Red Light Therapy: The Ultimate Guide (9 Mind-Blowing Benefits)

What’s blue, green, red, yellow, and infrared has no mass and makes hair grow back on bald heads? It’s red light therapy, and the scientific results for health are going to blow your mind.

What is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of visible and infrared light delivered at low energy to trigger healthy cellular and genetic responses.

The word “red” in “red light therapy” is a shortcut. The bioactive wavelengths include blue, green, yellow, red, and infrared.

The most commonly used wavelengths are 630-660 nm red, 810-850 nm infrared, and 1064-1072 nm infrared. These wavelengths effectively penetrate human tissue and elicit the best responses.

Light Type	Wavelength Range
Red Light	630-660 nm
Near-Infrared	810-850 nm
Near-Infrared	1064-1072 nm

Accidental Discovery

Dr. Endre Mester accidentally discovered red light therapy in 1967 when he shone a low-energy laser on lab mice. He was confused when the experiment failed, not realizing the laser was low-energy.

But he did notice the mouse hair growing back. The treated group had faster growth than the placebo group.

It was just a broken laser, so why did this happen?

After 55 years of research, science tells us how red light therapy works.

2. Red Light Therapy for Pain Management

Red light therapy can help with acute and chronic pain stemming from muscles, nerves, and joints (arthritis). Studies show it helps with:

• Back pain
• Sciatica
• Knee pain
• Arthritis
• Surgical pain
• Chronic pain
• Neuropathy
• Tooth Sensitivity
• Muscle pain
• The same types of pain in animals

Arthritis

Arthritis is one of the most studied applications of light therapy. Red light therapy helps ease arthritis inflammation and pain. It increases cellular energy for repair, blocks nerve pain sensitivity, and promotes soft tissue healing.

Choose a device that delivers light directly to the skin for pain. This leaves out panels. The strongest devices are handhelds, and the most convenient are pads.

References

• Search PubMed for (osteoarthritis) AND ((photobiomodulation) or (low level laser therapy) or (low level light therapy) or (cold laser) )
• Effectiveness of low-level laser therapy in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
• Methodological flaws in meta-analysis of low-level laser therapy in knee osteoarthritis: A letter to the editor
• Efficacy of Acupoints Dual-Frequency Low-Level Laser Therapy on Knee Osteoarthritis
• SHORT-TERM EFFICACY OF LOW-LEVEL LASER THERAPY IN PATIENTS WITH KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A RANDOMIZED PLACEBO-CONTROLLED, DOUBLE-BLIND CLINICAL TRIAL
• Long-term results of a randomized, controlled, double-blind study of low-level laser therapy before exercises in knee osteoarthritis: laser and exercises in knee osteoarthritis
• Red light therapy pulsed at 10 Hz calms anxiety as well as a pharmaceutical: Salehpour F, Rasta SH, Mohaddes G, Sadigh-Eteghad S, Salarirad S. Therapeutic effects of 10-HzPulsed wave lasers in rat depression model: A comparison between near-infrared and red wavelengths. Lasers Surg Med. 2016 Sep;48(7):695-705. doi: 10.1002/lsm.22542. Epub 2016 Jul 1. PMID: 27367569.
• Red light therapy eases back pain in depressed patients: Gabel CP, Petrie SR, Mischoulon D, Hamblin MR, Yeung A, Sangermano L, Cassano P. A case control series for the effect of photobiomodulation in patients with low back pain and concurrent depression. Laser Ther. 2018 Sep 30;27(3):167-173. doi: 10.5978/islsm.27_18-OR-18. PMID: 32158062; PMCID: PMC7034249.
• Red light therapy eases pain and inflammation when used in veterinary practices: Hochman L. Photobiomodulation Therapy in Veterinary Medicine: A Review. Top Companion Anim Med. 2018 Sep;33(3):83-88. doi: 10.1053/j.tcam.2018.06.004. Epub 2018 Jul 5. PMID: 30243364.
• Red light therapy helps wounds heal faster: Mosca RC, Ong AA, Albasha O, Bass K, Arany P. Photobiomodulation Therapy for Wound Care: A Potent, Noninvasive, Photoceutical Approach. Adv Skin Wound Care. 2019 Apr;32(4):157-167. doi: 10.1097/01.ASW.0000553600.97572.d2. PMID: 30889017.

