What Is Red Light Therapy?

Light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, is a natural, non-invasive therapy option that shines beneficial wavelengths of light onto your skin to treat wrinkles, scars, wounds, among other conditions. While there has been proven evidence to show that red light therapy (RLT) is a promising treatment for certain conditions, there is still a lot of research to be done to learn more about how this specific therapy option works. Full-spectrum light includes many colors, including certain wavelengths that are not visible to the human eye, but only a select range of red and near-infrared light is clinically proven to be therapeutic for the purposes of light therapy. Genuine and high-quality light therapy products emit specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared (NIR) light using medical-grade LED technology. These LEDs give off clinical doses of light to your skin and unlike other laser therapies or tanning beds, RLT devices omit any heat, excess UV rays, harmful chemicals, and any major side effects.

How Does Red Light Therapy Work + How Is It Used?

Research has shown that red light produces a biochemical effect in cells that strengthen the mitochondria (where the cell’s energy is created). By increasing the function of the mitochondria, a cell can make more ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the energy-carrying molecule found in cells of all living things. With more ATP, cells can function more efficiently, rejuvenate themselves, and repair damage.

Red light has the ability to penetrate the top layer of skin (without any damage to tissue) and into the deep levels of skin- the dermis. The dermis is where collagen, elastin and other proteins inhabit. There is still a lot of clinical research to be done about RLT, but at the moment there is evidence suggesting that red light therapy may have the following benefits:

  • promotes tissue repair and stimulates the healing of wounds
  • improves hair growth in people with androgenic alopecia
  • short-term treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome
  • reduces psoriasis
  • ideal for mild treatment of acne
  • helps with short-term pain relief and inflammation
  • improves skin complexion by building collagen to diminish wrinkles and scars
  • helps heal damage caused by the sun
  • heals cold sores
  • improves the health of joints

RLT can be performed in a professional setting or with an at-home device. These tools often come in a large variety of shapes such as handheld wands, stand-up panels, in the form of a face mask, full-body bed, and caps. Many salons, gyms, and spas offer red light therapy for cosmetic and muscle recovery applications. You may find FDA-approved devices online that you can purchase and use personally at home, but make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully! Listed below are some RLT options for at-home use.

In addition to the benefits listed above, here are some ways in which red light therapy might also influence sleep:

  • Melatonin Regulation: Red light therapy may help regulate the production of melatonin, a hormone that plays a crucial role in sleep-wake cycles. Exposure to red light in the evening may support the natural circadian rhythm by promoting melatonin production.
  • Improved Sleep Quality: Some studies suggest that red light therapy could enhance overall sleep quality. This might be attributed to its potential to improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and support cellular function.
  • Reduced Sleep Disruptions: Red light therapy may help reduce sleep disruptions, such as waking up during the night. By positively influencing cellular function, it could contribute to a more stable sleep pattern.
  • Stress Reduction: Red light therapy has been linked to reduced stress and anxiety levels. If stress is a contributing factor to sleep difficulties, the relaxation induced by red light therapy could indirectly support better sleep.

It’s important to note that while there is some promising research, the evidence on the effectiveness of red light therapy for sleep is still emerging, and more studies are needed to establish its benefits conclusively. Additionally, individual responses to red light therapy may vary.

Understanding Wavelengths: The Key to Effective Treatment

In a 2005 study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry, researchers from the Medical College of Wisconsin and the University of Pennsylvania tested red light at 670nm, 728nm, 770nm, 830nm, and 880nm. They found the most effective wavelengths to be 670nm and 830nm, while the least effective was shown to be 728nm. These findings are important for several reasons. Firstly, they are consistent with other research that shows two different ranges of wavelengths in which red light therapy works, one being around 630- 670nm and the other being 810-890nm. As the study authors note, the fact that two separate wavelengths were effective while wavelengths in between had no effect indicates that the positive effects were due to the wavelengths of the light and not another factor, such as heat.

