Are you feeling a bit sluggish?
Is your skin looking a little dull?
Are you fighting off pains and aches often?
You may need science to get rid of those problems. And no, it’s not the Frankenstein kind of science we’re talking about.
And though it does sound a little sci-fi to most people, photobiomodulation, popularly known as red light therapy, is a solution that more people are raving about because of its potential to improve skin, boost energy, and yes, even reduce pain.
What’s red light therapy?
A treatment called red light therapy (RLT) can help in healing various tissues in the body, including skin, muscles, and more. RLT uses low level wavelengths of red light. It’s considered generally safe and has not been associated with any side effects.
Red light therapy (RLT) has become a hot topic for its potential health benefits. But before we explore how it might help you, let's understand the technology behind it. We'll break down some key concepts in a way that's easy to understand, because knowing how things work can be empowering!
For the majority of us, infrared and red light may have no difference. But these two are completely distinct from one another.
It all comes down to something called wavelength, which is basically the distance between the ups and downs of a light wave. Imagine a wavy line on a piece of paper - the space between the peaks of those waves is the wavelength.
Red light has a shorter wavelength, somewhere between 620 and 750 nanometers (nanometers are super tiny units, by the way). Infrared light, on the other hand, stretches out further, with wavelengths ranging from 700 nanometers all the way up to a millimeter.
We experience these different kinds of light differently because of the difference in wavelength. Because of its shorter wavelength, red light is visible to the human eye. That's why we can see a red traffic light or an apple!
Infrared light, however, has a wavelength too long for our eyes to pick up directly. Instead, we feel infrared light as heat.
What happens during red light therapy?
Typically, red light therapy will be administered over the course of several sessions spread out over a specific span of time. For skin issues, it's suggested to attempt red light therapy three times weekly for ten minutes per session for at least one month.
During a red light therapy session, you'll relax in a comfortable position with the light source (it could be a panel or a small device) positioned nearby. The red light will bathe the targeted area of your skin, gently penetrating through the surface layers. The light gently penetrates your skin, reaching the powerhouses of your cells, the mitochondria. As the light is absorbed, it kickstarts energy production. This is where the magic happens. Well, science actually happens…
This boost in cellular energy can trigger potential benefits, depending on the area being treated. For skin, it stimulates collagen production, which leads to skin rejuvenation. For muscles, it could accelerate healing and reduce soreness.
Skin conditions that can benefit from red light therapy
Let’s focus on what red light therapy can do for your skin. Did you know that photomedicine (using light to treat health conditions) has been around for more than half a century? Dr. Endre Mester first discovered light therapy in 1967 while performing scientific experiments on growing hair and healing wounds. But his discovery wasn’t enough for people to be convinced that photobiomodulation has a host of benefits.
Thankfully, over the years, many published studies on red light therapy emerged. In these studies, you’ll find the following conditions can be treated with RLT:
- Wounds - Some wounds such as diabetic ulcers are incredibly difficult to heal. RLT can help by faster tissue regeneration and reduced activity of inflammatory cells.
- Fine Lines/Wrinkles - Research published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology in 2020 suggests that red light therapy, which involves the use of light-emitting diode (LED) phototherapy, may have a positive impact on skin rejuvenation by boosting fibroblasts.
- Scars - Scar tissue is primarily composed of collagen, but in some cases, it can become excessive. RLT may help regulate collagen production that contributes to scarring.
- Acne - Treating acne with light therapy is actually not a new thing. When pores get clogged, you can also expect bacteria living deep within your pores. RLT can potentially kill the acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation. It’s been found in a study that treating acne with RLT has reduced mild and moderate breakouts by 36.2%.
- Hair Loss - Exposure to red light can increase blood flow to the scalp, which helps in delivering nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles. This improved nourishment might stimulate hair growth and reactivate follicles that have entered a resting phase. Some recent studies also concluded that RLT can lead to longer, thicker hair.
While these benefits are promising, consistent use of red light therapy is crucial to see results. Additionally, consulting a medical professional before using RLT devices is always recommended.
Purchasing high quality red light therapy devices
Before you rush out and buy a device, keep in mind that not all devices are created equal. Just like any technology, red light therapy devices vary in quality and effectiveness. Here are some key features to consider when making your choice:
- Look for devices that emit red light wavelengths proven to be beneficial for your needs.
- Transparency is key! Choose a device with clear specifications about the wavelengths it emits and the power output.
- Ensure the device has proper safety certifications.
The best red light therapy device is one that aligns with your specific needs and goals. Make sure to prioritize quality! Choose a device designed to deliver optimal results, so you can maximize the potential benefits of red light therapy.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Consult with your healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Never dismiss or put off getting expert medical advice because of something you read on UbiSkin.