Written by Amanda Lundberg, BSN, RN
With a growing number of indications and clinical research to back its efficacy, red light therapy has become increasingly popular for its cosmetic and therapeutic benefits. Like any plant or biological system on earth, living things perform at their highest optimization level when under a healthy cycle of heat, cooling, and hydration. Humans are no different and can greatly benefit from the natural processes that occur internally as a result of light exposure. From wrinkle reduction to arthritic pain management, we explore the potential uses of red light therapy, how it works, and what the future of this emerging treatment looks like.
Red light therapy (RLT), also known as phototherapy, low-level laser therapy (LLLT), and photobiomodulation (PBM) is a procedure that utilizes light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to send red and near-infrared light wavelengths into the bodily tissues for therapeutic purposes. It is widely used in the fields of medicine, dentistry, and veterinary medicine and is offered as an alternative treatment option for many current health conditions.
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Red light therapy penetrates the skin to activate the energy-producing part of our cells known as the mitochondria. When activated, the mitochondria ramp up their production of ATP, which translates to increased usable energy within the body. As more energy becomes available, cells can work more efficiently, new cell growth occurs and healing capabilities improve. Clinically, it can contribute to pain reduction, reduced inflammation, and improved tissue circulation, among other benefits.
Red and infrared light are two types of wavelengths found along the light spectrum. Each can be used therapeutically and found in a variety of professional and home-use devices. The difference lies in the wavelength of light emitted and the indications for use. Light wavelengths are measured in terms of nanometers (nm) with near-infrared wavelengths measuring from 770-1200 nm and red light ranging from 600-700 nm.
Because of their location along the light spectrum, near-infrared wavelengths penetrate deeper into the skin and can have a more profound effect on skeletal muscle healing, capillary formation, and oxidative stress reduction. On the other hand, red light proves to be most effective in promoting superficial tissue changes such as increased collagen and elastin production, cellular energy creation, and circulatory benefits. Many devices now offer some combination of the two forms of light which can simultaneously provide varying benefits and maximize treatment efficacy.
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Red light therapy is both safe and effective when used as directed. It is non-invasive, shows minimal to no side effects, and is non-toxic. That said, you must use a top-quality device and read your product’s user manual thoroughly to ensure that the device is suitable for your condition and emits the appropriate amount and type of light to achieve the desired outcomes.
Varying devices and conditions will require different treatment durations and frequencies to see expected results. That said, consistency and compliance are the most important components to achieving a successful outcome with red light therapy. For those that use top-quality products and follow the recommended guidelines of use, results may be seen in as soon as 4 weeks.
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The first use of red light in medicine was documented in 1893 when Dr. Niels Ryberg Finsen used it to treat smallpox and later lupus. Over the next century, clinical research expanded significantly to reveal its benefits on inflammation control, healing properties, sleep quality, and cognitive function. Since the early 2000’s the therapy has taken off and can now be found in both medical-grade units and at-home devices.
LED therapy stands for light-emitting diode therapy and includes a variety of different wavelengths that can be used for various therapeutic outcomes.
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Red light therapy will not burn the skin and in fact, doesn’t produce any heat. As opposed to tanning beds which emit harmful UV rays, red light therapy releases safe wavelengths that are not damaging or associated with any known side effects.
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Several clinical studies have shown that red light is both safe and effective in dogs and may contribute to pain relief, inflammation reduction, circulation improvements, and faster functional recovery post-operatively.
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It is recommended that the area being treated be directly exposed to the red light. Similar to the mechanism in which clothing limits the skin’s exposure to UV light, it also reduces the amount of red and near-infrared light that enters the skin.
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Eye protection needs will vary based on the device used and the location of treatment. When using a quality device that emits only red light, goggles are typically not needed; however, any device that emits ultraviolet light requires protective eyewear. For individuals with light sensitivity, those who are prone to light-induced headaches or have other eye conditions protective eyewear is recommended.