Sciatica

Red light therapy can help relieve the discomfort of piriformis syndrome and sciatica.

When the piriformis muscle irritates the sciatic nerve, it leads to pain, tingling, and numbness. This condition is painful in the hips, butt, and legs.

In clinical studies, red light therapy outperforms ultrasound, heat, and stretching for sciatica pain relief. red light therapy increases cellular energy to power nerve and muscle repair. it improves blood flow to deliver oxygen and nutrients to repair tissue.

It reduces inflammation and stops pain signals via COX-2 inhibition (the exact mechanism of Ibuprofen). red light therapy encourages the repair of the cartilage.

A 2017 study found that red light therapy significantly reduced pain and improved range of motion in patients with piriformis syndrome.

References

• Ojha S, Jailiya C. To find the efficacy of therapeutic laser for piriformis syndrome, C. J Mahatma Gandhi Univ Med Sci Technol 2 (1), 14-7

Post-Exercise Pain

Red light therapy helps with post-exercise pain or delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS).

It boosts cellular energy, reduces inflammation, and minimizes muscle damage. Reducing inflammation and muscle damage alleviates the pain and stiffness 1-3 days after intense exercise.

It increases the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in the cell’s mitochondria. This gives the muscles more energy to work.

It also causes a short burst of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the cells. The ROS message tells the cell to reduce the cytokine production of inflammatory chemicals.

It also reduces creatine kinase levels, a marker of muscle damage.

Higher-quality devices work better than cheaper ones, but even a simple LED device can be effective if used long enough.

References

• Borsa, P. A., Larkin, K. A., & True, J. M. (2013). Does Phototherapy Enhance Recovery from Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage? A Systematic Review. Journal of Athletic Training, 48(1), 57–67. https://doi.org/10.4085/1062-6050-48.1.12
• Chung, H., Dai, T., Sharma, S. K., Huang, Y.-Y., Carroll, J. D., & Hamblin, M. R. (2012). The Nuts and Bolts of Low-level Laser (Light) Therapy. Annals of Biomedical Engineering, 40(2), 516–533. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10439-011-0454-7
• Ferraresi, C., Hamblin, M. R., & Parizotto, N. A. (2015). Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) on muscle tissue: performance, fatigue and repair benefited by the power of light. Photonics & Lasers in Medicine, 4(4). https://doi.org/10.1515/plm-2015-0032
• Karu, T. I., & Kolyakov, S. F. (2005). Exact action spectra for cellular responses relevant to phototherapy. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 23(4), 355–361. https://doi.org/10.1089/pho.2005.23.355
• Leal-Junior, E. C. P., Vanin, A. A., Miranda, E. F., de Carvalho, P. de T. C., Dal Corso, S., & Bjordal, J. M. (2015). Effect of phototherapy (low-level laser therapy and light-emitting diode therapy) on exercise performance and markers of exercise recovery: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Lasers in Medical Science, 30(2), 925–939. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10103-013-1465-4

3. Red Light Therapy for Hair Growth

Red light therapy can help with some types of hair loss. It is as effective as other hair growth treatments and has no side effects. Following the correct schedule is key to hair growth success.

LED light therapy has a very high chance of successfully treating most types, including genetic/hormonal, toxic, and autoimmune hair loss. 

• The success rate for hair growth is over 93.5% when used correctly.
• It grows hair on women in 4 out of the nine female loss patterns.
• It grows hair on men in 7 out of the 12 male loss patterns. 

The high success rate at growing hair with no side effects is a significant advantage over other common hair growth treatments.

For example, the medication minoxidil also has a very high chance of success, but it can cause side effects like skin irritation. 

Another medication, finasteride, is highly effective for genetic/hormonal baldness, but it has a higher risk of side effects like sexual dysfunction.

