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Red light therapy (RLT), is known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), low-power laser therapy (LPLT), and photobiomodulation (PBM). It can be an effective treatment option to aid skin, muscle tissue and other parts of your body in their healing. RLT involves being exposed to low levels of red or near-infrared light; infrared energy cannot be seen but felt by our bodies as heat; red light provides similar therapeutic effects and can be seen with our naked eyes.
How Does Red Light Therapy Work?
Red light therapy involves exposing your skin to a lamp, device, or laser emitting red light. Your cells’ mitochondria – known as “power generators” of their energy production – absorb this ray and use it to generate more power for repairs and healing in skin and muscle tissue. Some experts consider this to be one of the more efficient therapies out there to speed recovery in these areas.
What Does It Treat?
Skin Conditions: RLT has proven itself an effective means of treating acne, rosacea, eczema and psoriasis by decreasing inflammation while encouraging collagen production and increasing blood circulation.
Pain Relief: RLT has proven its ability to alleviate arthritis pain, muscle strains and other injuries with its anti-inflammatory properties reducing swelling and speeding recovery.
Wound Healing: RLT may speed the healing of wounds, cuts, and burns by promoting collagen production and increasing blood circulation.
Hair Loss: RLT has been thought to promote hair growth by increasing blood flow to hair follicles while simultaneously encouraging cell metabolism within them.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): RLT may help mitigate symptoms of SAD by elevating both mood and energy levels.
Sleep Disorders: RLT has been shown to enhance sleep quality and increase melatonin production, providing relief to those struggling with insomnia or other sleep disorders.
Is Red Light Therapy Safe?
Red light therapy appears to be safe when administered according to its recommended usage and timing, at least when used short-term and as instructed. It doesn’t contain toxic or invasive elements and it doesn’t use cancer-causing ultraviolet (UV) light like those found in sunlight or tanning booths – unlike many topical skin treatments which rely on this form of light therapy for results.
However, when products are misused-used too frequently or contrary to instructions-there’s always the chance they could cause permanent harm to skin or eyes if left uncovered without protection.