The Science Behind Red Light Therapy: How It Works

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The Science Behind Red Light Therapy: How It Works

Written by Infralight Team

Published on November 1, 2024

Red Light Therapy (RLT) has been getting a ton of buzz lately. From influencers swearing it makes them look ten years younger to fitness gurus claiming you’ll recover from workouts like Wolverine, the hype is real. But does the hype deliver? The medical field now widely recognizes Red Light Therapy as an effective non-invasive treatment which benefits numerous health issues including muscle recovery, pain management, skin rejuvenation and mood improvement. In this guide we'll have a look at therapeutical claims further, and see how RLT can benefit you.

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What Is Red Light Therapy?

Red Light Therapy, also know as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and photobiomodulation (PBM) in the medical field, works by emitting precise red (630-660nm) and near-infrared (810-850nm) wavelengths into skin tissues, tendons and muscles. These light wavelengths safely penetrate the layers of skin without causing any damage, to create a safe and harmless treatment for healing, repair and recovery. NASA scientists originally developed RLT for plant cultivation in space, and then further discovered it's use in injury treatment. Fast forward a bit, now medical professionals and health clinics worldwide are using it for it's incredible benefits.

Let's Dive Deep Into The Science

Time to roll up our lab coat sleeves and get into it. To understand RLT we need to understand its effects on your cells, particularly the mitochondria (yes, the “powerhouse of the cell”). Here’s what happens, step by step:

1. Light Absorption by Mitochondria
- The skin absorbs red and near-infrared light
- These photons travel into your cells and reach the mitochondria’s cytochrome c oxidase
- This kickstarts the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is what the cell uses for energy

More ATP directly affects the rate of tissue repair, and means cells can work harder and faster, almost like a high caffeine energy drink for the healing process.

2. Oxidative Stress and Inflammation Reduction
Red Light Therapy helps regulate the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS)—unstable molecules that damage cells and tissues. RLT enhances tissue health by maximizing the efficiency of the mitochondria and increasing antioxidant production to achieve the anti-inflammatory benefits.

- Neutralize oxidative stress

- Lowers inflammation

- Supports and improves tissue health

Research has shown that chronic inflammation is pretty much the root of all evil when it comes to causing disease. Which means reducing inflammation is essential for healing and disease prevention.

3. Increased Blood Circulation and Oxygen Delivery
Exposure to red and near-infrared light through RLT causes blood vessels to dilate through something called vasodilation, this causes:

- Better blood flow

- More oxygen delivered to tissues

- Enhanced delivery of nutrients to your cells, muscles, and whatever else needs fixing

Basically, whether you've just run a marathon, or just pulled a muscle reaching for your phone, vasodilatation/better circulation means a faster recovery.

4. Collagen Production and Skin Rejuvenation

Fibroblast activation: RLT nudges fibroblasts to produce more collagen and elastin, which gives you a more youthful appearance.

- Less fine lines and wrinkles

- Improving/smoothing skin tone and texture

- Helps heal scars and acne

- Reverses UV damage

Your natural collagen production takes a nose dive after the age of 25, which is why people start seeking miracle cures.

Red Light vs. Near-Infrared: Which Wavelength Does What?

It’s not all just “red light”, you’ve got options. Each wavelength targets different tissues and conditions.

660 nm/Red Light

Used for:

Skin tissues (surface level stuff): skin health, wound healing, acne, wrinkles

850 nm/Near-Infrared

Used for:

Deep tissue, muscles (ideal for athletes and chronic pain sufferers): Muscle recovery, joint pain, inflammation

Pro Tip: When choosing a red light therapy device, make sure to opt for one that has both wavelength options.

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Other Red Light Therapy Benefits:

With over 5,000 research studies and clinical trials on Red Light Therapy, there are numerous benefits that have been tried, tested and proven. Here are few of the most common benefits that people use RLT for:

1. Muscle Recovery & Athletic Performance
Athletes, bodybuilders and gym goers are choosing Red Light Therapy as a go to method of recovery, for many reasons:

- Reduces delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) so you can walk up the stairs after leg day

- Accelerates muscle repair via the mitochondria getting a turbo boost

- Enhanced ATP production for more explosive energy

- Improves endurance and performance, so you can squeeze out that extra rep

Research in the Journal of Biophotonics (2016) proved that red light therapy is effective in lowering muscle fatigue while also speeding up recovery and repair for athletes, as well as increase muscle mass after training. Pretty much a safer, legal version of a PED.

