairs With Other Care
Layers easily with vitamin injections, weight programs, and primary care.
Red Light Therapy vs Alternatives
How options compare
| Treatment | Mechanism | Time | Results | Duration | Downtime | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Light Therapy | Photobiomodulation with red and near-infrared light | 10 to 20 min per session | Gradual skin, pain, and recovery improvements | Maintained with ongoing sessions | None | Mild to moderate concerns, drug-free care |
| Topical Skin Treatments | Active ingredients (retinoids, peptides, antioxidants) | Daily home routine | Surface-level skin changes over weeks to months | While in consistent use | Possible irritation or peeling | Targeted skincare goals at home |
| Laser Therapy | Higher-energy light to ablate or heat tissue | 30 to 60 min per session | More dramatic skin or hair results | Lasting after a series, with maintenance | Days to weeks depending on type | Significant resurfacing or hair removal goals |
| No Therapy | No active intervention | None | No expected change beyond aging baseline | Concerns may progress | None | Patients not yet ready to start treatment |
Who Is a Good Candidate for Red Light Therapy?
Adults ready for gentle support
Red light therapy suits adults who want a non-invasive, drug-free option for skin quality, minor pain, or recovery support. The best candidates are open to consistent sessions and realistic about gradual change.
Ideal Candidates for Red Light Therapy
- Adults seeking gentle skin support for fine lines, dullness, or mild acne
- Active adults wanting to support muscle and joint recovery
- Patients with mild to moderate aches who want to avoid daily medication
- People who prefer a comfortable, no-downtime treatment
- Patients who can commit to 3 to 5 sessions per week to start
Who Should Wait or Avoid Red Light Therapy
- Those who have recently used photosensitizing medications (review with your provider)
- Patients with active skin cancer or undiagnosed skin lesions in the treatment area
- People with seizure disorders triggered by light (talk with us first)
- Pregnancy, while evidence is limited (we will discuss case-by-case)
- Anyone with eye conditions that contraindicate light exposure
We will review your full medical history and current medications during your consultation so red light therapy is a safe, sensible fit for you.
What a Session Looks Like
Simple, calm, and quick
Consultation
Kristina reviews your goals, history, and medications to confirm red light therapy is right for you.
Preparation
Kristina helps you settle in, clean and dry the treatment area, and place protective eyewear.
Light Session
You relax under our FDA-cleared red and near-infrared device for 10 to 20 minutes.
Post-Session
Kristina shares simple aftercare and notes how the area looks and feels for your records.
Plan and Follow-Up
Together we set a 3 to 5 sessions per week starter plan, then taper to maintenance.
Side Effects and Safety
What to know
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Well-Tolerated Treatment
Red light therapy is widely considered well tolerated when delivered with FDA-cleared devices and proper protocols. Most patients experience no side effects beyond a gentle, soothing warmth during the relaxing session. There is no UV exposure, no incision, and no recovery downtime. You can return to work, exercise, skincare, and normal daily activities immediately after each treatment session.
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Possible Side Effects
When side effects do occur, they are typically mild and short-lived. Possible effects include temporary redness or mild skin irritation in the treated area, transient eye strain or headache if protective eyewear is not worn, and rarely, a brief increase in skin sensitivity. Wearing the provided eyewear during every session prevents the most common avoidable side effect of treatment.
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Who Should Discuss First
Patients on photosensitizing medications, with a history of seizures triggered by light, with active skin cancer in the area, or who are pregnant should discuss safety with Kristina before starting. If you experience persistent redness, blistering, eye discomfort, or any reaction that worries you, contact Riverstone Wellness right away. Your safety always comes before any aesthetic or wellness goal.
Cost of Red Light Therapy in Easley, SC
Transparent per-session pricing
Red light therapy at Riverstone Wellness is $45 per session — and buy 5 sessions, get 1 free. Our medical-grade, FDA-cleared devices use optimal wavelengths to support skin rejuvenation, reduce wrinkles, improve collagen production, reduce hyperpigmentation, speed gym recovery, ease chronic pain, improve sleep patterns, and support mental health.
What's Included
- Single session: $45
- 6-session package (buy 5, get 1 free)
- Provider-guided protocol and area selection
- Protective eyewear and aftercare guidance
Insurance and Payment
Red light therapy is considered a wellness/aesthetic service and is generally not covered by insurance. CareCredit financing is available for qualifying patients.
Why Choose Riverstone Wellness for Red Light Therapy in Easley, SC
Easley, SC and surrounding areas
Provider-Led Care
Plans built and reviewed by Kristina Schafer, AGPCNP-C, not handed off.
FDA-Cleared Devices
We use cleared photobiomodulation devices and follow safety protocols.
Whole-Person Approach
Red light therapy fits inside primary care, mental health, and wellness.
Honest Expectations
We share what research supports and where evidence is still emerging.
Transparent Per-Session Pricing
$45 per session and buy 5 get 1 free, no membership required
No Downtime
Return to work, exercise, and skincare immediately after every visit
Related Services
Round out your care with related options at Riverstone Wellness.
Red Light Therapy FAQ
Your questions answered
What does red light therapy do?
Red light therapy uses red and near-infrared wavelengths (typically 630-660nm and 810-850nm) to support skin quality, ease minor muscle and joint pain, and aid recovery. It works through photobiomodulation, which influences cellular energy and collagen activity.
How often should I do red light therapy?
Most plans start at 3 to 5 sessions per week for several weeks, then taper to maintenance (often 1 to 2 sessions per week). Kristina will customize a schedule based on your goals and response.
Is red light therapy safe?
When delivered with FDA-cleared devices and proper eye protection, red light therapy is generally well-tolerated. It uses no UV light, requires no downtime, and most patients experience only a gentle warmth during the session.
What conditions does red light therapy treat?
FDA-cleared photobiomodulation devices have indications including temporary relief of minor muscle and joint pain, improvement of skin appearance (fine lines, tone, blemishes), and certain forms of hair loss. Indications vary by device, and your provider will explain what applies to you.
How long until I see results?
Some patients notice softer-looking skin or easier recovery in 2 to 4 weeks of consistent sessions. Fuller results, including collagen-related changes, typically appear over 8 to 12 weeks.
Does red light therapy hurt?
No. Most patients describe red light therapy as comfortable and warm. There are no needles, no incisions, and no medications involved.
Location4891 Hwy 153 Unit E
Easley, SC, 29642
Easley, SC, 29642
Phone(864) 520-4474
Schedule Your Red Light Therapy Consultation
References
- Hamblin MR. Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation. AIMS Biophys. 2017. PubMed (PMID: 28748217) Reviews how red and near-infrared light reduce inflammation at the cellular level.
- Avci P, Gupta A, Sadasivam M, et al. Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) in skin: stimulating, healing, restoring. Semin Cutan Med Surg. 2013. PubMed (PMID: 24049929) Summarizes evidence for LLLT on wound healing, anti-aging, and acne.
- Wunsch A, Matuschka K. 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 intradermal collagen density increase. Photomed Laser Surg. 2014. PubMed (PMID: 24286286) Demonstrates measurable improvements in skin complexion and collagen density.
- Ferraresi C, Huang YY, Hamblin MR. Photobiomodulation in human muscle tissue: an advantage in sports performance? J Biophotonics. 2016. PubMed (PMID: 27874264) Reviews PBM evidence for muscle recovery, soreness, and athletic performance.
- Lanzafame RJ, Blanche RR, Bodian AB, et al. The growth of human scalp hair mediated by visible red light laser and LED sources in males. Lasers Surg Med. 2013. PubMed (PMID: 23970445) Randomized controlled trial showing increased hair counts with red light treatment.