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Red light therapy is experiencing a surge in popularity, fueled by social media endorsements from TikTok influencers showcasing at-home devices and the expansion of services in spas and wellness centers. While further clinical trials are needed to comprehensively determine its efficacy, initial evidence suggests red light therapy is a promising option for skin treatments and various health conditions.
This article will delve into the distinctions between red and infrared light, examining the benefits of red light therapy, its mechanism of action, and potential risks.
Understanding Red Light Therapy
Red and infrared light are naturally present in sunlight’s electromagnetic spectrum, particularly during sunrise and sunset. However, many individuals do not receive sufficient exposure to these beneficial wavelengths.
Allison Beardsley, founder of Red Light Method, explained in her company’s introductory video, “Modern conveniences often lead to lifestyles where we miss out on natural sunlight, especially at dawn. Sleeping in and spending extensive periods indoors, in climate-controlled environments and in front of screens, deprives us of the physiological advantages of red and near-infrared light, making us a light-starved society.”
Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation or low-level laser therapy, employs specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to penetrate the skin and stimulate cellular activity.
Dr. Joel Kahn, cardiologist and Sunlighten advisory board member, stated, “Red light acts on the mitochondria, the cell’s energy centers, enhancing adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, which is crucial for cellular repair and optimal function.”
Increased cellular energy allows cells to function more efficiently in skin repair and new cell generation. Dr. Kahn further elaborated, “With trillions of mitochondria throughout the body, red light therapy aids in energizing cells, thereby promoting heart health, skin rejuvenation, and overall vitality. It also boosts circulation, facilitates more effective bodily recovery, and diminishes inflammation.”
Exploring the Benefits of Red Light Therapy
The outcomes of red light therapy are contingent on the device utilized and the particular light wavelengths it emits. The following interconnected benefits highlight the potential of this therapy:
1. Enhancing Cellular Function
As Dr. Kahn detailed, red light therapy invigorates mitochondria, which are vital for energy synthesis. As mitochondria absorb this light, they become energized, facilitating improved cellular function, repairing cellular damage, and accelerating cellular regeneration. Higher ATP levels within cells expedite healing and recovery processes.
2. Accelerating Wound Healing
Cellular mitochondria also generate nitric oxide, a compound that plays a crucial role in wound and burn healing. Red light therapy can assist in reducing inflammation and improving blood flow, which aids in delivering oxygen and essential nutrients to injured areas requiring repair.
The origins of light therapy trace back to NASA scientists employing red and blue LED lights for plant cultivation in space. Astronauts observed that minor skin injuries appeared to heal more rapidly when working under these lights. Subsequent research into the effects of high-intensity red and near-infrared light has yielded promising results, including a study involving US Navy Seals that indicated a 50% reduction in healing time for lacerations compared to control groups.
3. Improving Skin Health and Appearance
Perhaps the most recognized advantage of red light therapy lies in its ability to enhance skin condition. The increasingly popular LED face masks and wands associated with this therapy are purported to improve skin appearance by stimulating collagen and elastin production and lessening inflammation and redness. These actions contribute to diminishing the visibility of wrinkles, fine lines, acne, age spots, and scars.
Research indicates that red light therapy‘s anti-inflammatory attributes may also benefit conditions like rosacea and eczema.
4. Supporting Detoxification Processes
Another reported benefit of red light therapy is its potential to aid detoxification. We encounter numerous toxins daily, from environmental pollution to free radicals and chemicals in everyday products. Dr. Kahn suggested that red light therapy and infrared light can promote sweating, assisting the body in expelling toxins, including microplastics – a growing concern highlighted by studies reporting increased human consumption of microplastics and nanoplastics.
Read more: 10 Foods With Microplastics and Ways to Reduce Exposure
It is important to note that while sweating plays a role in body temperature regulation, the primary organs responsible for detoxification are the liver and kidneys. Sweat consists mainly of water and small amounts of sodium, chloride, and other substances.
5. Enhancing Blood Circulation
Similar to its role in wound healing, the nitric oxide released during red light therapy dilates blood vessels and capillaries, leading to improved circulation. Optimal blood flow is essential for proper organ function and reducing cardiovascular risks like heart disease and stroke. It is also vital for brain health and cognitive performance.
6. Promoting Heart Health
While more extensive clinical investigations are warranted to fully validate red light therapy‘s effectiveness in treating specific conditions, emerging research indicates its anti-inflammatory properties could also contribute to heart health. Dr. Kahn has been an advocate for infrared and red light therapy, citing it as a potential “major advancement for certain vascular patients.”