Hair transplant surgery can be effective, but it requires having enough healthy donor hair, and the procedure itself can be stressful on the body. 

In comparison, red light therapy is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment that involves exposing the scalp to specific wavelengths of red or near-infrared light. This stimulates the hair follicles and promotes natural hair regrowth without any medications or surgery side effects.

Only surgery will provide immediate results. Light and pharmaceuticals can take up to six months to see progress. That’s why you should consider buying a hair growth light from a company with an extended return period. Find out more in my top picks for hair growth.

References

• Keskiner I, LutfioÄŸlu M, Aydogdu A, Saygun NI, Serdar MA. Effect of Photobiomodulation on Transforming Growth Factor-β1, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor-BB, and Interleukin-8 Release in Palatal Wounds After Free Gingival Graft Harvesting: A Randomized Clinical Study. Photomed Laser Surg. 2016 Jun;34(6):263-71. doi: 10.1089/pho.2016.4094. Epub 2016 Apr 18. Erratum in: Photomed Laser Surg. 2018 Jan;36(1):58. PMID: 27088277; PMCID: PMC4892223.
• Lin WH, Xiang LJ, Shi HX, Zhang J, Jiang LP, Cai PT, Lin ZL, Lin BB, Huang Y, Zhang HL, Fu XB, Guo DJ, Li XK, Wang XJ, Xiao J. Fibroblast growth factors stimulate hair growth through β-catenin and Shh expression in C57BL/6 mice. Biomed Res Int. 2015;2015:730139. doi: 10.1155/2015/730139. Epub 2015 Jan 1. PMID: 25685806; PMCID: PMC4313060.
• Lodi G, Sannino M, Cannarozzo G, Giudice A, Del Duca E, Tamburi F, Bennardo L, Nisticò SP. Blue light-emitting diodes in hair regrowth: the first prospective study. Lasers Med Sci. 2021 Oct;36(8):1719-1723. doi: 10.1007/s10103-021-03327-9. Epub 2021 Jun 8. PMID: 34101089.
• Wikramanayake TC, Rodriguez R, Choudhary S, Mauro LM, Nouri K, Schachner LA, Jimenez JJ. Effects of the Lexington LaserComb on hair regrowth in the C3H/HeJ mouse model of alopecia areata. Lasers Med Sci. 2012 Mar;27(2):431-6. doi: 10.1007/s10103-011-0953-7. Epub 2011 Jul 9. PMID: 21739260.
• Pillai JK, Mysore V. Role of Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) in Androgenetic Alopecia. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2021 Oct-Dec;14(4):385-391. doi: 10.4103/JCAS.JCAS_218_20. PMID: 35283601; PMCID: PMC8906269.
• Finasteride Study Group. (1999). Finasteride in the treatment of men with androgenetic alopecia. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 39(4), 578-589. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0190-9622(99)70016-2
• Leyden, J., Dunlap, F., Miller, B., Winters, P., Lebwohl, M., Hecker, D., … & Waldstreicher, J. (1999). Finasteride in the treatment of men with frontal male pattern hair loss. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 40(6), 930-937. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0190-9622(99)70076-9
• Kaufman, K. D., Olsen, E. A., Whiting, D., Savin, R., DeVillez, R., Bergfeld, W., … & Turtz, A. (1998). Finasteride in the treatment of men with androgenetic alopecia. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 39(4), 578-589. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0190-9622(98)70007-6
• Traish, A. M., Hassani, J., Guay, A. T., Zitzmann, M., & Hansen, M. L. (2011). Adverse side effects of 5α-reductase inhibitors therapy: persistent diminished libido and erectile dysfunction and depression in a subset of patients. The journal of sexual medicine, 8(3), 872-884. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1743-6109.2010.02157.x

4. Red Light Therapy for Brain Health

Studies show that red light therapy can relieve symptoms of dementia, brain injury, insomnia, and Parkinson’s. Case studies and clinical trials have shown that it improves emotional health, understanding conversations, and recall accuracy.

