Does red light therapy actually work?

Red light therapy has become a major health trend, with claims it can help everything from wrinkles to wound healing to muscle recovery. But does red light therapy actually work? Or is it all hype? Join us on a captivating journey as we explore the science and potential benefits of red light therapy.

What is red light therapy?

Red light therapy involves exposing the body to low levels of red and near-infrared light emitted by LED devices or laser. These wavelengths stimulate the mitochondria in your cells, triggering a cascade of biological processes that promote healing, rejuvenation, and overall well-being.

While it may sound like new-age pseudoscience, red light therapy is backed by decades of clinical research. The healing power of light was discovered accidentally in 1967 by scientist Endre Mester[1], who found that laser light accelerated wound healing. NASA also studied using LEDs to grow plants in space.

In recent years, red light therapy devices have become widely available for home use. But do these trendy panels really deliver? Let’s explore.

How does red light therapy work?

Red light works by delivering photons into cells. The photons are absorbed by mitochondria, which act like batteries within cells to produce ATP energy. This extra energy boost causes beneficial cellular changes.[2]

Collagen production increases as mitochondria ramp up the activity of fibroblasts. Joint inflammation is reduced as cell metabolism speeds up tissue repair. Immunity is enhanced as cells release cytochromes to boost blood cell activity.

Moreover, as photons penetrate deeply into tissue, blood circulation increases to transport the light. Overall, exposure to red and near-infrared light gives the body extra energy for self-healing.

Of course, shining lights on your body is only effective if the photons penetrate deeply and get absorbed.

Proven Benefits of Red Light Therapy

Some of the purported benefits of red light therapy include:

• Anti-Aging: Red light penetrates skin and boosts collagen production from fibroblasts. This reduces fine lines and wrinkles.[3]
• Skin Health: red light therapy work to heals wounds and blemishes, and reduces irritation from conditions like acne, rosacea, and eczema.[4]
• Hair Growth: Several studies demonstrate low-level red light’s ability to boost hair growth and counteract balding or excessive shedding.[5]
• Eyesight: Limited evidence indicates RLT could improve certain eye disorders like macular degeneration, eye strain, dry eye, blurred vision, and night vision.[6]
• Tissue Repair: studies have found that Red light therapy may both reduce inflammation in tissues and accelerate healing. It can also minimize scar formation.[7]
• Dental/Oral Health: In dentistry, RLT may ease oral pain and inflammation, speed healing after procedures, prevent cavities and gum disease, and whiten teeth.[8]
• Male Fertility Function: Red light applied to the testes may aid fertility and testosterone levels in men. It is also researched for increasing libido and erectile function.[9]
• Pain Relief: Multiple studies have found that Red light therapy can relieve joint, muscle, and nerve pain . It may help ease osteoarthritis symptoms, back and neck pain, knee/foot pain, repetitive strain injuries, fibromyalgia, and post-surgical pain.[10]
• Brain and Mental Health: Early research suggests red light applied to the skull may provide psychiatric benefits. It may lift depression and anxiety, reduce seasonal affective disorder symptoms, enhance cognition, and improve sleep and energy.[11]

pros and cons of red light therapy

Is red light therapy right for you? Here are some key advantages and disadvantages to consider:

Pros:

Red light therapy is non-invasive, painless and considered very safe, with minimal side effects.
Red light therapy is short, convenient treatment sessions, it can be easily performed at home using portable devices or in specialized clinics.
The low levels of light used don’t contain enough energy to damage skin like higher frequency light such as UV rays from the sun.

Cons:

Excessive or incorrect use of red light therapy devices may lead to adverse effects, so following guidelines is essential.

Not Suitable for Everyone, Some medications and medical conditions may increase sensitivity to light, requiring caution.

Effects can vary drastically, and it may take time to see noticeable improvements.

Who should not use red light therapy?

Pregnant Women: Due to limited research on the effects of red light therapy during pregnancy, it is advisable for pregnant women to err on the side of caution and avoid using it.

Children: Due to limited research and safety data in pediatric populations, it is generally recommended to avoid using red light therapy on children unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional.

Individuals with Photosensitivity: If you have a known sensitivity to light or are taking medications that increase photosensitivity, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using red light therapy.

Individuals with Active Cancer: Red light therapy has shown potential in various aspects of cancer treatment, but it’s crucial to consult with an oncologist before using it, as there are specific considerations and protocols that need to be followed.

How to use red light therapy at home?