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Both lasers and LED lights are methods of delivery for light-based therapy and promote bodily changes through the process of photobiomodulation. Lasers, however, use a single, concentrated wavelength and a single color to penetrate deeper into the tissues and create thermal energy. Conversely, LEDs do not produce heat, have a much wider junction, and consist of light of various colors. Lasers tend to be more expensive than LED therapy but each has its place in light-based therapy.
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Near-infrared light includes wavelengths ranging between 700 and 1,400 nanometers (nm) and is used for superficial healing and pain relief. Far-infrared light includes wavelengths between 3,000 and 100,000 nm and can penetrate much deeper into the tissues. Far-infrared light is typically used to promote circulation, reduce inflammation, generate heat, and decrease oxidative stress.
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For the majority of conditions and units, it is recommended that red light therapy be performed a few days a week for 15-30 minute durations. Interestingly, no improvement in efficacy has been shown by increasing the length of a single treatment, however, more frequent sessions throughout the week are more effective than sporadic use. Expected timelines to experience results can vary from a few weeks to months depending on the severity of the condition and the quality of the device. Regardless, each individual and device is unique therefore consult your physician and explore your device’s user manual to formulate the best treatment plan for you.
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When used as directed, red light therapy does not have any known side effects. In a few rare cases, some complained of short-term redness, tightness, or visual disturbances that improved within a few hours of treatment.
Red light therapy has shown numerous therapeutic and cosmetic benefits and offers an alternative treatment option to pharmaceuticals, harsh topical creams, and more invasive interventions. The quality of home device units has improved exponentially and can provide the same benefits as professional-grade devices. While a quality device may be an investment, it is an investment in your health and well-being and can be shared amongst your family members including your pets! With red light therapy offering several therapeutic benefits, minimal to no side effects, and a growing number of indications, it’s a no-brainer to invest in a home device today.
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NASA scientists first began using red light therapy in the 1980s to facilitate plant growth in space. Shortly thereafter, they began researching the potential benefits of red light therapy on astronauts experiencing muscle and bone atrophy and delayed wound healing while in space. Studies revealed that the LEDs used in red light therapy stimulated the mitochondria improving cellular function and were effective in reducing bone and muscle loss in zero-gravity environments. These findings prompted the wider medical and research community to explore the various therapeutic benefits of the treatment and ultimately implement this therapy in practice.
As preventative, holistic, and alternative medicine continues to grow in popularity, individuals are pursuing non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical ways to stay healthy. Red light therapy offers just that and is backed by evidence-based research proving its use in several therapeutic and cosmetic applications. As such, physical therapists, day spas, gyms, private sports therapists, professional trainers, modeling agencies, dermatologists, and doctors are investing in these devices for their gyms, clinics, and offices. Adding red light therapy can not only boost your therapeutic offerings but also expand your clientele and enhance clinical outcomes.
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Red light therapy is a promising, research-backed intervention with extensive clinical uses and potential therapeutic benefits. Technology has advanced to make both professional and at-home devices more effective and efficient allowing for improved access and outcomes. Choosing the correct device for your condition, using it appropriately, and maintaining compliance are all key components to achieving optimal results.
Your next step is learning what to look for in a high-quality red light therapy device. To determine what is best for you, check out the article Expert Explains How To Choose A Red Light Therapy Device. We break down all the scientific jargon and explain it in an easily digestible way.
Interested in learning more? Check out our free, educational resource Caregiver University. You will find incredible articles about light therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, cryotherapy, and much more!
Amanda is a registered nurse with over a decade of experience in hospital, clinic, and healthcare management settings. Her primary focus has been collaborating with patients to manage disease processes. Aiming at continuing active lifestyles for her patients, Amanda has become an expert in adjunct therapies.
Amanda incorporates a holistic approach to heal the body from within. She has completed extensive research in remedial treatments using oxygen, as well as becoming a professional light therapy specialist. Her reparative ethos to health has sparked engaging conversations and teaching opportunities nationwide.
Amanda has taken her passion for articulating technical medical language and transitioned to freelance writing. She enjoys bringing a clinical voice to health and wellness brands.