The advances mentioned below were gained with wavelengths and pulsation found in Vielight  Neuro Alpha,  Neuro Gamma, and Neuro Duo. A less costly option is the Nushape Neuropulse, which includes the features of both Alpha and Gamma and Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields (PEMF) therapy.

Dementia

Red light therapy for dementia uses 810 nm light pulsed at 40 Hz to repair neural connections, generate new brain cells, and activate the brain plaque cleanup system.

Although the amyloid plaque theory of dementia was recently thrown on its head, no one debates that dementia brains have toxic plaque. Red light therapy has been shown to reduce both amyloid plaque and tau protein tangles in the brain.

The therapy promotes neurogenesis, the creation of new brain cells, and synaptogenesis, the creation of connections between brain cells. these actions allow the brain to think longer, more deeply, and more accurately.

Multiple studies have demonstrated significant improvements in memory, focus, mood, motor skills, and overall cognitive performance in dementia patients. Neuroimaging studies also showed increased brain oxygenation, neural connectivity, and more gray matter.

Study subjects were less depressed and less anxious, and some returned to their normal daily routines.

Scientifically recorded gains include:

• Gains include: 
  • A measurable reduction in amyloid plaque and tau protein tangles in the brain
  • The creation of new brain cells
  • Increased neural connections
  • An increase in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), essential to the creation of new brain cells
  • An increase in autophagy that cleans the brain of toxins
  • A switch from inflammatory (M2) to non-inflammatory (M1) autophagy
  • A significant reduction in the intestinal flora associated with increased Alzheimer’s symptoms
  • Word recall improvement
  • Spontaneous hugging and smiling
  • Decreased depression and anxiety
  • Restored ability to follow instructions
  • Restored ability to name and draw simple objects
  • A reduction in the dementia score that correlates to the severity of the diagnosis

Brain Injury

Red light therapy can ease brain injury symptoms. You can put the light on the scalp, in the ear, or up the nasal passage. The light in the nose looks silly, but it works. Light therapy reduces degeneration and symptoms of brain fog, depression, insomnia, and PTSD.

Parkinson’s Disease

Many people ask if light can penetrate the skull. The light has to pass through the hair, skin, skull, and dura tissue.

Photobiomodulation (red light therapy) researcher Dr. Michael Hamblin recently stated that about 4% of the treatment light reaches the target brain tissue.

That’s enough to make a big difference for Parkinson’s patients. Research shows that 670 nm red and 810 nm infrared light are especially useful in reducing tremors in Parkinson’s.

Various studies have shown that 810 nm infrared at 40 Hz reduces the severity of Parkinson’s disease symptoms. This includes improvements in mobility, tremors, gait, and other motor functions.

The Vielight Neuro Gamma and Neuro Alpha devices, which deliver pulsed infrared light to the brain and nose, have been used in successful Parkinson’s studies.

A 2021 study had Parkinson’s patients use the Vielight Neuro Gamma on their heads, noses, necks, and abdomen three times weekly for 12 weeks. This led to significant improvements in mobility and balance that lasted at least one year.

A 2023 study in rats found that red light therapy restored locomotor activity, reduced anxiety, and helped normalize neurochemical markers of oxidative stress and neurotransmitter levels.

Potential side effects are mild, such as headaches, light sensitivity, and sleepiness, and are rare compared to pharmaceutical treatments for Parkinson’s.

Research suggests that red light therapy is a safe and effective way to help manage Parkinson’s disease symptoms by improving energy production, blood flow, and neurological function.

Sleep

In several studies, red light therapy has been found to help with sleep disturbances, including insomnia. The therapy has been shown to improve sleep quality, increase ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production, promote brain repair, trigger blood flow, and reduce pain, all contributing to better sleep.

In a study involving seniors with dementia, red light therapy improved cognitive function and sleep quality.

Another study on female athletes found that red light therapy combined with low-frequency magnetic fields improved sleep quality, reduced nighttime awakenings, and increased the duration of deep sleep.