To maximize your results from red light therapy, follow these recommendations:

Placement
Position the light panel directly over the area you want to treat such as your face, joints, muscles, or wounds. The light must be absorbed by the skin to provide benefits.

Clean Skin
Remove lotions, makeup, or oils from skin to allow optimal light absorption. You can apply serums or lotions after treatment.

Eyes Closed or Protected
Keep your eyes closed or use protective goggles to avoid over-exposure to light aimed at your face/head.

Increased Exposure Time Gradually
Start with 5 minutes daily. Increase by 1-2 minutes at a time up to the manufacturer maximum, usually 15-20 minutes.

Frequency
Use red light therapy a minimum of 3 times per week. Daily use provides optimal sustained benefits.

Hydration
Drink extra water before and after red light therapy to stay hydrated and flush out metabolic byproducts.

Choosing the Best Red Light Therapy Device

While red light therapy shows immense promise for supporting whole-body wellness, results ultimately come down to having the right device. Not all panels are created equal! Here are the key factors to look for:

Medical-Grade LEDs
Low-quality LEDs won’t emit the optimal therapeutic wavelengths at sufficient power. Only medical-grade LEDs can penetrate deeply enough.

Emitting Wavelength
Infrared (880nm) and/or red (660nm) wavelengths offer skin and body benefits.

Size of Panel
Larger panel sizes provide full body coverage for convenience and optimal results. Bigger treatment surface areas allow you to achieve full-body coverage faster for total rejuvenation.

Device Design
Look for thin, lightweight panels that are comfortable and easy to position over any part of the body. Wall-mounted designs are also convenient.

Programmable Timer
A built-in timer allows accurately controlling exposure times instead of manually timing sessions.

Eye Protection
Some devices come with goggles to protect your eyes if the light will be directed at your face and head area.

FDA Clearance
An FDA clearance indicates the device meets quality and safety standards, although not mandatory. It just provides added peace of mind. These certifications mean the device meets required safety and An indicator of quality manufacturing.

Company Reputation
Established companies like RedDot LED have invested in the research and development of proven products trusted by consumers.

Good Warranty
Choose brands that stand behind their products with warranties of at least 1 year or more.

For the above key factors, RedDot LED can satisfy. So go ahead, give it a try! Find out firsthand how simple daily red light therapy can transform your look and feel your absolute best. Experience the power of RedDot LED red light device for yourself! Your journey to better health and wellness awaits.

 

References:

[1]Mester, E, Ludany, G, Selyei, M, Szende, B, and Total, G J. THE STIMULATING EFFECT OF LOW POWER LASER RAYS ON BIOLOGICAL SYSTEMS.. United Kingdom: N. p., 1968. Web.

[2]Genome.gov. Mitochondria.

[3]Ablon G. Phototherapy with light emitting diodes. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2018;11(2):21-27.

[4]Avci P, Gupta A, Sadasivam M, et al. Low-level laser (Light) therapy (Lllt) in skin: stimulating, healing, restoring. Semin Cutan Med Surg. 2013;32(1):41-52.

[5]Egger A, Resnik SR, Aickara D, et al. Examining the safety and efficacy of low-level laser therapy for male and female pattern hair loss: a review of the literature. Skin Appendage Disord. 2020;6(5):259-267.

[6] Kokkinopoulos I, Colman A, et al. Age-related retinal inflammation is reduced by 670 nm light via increased mitochondrial membrane potential. Neurobiology of Aging. 2013 Feb.

[7]Leyane TS, Jere SW, Houreld NN. Cellular signalling and photobiomodulation in chronic wound repair. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2021;22(20):11223.

[8]de Freitas L, Calixto G, Chorilli M, et al. Polymeric nanoparticle-based photodynamic therapy for chronic periodontitis in vivo. IJMS. 2016;17(5):769.

[9]Sergey Vladimirovich Moskvin, and Oleg Ivanovich Apolikhin. Effectiveness of low level laser therapy for treating male infertility. Biomedicine (Taipei). 2018 Jun; 8(2): 7.

[10]Chow R, Liebert A, Tilley S, Bennett G, Gabel CP, Laakso L. Guidelines versus evidence: what we can learn from the Australian guideline for low-level laser therapy in knee osteoarthritis? A narrative review. Lasers Med Sci. 2021;36(2):249-258. 

[11]Maiello M, Losiewicz OM, Bui E, et al. Transcranial photobiomodulation with near-infrared light for generalized anxiety disorder: a pilot study. Photobiomodulation, Photomedicine, and Laser Surgery. 2019;37(10):644-650. 

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