By Dr. Jeremy Collins
January 22, 2025
In recent years, red light therapy has gained significant attention for its potential health benefits, from promoting skin health to easing joint pain. This non-invasive, drug-free treatment involves exposing the body to low-wavelength red or near-infrared light. Despite its growing popularity in wellness circles, many are still unsure of what red light therapy actually is, how it works, and whether it’s truly effective. In this blog post, we’ll explore the science behind red light therapy, its various benefits, and how you can incorporate it into your wellness routine.
What is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy (RLT), also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation (PBM), involves the use of specific wavelengths of light, typically ranging from 600 to 1,100 nanometers (nm). The light used in RLT is absorbed by the skin, where it penetrates the surface layers and reaches deeper tissues. This absorption triggers a series of biological processes that are believed to promote healing, reduce inflammation, and enhance cellular function.
Unlike high-powered lasers used in medical procedures, red light therapy utilizes lower intensity light, which is not harmful to the skin or underlying tissues. The therapy is typically administered through handheld devices or panels that emit light in the red and near-infrared spectrum. The treatment is painless, non-invasive, and usually requires multiple sessions over a period of time to see noticeable results.
How Does Red Light Therapy Work?
At the cellular level, red light therapy primarily affects the mitochondria, the powerhouse of our cells. Mitochondria are responsible for producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the energy currency of cells. Red and near-infrared light has been shown to stimulate the mitochondria, enhancing ATP production. This increased energy allows cells to function more efficiently, repair themselves more effectively, and accelerate the healing process.
Additionally, red light therapy has been shown to influence the production of collagen and elastin, two critical components of healthy skin, as well as modulate inflammatory pathways. By stimulating blood circulation, it also promotes faster tissue repair and reduces swelling, which is why it’s often used for both cosmetic and therapeutic purposes.
Health Benefits of Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy has a wide range of applications, from skincare to pain management, and it has shown promising results in a number of clinical studies. Below are some of the most well-researched benefits:
1. Skin Health and Anti-Aging
One of the most popular uses of red light therapy is its ability to improve skin health. The therapy stimulates collagen and elastin production, which helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and enhances skin elasticity. Regular use of red light therapy has been shown to improve skin texture, tone, and overall radiance.
RLT is also effective for treating various skin conditions, including acne, psoriasis, and eczema. The anti-inflammatory effects of red light therapy can help reduce flare-ups, and its ability to promote healing makes it an excellent option for speeding up the recovery of wounds, scars, and sunburns.
2. Pain and Inflammation Relief
Red light therapy is frequently used as an adjunctive treatment for pain relief, particularly in conditions like arthritis, muscle soreness, and joint pain. By promoting increased blood flow and reducing inflammation, RLT can help ease discomfort associated with both acute and chronic pain. This is why many physical therapists and chiropractors integrate red light therapy into their pain management protocols.
A number of studies have shown that red light therapy can reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis, tendonitis, and sports-related injuries. Athletes, for instance, use red light therapy to help speed up muscle recovery and reduce soreness after intense training.
3. Improved Hair Growth
Another exciting area where red light therapy has shown promise is in the treatment of hair loss. Low-level laser therapy has been FDA-cleared for promoting hair growth in individuals suffering from androgenic alopecia (male and female pattern baldness). The red light stimulates hair follicles, increasing blood flow and encouraging the growth of thicker, healthier hair.
Studies suggest that RLT can help with hair regrowth by revitalizing dormant follicles and prolonging the hair growth phase. While results may vary, many users report visible improvements after consistent use.
4. Wound Healing and Tissue Repair
Red light therapy has been shown to accelerate wound healing by enhancing cellular repair and regeneration. Whether it's a surgical wound, a burn, or a sports injury, RLT can help speed up the healing process by stimulating collagen production and improving circulation to the affected area. As a result, RLT is often used in both clinical and cosmetic settings to reduce the appearance of scars and promote faster recovery.
5. Mood and Mental Clarity
Emerging research has also suggested that red light therapy may have positive effects on mental health. Some studies have indicated that exposure to red and near-infrared light can help reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). The theory is that the therapy may have an effect on the brain’s production of serotonin and other neurotransmitters that regulate mood and sleep patterns.
While red light therapy shouldn’t replace conventional treatments for mental health, it may serve as a complementary therapy to improve overall well-being.
How to Use Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy can be done in a clinical setting, but there are also a variety of at-home devices available for personal use. The most common devices are handheld devices, light panels, and full-body beds. When using red light therapy, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding treatment duration and frequency.
A typical session lasts anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes, and treatments can be done anywhere from two to five times a week, depending on the condition being treated. While some people report feeling immediate benefits after just one session, others may require several weeks of consistent use to see noticeable improvements.
Conclusion
Red light therapy is a versatile and non-invasive treatment that can benefit a wide range of health conditions, from improving skin appearance to reducing pain and inflammation. While more research is still needed to fully understand all the mechanisms and potential benefits of RLT, current evidence supports its use in promoting healing, alleviating pain, and enhancing skin health.
If you’re considering incorporating red light therapy into your wellness routine, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have underlying health conditions or concerns. With proper usage and consistency, red light therapy can be a powerful tool in enhancing your overall health and well-being.
