What it is:
Red light therapy or low-level red light therapy uses low-level wavelengths of near infrared light on targeted parts of the body to reduce inflammation. During the treatment, photons in the light get absorbed by photosensitive molecules in skin cells, which leads to tissue repair.
While many skincare and recovery treatments hot at top spas may have little other than placebo effect, red light therapy has validating studies to back the claims. Randomized controlled trials in athletes have shown significant muscle repair and even increased muscle growth.
Origins of Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy is an evolution of many different light therapy practices. Before the 20th century, physicians began experimenting with light to treat different diseases. The first successful use of light therapy treated lupus lesions. The subsequent invention of the laser improved the precision and intensity of treatment options, including photodynamic therapy which has been uses in conjunction with other chemicals to treat skin disorders.
Alongside physicians, scientists at NASA have used red light in experiments conducted to spur plant growth and to treat wounds in astronauts. The research contributed to a greater understanding of how red light therapy works, identifying the deep penetration of red light into the body, and its manipulation of mitochondria. Mitochondria control cell metabolism and play a key role in the immune system and production of inflammation.
What are the benefits?
Red light therapy effectively energizes the cells by boosting the efficiency of cell repair, boosting new cell growth. Some effects are:
Increased blood flow, reduced inflammation, collagen production, improved wound healing, muscle repair and growth, reduced stretch marks, wrinkles, age spots, scars, sun damage, alopecia, and acne. It may also improve psoriasis, rosacea, excema, arthritis, and muscle or tendon pain.
Our favorite Red Light Therapy Tools:
Solowave
4-in-1 Skincare Wand & Activating Serum Kit
Dr. Dennis Gross
Riki Loves Riki
Other Articles You’ll Like:
Aman Skincare — The Spa Comes to You
The Most Luxurious Hotels in the World
Where the Celebs Detox
FAQs
A: By using near infrared light to penetrate deep into the skin where photons in the light interact with mitochondria cells to excel cell growth.