A case study reported that red light therapy helped alleviate sleep disturbance caused by Guillain-Barre syndrome, a condition characterized by pain and insomnia. Red light therapy has shown success in helping patients with fibromyalgia and generalized anxiety disorder improve their sleep.

References

• Pubmed search: ((photobiomodulation) or (LLLT) and (brain ))
• Dementia
  • Chen Q, Wu J, Dong X, Yin H, Shi X, Su S, Che B, Li Y, Yang J. Gut flora-targeted photobiomodulation therapy improves senile dementia in an Aß-induced Alzheimer’s disease animal model. J Photochem Photobiol B. 2021 Mar;216:112152. doi: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2021.112152. Epub 2021 Feb 10. PMID: 33610085.
  • Neuropsych: Chao LL. Effects of Home Photobiomodulation Treatments on Cognitive and Behavioral Function, Cerebral Perfusion, and Resting-State Functional Connectivity in Patients with Dementia: A Pilot Trial. Photobiomodul Photomed Laser Surg. 2019 Mar;37(3):133-141. doi: 10.1089/photob.2018.4555. Epub 2019 Feb 13. PMID: 31050950.
  • Symptom Reduction: Nizamutdinov D, Qi X, Berman MH, Dougal G, Dayawansa S, Wu E, Yi SS, Stevens AB, Huang JH. Transcranial Near Infrared Light Stimulations Improve Cognition in Patients with Dementia. Aging Dis. 2021 Jul 1;12(4):954-963. doi: 10.14336/AD.2021.0229. PMID: 34221541; PMCID: PMC8219492.
• Brain Injury
  • Naeser MA, Martin PI, Ho MD, Krengel MH, Bogdanova Y, Knight JA, Yee MK, Zafonte R, Frazier J, Hamblin MR, Koo BB. Transcranial, Red/Near-Infrared Light-Emitting Diode Therapy to Improve Cognition in Chronic Traumatic Brain Injury. Photomed Laser Surg. 2016 Dec;34(12):610-626. doi: 10.1089/pho.2015.4037. PMID: 28001756.
  • Wu Q, Xuan W, Ando T, Xu T, Huang L, Huang YY, Dai T, Dhital S, Sharma SK, Whalen MJ, Hamblin MR. Low-level laser therapy for closed-head traumatic brain injury in mice: effect of different wavelengths. Lasers Surg Med. 2012 Mar;44(3):218-26. doi: 10.1002/lsm.22003. Epub 2012 Jan 24. PMID: 22275301; PMCID: PMC3397203.
  • Concussion: Chao LL, Barlow C, Karimpoor M, Lim L. Changes in Brain Function and Structure After Self-Administered Home Photobiomodulation Treatment in a Concussion Case. Front Neurol. 2020 Sep 8;11:952. doi: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00952. PMID: 33013635; PMCID: PMC7509409.
  • Figueiro Longo MG, Tan CO, Chan ST, Welt J, Avesta A, Ratai E, Mercaldo ND, Yendiki A, Namati J, Chico-Calero I, Parry BA, Drake L, Anderson R, Rauch T, Diaz-Arrastia R, Lev M, Lee J, Hamblin M, Vakoc B, Gupta R. Effect of Transcranial Low-Level Light Therapy vs Sham Therapy Among Patients With Moderate Traumatic Brain Injury: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2020 Sep 1;3(9):e2017337. doi: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.17337. PMID: 32926117; PMCID: PMC7490644.
  • Poiani GDCR, Zaninotto AL, Carneiro AMC, Zangaro RA, Salgado ASI, Parreira RB, de Andrade AF, Teixeira MJ, Paiva WS. Photobiomodulation using low-level laser therapy (LLLT) for patients with chronic traumatic brain injury: a randomized controlled trial study protocol. Trials. 2018 Jan 8;19(1):17. doi: 10.1186/s13063-017-2414-5. PMID: 29310710; PMCID: PMC5759360.
• Parkinson’s
  • Parkinson’s Progression: Liebert A, Bicknell B, Laakso EL, Heller G, Jalilitabaei P, Tilley S, Mitrofanis J, Kiat H. Improvements in clinical signs of Parkinson’s disease using photobiomodulation: a prospective proof-of-concept study. BMC Neurol. 2021 Jul 2;21(1):256. doi: 10.1186/s12883-021-02248-y. PMID: 34215216; PMCID: PMC8249215.
  • (summary of brain studies) Bicknell B, Liebert A, Herkes G. Parkinson’s Disease and Photobiomodulation: Potential for Treatment. J Pers Med. 2024 Jan 19;14(1):112. doi: 10.3390/jpm14010112. PMID: 38276234; PMCID: PMC10819946.
