Key takeaways
- Red light therapy was accidentally discovered by Endre Mester in 1987 at the Semmelweis Medical University in Budapest, Hungary.
- Red light therapy involves exposing the skin to a specific wavelength of red light usually between 630-700 nanometers.
- Red light have a high penetrating power which may provide several benefits including pain relief, improving mental health, skin health and cell repair.
- Red light therapy side effects are generally rare and mild, including temporary redness, irritation, eye strain, dry skin, increased sensitivity, mild burns, headaches, fatigue, pigment changes, and potential interference with certain medications.
Red light therapy (RLT) has emerged as an effective treatment procedure for skin related conditions including scars, redness, and wrinkles and reversing the signs of aging. As an emerging field of treatment, it may come with certain benefits, and side effects which we aim to discuss in this article.
What is red light therapy?
Red Light Therapy (RLT) was accidentally discovered by Endre Mester in 1967 at the Semmelweis Medical University in Budapest, Hungary. It was primarily used to promote hair growth and wound healing in rats. It is also referred to as photobiomodulation.
In modern times, RLT involves exposing your skin to a specific wavelength of red light, usually between 630-700 nanometers. This red light penetrates the skin and is believed to offer numerous benefits at a cellular level. By stimulating the mitochondria, the “powerhouses” of your cells, red light therapy helps increase energy production, promoting better cell function and repair. It can also reduce inflammation, which is beneficial for conditions like acne, arthritis, and chronic pain. Additionally, red light therapy boosts collagen production, improving skin elasticity and reducing wrinkles. Many people use red light therapy for enhanced skin health, pain relief, wound healing, and even mood improvement. This non-invasive treatment is gaining popularity for its wide-ranging health benefits.
How does red light therapy work?
Red light therapy works in 3 simple steps which are summarized below;
- Light emission and absorption
Red light therapy utilizes light within the red spectrum, typically between 630-700 nanometers. This specific wavelength range is optimal for penetrating the skin and being absorbed by cells. The red light interacts with photoreceptors in the mitochondria, leading to increased ATP production, which enhances cellular function, promotes repair and regeneration, and stimulates collagen production for improved skin elasticity.
The penetration depth of red light varies depending on the wavelength, with longer wavelengths reaching deeper tissues beneath the skin surface. This allows red light therapy to target different layers effectively, providing benefits such as reduced inflammation, pain relief, accelerated wound healing, and overall improved skin health.
- Cellular interaction
Once the red light penetrates the skin, it interacts with photoreceptors in the mitochondria, the energy-producing components of cells. This interaction stimulates the photoreceptors, particularly cytochrome c oxidase, leading to an increase in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the main energy currency of cells.
The boost in ATP production enhances cellular function, promoting repair and regeneration. This process not only improves skin health and elasticity by stimulating collagen production but also reduces inflammation, alleviates pain, and accelerates wound healing, making red light therapy a versatile and effective treatment.
- Biological response
Once red light therapy penetrates the skin/tissues, it triggers a biological response in the form of enhanced cellular function, increased collagen production, and anti-inflammatory effects which are often observed or reported as the benefits of RLT.
Benefits of red light therapy
Some of the commonly reported benefits of red light therapy include but are not limited to the following;
- Improved skin health: Improved skin health by reducing wrinkles and fine lines, and improving skin elasticity and texture. it is also useful in treating skin related conditions like eczema, psoriasis and acne.
- Pain relief: exposing the body to red light therapy can alleviate chronic pain from conditions like arthritis and reduce muscle soreness and joint pain.
- Improved wound healing: red light therapy can promote faster wound healing while enhancing tissue repair and regeneration.
- Reduced inflammation: red light therapy has been shown to be effective at reducing inflammation at the cellular level and may also play critical roles in inflammation-induced conditions and injuries.
- Enhanced cellular function: The use of red light therapy can boost ATP product for better cell energy and efficiency. It can also support cellular health and vitality.
- Hair growth: the earliest form of red light therapy was first reported on hair growth and this have been improved over the years. Recent research shows red light therapy can stimulate hair follicles, and help with hair thinning and hair loss.
- Improved athletic performance: red light therapy may speed up muscle recovery after exercise. It may also be useful in reducing exercise-induced muscle damage.
- Enhanced mental health: red light therapy may be useful in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. It also influences brain cell activity in a positive way.
What are the Side effects of red light therapy?
The commonly experienced side effects of red light therapy may include but are not limited to the following;
- Temporary Redness on the treated area.
- Minor irritation or discomfort during or after the session.
- Potential eye strain if proper eye protection is not used.
- Some people may experience temporary dryness of the skin.
- Treated areas might become more sensitive to light or touch temporarily.
- Rare instances of mild burns or blistering if the device is used incorrectly.
- Occasional headaches, particularly if treatment is applied to the head or neck.
- Some users report feeling tired after a session, though this is uncommon.
- Rare changes in skin pigmentation, usually temporary.
- Potential interaction with certain medications that increase sensitivity to light.
Frequently asked questions on red light therapy
What Does Red Light Therapy Do?
Red light therapy (RLT) utilizes low levels of red light to enhance skin appearance by reducing wrinkles, scars, redness, and acne. Additionally, it is promoted for treating various medical conditions due to its potential therapeutic benefits.
Can I Use Red Light Therapy Every Day?
Yes, you can use red light therapy daily. As long as you adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines, incorporating red light therapy into your daily routine is safe. For those with chronic pain, a daily regimen is recommended to maximize the therapy’s benefits.
What Are the Benefits of Red Light Therapy in 2024?
In 2024, red light therapy continues to be investigated for its wide range of applications, such as reducing pain in the back, knees, feet, and ankles. It also aids in improving circulation and alleviating muscle spasms, making it a versatile treatment option.
Who Should Not Use Red Light Therapy?
Individuals on medications that increase skin or eye sensitivity should avoid red light therapy. Additionally, those with a history of skin cancer or eye diseases should consult their doctor before starting red light therapy to ensure it is safe for their specific conditions.
Sources
Hamblin M. R. (2016). Shining light on the head: Photobiomodulation for brain disorders. BBA clinical, 6, 113–124. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbacli.2016.09.002
