Blue Light Therapy Myths Debunked: Separating Fact from Fiction

DISCLAIMER: Mito Red Light devices are not clinically proven to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical conditions.  Mito Red Light devices are low / risk general wellness devices aimed at affecting the body through supporting cellular function. The scientific studies referenced in this article are for educational and informational purposes only and are meant to educate the reader on the exciting and growing field of phototherapy.  To see a list of precautionary warnings and contraindications, click here

 

The idea of using light as a therapy has been around for centuries, but with the proliferation of information in the modern age, as well as rapid advancements in technology, it’s only in the last decade or so that blue light therapy has exploded into the limelight.

Unfortunately, while is a lot of positive research highlighting the benefits and clinical trials supporting its use, there are also a lot of myths concerning blue light therapy. Spread through misinformation and misunderstandings, these could lead to incorrect opinions and even improper use.

 

Myth #1: Blue Light Therapy and Screen Blue Light Are the Same

We’re often told to avoid excessive screen use at night, as the blue light emitting from phones and computers can interrupt circadian rhythms. But that doesn’t mean all blue light is bad; in fact, the blue light used in skin therapy isn’t even on the same wavelength.

Firstly, while it’s true that excess blue light at night can interrupt sleep, we also know that it provides benefits to alertness throughout the day. Secondly, the issue is not the light itself—a little won’t hurt you, even if you leave your screen time to the evening. The issue stems from excessive use combined with the distracting nature of devices and the intense focus they require.

Most blue light therapy sessions last for just 20 minutes or so, so it’s not the same as scrolling through TikTok for several hours. There is also research that suggests blue light therapy can improve “subjective sleep quality” when used in the morning.

Myth #2: Blue Light Therapy Causes Premature Aging

It has been theorized that blue light could cause effects similar to ultraviolet radiation, but that doesn’t mean that regular use of blue light devices will age your skin. In fact, there have been numerous studies showing that it doesn’t.

In one study, eight volunteers were exposed to blue light for five days, after which biopsies were analyzed to look for photodamage and skin aging. The researchers found that there were no sunburn cells or inflammatory cells, suggesting that blue light doesn’t induce skin aging.

Myth #3: Blue Light Only Works for Mild Acne

Blue light therapy seems to be effective in improving the symptoms of mild to moderate acne, but it can also work in more serious cases.

A study on Japanese participants with various grades of acne resulted in significant improvements in 80% of cases, with no harmful side effects. 

It’s not a magic wand that will eradicate all signs of acne in all individuals, but with regular, properly structured sessions it could produce noticeable outcomes.

Myth #4: Results Will Last Forever

However positive or transformative the changes are, they won’t last forever. It can take a few weeks for any noticeable difference to appear, and those changes typically last for several months. Regular sessions are needed to maintain results.

The number of sessions you need, the results they produce, and how long they last will depend on various factors, including the device/method, the issue being addressed, and the condition of the skin.

Myth #5: More Frequent Sessions Equal Better Results

Blue light therapy is most effective when used two or three times a week, but some devices are designed for daily use, provided the sessions are short, and device instructions are followed.

The rule of diminishing returns sets in quickly, so you don’t need to worry if you miss a session or two. Find a therapy plan that works best for your schedule and needs—if you’re targeting acne, more regular sessions may be needed than if you just want to improve the appearance of your skin.

The risk of adverse reactions also increases with frequent use.

Myth #6: Blue Light Therapy is Just a Placebo

There is no shortage of placebo therapies, but blue light isn’t one of them. There is a wealth of research to support its efficacy, not to mention countless anecdotal reports.

For instance, a study from 2025 found that blue light therapy was an effective, non-invasive option that possessed antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and photobiomodulation effects, making it an effective option in dermatological practice. Others suggest it may be effective in addressing longstanding skin concerns, as well as blemishes.

 

Myth #7: All Blue Light Devices Are Equal

There are various different blue light therapy devices on the market, and they are definitely not the same.

To find the right device, consider aspects such as:

• Intensity: The intensity of the device can determine how effective it is and how long you need to use it. Premium devices like the MitoCLEAR® Therapy Mask combine blue and red light to target different conditions and meet various skincare goals.

• Coverage and Convenience: Do you want a mask, a panel, or a handheld device? A mask is great for full-face coverage, but a handheld device is more suitable for targeted use.

• Quality: The quality of the design can greatly impact its efficacy. High-end designs will work better and last longer. Aspects such as the speed of charging and the fit of a mask should also be considered.

• Certifications: Look for devices that have been certified as safe, such as the FDA 510(K) clearance on the aforementioned MitoCLEAR® mask. It ensures that you’re getting something that has passed safety and efficacy standards.

As with everything else, there are very cheap options out there, but they are often poorly made and lack certification. In the best-case scenario, you’ll get something that will do a decent job now but won’t last over the long haul. But you could also get an unsafe and ineffective device that damages your skin.

So, while cost is an important consideration, quality is even more essential. It’s a health product, after all—something that aims to support skin wellness and clarity, and you should never compromise when it comes to your health.

Myth #8: Blue Light Therapy Can Replace All Other Practices

Although blue light therapy can be an effective method, it shouldn’t be the only course of action for conditions like moderate or severe acne. It is most effective when added to existing skincare regimen, including certain creams and pre/post-session rituals.

See our guides to properly using blue light therapy at home and combining blue light therapy with your skincare regime to learn more.

Conclusion

We live in the information age, but for every detailed, research-backed article, there are scores of misinformed videos, social media posts, and forum threads, all of which can perpetuate myths regarding certain therapies. 

It’s always good practice to learn about a specific therapy option before pulling the trigger, and blue light therapy is no exception. Just make sure you’re reading content published by credible scientists and healthcare professionals, people who know what they are talking about and can provide objective information based on emerging research and supported by user experiences.

You can also take a look at some of the guides and articles published here—we have a wealth of information on blue and red light therapies, covering everything from the potential benefits to the possible side effects and long-term use considerations.

Finally, if you’re uncertain whether it’s a good fit for your needs, either because you have a specific skin condition or something that may cause a contraindication, contact a professional before buying your first blue light device or booking a session at a clinic.