As red light therapy (RLT) is becoming more widely used, you may be aware of its many benefits. Several celebrities, including Kourtney Kardashian, vouch for the anti-aging effects of RLT. But, what is red light therapy, and how does it work? Here you will find a complete guide on RLT, the best red light therapy devices, and how you can integrate light therapy into your daily routine.
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- What is Red Light Therapy?
- How Does Red Light Therapy Work?
- What Are Common Conditions Red Light Therapy Treats?
- Does Red Light Therapy Really Work?
- How Safe is Red Light Therapy?
- What is The Best Wavelength For Red Light Therapy?
- Can You Do Red Light Therapy At Home?
- What to Consider Before Buying a Home Device
- Best Red Light Therapy Handheld Panels
- Best Red Light Therapy Full Body Panels
- How Often Should You Do Red Light Therapy?
- When Can I Expect to See Results?
- Takeaway: Red Light Therapy Can Drastically Improve Your Health & Overall Wellbeing
What is Red Light Therapy?
In red light therapy, low-intensity light penetrates the skin and enhances the function of cells. RLT is also known as photobiomodulation therapy or low-level laser therapy. RLT has been found to increase mitochondria function, which is responsible for storing and producing energy in your cells.
Specialists believe that RLT contributes to collagen production and heals the skin from internal and external environmental damage.
According to Dr. Elizabeth Buzney, assistant professor of dermatology at Harvard Medical School, red light may also reverse the sign of aging skin.
How Does Red Light Therapy Work?
Life cannot exist without energy. Each cell in your body requires efficient energy to function. Red light therapy uses low wavelength light that targets the mitochondria part of your cells.
The mitochondria, also known as the powerhouse of our cells, are responsible for producing energy within our bodies. Our bodies have a very dense mitochondrial network that is essential for the proper functioning of tissues and organs that require a lot of energy.
The longevity of our lifespans depends on the health of our mitochondria. As a result of mitochondrial damage, several chronic health problems can flourish, including cancer, diabetes, brain injuries, and joint pain.
The accumulation of free radicals due to mitochondrial damage can also result in a host of skin-related problems and aging.
For this reason, the importance of red light therapy in your overall health can’t be overstated.
By boosting the health of your mitochondria, red and near-infrared light can heal your body on a cellular level by producing more energy. In addition, red light therapy works by decreasing the damage caused by free radicals.
What Are Common Conditions Red Light Therapy Treats?
Red light therapy is known to treat many common skin conditions such as:
- Stretch marks
- Acne scars
- Sum damage
- Rosacea
- Wrinkles and fine lines
- Alopecia
- Wounds
- Signs of aging
Researchers have also found that RLT may help with chronic conditions such as:
- Dementia
- Arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- Inflammation
- Cold sores
Does Red Light Therapy Really Work?
The short answer is yes! Known as the father of photobiomodulation, Dr. Endre Mester made scientific breakthroughs regarding low-level laser effects on mice. According to the study, low-level laser treatment profoundly impacted wound healing in mice that received it. In subsequent studies, he found that low-level light therapy accelerates hair growth, reduces inflammation, and reduces pain. Red light therapy has been demonstrated to have many health benefits, including healthier skin, mental health, and muscle recovery.
[Read: Light Therapy Face Mask Reviews: Top 6 Amazon Light Therapy Masks]
How Safe is Red Light Therapy?
As Dr. Buzney points out, RLT treatments are safe and do not cause any additional side effects. Due to the low exposure to light, you are unlikely to burn your skin or harm it in any way. She emphasizes, however, that your eyes should be shielded from the light when using them. Those with an underlying eye condition or those taking medications that cause light sensitivity may also be at risk.
What is The Best Wavelength For Red Light Therapy?
The wavelength is among the most fundamental features to keep in mind when shopping for red light devices. However, if your goal is to achieve the highest possible results, what wavelengths are the best? If you are considering purchasing a red light device, you should first define your health goals and which wavelength will enable you to achieve them.
The first step to choosing a device with the appropriate amount of wavelength is understanding what it means in red light therapy and the different levels.
Light penetrates the skin up to 5 mm deep with a wavelength range of 740 nm to 940 nm.
Blue light: lower wavelengths between 450 nm and 495 nm can only penetrate the epidermis layer of the skin. Blue light can treat acne, skin damage, and aids in cancer prevention.
Green light: wavelengths between 550-600 nm can reach the dermis skin layer. Green light helps to treat migraines, improve sleep, and reduce pain.
Red light: wavelengths between 600-700 nm can reduce signs of aging and improve skin appearance.
Near-Infrared light (NIR): wavelengths between 830-850 nm can penetrate the subcutaneous skin, which aids in deep tissue repair.
The majority of red light devices you will encounter are red light 660nm or NIR 850nm. However, some devices can go as high as 940nm. So, what’s the significance behind the number of wavelengths? Only specific wavelengths can penetrate the skin deep enough to encourage cell repair. Because of this, make sure the red light device you are considering has a longer wavelength to treat conditions deeper within the skin.
