The Amazing Benefit of Red Light Therapy: Top 5 Results
Red light therapy is gaining traction as an effective treatment for a range of health conditions. Salons and health fitness centers are offering it, and influencers are raving about the benefit of red light therapy on social media.
This natural, non-invasive approach to healing uses specific wavelengths of red and near infrared light to energize cells in the body and promote healing from within. Proponents claim it can help with everything from pain relief to skin rejuvenation.
But just what are the benefits of red light therapy? From reducing inflammation and improving sleep quality, to promoting collagen production and boosting energy levels, there are many potential advantages associated with regular use of red light therapy.
What is red light therapy?
Red light therapy is a form of phototherapy that utilizes red and near-infrared (IR) light to stimulate mitochondria–your cells’ powerhouse–to create more ATP, which is the useable energy of cells. The energy from the red and near-infrared wavelengths penetrates deep into tissue, increasing circulation and oxygenation while reducing inflammation, pain and stiffness.
The Difference Between Red Light Therapy and Laser Therapy
Red light therapy using light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as a light source is often confused with red laser therapy that uses low-level laser as the light source.
Both red light therapy using LEDs and red cold laser therapy using low-level laser light are types of photobiomodulation (PBM), or light therapy, falling in the red wavelength range (620-750 nm).
But the term red light therapy (RLT) usually refers to red LED light therapy, rather than red low level laser therapy.
Terms that refer specifically to laser light that are often mistakenly applied to RLT that uses LEDs include:
- low level laser therapy (LLLT)
- cold laser therapy
- low level light therapy
- soft laser therapy
- low level laser light therapy
- low power light therapy
- low power laser therapy (LPLT)
Sound confusing? The many permutations in the various names for laser therapy show just how little consensus there is in the photomedicine field.
To clear things up, it helps to know the origin of the different components of the terms. Breaking it down:
- “low” is used as a contrast to relatively “high” power lasers that ablate (destroy) or cut tissue, and are used in laser surgery.
- the term “soft” laser carries the same meaning as “low” level or low power laser
Importantly, while there may be similarities in the effects of low level laser therapy and red light therapy, they are not the same. Research studying the effectiveness of low level laser therapy often uses red light therapy as the control, so it is important to keep these terms straight.
Other Light Therapies
There are other light therapies, beyond just red light wavelengths, that are used for various conditions.
Near-infrared light treatment is commonly used in combination with RLT, or just on its own in the form of lamps, wraps, and saunas.
Bright light therapy is used for seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and uses white light, which has all visible light wavelengths.
Blue light is commonly used to treat acne, because it has been shown to be antibacterial.
And finally, there is early evidence that therapy with green light can relieve pain from migraines.
Red Light Therapy Benefits
Benefit 1: Reduced Inflammation
One of the primary benefits of red light therapy is its ability to reduce inflammation. Studies have shown that near-infrared wavelengths can penetrate up to 5 cm into the body, stimulating blood flow and reducing inflammation by improving circulation in targeted areas.
Benefit 2: Improved Sleep Quality
Red light therapy may also improve sleep quality for those who struggle with insomnia or other sleep disorders. Studies have shown that it can help to regulate the body’s circadian rhythm and increase melatonin production, leading to improved quality and duration of sleep.
Benefit 3: Skin Rejuvenation
Red light therapy may also be beneficial for those looking to improve their skin complexion. RLT stimulates an intradermal collagen density increase, which helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and restore a youthful appearance.
Benefit 4: Boosts Energy Levels
Red light therapy can also help to increase your energy levels by ramping up ATP production by your mitochondria. This can lead to improved mental clarity and higher energy levels throughout the day.
Benefit 5: Improved Recovery
Red light therapy can also be used to promote faster wound healing after an injury or surgery. By increasing circulation and stimulating the body’s natural tissue repair mechanisms, red light therapy can shorten recovery time and improve connective tissue strength in wound healing.
Overall, there are many potential benefits of red light therapy that make it an appealing choice for those looking to heal their bodies naturally. With its ability to reduce inflammation, improve sleep quality, promote collagen production, and boost energy levels, it’s no wonder that this therapy is becoming increasingly popular for those seeking natural healing options.
How Is Red Light Therapy Used?
Red light therapy (RLT) is typically administered in a spa-like setting, during in-office treatment, or in tanning salons, with the patient lying on a treatment bed and being exposed to the light for 10–30 minutes at a time.
It can also be done at home using special panels or handheld devices that emit red or near-IR light.
These treatments are generally considered safe and have minimal side effects. However, those with sensitive skin may experience some redness or irritation following treatment.
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Does red light therapy work?
Recent research has shown that light therapy can help with a number of skin issues: it can reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture, combat skin aging, heal sun damage, and increase collagen. There is also research showing that RLT is helpful for rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Nevertheless, further research is needed. Though some studies have been conducted regarding their benefits they are not widely available and our knowledge is not entirely clear. The main reason why red light treatment works is that it requires consistency and time to see results.
Is red light therapy safe?
When used properly, RLT is safe. As with anything, there are considerations to take, and possible side effects. These may include temporary skin issues such as redness or skin irritation after treatment, particularly if RLT is used longer than recommended. It’s important to follow all instructions carefully and wear protective eyewear if the manufacturer recommends it for the red light therapy device you are using.
RLT should not be used by pregnant women or those taking photosensitive medications, such as Accutane, so always consult with your healthcare provider before beginning a course of treatment.
Overall, red light therapy is a safe and effective way to improve your natural healing process and reduce inflammation, improve sleep quality, promote collagen production, and boost energy levels.
Conclusion
Red light therapy is an increasingly popular form of phototherapy that utilizes specific wavelengths of red and near-IR light to energize cells in the body and promote optimal health. From reducing inflammation and improving sleep quality to promoting collagen production and wound healing, numerous studies have found that red light therapy can be an effective treatment for a variety of conditions.
In addition, many users report improved mood, energy levels, and overall quality of life after receiving red light treatments. Whether you’re looking to relieve muscle pain or slow down the signs of aging, red light therapy is a safe and easy option!
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
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