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:
Stack with other services: Pair red light with massage, IV therapy, skin treatments, or breathwork.
Time of day matters: Clients with sleep issues should book AM sessions. Athletes may prefer post-workout.
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.
