Can Red Light Therapy for Under Eye Bags Help? The Science Explained

Can Red Light Therapy for Under Eye Bags Help? The Science Explained

Many of us reach for concealer or ice packs to hide puffy under eyes, but what if there were a more scientific, long-term solution? Red light therapy for under eye bags is gaining traction in the world of beauty and skincare, and for good reason. 

This non-invasive treatment shows promise in reducing puffiness, supporting collagen production, and brightening dark circles. But how does it work, and is it really worth trying?

In this article, we’ll explore the science behind red light therapy, explain why the under-eye area responds well to this treatment, and show you how Maysama’s cutting-edge LED skincare technology can help you achieve brighter, firmer eyes.

Understanding Under Eye Bags: Why They Appear

Before exploring how to treat them, it’s helpful to understand precisely why under-eye bags form in the first place. This common cosmetic concern affects people of all ages, though it becomes more noticeable with age.

Under-eye bags refer to the puffiness or swelling that develops beneath the eyes and are typically caused by a combination of physiological and lifestyle factors. 

According to the Mayo Clinic, these changes can be linked to a natural weakening of the tissues and muscles supporting the eyelids, along with fluid build-up and fat shifting into the lower lid area.

The most common causes of under eye bags include:

1. Ageing

The most common culprit. As we grow older, the tissues and muscles supporting the eyes gradually weaken. Fat that is usually confined to the area around the eyes can shift forward into the lower eyelids, creating a swollen or baggy appearance. 

Simultaneously, the skin loses elasticity and firmness, making the bags more pronounced.

2. Fluid Retention

This can occur due to a lack of sleep, high sodium intake, dehydration, hormonal changes, or allergies. Overnight or upon waking, fluid tends to accumulate under the eyes, leading to temporary puffiness.

3. Poor Circulation

When blood flow is sluggish, the skin under the eyes may appear dull and tired. Reduced circulation not only increases puffiness but also contributes to dark circles, as blood can pool and become more visible through the delicate skin.

4. Collagen Loss

This plays a key role. Collagen helps keep the skin firm and plump, but its production declines with age. The result is thinner skin that more easily reveals underlying shadows and puffiness.

These combined factors make under-eye bags especially stubborn, but they also highlight why light-based treatments, such as red light therapy, are gaining traction as a non-invasive, effective solution.

What Is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy, also known as low-level light therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation, is a non-invasive treatment that utilizes specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to stimulate the skin’s natural healing and regenerative processes.

When the skin absorbs these wavelengths, they penetrate deep into the dermal layers and reach the mitochondria, the energy-producing components of our cells.

This interaction enhances the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a type of cellular energy that fuels vital skin functions. As a result, red light therapy promotes a cascade of beneficial effects:

  • Increased collagen and elastin synthesis, which supports firmer, more youthful-looking skin
  • Reduced Inflammation, calming redness, and irritation that may worsen under-eye puffiness
  • Improved blood flow and lymphatic drainage, which helps clear away fluid build-up and toxins
  • Refined skin texture and tone, delivering a healthier, brighter complexion over time

What sets Maysama apart is the use of Pulsed LED Light Technology, a unique innovation that intensifies these effects. 

By delivering light in rapid bursts rather than a constant stream, pulsed light improves light penetration, further boosts ATP production and significantly enhances the absorption of complementary skincare products. 

This makes it especially effective for fragile, sensitive areas, such as the under-eye area, where precision and safety are paramount.

How Red Light Therapy Targets Under-Eye Bags

Red light therapy works through several synergistic mechanisms, making it especially effective for treating under-eye bags, a notoriously stubborn concern that stems from multiple underlying causes.

1. Improved Circulation and Lymphatic Drainage

Red light therapy stimulates microcirculation in the skin, which helps oxygenate the tissues and support more efficient blood flow. Enhanced circulation under the eyes means reduced fluid retention and a quicker removal of toxins, both of which contribute to puffiness. 

At the same time, it supports the lymphatic system, helping to drain excess fluid that tends to pool in the lower eye area, primarily upon waking. This makes red light therapy particularly beneficial for addressing morning puffiness or persistent swelling.

2. Collagen Stimulation

The delicate under-eye area is especially vulnerable to sagging due to natural collagen loss with age. Red light therapy activates fibroblasts, encouraging them to produce more collagen and elastin. 

This leads to firmer, more resilient skin that appears lifted and smoother. With continued use, the area becomes less prone to the bulging effect typically seen with under-eye bags.

3. Reduced Inflammation

Inflammation can exacerbate puffiness and discolouration. Red light therapy has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, helping to calm the under-eye region and reduce redness and irritation while supporting the body’s natural healing response.

4. Brightening Dark Circles

In many cases, dark circles are caused by blood vessels showing through thin, translucent skin. 

By increasing blood flow and stimulating collagen, red light therapy helps thicken the skin and reduce the visibility of these vessels, making dark circles appear lighter over time; a key benefit for those seeking red light therapy for dark circles.

Is It Safe to Use Red Light Therapy Around the Eyes?

Yes, when used correctly and with a reputable, high-quality device, red light therapy is not only safe for the under-eye area but also highly effective. The skin around the eyes is fragile and delicate, requiring a gentle yet targeted approach. 

Maysama’s LED light therapy devices are engineered with these needs in mind, prioritising both safety and efficacy.

