Red light therapy involves shining specific wavelengths of light on the skin and cells. It is thought to help the production of mitochondria and give the cells more energy.
Other than that, it helps with the following:
- Skin Health and Rejuvenation
- Pain Relief
- Inflammation Reduction
- Muscle Recovery
- Athletic Performance
- Mental Health
- Sleep Improvement
Even Red light therapy is seen as a natural pain relief option for many individuals and medical professionals.
What is Red Light Therapy?
While searching for Red light therapy, you may have heard the term “photobiomodulation.” It is a scientific name. Basically, the treatment uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to penetrate the skin and interact with cells.
The Science Behind Red Light Therapy
If we break it down, red light therapy works because cells have photoreceptors that soak up the light, says Science Direct. This, in turn, triggers a cascade of cellular responses.
Red light’s main target is the mitochondria, the cell’s “powerhouses.” Mitochondria produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy source for cellular functions. Therefore, Red light stimulates mitochondrial activity, increasing ATP production and improving cellular energy metabolism.
How Does A Red Light Therapy Session Look Like?
You’ll either be sitting or lying down in front of a device that gives off red or near-infrared light. If you want to know how often you should do this, it’s usually about 10 to 20 minutes, around 3 to 5 times a week, according to the Cleveland Clinic. However, that can change a bit depending on what you’re trying to achieve with the treatment.
Red Light Therapy vs. Other Light Therapies
[Source: iStock]
| Red light therapy | 630 to 700 nm wavelengthStimulate cell growth and repair |
| Blue light therapy | 415 to 470 nm wavelengthRemove acne-causing bacteria |
| Infrared light therapy | 760 nm to 100,000 nm wavelengthPenetrate deeply into the tissues. |
Proven Health Benefits of Red Light Therapy Sessions
Lately, Red light therapy has been getting a lot of buzz, and for good reason! It’s turning out to be helpful for specific health issues. Plus, researchers are really backing it up too.
Skin Health and Rejuvenation
- Anti-aging effects: Red light therapy quickens collagen production. This is what increases the skin elasticity and firmness. It also reduces wrinkles and fine lines while improving overall skin texture.
- Reducing acne, scars, and pigmentation: Red light therapy will reduce swelling and pain if you have inflammation due to acne or wounds. Your body will heal the wounds faster and fade out the pigmentations.
Pain Relief and Inflammation Reduction
- Benefits for chronic pain sufferers and arthritis patients: From the very beginning, RLT was all about the pain-relieving effect. The therapy lightens up any pain connected with arthritis, joint pain, and sports injuries.
This works by increasing blood circulation for better pain management. You may see effectiveness in decreasing both acute and chronic pain levels in patients.
Muscle Recovery and Athletic Performance
- Why athletes swear by red light therapy (RLT): Athletes start using RLT to improve their recovery times and athletic performances. They use it after intense workouts to minimize muscle soreness and inflammation.
Mental Health and Sleep Improvement
- Impact on stress, anxiety, and melatonin regulation: Red light therapy was initially introduced to combat symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Because the treatment regulates serotonin and melatonin levels to control sleep-wake cycles. You may even see changes in your overall mood.
Addressing Concerns About Red Light Therapy Sessions
Red light therapy is pretty safe to use. You don’t have to stress much about any negative effects since there is really none to worry about. However, it is better to call out some common concerns you may want to ask about.
Can Red Light Therapy Cause Cancer?
- No, red light therapy does not cause cancer. Its wavelength is not strong enough to damage DNA and cause cancer. In fact, some studies have shown that RLT may even work as a protective effect against certain types of cancer.
What Are the Potential Side Effects?
- Most people experience no side effects from red light therapy. Still, some reports say a few individuals experience side effects. In the beginning sessions, you may experience temporary skin redness or discomfort in the eyes.
Is Red Light Therapy Safe for Everyone?
- Red light therapy is primarily safe but not right for everyone. If you have lupus or porphyria, it’s best to avoid it. Also, if you’re on certain medications, you might want to skip the therapy since it could cause issues. And for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s a good idea to consult with a doctor before trying it out.
Red Light Therapy Sessions: What to Expect
There is a catch. You may need more or less therapy sessions based on the extent of your health problem and how your body is responding to the RLT.
What is a Red Light Therapy Session Like?
Don’t know what the therapy will look like? Here’s what to expect during a red light therapy session, broken down in simple terms:
- You’ll have an initial consultation with a qualified doctor to discuss your health goals.
- The doctor will assess your skin or the affected area.
- You’ll be positioned in front of the red light therapy device at a safe distance.
- The device will emit red or near-infrared light for a specific duration.
- You may experience some mild warmth or tingling in the treated area.
Red Light Therapy at Home vs. Professional Clinics
| Features | At-home Red Light | Professional Red Light |
| Convenience | High: You can use it at your own pace and schedule | Low: You will need to travel and make an appointment |
| Cost | Lower upfront cost but may require ongoing investment | Higher upfront cost per session, but potentially fewer sessions needed |
| Effectiveness | Results may take longer | Potentially faster results |
| Equipment | A variety of devices are available, from basic to advanced | Access to professional-grade equipment |
| Guidance | Requires independent research and understanding of device instructions | Personalised guidance and treatment plans |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sessions do you need for red light therapy?
For better results, aim to try at least one to three times per week.
Is 10 minutes of red light therapy enough?
We recommend keeping the session duration between 10 and 20 minutes.
How much is a session of red light therapy?
You can expect to pay 20 dollars to 300 dollars per session.
What is a red light therapy session like?
The session will expose you to red or near-infrared light for a set duration.
What are the negative effects of red light therapy?
Some minor side effects include skin redness and eye strain during the initial sessions.
Does red light therapy regrow hair?
Some studies have shown potential benefits in hair growing, but more research is needed.
Is red light harmful to the eyes?
RLT won’t directly damage your eyes, but you may feel discomfort or irritation. For this reason, you should always wear eye protection during sessions.
