Whether you’re looking to enhance your body’s recovery functions, boost your mood, or get tighter, clearer skin, red light therapy is one of the easiest ways to get those results.
Maybe you know all about red light therapy, or maybe this is your first time hearing about it. Either way, you might be wondering: Is it safe?
It’s a good question, and it makes sense. After all, UV light is known to cause skin cancer, so what does that say about red light?
Fortunately, studies prove time and again that it is absolutely harmless. The purpose of this article is to detail exactly what red light therapy is, and why it is such a safe and effective treatment.
In this article:
- What Is Red Light Therapy and How Does It Work?
- Is Red Light Therapy Safe?
- Recommended Frequency of Red Light Therapy Treatments
- Should Anyone Avoid Red Light Therapy?
- Benefits of Red Light Therapy
- How To Find Reputable Clinics Offering Red Light Therapy in Your Area?
What Is Red Light Therapy and How Does It Work?
Red light therapy is a type of phototherapy that uses low-level laser or LED technology to deliver red light energy to the skin.
This red light energy helps to stimulate and repair cells, which in turn promotes healing, reduces inflammation, and can improve the overall appearance and health of the skin.
Red light therapy has been used for decades in Europe and Asia for various medical purposes and is now becoming more popular in North America for cosmetic applications.
One study published in 2019 found that LED red light therapy was able to reduce pain and inflammation in injured mice’s skin.
Another study published in 2014 showed that LED red light therapy was able to improve wrinkles and skin elasticity. Since then, numerous other studies have been conducted on both humans and animals, all with positive results.
But how does red light work?
The answer lies within our cells. When we’re exposed to any kind of light, including red light, our cells absorb its energy.
This absorption then triggers a series of events that lead to the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the energy currency of our cells.
ATP is used for numerous cellular processes, including cell growth and repair. So, by increasing the production of ATP, red light therapy is able to promote healing and improve the overall health of our cells.
Red light therapy also helps to increase the production of collagen and elastin. Collagen is a protein that helps to keep our skin looking young and healthy, while elastin is a protein that helps to keep our skin looking firm and elastic.
As we age, the production of both collagen and elastin begins to slow down, which is why our skin starts to wrinkle and sag. But by increasing the production of these proteins, red light therapy can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin elasticity.
Is Red Light Therapy Safe?
Yes, red light therapy is safe. In fact, it is one of the safest forms of phototherapy available today.
Unlike UV light, red light therapy does not damage the DNA of our cells, so there is no risk of skin cancer or other harmful side effects.
In addition, red light therapy is non-invasive and does not require the use of any chemicals or drugs. All you need is a red light therapy device, such as an LED light panel, and you’re good to go.
That said, personal red light devices are not foolproof. For example, if you were to stare directly into an LED light panel for extended periods of time, it could damage your eyes. So, it’s important to use caution and common sense when using any red light therapy device.
Of course, the safest option is to make an appointment with your local light therapy center. Because they will know how to properly use the equipment and will make sure that you are safe during your treatment.
Recommended Frequency of Red Light Therapy Treatments
The recommended frequency of red light therapy treatments is once or twice a week in order to get optimal results. However, depending on your specific needs and goals, you may need to receive treatments more or less often.
For example, if you’re looking to reduce inflammation, then you may only need to receive treatments once a week. But if you’re looking to reduce wrinkles and improve skin elasticity, then you may need to receive treatments twice a week.
Your best bet is to speak with a qualified light therapy expert who can help determine the best treatment plan for you.
Should Anyone Avoid Red Light Therapy?
There are a few groups of people who should be cautious of red light therapy treatments altogether. These groups include pregnant women, people with epilepsy, and people who are photosensitive.
- Pregnant women should consult with their doctor before attended a red light therapy session.
- Epilepsy is a condition that causes seizures, and, while rare, it is possible for red light treatments to trigger a seizure.
- Lastly, people who are photosensitive should avoid red light therapy treatments because they may cause sunburn or skin rash.
If you fall into any of these groups, then it’s best to speak with your doctor before receiving red light therapy.
Benefits of Red Light Therapy
There is a laundry list of benefits associated with red light therapy, including:
Reduces inflammation
One of the most well-known benefits of red light therapy is its ability to reduce inflammation. Inflammation is a leading cause of many chronic diseases, such as heart disease and arthritis, so by reducing inflammation, treatments can help prevent these diseases.
Relieves pain
Red light therapy has also been shown to be effective in relieving pain. Red light therapy is thought to be just as effective as ibuprofen in reducing muscle soreness after exercise due to its function of addressing the root of the pain at the cellular level.
Speeds up wound healing
Red light therapy can also speed up the healing of wounds and scars by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin.
Improves skin conditions
Red light therapy has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of skin conditions, such as acne, psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea.
Boosts energy levels
If you struggle with maintaining high levels of energy throughout the day, then red light therapy could be just what you need. It’s known to increase energy levels and improve overall fatigue.
Improves sleep
If you have trouble sleeping, then red light therapy could help since it can improve the quality of sleep and help people fall asleep faster.
Enhances mood
Finally, red light therapy has been shown to enhance mood and improve symptoms of depression.
As you can see, there are many benefits of red light therapy. If you’re looking for a safe and effective way to improve your health, then red light therapy is definitely worth considering.
Do you have any other questions about red light therapy? Call your local studio today to learn more!