Red Light Therapy Benefits
Red light therapy is gaining traction in skin care, muscle healing and other health conditions. However, before you purchase a device and begin at home treatments, it’s always a good idea to consult with medical professionals.
In addition to being safe, it can be used for many reasons, such as decreasing healing time after certain procedures and stimulating hair growth in patients with alopecia.
Aspects of Modern Healthcare
There are plenty of aspects of modern healthcare that feel straight out of a sci-fi movie. MRIs, genetic testing, surgical robots. But there’s one that seems to blend science and beauty in a single treatment: red light therapy.
Red light therapy sessions offer a multitude of benefits for both the body and mind. When undergoing a red light therapy session, the skin is exposed to red and near-infrared light wavelengths, which penetrate deep into the tissue. These wavelengths stimulate cellular activity and promote collagen production, resulting in improved skin tone, reduced wrinkles, and enhanced overall complexion. Additionally, red light therapy can aid in reducing inflammation, accelerating wound healing, relieving pain, and even boosting mood and mental well-being. Regular red light therapy sessions can be a valuable addition to a wellness routine, offering a non-invasive and natural approach to improving various aspects of health and vitality.
Non-Invasive Light Treatment
This non-invasive light treatment uses LED lights to expose the skin to red light wavelengths. Sometimes referred to as photobiomodulation therapy, it’s used for conditions like acne, aging, and pain. Red light therapy also stimulates fibroblast production, which helps to create collagen.
The idea behind this treatment is that the cells in your body absorb the light wavelengths, and the mitochondria within those cells respond by producing more ATP (energy). This is thought to increase healing, balance inflammatory markers, reduce oxidative stress, and promote regeneration of healthy tissue. In fact, a study found that red light exposure over the course of 30 twice-week sessions increased collagen density in participants’ faces and caused improvements in wrinkles and skin roughness.
Tiny LED Lights
Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, is a safe and effective form of skin care that has been used in dermatology offices for over a decade. It’s gaining popularity for at-home use with tools that look like wands, masks or lamps with dozens to hundreds of tiny LED lights.
This type of light boosts the production of ATP, an energy source that helps cells function better. It also stimulates collagen production to reduce stretch marks and mild scars. A treatment program typically involves three to five 10- to 20-minute sessions per week for one to four months, followed by a maintenance regimen.
Anti-Aging Treatments
Unlike many anti-aging treatments that involve needles, fillers or lasers, red light therapy is completely non-invasive and won’t cause irritation. But, as with any new tool or product, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before using. And, when practicing at home, wear eye protection goggles as long-term exposure to blue and red light can damage your eyes.
Red light therapy (RLT) emits wavelengths that stimulate your skin’s cells. Sessions can be conducted at home with a device you purchase or in a salon. They’re usually short — three to 15 minutes per session.
Regenerative Properties of Red Light Therapy
RLT is effective in reducing fine lines and wrinkles, tightening skin and promoting collagen production. It also regulates collagen production and helps heal wounds. In fact, one study showed that the regenerative properties of red light therapy benefited people with keloid scars by slowing down excessive collagen growth [18].
Power Plants
How it works is still somewhat unclear, but researchers think it boosts ATP levels in your mitochondria, which are like the “power plants” of your cells. This increase in energy allows other cells to work more effectively, such as healing wounds or repairing skin. In addition, RLT has been shown to stimulate fibroblasts, which make collagen. It has been used to treat diabetic foot ulcers and speed healing compared to conventional treatments.
It’s important to note that, while red light therapy can enhance a person’s health and wellness, it’s not a cure-all. It’s essential to follow a healthy diet and exercise, and see your doctor or dermatologist before beginning any new treatment regimen.
Final Thoughts:
Exposing the body to red and near-infrared wavelengths boosts the body’s cellular function and energy efficiency. This, in turn, promotes healing and cell repair. It can help alleviate a wide range of conditions, including pain, inflammation, acne and arthritis.
Studies have shown that red light therapy can decrease pain, swelling and increase healing of wounds and ulcers in diabetic patients. It can also reduce symptoms of skin damage and aging (like fine lines, crow’s feet and wrinkles).
