Benefits of Red Light Therapy

Benefits of Red Light Therapy (RLT)

Red Light Therapy (RLT) offers numerous potential benefits:

Skin Rejuvenation

Consistent use of red light therapy has anti-aging properties. In a study with 128 participants, RLT significantly improved skin feeling, appearance, and intradermal collagen density.

Increased Collagen and Elastin Production

RLT stimulates collagen synthesis and promotes optimal collagen organization. Users report reduced fine lines and wrinkles after one to four months of regular use. Red and NIR light treatments also promote elastin synthesis, treating stretch marks and improving skin elasticity.

Acne and Facial Blemish Treatment

PlatinumLED panels include traces of blue light at 480nm, treating acne, eczema, and psoriasis. In a study with 81 patients, 830nm treatment effectively decreased itching and skin eruptions.

Reduced Inflammation

Consistent red light therapy reduces inflammation, helping treat conditions caused or worsened by chronic inflammation.

Improved Circulation

RLT increases blood and lymph circulation, bringing more oxygen and nutrients to the treatment area and removing waste and toxins.

Faster Wound Healing

Red light therapy speeds up wound healing by delivering energy to the mitochondria. It increases fibroblast proliferation, collagen synthesis, and granulation tissue formation.

Scar Reduction

RLT supports tissue regeneration, reducing the growth and appearance of scars. Regular use can gradually soften scars and promote healthy skin cell growth.

Faster Recovery from Workouts or Injury

RLT preconditions muscle tissue before workouts, enhancing performance and stimulating faster recovery. A review of 46 studies found significant benefits in increasing muscle mass and decreasing inflammation.

Weight Loss

Red and NIR light therapy can help reduce excess fat. A 2015 study found that combining red light therapy with aerobic exercise led to greater losses in waist circumference. Red and NIR light cause temporary perforations in fat cells, allowing lipids to leak out and be naturally expelled by the body.

Hair Growth

RLT stimulates cells in dormant hair follicles, promoting hair growth phases and inhibiting early transition to regression. A study found significantly greater hair counts in men with androgenetic alopecia after 16 weeks of daily treatment.

Pain Relief

RLT can help treat rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other pain conditions. Studies found faster return-to-play for athletes and significant pain reduction in elderly patients with degenerative knee osteoarthritis.

Other Benefits of Red Light IR+NIR

★★★★★

  • Better Sleep: Promotes melatonin production, improving sleep quality.
  • Improved Blood Flow: Boosts nitric oxide production, increasing blood vessel diameter and encouraging better blood flow.
  • Reduced Inflammation: Supports normal metabolic functioning and weight loss.
  • Reduced Insulin Resistance: Combined with exercise, reduces insulin resistance and body fat in overweight and obese adults.
  • Increased Lean Muscle Mass: Supports muscle growth, resulting in higher calorie burn at rest.
  • Thyroid Support: Reduces autoimmune activity in the thyroid, supporting normal thyroid function.
  • Appetite Reduction: Helps control ghrelin, the “hunger hormone,” decreasing ghrelin concentrations.

Here are some precautions and contraindications for IR (infrared) and NIR (near-infrared) red light therapy:

Precautions:

  1. Avoid Overheating: Ensure the device is not too hot to the touch and avoid using it on areas with excessive heat sensitivity.
  2. Eye Protection: Do not shine the light directly into your eyes or look directly at the light source.
  3. Skin Sensitivity: Start with shorter sessions to see how your skin reacts, especially if you have sensitive skin.
  4. Hydration: Stay well-hydrated before and after sessions to help your body manage the additional heat.
  5. Consistency: Follow the recommended treatment schedule for optimal results.

Contraindications:

  1. Recent Burns: Avoid using red light therapy on areas with recent burns or open wounds.
  2. Malignant Cancers: Do not use on cancerous lesions or areas with active malignancies.
  3. Hyperthyroidism: Caution is advised for those with hyperthyroidism, especially around the neck and upper chest.
  4. Pregnancy: Avoid using IR+NIR therapy on the abdomen during pregnancy.
  5. Epilepsy: Use with caution if you have epilepsy, as light exposure may trigger seizures.
  6. Eye Diseases: Avoid using the therapy near the eyes if you have certain eye conditions.
  7. Photosensitizing Medications: If you are taking medications that make your skin more sensitive to light, consult your healthcare provider before using red light therapy.
  8. Severe Bleeding or Blood Loss: Avoid using on areas with severe bleeding or blood loss.
  9. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): Use with caution if you have SLE.

It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, especially if you have any pre-existing conditions or concerns.