Red light therapy
Red light therapy (RLT) is a treatment that produces non-invasive low wavelength red light to promote cellular health, which can be the key to relieving a variety of conditions. Wavelengths of light, which are measured in nanometers (nm), absorb to various depths of the body’s tissues. Red light in the 620–660 nm range is considered to be in the “therapeutic window” of light that delivers benefits without side effects.
RLT appears to be safe and is not associated with any side effects if used as directed. This therapy is not toxic, non-invasive, and not as harsh as some topical skin treatments. Unlike the cancer-causing ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or tanning booths, RLT doesn’t use this type of light. There is potential for brief redness/tightness in the treated areas in sensitive individuals. It is likely due to increased blood flow to the area. People with sensitive skin should start slowly. It can be easy to overdo LED light treatments because the therapy is painless and feels warm and soothing. If you have sensitive skin, start slowly. Use caution if taking photosensitizing medications like lithium, melatonin, phenothiazine antipsychotics, and certain antibiotics as they make skin more sensitive to light.
Since RLT involves the use of bright lights, it’s natural to wonder whether this light can damage your vision. Although RLT has been tested in thousands of peer-reviewed clinical studies and demonstrates an overall excellent safety profile along with being used successfully to treat eye health, a case can still be made for eye protection. We will provide eye protection if you choose to use it and recommend it if sensitive eyes, vision problems, or take medication that can cause light sensitivity, if you have an eye condition we recommend you consult your ophthalmologist before using any RLT on your eyes.
Consistency is key to seeing results. You may see some results very quickly, but the full effects may not be visible for three to six months of regular use. Although RLT is beneficial, it should not be considered a miracle treatment for any condition. Whether benefits are skin-deep or deeper in the body, they often take time to manifest because RLT works at the cellular level. Cells need time to repair themselves or replicate, and for the effects of millions of cells working together to result in improvement.
Your optimal red-light dosage depends on three factors:
We recommend using RLT three to five times per week for 10 to 20 minutes at 8 to 18" away depending on what condition you are treating.