What are the effects of red light therapy?

Red light therapy is a safe, natural treatment method that exposes you to low levels of red and near-infrared (NIR) light onto the skin via light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs. As the light absorbs into the body, it stimulates healing at a cellular level. This non-invasive and painless treatment is used for a variety of cosmetic and medical conditions, such as tissue repair, skin conditions, pain relief, and reducing inflammation.

1.Skin health

“Wound healing”: Red light can penetrate the skin to a certain depth and stimulate fibroblast cells. Fibroblasts play a crucial role in the production of collagen, a protein that provides structural support to the skin. By increasing collagen production, red light therapy can help in the healing of wounds, including cuts, burns, and surgical incisions. For example, in post - surgical patients, it has been observed that red light treatment can accelerate the closure of incisions and reduce the appearance of scars. 

“Anti - aging”: It helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The stimulation of collagen and elastin production (elastin gives the skin its elasticity) can make the skin more firm and youthful - looking. Regular red light sessions can improve skin texture and tone, giving a healthy glow. 

“Acne treatment”: Red light has anti - inflammatory properties. It can target the sebaceous glands in the skin and reduce oil production. At the same time, it can also help to kill the acne - causing bacteria Propionibacterium acnes. This dual - action helps to reduce the occurrence and severity of acne breakouts and can also aid in the healing of existing acne lesions. 

2.Muscle and joint recovery

“Muscle recovery”: Athletes and fitness enthusiasts often use red light therapy to speed up muscle recovery after intense workouts. The light penetrates the muscles and increases blood circulation in the area. This enhanced blood flow delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the muscle cells, which helps in the repair of micro - tears in the muscles that occur during exercise. It can also reduce muscle soreness and fatigue, allowing for quicker return to training. 

“Joint pain relief”: For people suffering from joint conditions such as arthritis, red light therapy can provide relief. It reduces inflammation in the joints and stimulates the production of chondrocytes, which are cells responsible for maintaining and repairing cartilage. By improving cartilage health and reducing inflammation, it can ease joint pain and improve joint mobility.

3.Mood and energy enhancement

“Mood improvement”: Red light can have a positive impact on the body's production of serotonin and endorphins. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, and sleep, while endorphins are the body's natural "feel - good" chemicals. Exposure to red light can increase the levels of these substances, leading to an improvement in mood, reduced stress, and a sense of well - being.

“Energy boost”: It can also affect the mitochondria in cells. Mitochondria are the powerhouses of the cell, responsible for producing energy (in the form of ATP). Red light therapy may enhance mitochondrial function, leading to increased energy levels in the body. This can help in combating fatigue and increasing overall vitality.