The success of red light therapy hinges on selecting the appropriate wavelength for the targeted condition. Wavelengths are measured in nanometers (nm), and each range has unique effects on the body:

  • 630–680 nm: Shorter wavelengths in this range are particularly effective for addressing skin-related concerns such as acne, rosacea, and overall skin rejuvenation. Among these, the 660 nm wavelength is the most commonly used, as it is readily absorbed by the skin. This absorption helps to enhance skin health by promoting collagen production, which is vital for maintaining youthful and resilient skin.
  • 800–1000 nm: Longer wavelengths can penetrate deeper into the body’s tissues, making them ideal for treating conditions that affect muscles and joints. The 850 nm wavelength, a near-infrared light invisible to the human eye, is renowned for its ability to alleviate pain from arthritis, tendonitis, and muscle soreness. This wavelength also plays a significant role in speeding up muscle recovery and reducing joint pain, making it a popular choice among athletes and individuals with chronic pain.

Exploring Additional Wavelengths

Beyond the commonly used ranges, there are other wavelengths that also offer therapeutic benefits:

  • 670 nm: This wavelength is known to enhance certain chemical processes within the body that may be influenced by red light therapy, further boosting the therapy’s effectiveness.
  • 830 nm: Similar to 670 nm, the 830 nm wavelength also enhances chemical processes, contributing to overall healing and wellness.
  • 635 nm: Recognized for its ability to stimulate healing processes, this wavelength can be particularly useful in promoting recovery from injuries or surgical procedures.
  • 810 nm: Like 635 nm, the 810 nm wavelength is effective in stimulating the body’s natural healing processes, making it a valuable addition to any red light therapy regimen.

Choosing the Right Red Light Therapy Device

When selecting a red light therapy device, there are two critical factors to consider: the number of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and the device’s irradiance.

  • LEDs: Devices with a higher number of LEDs can deliver more light to the treatment area, increasing effectiveness and potentially reducing the time required for each session.
  • Irradiance: This refers to the intensity of the light emitted by the device, usually measured in milliwatts per centimeter squared (mW/cm²). Higher-quality LEDs often provide more precise and effective treatment, though they may come at a higher cost.

At-Home Red Light Therapy Options

  • Vital Red Light: This RLT company offers handheld light therapy, half-body light therapy, and full-body light therapy options. There is no setup required with these products, just switch on your device, aim it at the part of your body you wish to treat, and relax for 10 minutes. Make sure to use code drbrookestuart for 15% off your purchase! *The device that I personally use is the Vital PRO!
  • Mito Red Light: This company offers three product lines- the Mito PRO+ Series provides power and value, MitoPRO X Series has the modular capability to build out a larger setup, and the MitoADAPT 2.0 Series comes with integrated control panels with additional features. Mito Red Light also has flexible options and a portable system that you can use in a versatile way.
  • iRestore Hair Growth System: A clinically-proven, FDA-cleared laser technology device that covers the whole scalp, including hard-to-reach areas to help with hair growth. Models are made for both men and women! This low-level laser technology has been clinically shown to treat hair loss and help regrow hair.
  • Dr. Dennis Gross Face Mask: The Drx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro is powerful FDA cleared light therapy device designed for the full face features a combination of 100 red light emitting diodes in red mode and 60 blue light emitting diodes in blue mode that work together to help boost collagen product, improve skin density, smooth wrinkles, diminish discoloration, and clear acne for a clear, younger-looking complexion.
  • HigherDOSE Red Light Face Mask: The HigherDOSE Red Light Face Mask is a light therapy device that combines red and near-infrared LED technologies in an innovative design. This relaxing and effective treatment warms the skin, boosts your mood, and enhances your natural glow.

Please keep in mind that results will vary from person to person and they are typically subtle after your initial sessions using red light therapy. The current research appears that this type of treatment is promising, but more studies are needed to determine how exactly red light therapy works and how it can be most beneficial to people using it.

Book A Free Holistic Consultation

If you have questions or are unsure of where to begin, feel free to book a free consultation, where Dr. Brooke Stuart can guide you to the best of her ability inside or outside the practice and programs!