By improving circulation, it holds promise for enhancing overall cardiovascular function. Infrared and red light therapy may encourage myocardial angiogenesis, the development of new blood vessels in the heart muscle—particularly beneficial after events like heart attacks, as it supports blood flow and oxygen delivery to damaged areas.
Based on years of evaluation, Dr. Kahn recommends infrared and red light therapy for patients, specifically endorsing the Sunlighten brand, which he states is “clinically demonstrated to temporarily lower blood pressure and decrease abdominal fat, contributing to a healthier heart.”
7. Facilitating Pain Relief and Recovery
Red light therapy‘s capacity to reduce inflammation, a frequent source of pain, has been previously mentioned. Enhanced blood flow aids in supplying vital nutrients and oxygen to tissues, promoting healing and cellular regeneration. This can contribute to quicker muscle recovery post-intense workouts, lessening fatigue and discomfort.
Studies also suggest red light therapy can alleviate pain associated with certain types of arthritis, tendonitis, joint or muscle soreness, and possibly even headaches or migraines.
8. Elevating Mood
Red light therapy also shows potential benefits for mental well-being. It can promote relaxation, decrease cortisol levels (the stress hormone), and foster a sense of calmness. It may also help lessen symptoms of anxiety and depression by stimulating neurotransmitters linked to positive mood, like serotonin and dopamine.
9. Stimulating Hair Growth
Given the diverse causes of hair loss, red light therapy may not be universally effective for stimulating hair growth. However, research indicates it can be a beneficial, noninvasive treatment for individuals experiencing hereditary or hormonal hair loss or alopecia, as it energizes hair follicles.
10. Improving Sleep Quality
Research suggests red light therapy can promote improved sleep. It’s commonly advised to avoid screens before bedtime due to the blue light they emit, which inhibits melatonin production, the natural hormone that induces sleepiness.
In contrast, red light therapy could encourage sleep by stimulating melatonin production, making it less disruptive to the circadian rhythm compared to blue light exposure.
Read more: I Took a Sleep Test and Was Shocked by My Out-Of-Whack Hormones
Accessing Red Light Therapy: Available Methods
Face Masks for Targeted Skin Treatment
LED face masks, emitting a distinctive red glow, have gained visibility on social media. These devices are readily available online for at-home use. However, dermatologists caution that some masks may lack sufficient power or the correct red light wavelength to achieve desired outcomes. The wavelength directly influences the depth of light penetration. Medical-grade red light therapy devices used in clinical and skincare settings typically offer greater power than many consumer-grade at-home devices.
Pads and Wraps for Wider Body Coverage
Numerous wellness centers and fitness clinics now include red light therapy sessions among their services. These sessions can vary in format but commonly involve wrapping the body in red and near-infrared light wraps or pads. This method targets not only the skin but also aims to alleviate pain from injuries or arthritis.
Panels for Therapeutic Application
Red light therapy panels represent another delivery method, exemplified by standing panels like those offered by Sunlighten. These are often integrated into fitness routines and spaces as a therapeutic adjunct, with some incorporating apps or programs to manage light settings and intensity.
Saunas for Combined Wellness
Saunas incorporating infrared and red light therapy are gaining traction in wellness centers and gyms and are also available for home purchase. Some facilities offer infrared saunas equipped with workout equipment, allowing users to engage in activities like stationary cycling, yoga, or rowing while experiencing the potential detoxifying effects of infrared rays.
Infrared Light vs. Red Light: Key Differences
Infrared and red light differ in their wavelengths, leading to varied benefits. Infrared light, possessing longer wavelengths (700 nm to 1 mm), can be further categorized into near-infrared, mid-infrared, and far-infrared based on wavelength.
Infrared light penetrates tissues more deeply than red light, which has a shorter wavelength (630-700 nm). Invisible to the naked eye, infrared light generates heat and is frequently used in saunas, heat lamps, and medical equipment. Red light therapy, visible to the eye, is often employed in smaller devices such as LED panels, wands, and face masks.
Generally, infrared light is more commonly used for pain relief, muscle relaxation, detoxification, and improved circulation. Red light therapy is typically favored for surface-level treatments like skin rejuvenation, acne management, and wound repair.
Potential Risks Associated with Red Light Therapy
When considering an at-home red light therapy device, opting for an FDA-cleared product, such as the Omnilux Contour Face Mask evaluated and approved by FASTNET, is advisable. Numerous red light products are available, but many may not meet FDA standards or may be ineffective imitations offering no tangible benefits.
Risk of Eye Discomfort
While red light therapy is not inherently damaging to the eyes, the intensity of some devices may cause discomfort or sensitivity. Using eye protection like goggles is recommended, particularly when the red light is directed towards the facial area.
