6 Potential Health Benefits of Red Light Therapy

Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation or low-level laser therapy, is emerging as an exciting new wellness trend. It involves using red and near-infrared light to stimulate natural healing and improve overall health and vitality. But does the research support the hype? Here’s a closer look at what we know so far about the health benefits of red light therapy.

Source: The picture comes from the Internet

What is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy involves exposing the body to low levels of red and near-infrared light. Red light wavelengths range from 620 to 700 nanometers, while near-infrared wavelengths range from 700 to 1000 nanometers.

These wavelengths of light occur naturally in sunlight, but the levels are often too low to provide therapeutic benefit. Red light therapy devices produce concentrated amounts of red and near-infrared wavelengths that can have a stimulating and rejuvenating effect on the body.

Here’s a more in-depth look at the process:

Red and near-infrared light photons enter the body through the skin and are absorbed by cells.
The light photons interact with cytochrome c oxidase in the mitochondria.
This catalyzes reactions that lead to increased ATP synthesis and energy availability.
With more ATP available, cells function optimally.
Cellular processes like tissue repair and growth are stimulated.
Overall benefits are achieved, including reduced inflammation, faster healing, and enhanced circulation.

So in short, red light therapy provides the nudge cells need to ramp up functioning. This can ultimately translate into improvements in energy, circulation, skin, nerves, muscles, joints, and other areas.

The light is gentle and does not emit ultraviolet rays, which makes it safe and non-invasive. The red and near-infrared wavelengths penetrate beneath the skin to affect tissue, nerves, and metabolism. But they do not alter cell DNA or cause other damaging effects.

Now let’s take a closer look at some of the leading health applications of red light therapy and what the research says so far.

What is Red Light Therapy?

Source: The picture comes from the Internet

1. Improves Skin Health and Appearance

Red light penetrates the skin and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and tissue regeneration effects. Research indicates red light therapy may improve psoriasis, rosacea, acne scars, and other inflammatory skin conditions.[1]

Red light has also been shown to produce anti-aging benefits like reducing wrinkles, fine lines, and enlarged pores. This stems from its tissue regenerating effects, as well as its ability to stimulate fibroblasts which produce collagen.[2]

2. Relief for Joint and Musculoskeletal Pain

Red light has shown promise for relieving joint and muscle pain associated with conditions like osteoarthritis, back pain, tendinopathies, and injuries. It can reduce inflammatory cytokines and stimulate cell growth and tissue repair around affected joints, tendons, and muscles.

In one study, patients with rheumatoid arthritis received red light therapy for 4 weeks. After treatment, red light therapy reduced RA pain by 70%, significantly reduced morning stiffness, and increased palmar dexterity compared to controls.[3]

3. Accelerates Healing of Wounds

From minor cuts and burns to surgery incisions and injuries, red light therapy has powerful healing effects. The light’s ability to stimulate collagen production and new blood vessel formation ramps up the body’s natural wound healing capacity. Red light also fights inflammation and bacteria for faster healing with less scarring.

In numerous clinical trials, red light therapy decreased the severity of third-degree burns and helped burns heal significantly faster. It’s also been shown to speed recovery from oral surgery, Cesarean sections, skin grafting, and more. Boosting the body’s tissue repair processes with red light can aid recovery across many medical procedures and conditions.[4]

4. Hair Growth and Reversal of Thinning

Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness, affects a huge number of adults. Researchers are studying whether red light could help improve hair growth and reverse balding.

Red light reaches the scalp and stimulates ATP production in hair follicles. This provides more energy to hair producing cells. Early studies show promise for red light therapy increasing hair density and growth rate.[5]

5. Enhanced Cognitive Function and Mood

Preliminary research indicates red light therapy may provide cognitive benefits as well. Because red light energizes mitochondria and stimulates ATP, researchers believe it can improve blood flow and oxygenation to the brain. This may result in improved cognitive functioning, memory, and mood.

Some studies have found that red light applied to the skull can help with symptoms of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s [6]. Red light therapy also shows potential for improving depression and anxiety. Researchers believe it naturally boosts levels of serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins.[7]

6. Circulation and Heart Health

Some research indicates red light therapy can enhance circulation by helping blood vessels dilate and become more elastic. One study found it significantly increased microcirculation in participants. Better circulation then promotes improved blood flow and oxygenation throughout the body.[8]

Because of these effects, red light therapy shows potential for improving heart and cardiovascular health. Researchers believe it could help patients manage conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol. However, more studies are needed.

Why Choose RedDot LED Devices?

Red light therapy shows intriguing promise. But to achieve benefits, having the right device is key. There are many low-quality products available, so it’s important to choose a trusted brand. RedDot LED offers premium red light therapy devices designed for convenient in-home use. Here’s why they are a top option to consider:

Medical-grade LEDs: RedDot devices use state-of-the-art LEDs that emit therapeutic wavelengths proven beneficial in trials. Lower quality LEDs mean lower results.
Full body treatment: The RedDot LED wraps around the body, allowing you to bathe your whole self in rejuvenating red light. Spot treatment devices are less effective.
FDA approved: RedDot devices meet FDA requirements for product safety and electromagnetic compatibility. Unregistered products may be unsafe.
3-year warranty: RedDot LED systems come with a 3-year warranty. Many companies only offer 90 days.

So in summary, RedDot LED devices offer proven medical-grade quality alongside safety, convenience, and ease of use. Investing in the right device is key to experiencing the full benefits of red light therapy.