What is Red Light Therapy

what is red light therapy?

Although red light therapy was developed years ago, athletes, doctors, and individuals are now beginning to widely accept the many benefits. Originally referred to as Low-Level Laser Therapy or photobiomodulation, red right therapy is a form of light treatment that can provide a number of health benefits. Red light therapy began with red lasers, but science has since discovered that LED’s are just as effective as lasers and when delivered at the right wavelength and intensity they are able to provide benefits at a cellular level.

LED Red Light At-Home Device

There are varying ways in which one can utilize red light therapy. Products include red and infrared light panels, mats, handheld devices, and even full-length red light beds.

What are the Benefits of Red Light Therapy?

Extensive studies have demonstrated a variety of powerful benefits which can include:

  • Reduced oxidative stress
  • Reduced inflammation
  • Reduced joint pain
  • Increased muscle recovery
  • Increased speed, endurance, and strength in athletes
  • Increased collagen production
  • Tightened skin
  • Reduced fine lines and wrinkles
  • Increased hair growth
  • Increased overall energy and vitality
  • Increased wound healing
  • Improved memory
  • Improved resilience to light
  • Improved some degenerative eye disorders
  • Can improve vision quality
  • Increased testosterone production
  • Improved sleep

What Are Optimal Specs of a Red Light Device?

There are two key metrics when it comes to measuring the effectiveness of a red light device: wavelengths and irradiance (power output of the device).

Wavelengths: The most effective red light products utilize both red wavelengths and infrared wavelengths. Studies have found optimal red light to be between 630-670nm and optimal infrared light to be around 850nm.

Irradiance: This measures the power of the light being emitted over a certain area. In other words, this is the amount of energy your exposed body will absorb at a given point in time and from a certain distance. Ideally, you are looking for a device that emits 100 mW/cm².

How Long and How Often Should I Do Red Light Treatments?

Treatment times can vary, but in general, studies have found that anywhere between 10-30 minutes can be impactful. For general wellness, apply red light to the entire body for 10-30 minutes a day. For injury recovery/pain management, apply red light to the specific area for 10-30 minutes, up to three times daily.

 

 

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