Ideally, wavelengths between 660-850 nm are your best options to get the most benefits from red light therapy.
Can You Do Red Light Therapy At Home?
The short answer is yes! Those light therapy masks that influencers rave about might be familiar to you if you have ever browsed social media. As RLT becomes more popular, more people are investing in LED panels for their homes. Depending on the brand and size, panels can cost $100 to $1600+. The benefits of owning a panel outweigh the cost, especially when considering its convenience and accessibility. Investing in a home panel will ensure that you and your family receive consistent red therapy sessions throughout the year. However, keep in mind that all home panels are not made equal.
What to Consider Before Buying a Home Device
Wavelengths: as we mentioned, to get the most benefits from your home device, stick with panels that offer 660 nm red light, 850 nm infrared lights, or a combination of both.
Size: The size of your panel will depend on your particular needs and the areas you wish to treat. For example, if you are only interested in reducing wrinkles or fine lines around your face, a handheld device may be ideal. But if you want to treat your whole body, larger panels are the way to go.
Best Red Light Therapy Handheld Panels
1. NOVAA Light Pro
Wavelengths: 630nm, 660nm, 850nm
Battery model: Rechargeable battery
Rating Power: 141 mW / cm at 1 inch ; > 200 mW / cm at 0 inches.
10% off Coupon: LEDREDTHERAPY
The Novaa Light Pro is a FDA Class 2 light therapy device that combines powerful deep red and infrared lights to activate deep cell regeneration and reduce inflammation. This makes it as effective as clinical devices for an efficient auto-healing from home.
It can even be used on dogs and pets with the same great results
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Novaa Light Pro delivers precisely the right wavelengths of light to heal injured cells deep within the skin. Clinically proven to help with a range of issues, such as pain relief and wound healing, the Novaa Light Pro is safe, and easy to use and will give you all the benefits of infrared light therapy in the comfort of your own home. With just 5 minutes of daily use, you can achieve fast and lasting relief of your symptoms.
The Novaa Light Pro comes with a 60-day satisfaction guarantee or full refund, giving you peace of mind to try this revolutionary light therapy device without any risk. The company also offers excellent customer support to help guide you during therapy.
So if you’re looking for an easy way to alleviate pain and get relief from several ailments, then consider trying out the Novaa Light Pro for all its amazing benefits of infrared light therapy!
2. Rotsha Red Light Therapy Device
Wavelengths: 660nm, 830nm, 850nm, & 940nm
Battery model: Rechargeable battery
Rating Power: 15W
The Rotsha Red Light Therapy Device is small and handheld, featuring three different light modes and a pulse mode for customers who have thinner skin.
In most cases, you can use the device every day, or 2-3 times a day, to see results after about one month. This device is incredibly convenient to use at home, as each session is only 3 minutes long.
It also comes with a carrying pouch and an extra battery for continuous use, as well as sunglasses to protect the eyes. The only minor drawback is that it can be a little tricky to put the battery in. Rotsha includes 660 nm, 830 nm, 850 nm, and 940 nm wavelengths that have been upgraded for optimal performance.
Additionally, this device has an Overheat Protection mode to protect thin-skin customers from overheating. This red light therapy device is easy to use, being small, lightweight, and convenient to carry with you. Rotsha combines red light and infrared light, which can be used for both deep tissue and surface layers.
3. TENDLITE Red Light Therapy Device
Wavelength: 660nm
Battery model: rechargeable batteries
Style: Stainless steel
The TENDLITE Red Light Therapy Device is an easy and convenient way to experience the many benefits of red light therapy. It comes in two sizes: medium and large. This medical-grade LED device emits a 660nm red light input of 3000 mW, making it safe and dependable.
Using the TENDLITE Red Light Therapy Device can help relax and renew your body and provide top-quality results since 2011. With its durable medical-grade stainless steel construction, it is lightweight and portable, so you can easily use it on joints to quickly alleviate pain.
The device promotes blood circulation, relieves minor muscle and joint pain, and helps your body benefit from the many advantages of red light therapy.
4. Uaike LED Red Light Therapy Device
Wavelengths: 650nm, 665nm, 845nm, 855nm
Battery model: rechargeable batteries
Dimensions: 7.5 x 2 x 2.4 inches
The Uaike LED Red Light Therapy Device is a revolutionary device used for a wide range of treatments, including anti-aging, wrinkle removal, facelift, and skin rejuvenation. It is made up of 22 LED lights, 8 of them red and 14 infrared. This procedure is painless, noninvasive, and 100% natural.
The benefits of red light therapy with the Uaike device are numerous. Thermal heating helps to open pores and promotes the absorption of skin care products. Additionally, it repairs damaged skin and helps fight signs of aging. Moreover, infrared light therapy encourages cell regeneration, boosts collagen production, and improves the overall texture of your skin.
The Uaike device is powered by a premium lithium rechargeable battery that lets you use it cord-free. Ideally, you should use it 2-3 times per week, for 10-15 minutes each time. This battery can last up to three weeks after fully charged.
