How Red Light Therapy Can Help with Clogged Ducts (and What to Look For in a Device)
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If you’re currently breastfeeding and dealing with a clogged duct, you know how uncomfortable (and sometimes downright painful) it can be. While ice, gentle lymphatic massage, and breast gymnastics are often the first steps we reach for, there’s another powerful, non-invasive tool that more moms are starting to use and see a lot of success with: red light therapy.
So, how can something as simple as light help with a clogged milk duct?
The Science Behind Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy—also called low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation—uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and support cellular healing. It’s been studied for decades, used in the sports world for years to speed up recovery and reduce pain (even nipple pain), and now it’s finding its way into postpartum wellness too (here’s how I used it after having a baby).
Why It Works for Clogged Ducts
Clogged ducts are often caused by milk stasis (milk that’s not being emptied), inflammation, and sometimes external pressure on the breast (watch more here). Here’s how red light therapy can help:
Reduces inflammation: Red light helps calm swollen tissue around the duct, which can relieve pressure and pain.
Improves circulation and lymphatic flow: Better blood and lymph flow can support your body’s ability to clear the clog naturally.
Stimulates healing: It helps your cells work more efficiently to repair tissue, which can be especially helpful if you’ve had recurring clogs or soreness.
But Not All Red Light Devices Are Created Equal
This is important—the effectiveness of red light therapy depends heavily on the quality of the device and the wavelength it emits.
Look for a red light therapy device that uses:
Wavelengths between 630–670 nm (red light) and/or 810–850 nm (near-infrared light)
These are the most well-studied ranges for deep tissue therapy, inflammation reduction, and healing.
Some small, affordable devices are designed specifically for spot treatment (great for breasts), while larger panels are more expensive but can treat broader areas. Be cautious of devices that don’t clearly list their wavelengths, irradiance (light power), or safety information—they may not be effective or safe for therapeutic use.
The one I personally use is the Lumebox—it's a high-quality, medical-grade device that’s been amazing for both breast health and general recovery.
I have a discount code for you if you’re interested in trying it— “latchingwithgrace”
How to Use Red Light Therapy for a Clogged Duct
When I feel a clog coming on, this is the basic routine I follow:
Expose the affected area of your breast. You want the light to reach your skin directly—clothing can block it.
Place the device directly on your skin or hold it very close. The Lumebox is designed for safe skin contact, which allows the light to penetrate more effectively into deeper tissue like milk ducts.
Use the built-in 6- or 12-minute cycle. For clogged ducts, many moms find that a full 12-minute session works best.
Use it up to 3 times a day as needed. This frequency is safe for short-term, targeted use while resolving a clog. Pair with your usual care: regular nursing or pumping, gentle stretches and massage (always toward the lymph nodes), hydration, and rest.
Note: Avoid using red light directly on your baby or while they’re nursing. Red light therapy is not a substitute for medical care, so reach out to your lactation consultant or provider if you’re not seeing improvement or have signs of infection.
Final Thoughts
If you’re dealing with a clogged duct, red light therapy can be a gentle, effective tool to support your body’s healing process—especially when used alongside other clogged duct protocols and supportive care. It’s not a magic fix, but it can make a noticeable difference in inflammation, pain, and recovery time.
That said, frequent or recurring clogged ducts are not normal. If you’re getting clogs often, it’s a sign that something deeper might be going on—like latch issues, milk stasis, oversupply, compression from a bra, or other causes. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant to get to the root of it. You deserve to breastfeed comfortably and confidently.
✨ Want to try red light therapy for yourself?
Use my code “latchingwithgrace” for a discount on the Lumebox red light I use and love.