  • (Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes) Bicknell B, Liebert A, McLachlan CS, Kiat H. Microbiome Changes in Humans with Parkinson’s Disease after Photobiomodulation Therapy: A Retrospective Study. J Pers Med. 2022 Jan 5;12(1):49. doi: 10.3390/jpm12010049. PMID: 35055364; PMCID: PMC8778696.
  • (established safety) McGee C, Liebert A, Herkes G, Bicknell B, Pang V, McLachlan CS, Kiat H. Protocol for randomized controlled trial to evaluate the safety and feasibility of a novel helmet to deliver transcranial light emitting diodes photobiomodulation therapy to patients with Parkinson’s disease. Front Neurosci. 2022 Aug 17;16:945796. doi: 10.3389/fnins.2022.945796. PMID: 36061601; PMCID: PMC9428720.
  • (established safety) McGee C, Liebert A, Bicknell B, Pang V, Isaac V, McLachlan CS, Kiat H, Herkes G. A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study of a Transcranial Photobiomodulation Helmet in Parkinson’s Disease: Post-Hoc Analysis of Motor Outcomes. J Clin Med. 2023 Apr 13;12(8):2846. doi: 10.3390/jcm12082846. PMID: 37109183; PMCID: PMC10146323.
  • rats: Mohammed HS, Hosny EN, Sawie HG, Khadrawy YA. Transcranial photobiomodulation ameliorates midbrain and striatum neurochemical impairments and behavioral deficits in reserpine-induced parkinsonism in rats. Photochem Photobiol Sci. 2023 Dec;22(12):2891-2904. doi: 10.1007/s43630-023-00497-z. Epub 2023 Nov 2. PMID: 37917308.
  • Johnstone DM, Hamilton C, Gordon LC, Moro C, Torres N, Nicklason F, Stone J, Benabid AL, Mitrofanis J. Exploring the Use of Intracranial and Extracranial (Remote) Photobiomodulation Devices in Parkinson’s Disease: A Comparison of Direct and Indirect Systemic Stimulations. J Alzheimers Dis. 2021;83(4):1399-1413. doi: 10.3233/JAD-210052. PMID: 33843683.
  • (75% improvement rats) Salehpour F, Hamblin MR. Photobiomodulation for Parkinson’s Disease in Animal Models: A Systematic Review. Biomolecules. 2020 Apr 15;10(4):610. doi: 10.3390/biom10040610. PMID: 32326425; PMCID: PMC7225948.
  • Mitrofanis J. Why and how does light therapy offer neuroprotection in Parkinson’s disease? Neural Regen Res. 2017 Apr;12(4):574-575. doi: 10.4103/1673-5374.205092. PMID: 28553332; PMCID: PMC5436350.
  • Johnstone D, Coleman K, Moro C, Torres N, Eells J, Baker GE, Ashkan K, Stone J, Benabid A, Mitrofanis J. The potential of light therapy in Parkinson’s disease. ChronoPhysiology and Therapy. 2014;4:1-14
    https://doi.org/10.2147/CPT.S57180
  • Wharthen, Brett. Wearing a red light bucket hat on your head for Parkinson’s, Parkinsons.FIT, 2019
  • Hamilton, Catherine, Evolution of red/near infrared light hats, Red Lights on the Brain, 2015
• Brain Disorders
  • Hamblin MR. Shining light on the head: Photobiomodulation for brain disorders. BBA Clin. 2016 Oct 1;6:113-124. doi: 10.1016/j.bbacli.2016.09.002. PMID: 27752476; PMCID: PMC5066074.
  • Montazeri K, Farhadi M, Fekrazad R, Akbarnejad Z, Chaibakhsh S, Mahmoudian S. Transcranial photobiomodulation in the management of brain disorders. J Photochem Photobiol B. 2021 Aug;221:112207. doi: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2021.112207. Epub 2021 May 5. PMID: 34119804.
  • Johnstone DM, Moro C, Stone J, Benabid AL, Mitrofanis J. Turning On Lights to Stop Neurodegeneration: The Potential of Near Infrared Light Therapy in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease. Front Neurosci. 2016 Jan 11;9:500. doi: 10.3389/fnins.2015.00500. PMID: 26793049; PMCID: PMC4707222.
  • Li X, Liu C, Wang R. Light Modulation of Brain and Development of Relevant Equipment. J Alzheimers Dis. 2020;74(1):29-41. doi: 10.3233/JAD-191240. PMID: 32039856.
  • 2018 meta-analysis: Salehpour F, Mahmoudi J, Kamari F, Sadigh-Eteghad S, Rasta SH, Hamblin MR. Brain Photobiomodulation Therapy: a Narrative Review. Mol Neurobiol. 2018 Aug;55(8):6601-6636. doi: 10.1007/s12035-017-0852-4. Epub 2018 Jan 11. PMID: 29327206; PMCID: PMC6041198.

