Have you heard of red light therapy? It’s a non-invasive treatment that uses low-level red light to stimulate healing and rejuvenation in the body.
From improving joint function and reducing depression to anti-aging benefits, red light therapy is gaining popularity as a holistic approach to wellness. But how does it work, and what are the potential risks?
In this article:
- What is Red Light Therapy?
- How Does Red Light Therapy Work
- Red Light Therapy: Conditions It Is Used For
- Benefits of Red Light Therapy
- Dangers of Infrared Light Therapy
What is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy (RLT) is a popular, new therapeutic treatment using low-level wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to improve cell function and promote healing.
As early as the 1990s, scientists first discovered that certain wavelengths of light could stimulate the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) – the body’s energy storage molecule. Think of it like petrol for cells.
In the decades since, red light therapy has developed into a medical treatment, being studied for everything from skin disorders to joint pain to muscle soreness. Some researchers even claim it can enhance cognitive function and improve mood.
RLT goes under many monikers, including:
- Photonic stimulation
- Low-level light therapy (LLLT) or low-power laser therapy (LPLT)
- Cold laser therapy
- Biostimulation
- Photobiomodulation (PBM)
- Soft laser therapy
How Does Red Light Therapy Work?
Red light is the closest visible light wave to infrared. In cells, researchers discovered that red light stimulates and strengthens mitochondria – commonly referred to as the “powerhouse of the cell.” Mitochondria are an organelle: a subunit of cells that help perform their functions. When they’re damaged or dysfunctional, we experience a range of health problems, including fatigue, metabolic disorders, and neurological diseases.
Inside mitochondria, our cells break down glucose from food, turning it into ATP, which carries energy throughout the cell. More ATP production means more energy means the cells are more able to rejuvenate and repair damage.
In addition, red light therapy is believed to stimulate the release of growth factors and cytokines, further enhancing the healing and tissue repair process.
Sounds good in principle. However, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) in the US warn that there isn’t currently enough evidence to prove the benefits of red-light therapy. Nonetheless, numerous studies do suggest the potential for RLT in several conditions.
Red Light Therapy: Conditions It Is Used For
You’re unlikely to find RLT on the NHS or funded by insurance companies – yet. But we can still trust the latest research to give us an indication of how to use RLT:
- Skin conditions: Red light therapy may improve the appearance of acne, wrinkles, and other skin disorders by stimulating collagen production and reducing inflammation.
- Joint pain and inflammation: Pain and inflammation are common symptoms in musculoskeletal disorders like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other joint conditions. RLT could provide substantial relief for millions of people by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair.
- Muscle soreness: Red light therapy may hold the potential to reduce muscle soreness and speed up recovery after exercise. Whether it’s caused by blood flow or reducing inflammation is currently unknown.
- Wound healing: Promoting wound healing in people with foot ulcers, pressure ulcers, and other types of wounds is another key benefit. In particular, one study noted that it’s effective at stimulating healing in slow-healing wounds like diabetic foot ulcers.
Benefits of Red Light Therapy
Despite numerous studies, a common criticism of the research is that most studies contain relatively few participants. The best studies contain a large cohort of people compared to another treatment or a placebo.
Regardless, some key benefits of red light therapy may include:
- Boosted immunity: White blood cell production increases, aiding in fighting off infections and other diseases.
- Faster wound healing: Speeds up the healing process for various wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers, pressure ulcers, and surgical incisions.
- Improved joint function: Reduces pain and inflammation in people with joint disorders, enhancing their range of motion and overall joint function.
- Anti-aging effects: Stimulates collagen production and reduces inflammation, improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging.
- Enhanced sleep quality: RLT regulates circadian rhythms and promotes melatonin production: a key factor in regulating sleep.
- Reduced depression and fatigue: Some evidence indicates exposure to red light improves mood and reduces symptoms of depression and fatigue, especially in individuals with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Other claimed benefits include treatment for periodontitis and dental infections, cellulite reduction, cancer treatment, lymphatic “detoxification,” weight loss, and more. While they’re frequently cited, the evidence behind this claim is limited at best. Moreover, alternative light therapies, such as white light therapy, may be more effective than RLT for treating the symptoms of depression.
Dangers of Infrared Light Therapy
Although generally safe, red light therapy carries potential risks and side effects, such as:
- Eye damage: Failing to wear protective goggles or eyewear that blocks out red and near-infrared wavelengths of light can lead to eye damage.
- Skin damage: Excessive or intense treatment can cause burns or skin damage. Adhering to recommended guidelines for duration and intensity is essential. Indeed, most blistering or burnt skin cases follow excessive RLT sessions – for example, falling asleep in the unit.
Other potential side effects include headaches, nausea, or dizziness in some people. However, these are typically rare and mild.
Can Red Light Therapy Cause Cancer?
There is no evidence linking red light therapy to cancer. Skin cancer is primarily caused by ultraviolet, high-energy light, which lies at the opposite end of the spectrum. RLT uses much larger wavelengths, and so should not be a cancer risk.
However, because RLT incites cell growth, further research is needed to identify its effects on existing tumors and cancer cells. You should always consult a healthcare professional before starting red light therapy, particularly if you have underlying health conditions or concerns about potential risks or side effects.
Summary
Red light therapy is a promising new approach to healing and wellness, particularly for skin conditions. Potential benefits include improved joint function, reduced inflammation, sleep promotion, and depression alleviation. However, RLT remains controversial in the scientific community.
While rare, there are potential risks and side effects to be aware of, so consulting a healthcare provider before starting red light therapy is important, especially if you have underlying health conditions or concerns.
Whatever your approach, prioritize your health and wellbeing, and always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or regimen.
Want to try something similar? Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is renowned for its healing and wellness benefits. Book a session with us today!
References:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22114-red-light-therapy
https://www.verywellhealth.com/red-light-therapy-5217767
https://draxe.com/health/red-light-therapy/
https://www.healthline.com/health/red-light-therapy
https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/red-light-therapy
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3926176/
