What Are Protocols (and Why Do They Matter)?

When clients come to your clinic, they’re not just looking for a light — they’re looking for a result.

That’s where protocols come in.

A red light therapy protocol is a structured treatment plan that guides session frequency, duration, and expected outcomes based on the goal — whether that’s smoother skin, less pain, faster recovery, or better sleep.

Without protocols, it’s just a light show. With protocols, it’s a clinical-grade wellness modality your clients will take seriously (and pay for consistently).

How Protocols Work: Dose, Duration, and Frequency

Red light therapy (technically known as photobiomodulation) uses red and near-infrared wavelengths to stimulate mitochondrial activity and reduce oxidative stress.

But like any therapeutic approach, the dose matters — and so does consistency.

3 factors define a protocol:

• Fluence (joules/cm²): The energy delivered to tissue
  

• Session duration: Usually 8–15 minutes in full-body beds
  

• Treatment frequency: Often 2–5x per week in the first month
  

Common Protocols by Client Goal

Here’s a quick breakdown of red light therapy protocols you can offer across various treatment goals.

✅ Chronic Pain & Inflammation

• Goal: Reduce joint or muscle pain, ease chronic inflammation
  

• Frequency: 3–5x per week for 3–6 weeks
  

• Maintenance: 1–2x per week
  

• Notes: Focus on early consistency; pair with hydration and movement therapy
  
  

Red Light Therapy Protocols

✅ Skin Rejuvenation & Anti-Aging

• Goal: Improve tone, reduce wrinkles, and fade pigmentation
  

• Frequency: 2–3x per week for 8–12 weeks
  

• Maintenance: 1–2x per week
  

• Notes: Add exfoliation or skin serums post-session for enhanced effect
  
  
  

✅ Athletic Recovery & Performance

• Goal: Decrease muscle fatigue, improve recovery, and prep muscles for performance
  

• Frequency: 2–4x per week
  

• Timing: Post-workout or 1-3 hours pre-workout for priming
  

• Notes: Include in packages for gyms, trainers, or sports rehab
  
  

✅ Mood, Sleep & Seasonal Affective Disorder

• Goal: Regulate circadian rhythm, reduce depressive symptoms
  

• Frequency: Daily (ideally mornings), 5–15 minutes
  

• Duration: 4–8 weeks
  
  

Notes: Encourage consistent schedule, possibly stack with breathwork or meditation

Sample Protocol Table

Goal	Frequency	Duration	Notes
Pain & Inflammation	3–5x/week (3–6 wks)	10–15 min	Emphasize hydration & early consistency
Skin Rejuvenation	2–3x/week (8–12 wks)	10–12 min	Use with skincare post-treatment
Athletic Recovery	2–4x/week	8–10 min	Post or pre-exercise
Mood / Sleep	Daily, AM preferred	5–10 min	Tie to consistent routine

How to Customize Protocols in Your Practice

You don’t need to overcomplicate things. Here are 3 ways to personalize protocols for your clients:

1. Stack with other services: Pair red light with massage, IV therapy, skin treatments, or breathwork.
   

2. Time of day matters: Clients with sleep issues should book AM sessions. Athletes may prefer post-workout.
   

3. Track outcomes: Keep a log. Offer before/after pics or pain score charts at week 4.
   

FAQs

Do I need a license to offer protocols?
No — but consult your state board if combining with other services like acupuncture or physical therapy.

Can clients overdo red light therapy?
More is not always better. Stick to recommended joule ranges and session timing for optimal effect.

What if a client doesn’t see results immediately?
Educate them on cellular turnover timelines (3–6 weeks). Red light is cumulative — like going to the gym.

Can I create my own protocols?
Yes. Many clinics use research-backed baselines and adjust based on client progress.

Let’s Talk

Need help building your red light treatment menu?

Schedule a free strategy call with our team or download our printable protocol planner to start customizing today.