Guides / How far should you sit from a red light therapy panel?
How far should you sit from a red light therapy panel?
Distance is the main dial on a red light session - it sets how much light actually reaches you.
Distance controls the dose
Irradiance drops quickly as you move away from a panel, so the gap between you and the LEDs is the main control on your dose. Most brands quote irradiance at 15 cm (about 6 inches), a common and comfortable treatment distance.
Closer is stronger, but not always better
Sitting closer raises irradiance and shortens the session needed for a given dose. Pressed right against the panel, though, coverage shrinks to a small spot and heat builds. Around 15-30 cm is the usual sweet spot for treating a whole area.
Match your distance to the brand figure
To actually get a brand's stated irradiance, sit at the distance they measured it. That is exactly why we normalize every panel to 15 cm - so the numbers compare. See irradiance explained, or compare normalized figures in the database.
FAQ
What is the best distance for a red light panel?
Around 15-30 cm (6-12 inches) for most panels and goals. Closer raises intensity but shrinks coverage; further lowers intensity and lengthens sessions.
Should my skin touch the panel?
Usually no - at contact the covered area is tiny and heat builds up. Most brands measure and recommend a set distance, commonly 15 cm.