Red Light Therapy: Something You Need to Know

More people are looking for ways to restore their youthful appearance and reduce chronic pain, and red-light therapy is one solution. Red light therapy has been used by dermatologists and other physicians for years as a non-invasive procedure to aid cellular regeneration, providing pain relief and anti-aging benefits such as wrinkle reduction.

It is now easier than ever to use red light therapy at home, thanks to portable RLT devices. Whether you already have a device or want to learn more about the technology before purchasing, here's something you need to know about red light therapy.

What is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy is a type of phototherapy that uses low-level red and near-infrared light to improve various skin and health conditions. The red and near-infrared light is delivered to the skin through light-emitting devices such as LED panels or lasers. This therapy is thought to help improve cellular energy production, boost collagen production, reduce inflammation, and stimulate wound healing. It is commonly used to treat skin conditions such as fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots, as well as other health conditions such as joint pain, muscle soreness, and neuropathy. However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of red light therapy and to determine its efficacy for various conditions.

How Does Red Light Therapy Work and What Does it Do?

Red light therapy works by exposing the skin to low-level red and near-infrared light. The light energy is absorbed by the cells in the body, which then triggers a series of photochemical reactions. These reactions result in an increase in cellular energy production, stimulation of collagen production, reduced inflammation, and improved cellular function.

Red light therapy is thought to have a variety of benefits, including:

1. Skin rejuvenation: The increased production of collagen and cellular energy may help to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.
2. Pain and inflammation reduction: The anti-inflammatory properties of red light therapy may help to reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness associated with conditions such as arthritis and muscle soreness.
3. Wound healing: The stimulation of cellular function and reduced inflammation may promote faster wound healing.
4. Improved mood: Some studies have suggested that red light therapy may have a positive effect on mood and energy levels.
5. Athletic performance: Red light therapy has been used to help improve athletic performance by reducing muscle soreness and improving recovery after exercise.

It's important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and effects of red light therapy and to determine its efficacy for various conditions. Individual results may vary and it is recommended to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.

Red Light Therapy Benefits and Drawbacks

Before diving into red light therapy, it's important to consider the benefits and drawbacks of the treatment. Weighing the benefits and drawbacks can help you decide if red light therapy is right for you.

The benefits of red light therapy:

1. Non-invasive: Red light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that does not require any surgical procedures or recovery time.
2. Pain-free: Unlike some other treatments, red light therapy does not cause any pain or discomfort during or after the procedure.
3. Safe: Red light therapy is generally considered to be safe, with few side effects.
4. Versatile: Red light therapy can be used to treat a variety of conditions and improve various aspects of health and wellness.
5. Accessibility: Red light therapy is widely available, with many spas and clinics offering the treatment.
6. Home devices: With at-home light therapy devices, red light therapy is easy and convenient, making it simple to implement in your skincare routine, workout plan, or other daily activities.

The drawbacks of red light therapy:

1. Treatment sensitivity: People who are sensitive to light may be unsuitable for light therapy. We recommend testing your light therapy device on a patch of your skin before using it regularly to identify any sensitivity.
2. Variability in devices: The quality and effectiveness of red light therapy devices can vary, so it's important to use a reputable and well-made device.
3. Cost: Red light therapy can be expensive, especially if it is performed regularly over an extended period of time.
4. Individual results may vary: Red light therapy may not work for everyone, and individual results can vary based on many factors.

It's important to weigh the pros and cons of red light therapy and to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.

Is Red Light Therapy Safe?

Red light therapy is generally considered safe for most people. The low-level light used in red light therapy is not harmful to the skin and does not produce any harmful side effects.

However, as with any treatment, there may be some individuals who are not suitable candidates for red light therapy. People who are pregnant, have a history of skin cancer, or have certain medical conditions should consult with a healthcare professional before starting red light therapy. And during treatment, it is critical to protect your eyes. To avoid discomfort from the brightness, avoid staring directly into the LED light for long periods of time, and use a pair of goggles that can block light when treating areas close to the eyes. 

Additionally, it's important to use a reputable and well-made red light therapy device to ensure safety and effectiveness. Before starting red light therapy, it's recommended to speak with a healthcare professional to determine if it's the right treatment option for you.

Red Light Therapy Side Effects

As long as you protect your eyes and don’t have any light sensitivities, using a red light therapy home device poses no threat to your health.

However, some people may experience mild side effects after a red light therapy session, such as:

1. Skin irritation: Some people may experience temporary skin irritation or redness after a red light therapy session. This is usually mild and goes away on its own within a few hours.
2. Eye discomfort: If the eyes are exposed to the light, some people may experience eye discomfort, such as a mild burning or itching sensation.
3. Headache: A headache is a rare side effect of red light therapy.

It's important to use a reputable and well-made red light therapy device to ensure safety, minimize the risk of side effects, and you’ll be able to benefit from red light therapy from the comfort of your home.

How Long Does It Take Red Light Therapy to Work?

The length of time it takes for red light therapy to work can vary depending on several factors, such as the condition being treated, the frequency and duration of the treatment sessions, and the individual's response to the therapy.

For some people, red light therapy may provide immediate benefits, such as a reduction in pain or improvement in skin appearance. For others, it may take several sessions or a longer course of treatment to see noticeable results.

Typically, red light therapy sessions last between 15 and 30 minutes, and it is recommended to have 2-3 sessions per week for best results. The length of a red light therapy treatment course can vary from several weeks to several months, depending on the condition being treated and the individual's response to the therapy, but consistency is key to seeing results.

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate length and frequency of red light therapy sessions for your individual needs.

Is Red Light Therapy Possible at Home?

While red light therapy beds are available in gyms, hospitals, and other facilities, they are often expensive per session and inconvenient. There are many home-use red light therapy devices available for purchase, including handheld devices and full-body panels.

If you're looking for a red light therapy device to use at home, think about different light combinations. Depending on your treatment goals and pain points, look for devices that combine colors for maximum efficacy, such as a device for skin treatments that uses both red and blue light therapy, or a device for chronic pain that uses both red and infrared light therapy.

When choosing a home-use red light therapy device, it's important to consider the quality and effectiveness of the device, as well as any safety features it may have. Some home-use red light therapy devices may not be as effective as professional-grade devices, so it's important to do your research and choose a reputable and well-made device.

It's also recommended to speak with a healthcare professional before starting red light therapy at home to determine if it's the right treatment option for you and to receive guidance on proper usage and safety precautions.