5. Red Light Therapy for Soft Tissue Healing

Red light therapy assists in the speed and accuracy of soft tissue healing. It helps muscles recover from resistance exercise, soft tissue-related chronic pain relief, sprains, and soft tissue injuries,

Red light therapy helps athletes recover from soft tissue injuries faster.

Studies have shown that red light therapy can do some amazing things for athletes:

• It can reduce the pain from ankle sprains by up to 31% after just six days of treatment.
• It can significantly reduce the swelling and inflammation in sprained ankles.
• Athletes who receive red light therapy for injuries like knee sprains, hamstring strains, and Achilles tendinitis can return to play up to 71% faster than those who don’t use it.

For example, athletes with severe ankle sprains who got red light therapy could return to play in just 12-15 days, compared to 28-42 days for those who didn’t use it.

Red light therapy also works well for common sports injuries like shoulder tendonitis.

One study found light therapy provided more pain relief and improved range of motion better than the anti-inflammatory drug naproxen.

It reduces inflammation and speeds up the natural healing process in injured muscles and tendons.

Combining LED light with other treatments like icing can make it even more effective.

References

• de Moraes Prianti B, Novello GF, de Souza Moreira Prianti T, Costa DR, Pessoa DR, Nicolau RA. Evaluation of the therapeutic effects of led (627 ± 10  nm) on the initial phase of ankle sprain treatment: a randomised placebo-controlled clinical trial. Lasers Med Sci. 2018 Jul;33(5):1031-1038. doi: 10.1007/s10103-018-2460-6. Epub 2018 Feb 8. PMID: 29423840.
• Calin MA, Badila A, Hristea A, Manea D, Savastru R, Nica AS. Fractionated Irradiation in Photobiomodulation Therapy of Ankle Sprain. Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 2019 Aug;98(8):692-698. doi: 10.1097/PHM.0000000000001178. PMID: 31318750.
• Stergioulas A. Low-level laser treatment can reduce edema in second degree ankle sprains. J Clin Laser Med Surg. 2004 Apr;22(2):125-8. doi: 10.1089/104454704774076181. PMID: 15165387
• England S, Farrell AJ, Coppock JS, Struthers G, Bacon PA. Low power laser therapy of shoulder tendonitis. Scand J Rheumatol. 1989;18(6):427-31. doi: 10.3109/03009748909102106. PMID: 2694356
• Haslerud S, Naterstad IF, Bjordal JM, Lopes-Martins RAB, Magnussen LH, Leonardo PS, Marques RH, Joensen J. Achilles Tendon Penetration for Continuous 810 nm and Superpulsed 904 nm Lasers Before and After Ice Application: An In Situ Study on Healthy Young Adults. Photomed Laser Surg. 2017 Oct;35(10):567-575. doi: 10.1089/pho.2017.4269. Epub 2017 Jun 30. PMID: 28677985.
• Stergioulas A, Stergioula M, Aarskog R, Lopes-Martins RA, Bjordal JM. Effects of low-level laser therapy and eccentric exercises in the treatment of recreational athletes with chronic achilles tendinopathy. Am J Sports Med. 2008 May;36(5):881-7. doi: 10.1177/0363546507312165. Epub 2008 Feb 13. PMID: 18272794.