Unlike harsh treatments or invasive procedures, red light therapy uses low-heat, non-damaging wavelengths that do not harm the skin or underlying tissues. Maysama’s technology contains no UV radiation, so there’s no risk of sun damage or cellular disruption.

Each device is built with clinically validated light wavelengths, shown to stimulate collagen, reduce Inflammation, and improve circulation, all without irritating the skin. 

Importantly, the customizable settings enable users to adjust the intensity and treatment area, allowing them to tailor their sessions to suit their comfort and sensitivity.

Maysama’s Pulsed LED Light Technology adds another layer of protection and precision. Delivering light in rapid bursts rather than a continuous stream enhances penetration while minimizing skin fatigue or overstimulation. 

This makes it particularly well-suited for sensitive areas, such as the under-eye area, offering visible improvements without any pain, redness, or downtime.

How to Use Red Light Therapy for Under Eye Bags

Step 1: Cleanse and Prep the Skin

Always start with clean, dry skin. For enhanced results, you can apply a supportive antioxidant serum like those found in Maysama’s skincare line, which contains an Aspalathin-enriched Green Rooibos Extract to amplify the benefits of LED treatment.

Step 2: Select the Right Device

For targeted eye treatment, the Maysama Head2Heart LED Combo is an ideal choice. This versatile device is designed for the face and forehead and can be used gently around the eye area to stimulate skin renewal and reduce puffiness.

Alternatively, for a relaxing, whole-face treatment that covers all signs of ageing, the Maysama Green LED Light Therapy Mask supports consistent use with full-spectrum light exposure that reaches delicate under-eye tissues.

Step 3: Treat Consistently

Consistency is key. Aim for 3–5 sessions per week for at least 4–6 weeks. Each session should last around 10–20 minutes, depending on the intensity and your skin’s response.

Step 4: Follow Up With Skincare

Conclude your session with a hydrating eye cream or serum to seal in moisture and enhance results. Maysama’s antioxidant-led formulations work in tandem with red light therapy to maximize absorption and long-term skin improvement.

Real Results: What to Expect

Red light therapy offers progressive, long-term benefits rather than quick fixes, but the improvements can be genuinely transformative with consistent use. Most users begin to see noticeable changes within just a few weeks. 

For example, morning puffiness often begins to diminish within the first 10 to 14 days as circulation improves and fluid retention decreases.

With ongoing use, typically lasting around 4 to 6 weeks, many people report firmer, tighter skin in the eye area. This is thanks to the stimulation of collagen and elastin, which help lift and smooth the delicate under-eye skin. 

Between 8 and 12 weeks, those struggling with dark circles often see visible lightening, particularly when the cause is linked to poor circulation or thinning skin.

While outcomes vary based on individual factors such as age, skin condition, and lifestyle habits, red light therapy remains one of the most effective, non-invasive methods for reducing under-eye bags without the need for needles or downtime.

Why Choose Maysama for Red Light Therapy?

With countless red light therapy products on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. But not all LED devices are created equal, and that’s where Maysama truly stands apart. 

As a brand at the forefront of LED innovation, Maysama leads the way with Pulsed LED Light Therapy. This breakthrough technology delivers superior results compared to traditional continuous wave LED.

Unlike standard LED treatments, pulsed light emits in controlled bursts. This approach allows for deeper light penetration, which enhances ATP (cellular energy) production and stimulates skin rejuvenation more effectively. 

It also helps to avoid skin overstimulation, making it safe for sensitive areas like the under-eye area. Significantly, this pulsing action boosts the skin’s ability to absorb topical skincare products, meaning any antioxidant serums or actives you apply work even harder for you.

Maysama’s devices are thoughtfully engineered for visible, lasting improvement. Each one is:

  • Clinically backed, with real-world data supporting efficacy
  • Tailored to mature and aging skin, with a focus on users aged 40–65+
  • Paired with advanced skincare formulations, including Maysama’s exclusive Aspalathin-enriched Green Rooibos Extract, known to amplify LED effects
  • Globally trusted, with happy customers across the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and the EU

Suppose you’re seeking a non-invasive way to reduce under-eye bags, dark circles, and signs of fatigue. 

In that case, Maysama’s red light therapy solutions offer a safe and effective alternative to injectables, helping you restore a brighter, more youthful appearance from the comfort of your own home.

Pairing Tools: Enhance Results with Facial Massage

For those seeking a double boost, pair your LED sessions with Maysama’s Bian Stone Gua Sha Facial Massager. A gentle massage using this ancient tool can promote lymphatic drainage, reduce fluid retention, and complement the circulatory effects of red light therapy.

Using Gua Sha 2–3 times a week after light therapy can improve eye area definition and tone, especially when combined with Maysama’s serums.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’ve been struggling with persistent under-eye bags, red light therapy offers a clinically backed, non-invasive solution with real potential. 

Unlike topical treatments that only go skin deep, red light therapy works at a cellular level to target the root causes, from fluid retention to collagen loss.

With innovative features like Pulsed LED technology and potent antioxidant skincare, Maysama provides an advanced approach to tackling under-eye bags at home. It’s safe, effective, and ideal for anyone looking to invest in long-term skin health.

Refresh and Brighten Your Look with Red Light Therapy for Under Eye Bags

Discover how red light therapy can transform your under-eye area by exploring Maysama’s expertly designed light therapy tools and skincare.

Shop the Head2Heart LED Combo or Chin2Chest LED Light Therapy Device today and start your journey towards fresher, firmer, more youthful skin.

Back to blog