Overall, the Uaike LED Red Light Therapy Device is an excellent choice for those looking to improve the overall health and appearance of their skin. It is a safe, effective, and affordable way to achieve healthy and glowing skin.
Best Red Light Therapy Full Body Panels
5. KOZE Red Light Therapy
Wavelengths: 660nm + 850nm
Battery model: Power cord
Irradiance: 175 mw/cm² at 3″
Dimensions: 36 in x 12″ x 3″
The KOZE Red Light Therapy device is a powerful and intense tool that you can use in the comfort of your own home. This unique treatment combines medically proven wavelengths of Red Light with Near Infrared Light at 660nm + 850nm to achieve optimum results.
By combining these two powerful lights, you’ll notice a range of benefits such as improved skin tone and texture, wrinkle reduction, weight loss, increased vitality and energy, and improved workout performance and mental clarity.
In terms of power density, the KOZE X measures 175 MW/c2 at 3 inches and 141 MW/c2 at 6 inches. It is powered with 1500 watts and 300 Dual-Chip LEDs for maximum results. Plus, the KOZE comes with a 3-year warranty, so you can rest assured that you’re investing in quality.
The KOZE Red Light Therapy device is an excellent choice for those who want to take advantage of the many benefits of infrared light therapy.
6. Hooga Red Light Therapy Device
Wavelengths: 660nm + 850nm
Battery model: Power cord
Irradiance: 100 mw/cm² at 24″
Dimensions: 35.8 in x 2.75″ x 11″
The Hooga HG1500 is a powerful infrared light therapy device that uses a combination of 660nm (red) and 850nm (near infrared) wavelengths to deliver optimal results. Skin treatments are best performed with red light, while deep tissue treatments are best performed with NIR.
The Hooga HG1500 features 300 LEDs with a 60-degree beam angle and an irradiance exceeding 100 MW/cm2, allowing for quick and effective treatments even at distances of up to 24 inches.
What’s more, users have the ability to customize their treatments with two power switches, which allow them to turn on either 150 red LEDs or 150 near-infrared LEDs. This way, they can choose between near-infrared, red, or both wavelengths for their treatment experience.
Additionally, the product also comes with an adjustable door mount and a hanging kit and has a lifespan of 50,000+ hours.
Overall, the Hooga HG1500 is a great and reliable device that offers the benefits of infrared light therapy. Customers also appreciate the high level of customer service that comes with this product. If you’re looking for a device to deliver deep tissue and skin treatments, then this could be the one for you!
7. SGROW Red Light Devices
Wavelengths: 660nm + 850nm
Battery model: Power cord
Power rating: 600 watts
Irradiance: 110 mW/cm² at 3inch
Dimensions: 24.6 in x 2.55″ x 8.66″
SGROW Red Light Devices are a great way to experience the benefits of infrared and red light therapy in the comfort of your own home.
These devices offer two wavelengths—660nm and 850nm—and come with two switches that allow you to choose from three models: red only, infrared only, and combo mode. Each switch has 60 LEDs to provide maximum coverage and irradiance of 110 mW/cm2 at 3 inches, 94 mW/cm2 at 6 inches, and 46 mW/cm2 at 12 inches.
The SGROW red light devices are easy to use and pose no risk of side effects, infections, or addiction. Plus, they are incredibly versatile and can be hung on the wall or door or placed independently on a flat, stable surface, so you can adjust the angle to suit your needs.
To ensure complete satisfaction, SGROW offers a 100% money-back guarantee plus 24 months warranty and 30 days satisfaction guarantee. Enjoy the many benefits of red light therapy with SGROW’s convenient and reliable red light devices.
[Read: Sgrow Red Light Therapy Review: Transform Your Health]
How Often Should You Do Red Light Therapy?
In terms of how long and how often you should use RLT depends on your overall health, needs, and desired outcome. Generally speaking, a 15-minute daily session three to five times per week for several months yields favorable results. While red light therapy is considered safe and doesn’t have any side effects, it is best to start slowly to determine what works best for you.
Start with 10-minute sessions every other day, then gradually increase to 15 to 20-minute sessions three to five times a week. Keep in mind that during your sessions, you may feel a warm sensation on your skin and experience temporary redness and tightening.
[Read: How Often Can You Use Red Light Therapy? The Answer May Surprise You]
When Can I Expect to See Results?
The key to seeing results with RLT is consistency. Due to the cellular nature of RLT, you may not notice any changes right away. Noticeable improvement usually comes after 8 to 12 weeks of consistent use. It is also important to note that some conditions may take longer than others to heal fully.
Takeaway: Red Light Therapy Can Drastically Improve Your Health & Overall Wellbeing
Overall, red light therapy improves the appearance of the skin and heals medical conditions on a cellular level. Research shows that red light therapy stimulates mitochondrial function, thus promoting deep tissue healing. If you are considering RLT, you should first consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional. From there, you will work with your doctor to determine the best treatment for your condition.