What is red light therapy?
Red light therapy means that certain parts of the body are exposed to red light.
The light penetrates the skin, which results in better regeneration, improved skin and hair quality, and much more.
And how does it work?
Red light penetrates the skin and acts on the cells. This promotes their natural function and energy production.
This triggers several different processes in the body.
Key processes include
Firstly, it supports energy in cells. Red light acts on mitochondria, which we can imagine as power plants within cells. These help cells create energy and function better.
Secondly, it helps reduce inflammation.
Thirdly, it helps reduce oxidative stress. This is a state where cells are overloaded and regenerate less effectively.
And fourthly, it improves blood circulation and blood flow.
Wavelengths
The panel emits light at various wavelengths. This means it radiates several types of light.
Red light has a wavelength of approximately 600 to 700 nm.
Beyond this range is infrared light.
Infrared light is not visible and penetrates deeper, whereas red light is visible and acts more superficially.
What do wavelengths do?
Where it works and for how long to use it
Red light only affects the area it is directly aimed at, so direct it at a specific part of the body.
The recommended usage time is usually 5 to 20 minutes, approximately 3–4 times a week. Longer exposure may not necessarily lead to better results.
Most studies show that results appear gradually and may take weeks, sometimes even months. Therefore, it is important to use the light regularly.
Is there any evidence for red light therapy?
Yes. The effects of red and near-infrared light therapy are confirmed by a number of clinical studies.
Skin
Most studies focus on the skin.
Light promotes collagen production, improves skin texture, smoothness, and firmness, and reduces fine wrinkles.
Hair
Studies also show that red light promotes hair follicle activity, hair growth, and density. This helps maintain stronger and healthier hair.
Regeneration after exercise
Red and near-infrared light promotes muscle regeneration, helps alleviate muscle fatigue and pain after exercise, and restores muscle performance.
Wound healing
Another area is wounds.
Red and near-infrared light promotes natural tissue regeneration, blood circulation, and alleviation of local inflammation. It is most studied in chronic and hard-to-heal wounds.
Arthritis and joint pain
In studies on knee osteoarthritis, red and near-infrared light reduced pain and improved joint mobility and function.
study
A randomized study from 2023 described a significant reduction in periorbital wrinkle volume after 10 sessions with 660 nm red light. [1]
A controlled clinical study of 136 volunteers showed that red and near-infrared light can promote improvement in skin appearance, reduction in skin roughness, and an increase in dermal collagen density.[2]
A study published in 2021 examined the effect of a combination of red and near-infrared light on human skin in laboratory conditions. The results showed stimulation of collagen and elastin production, which are substances important for skin firmness, elasticity, and youthful appearance.[3]
A 2023 clinical study monitored the use of 630 nm red LED light for 3 months. Researchers observed a gradual improvement in skin quality, including in the areas of wrinkles, firmness, elasticity, and skin smoothness. [4]
[1] Mota et al., 2023, PubMed.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36780572/
[2] Wunsch & Matuschka, 2014, PubMed.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24286286/
[3] Li et al., 2021, PubMed.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33594706/
[4] Couturaud et al., 2023, PubMed.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37522497/