The Best Serum to Use Before Red Light Therapy

Not every serum belongs in your red light therapy routine. Some can block light from reaching your skin, others just aren't formulated for the job. Here's what actually makes a serum a good pre-treatment choice.

What to look for

A good pre-red-light serum is lightweight and fully absorbs rather than sitting on the surface, since anything left on the skin can interfere with how much light actually reaches it. It should also be free of ingredients that increase light sensitivity, and ideally support the same goals your red light session is working toward.

Why copper peptides are a strong match

Copper peptides check all three boxes: they're typically formulated as fast-absorbing serums, they don't increase photosensitivity, and they support collagen and skin repair, the same underlying processes red light therapy is designed to encourage. Used together, they're addressing the same goal from two different angles rather than working against each other.

What to avoid before a session

Skip retinol, strong acid exfoliants, and heavy, occlusive creams or oils immediately before red light therapy. Retinol and acids can increase skin sensitivity, and heavier products can physically block light from penetrating. Save those for a different part of your routine.

A simple pre-session routine

Cleanse, apply a lightweight serum, let it absorb for a minute or two, then start your session. Save heavier moisturizers, oils, and SPF for afterward.

Built for this specific use

PRE-LIGHT was formulated as a primer for exactly this routine, lightweight enough to use right before a Veil session, and effective enough to stand on its own on the days you're not.