Curious to learn more about red light therapy and what benefits it offers you? Many people have heard of this innovative therapy but may question whether it is suitable for them. This article will delve into the facts about red light therapy (RLT) and what kind of benefits you can expect if you choose to try it.
What Is Red Light Therapy?
Different types of light therapy have been used for hundreds of years. In the 1800s, a form of light therapy was used to treat skin tuberculosis. In the 1980s, NASA used it to grow plants while in outer space. Today, light therapy is a common choice as a skincare treatment and is even available through devices used at home in your sauna.
How Does Red Light Therapy Work?
Red light therapy, often provided through an LED device, causes your skin to absorb light. Unlike ultraviolet rays that are harmful to the skin, RLT uses wavelengths that are harmless and actually helpful for the skin and various medical conditions.
This type of therapy uses non-invasive light wavelengths to promote cell growth. The LEDs used in the devices contain semiconductor chips made of diodes with a reflective surface to create light. The composition of the semiconductor determines which wavelengths and colors are produced.
Red light is in the 650 to 850nm range, which makes it useful for skin problems. It can even be used to eliminate signs of aging like wrinkles to create a more youthful complexion.
Red light therapy helps create healthier skin cells. It can also increase blood circulation and bring nutrients and oxygen to the surface. Increased blood flow leads to faster skin cell regeneration.
In contrast to abrasion or laser therapy, RLT doesn’t cause any harm to your skin tissue to rebuild it. It is a minimally invasive light that helps boost the natural cellular regeneration of the skin.
Doctors and scientists, as well as customers, vouch for RLT. Research studies show that it works without the disadvantages of other treatments.
For example, a team of researchers in Germany ran a controlled, randomized study with 136 volunteers. The volunteers experienced a significant improvement in skin feeling and skin complexion after 30 treatment sessions of various lengths. In addition, the skin was less rough and had denser collagen.
A second study from the Medical College of Wisconsin showed increases in the growth of skin cells in a lab of 155 to 171% compared to normal levels. In addition, these researchers indicate that Navy SEALs had much quicker healing of training injuries when using red light therapy.
What Are the Benefits of Red Light Therapy
The studies above give some information about what to expect from RLT, but you should know all the benefits it offers. Below are some of the impressive advantages of using an LED device for RLT.
Acne
As mentioned, RLT can help promote healing. However, individuals who experience acne often have scarring that they are searching for a solution to. The answer could be RLT. Red light therapy cuts down on the visibility of acne scarring while having anti-inflammatory benefits.
Red light therapy doesn’t work solely on the skin’s surface. It also reaches deep down below and helps repair and soothe the tissue there. For those who have acne caused by a skin condition, red light therapy can help.
Wrinkles
Scientific evidence shows that red light therapy reduces wrinkles, fine lines, and skin roughness. In addition, it can improve your complexion, increase collagen density, and make you appear younger than you are.
Nearly everyone who uses RLT experiences a reduction in wrinkles, but other benefits may also be seen.
- Reduced eye puffiness
- Fewer age spots and less skin discoloration
- Better complexion
- Improved skin texture and tone
- Increased elastin and collagen for youthful-looking skin
Arthritis
Red light therapy is a safe method of improving the look and feel of the skin. However, it can also offer other medical benefits. For example, a study showed that infrared and red light therapy could lower pain related to osteoarthritis by more than 50%.
Fibromyalgia
RLT can also be used for inflammation and pain, making it an excellent choice for anyone who has fibromyalgia. In addition, the therapy fights some causes of fibromyalgia, such as psychological stress, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress.
A scientific review from Taiwan analyzed several trials involving fibromyalgia patients. Nearly 95% experienced significant improvement with the help of red light therapy. Furthermore, the authors note that it is “an effective, safe, and well-tolerated treatment.”
Eczema
Red light therapy is a common treatment option for anyone who suffers from eczema when moisturizers and topical steroids do not cause improvement. The use of light therapy from innovative LED products can help reduce the itching and inflammation caused by the medical condition.
Psoriasis
Similar to the benefits of RLT for someone with eczema, this treatment method can also be used for psoriasis. A 2011 study from the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology looked at the effects of RLT compared to blue light therapy for those with psoriasis. RLT was highly effective for treating the issue.
Hair Loss
Red light therapy is a natural treatment for hair loss that is effective and safe. Clinical studies show that the use of concentrated wavelengths of red light can stimulate the cells to help stop hair loss. In addition, a meta-analysis of clinical studies shows that it offers an increase in hair density versus placebo treatments.
Inflammation and Wound Healing
Finally, RLT can help with inflammation and wound healing. The increased cellular energy causes cells to heal more quickly. A study from 2005 shows that this light reaches the mitochondrial chromophores to increase energy production, especially in terms of ATP.
When cells are energized, they work harder and can repair and regenerate. This also works to decrease inflammation throughout the body.
Final Thoughts on Red Light Therapy Benefits
Red light therapy is a modern solution to skin issues, arthritis problems, inflammation, pain, and more. It can even be a relaxing experience receiving RLT, especially when you choose saunas that incorporate it. Sun Home Saunas offers several red light therapy options that can be used as part of your routine for a healthy lifestyle.