2. Chronic Pain & Inflammation Relief
Red Light therapy has been proven effective in helping to reduce the pain and inflammation that occur in cases of:

- Arthritis

- Fibromyalgia

- Tendonitis

- Bursitis

- Back pain

Red Light Therapy can result in pain relief which continually gets better with time following sessions. It does this via modulation of cellular cytokines and improved microcirculation (that's a lot of words for "has anti-inflammatory effects")

3. Skin Rejuvenation & Anti-Aging
The regenerative benefits of Red Light Therapy make it a popular choice for those fancy dermatology and aesthetics clinics for skin cell rejuvenation. Some of its benefits for beauty include:

- Smoother skin texture

- Reduced wrinkles and age spots

- Increased collagen and elasticity

- Brighter, more youthful complexion, so you can get that natural glow

A 12 week clinical trial published in Photomedicine and Laser Surgery (2014) proved red light therapy successfully decreased wrinkle depth by 36%, and increased skin elasticity by 19%

4. Improved Sleep & Mood
Red light helps to regulate your circadian rhythm, this has multiple health benefits including:

- Better sleep quality (quicker to fall asleep, and more likely to stay asleep)

- Increased melatonin production (the "good" sleep hormone)

- Reduced cortisol (the "bad" stress hormone)

- Relieving symptoms of depression and anxiety

A 2012 study in the Journal of Athletic Training showed that athletes who used Red Light Therapy experienced better sleep duration and improved sleep quality in just their first two weeks of treatment. (Oh, and they also had an increase in athletic performance compared to the placebo group. Not bad right?!)

5. Wound Healing & Scar Reduction
Red and NIR light exposure speeds up the process of wound healing, due to how it stimulates cellular regeneration while reducing inflammation and enhancing collagen synthesis. This means:

- Faster healing after surgery or injury (less sketchy pain meds)

- Reduced scarring

- Supports diabetic wound care

How does it do this? Cellular regeneration and increased collagen production. A perfect combo for healing.

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

Everyone's different. The effectiveness of RLT depends on the targeted condition as well as your age, lifestyle factors, and how often you actually commit to using RLT. Here’s a rough guideline:

Muscle Recovery:   Within 1 - 2 sessions
Skin Health:   2 - 4 weeks
Pain Relief:   Immediate to 2 weeks
Sleep/Mood:   1 - 3 weeks
Anti-Aging:   6 - 12 weeks

Consistency (and patience) is key here. The best results from Red Light Therapy usually require performing sessions 3–5 times weekly for 10–30 minutes per area with a reliable device, you won't heal like wolverine if you only remember to add it to your routine once a month.

Home based Red Light Therapy: The Basics

Yes, you can implement RLT in the comfort of your own home, without a PhD or a cosmetic spa bill. Here's a simple guideline to get started:

Session Length: 10–30 minutes per targeted area (yep, you can use it while watching your favourite Netflix episode)

Frequency: 3–5 times per week

Distance: 15-30cm/6–12 inches from the skin (no need to hug the device)

When to use: Morning for an energy boost, evening for sleep support (don't worry, you can use it any time that fits your schedule and you'll still experience the benefits)

Don't skip the basics. When using Red Light Therapy, don't forget to combine it with proper hydration, a nutrient rich diet, and restful sleep to maximize its effects.

Side Effects?

Nope, it's not a dodgy tanning bed from 2004. No UV damage, no burns. Just don't stare directly into the device. It's not exactly a laser, but your eyes will thank you when you wear the recommended safety glasses that come with your device.

Choosing The Right RLT Device: Don't Get Fooled

There's plenty of Red Light Therapy panels on the market, some not as effective as others. Make sure to look out for the following:

Wavelengths: Should offer both 660nm and 850nm for optimal benefits.
Irradiance: At least 100 mW/cm² for therapeutic effects, anything less is a glorified lamp.
Treatment Area: Larger full body panels are ideal for athletes and daily users, while smaller panels can be used for localised pain.
Build Quality: Look for medical grade LEDs and flicker-free output.
Brand: Choose a trusted brand that offers warranty, and trustworthy customer testimony.

Infralight Recovery's panels go above and beyond in terms of wavelength options, irradiance, size options, build quality, and customer support. You can view our range of full body panels, compact panels, or view the full range of devices here.

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RLT Quick Recap

Red Light Therapy has proven itself beyond marketing hype; it's supported by decades of scientific research, as well as real results from real people. RLT provides a safe, effective, drug free solution to improve and enhance your overall health, with its ability to reduce chronic pain and inflammation, accelerate muscle repair, and rejuvenate your skin. It also:

Boosts collagen production
Reduces healing time of wounds
Reduces scarring
Increases mobility
Improves joint health
Enhances sleep quality & mood

Ready To Try It Out Yourself?

Hundreds of people have joined the Infralight Recovery community, experiencing the benefits of our Red Light Therapy devices for their health and recovery. Ready to be our next satisfied customer? Check out our range of RLT devices by clicking the button below, and experience the journey to becoming the stronger, brighter version of yourself today.

Infralight Recovery's full range of RLT devices, on sale for a limited time:

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Note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.

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Unmatched Quality.

At Infralight Recovery, we’re committed to delivering the highest quality red light therapy panels and recovery products. Built with premium materials and advanced LEDs, our panels emit powerful and consistent light to deliver ultra-effective results. Designed for durability and ease of use, each panel features a sleek, modern design with user-friendly controls. Rigorous and continuous testing ensures safety and reliability, giving you professional-grade equipment you can trust.

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