Increased Photosensitivity
Red light therapy could increase skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. Therefore, protecting skin from excessive UV exposure outdoors is advisable. Certain medications might also heighten sensitivity, making it essential to consult a physician before starting red light therapy.
Learn more: Best Mineral Sunscreen of 2025
Possible Skin Irritation
Individuals with sensitive skin or specific skin conditions should exercise caution. Dr. Kahn noted, “Red light therapy is generally considered low risk, but mild skin irritation can occur in some individuals.”
Although infrequent, other potential side effects might include headaches or irritability. Dr. Kahn further advised that individuals prone to fainting or with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) should use caution. People with eczema or other skin conditions should consult their dermatologist, and pregnant women should seek medical advice from their doctor.
Final Thoughts on Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy is an evolving treatment showing significant promise in various aspects, from addressing skin conditions to enhancing cardiovascular health and overall well-being. It is non-toxic, non-invasive, and avoids ultraviolet light, which is known to be carcinogenic. Experts deem red light therapy safe when used appropriately and according to instructions.
However, the long-term effects of red light therapy remain under investigation. Further research with larger study groups is necessary to solidify current claims.
Dr. Kahn predicts, “As scientific understanding advances, red light therapy is likely to become even more integrated into routines for longevity, recovery, and comprehensive health.” Regardless of your objectives in initiating red light therapy, consulting a healthcare provider or dermatologist beforehand is always recommended.
Personal Experience with Red Light and Infrared Therapy
Trying Red Light Therapy Treatments
Red Light Method is a specialized wellness center offering 25-minute medical-grade red light therapy treatments using FDA-cleared Contour Light devices. This facility has witnessed rapid growth, expanding to multiple locations nationwide. Founder Allison Beardsley aims to democratize access to high-quality red light therapy treatments, making them more affordable and available to a wider audience.
Curious about the buzz, I personally experienced a 25-minute treatment session. I entered a private room and settled onto a massage table. A staff member applied medical-grade red and near-infrared contouring wraps to my limbs, torso, and face.
Equipped with noise-canceling headphones, I listened to a calming guided meditation detailing the benefits of red light therapy. The wraps were pleasantly warm, not overly hot, and I felt relaxed, quickly entering a meditative state. The session concluded sooner than expected.
Consistent sessions are essential to experience the full benefits of red light therapy. Nevertheless, post-session, I felt both relaxed and invigorated, and my skin, especially on my face, felt revitalized. Beardsley emphasized, “Red and near-infrared light therapy profoundly benefits cellular health, the bedrock of overall well-being. It’s a gradual, internal transformation requiring consistency and commitment, akin to all significant health endeavors.”
Red Light Method has received numerous testimonials from clients reporting outcomes such as fat loss, reduced joint pain, increased energy, and improved sleep.
Exploring Infrared Sauna Therapy
Recurring episodes of severe acid reflux have been a personal health challenge. Seeking relief during a particularly intense flare-up, I explored various remedies without success. As a last resort, I considered an infrared sauna session, initially hesitant due to concerns about heat exacerbating breathing difficulties. However, I decided to try it.
Upon entering the sauna and taking a few deep breaths, I noticed improved breathing despite the heat. Surprisingly, lying down, which was unachievable for weeks due to reflux discomfort, became possible without experiencing acid reflux symptoms. This unexpected relief was remarkable.
Although the relief experienced in the 30-minute sauna session diminished shortly afterward, the immediate benefit was undeniable. Subsequent sessions over a few weeks coincided with a reduction in acid reflux severity. While a direct causal link remains uncertain, the relief experienced within the infrared sauna was significant and welcome.
If you’re considering red light therapy or an infrared sauna, it might be worthwhile to explore, especially after consulting with your doctor.
Is Red Light Therapy Safe?
Yes, red light therapy is generally considered safe when used correctly. Reported side effects are typically rare and mild.
How Often Should You Undergo Red Light Therapy?
Frequency depends on individual goals, sensitivities, conditions, and administration methods. Starting gradually is advisable to monitor for adverse effects. A suitable starting point is two to three weekly sessions lasting 10 to 20 minutes each. Always carefully read and adhere to device instructions.
How is Red Light Therapy Administered?
Red light therapy comes in various forms, including natural sunlight. Professionals administer it in medical or wellness settings using light panels, full-body beds, or saunas. At-home options include face masks, wands, or pads.
Is Red Light Therapy Expensive?
Red light therapy, whether via at-home devices or professional treatments, can be costly. Dr. Kahn suggests natural sunlight as a cost-effective alternative for similar benefits, as it naturally provides near-infrared and red light. Regular exercise can also support circulation, detoxification, and overall wellness.