The basics you need to know
Today we are going to share with you the answer to a very common question: How does red light therapy work? Below you will find:
- The science behind Red Light Therapy (RLT)
- What does RLT feel like?
- How often should I use RLT?
- How long should the RLT sessions be?
- When is the best time for RLT?
- Conclusion
The science behind Red light Therapy
If you still haven’t, take a look at What is Red light therapy?
As we have previously mentioned in past blogs, a proper red light therapy device has to deliver the right intensity of light to penetrate the deepest layers of the skin.
The optimal therapeutic range goes from 660nm to 850mn.
Red light, within the 630nm to 700nm range, is often selected for its potential in supporting skin care routines and general wellness.
Near Infrared (NIR) light, spanning 700nm to 1100nm, is typically chosen for its ability to penetrate deeper, which some users find beneficial in their general wellness practices.
Red light goes from 630nm to 700nm is usually used for:
- Rejuvenating the skin
- Treating scarring
- Eye health
- Reduce acne breakouts
- Stimulating hair growth
- Sleep improvement
- Increase blood flow and tissue restoration
Near Infrared (NIR) goes from 700nm to 1100nm and is able to reach the deepest layers of the body. It’s usually used for:
- Delaying muscle fatigue
- Enhance physical performance
- Accelerate bone and tendon healing
- Speed up wound healing
- Accelerate injury recovery time
- Reduce inflammation after an injury
- Reduce depression and anxiety
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Increase blood flow and tissue restoration
- Pain treatment
- Surgery recovery
Depending on your goal, you can choose which light is best for you.
All our Red light therapy devices (except the TL670) have both RED and NEAR INFRARED lights in the wavelength 660nm and 850nm. They have independent switches that allow you to use both wavelengths at the same time, or just one at the time.
Unless you want to focus on surface skin issues or eye health, which are conditions that only require Red Light, our Target Light 670 is perfect, we advise everyone to purchase a light with both red and near infrared light to get the best results.
Our lights have 50% of LEDs with RED light and 50% of LEDs with NEAR INFRARED light.
What does RLT feel like?
During an RLT session, users often describe a sense of relaxation and a gentle warmth in the areas exposed to the light. Individual sensations may vary, and any discomfort should be addressed by adjusting the distance or duration of the session.
Red light therapy (with LEDs) will not burn your skin.
How often should I use RLT?
Treatments depend on the condition or goal we are targeting.
Usually we recommend 4 to 5 times a week minimum, and up to twice a day at maximum. Having a day off every now and then.
We advise a general maintenance program of 2 to 4 sessions a week indefinitely, that’s why having a home user device is so much more convenient and cheaper in the long run.
How long should the RLT sessions be?
All sessions depend on the power of the light, and the distance from the light.
The closer you are, the shorter the session.
The further you are, the longer the session.
When is the best time for RLT?
General guidance suggests using RLT around sunrise or sunset times, aligning with natural light cycles. For instance, morning sessions might be preferred for general wellness routines, while evening sessions could focus on relaxation.
In the case of physical activities or discomfort, some users choose to use RLT as part of their personal care regimen, both before and after activities, based on their own experiences and preferences.
For those interested in incorporating RLT into their sleep routines, using it a few hours before bedtime, away from the face to minimize brightness, is a common practice among users.
It's important to tailor RLT usage to individual needs and circumstances, and always consider personal comfort and response.
Conclusion
Understanding the basics of RLT can help in making informed choices about its use. While experiences vary, aligning RLT with personal wellness goals and preferences is key to a beneficial experience.
Explore our range of Red Light Therapy devices and find what might suit your wellness journey.
Now that you have the knowledge, are you going to take action?
Discover our Red Light Therapy devices here.