6. Red Light Therapy for Weight Management

Red light therapy can help with weight loss if you follow the protocol. There’s not much science to support it, but I’ve spoken with several people who have used it successfully in their clinics and on themselves.

Studies have found that red light therapy can reduce the circumference the hips and waist.

The proposed mechanism is that the red light therapy causes microscopic holes in fat cells, releasing the fat content. However, research does not support this “fat flushing” effect or other benefits of light therapy for weight loss.

In other words, we know that people lose inches using red light therapy pads, we just don’t know how it works on a cellular level.

Based on reports of people successfully losing fat, follow this protocol to lose inches:

• Use a high-quality device that provides enough light energy (at least 3.6 joules per square cm)
• Avoid heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol before and after treatments.
• Exercise or use a vibration machine after treatments to help move the released fat out of the body and into the lymphatic system for disposal.

Additionally, LED light therapy might help with weight loss in other ways, such as by improving sleep, reducing inflammation, and boosting metabolism.

References

• Neira R, Arroyave J, Ramirez H, Ortiz CL, Solarte E, Sequeda F, Gutierrez MI. Fat liquefaction: effect of low-level laser energy on adipose tissue. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2002 Sep 1;110(3):912-22; discussion 923-5. doi: 10.1097/00006534-200209010-00030. PMID: 12172159.
• Caruso-Davis MK, Guillot TS, Podichetty VK, Mashtalir N, Dhurandhar NV, Dubuisson O, Yu Y, Greenway FL. Efficacy of low-level laser therapy for body contouring and spot fat reduction. Obes Surg. 2011 Jun;21(6):722-9. doi: 10.1007/s11695-010-0126-y. PMID: 20393809; PMCID: PMC5225499.
• Jackson RF, Dedo DD, Roche GC, Turok DI, Maloney RJ. Low-level laser therapy as a non-invasive approach for body contouring: a randomized, controlled study. Lasers Surg Med. 2009 Dec;41(10):799-809. doi: 10.1002/lsm.20855. PMID: 20014253.
• 49 subjects: da Silveira Campos RM, Dâmaso AR, Masquio DCL, Duarte FO, Sene-Fiorese M, Aquino AE Jr, Savioli FA, Quintiliano PCL, Kravchychyn ACP, Guimarães LI, Tock L, Oyama LM, Boldarine VT, Bagnato VS, Parizotto NA. The effects of exercise training associated with low-level laser therapy on biomarkers of adipose tissue transdifferentiation in obese women. Lasers Med Sci. 2018 Aug;33(6):1245-1254. doi: 10.1007/s10103-018-2465-1. Epub 2018 Feb 23. PMID: 29473115.
• 67 subjects: Jackson RF, Dedo DD, Roche GC, Turok DI, Maloney RJ. Low-level laser therapy as a non-invasive approach for body contouring: a randomized, controlled study. Lasers Surg Med. 2009 Dec;41(10):799-809. doi: 10.1002/lsm.20855. PMID: 20014253.
• 34 subjects: Alizadeh Z, Halabchi F, Bodaghabadi Z, Zarandi MM, Abolhasani M, Seifi V, Khazaei R, Ghanadi S, Mazaheri R, Tabesh MR. Non-invasive Body Contouring Technologies: An Updated Narrative Review. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2024 Feb;48(4):659-679. doi: 10.1007/s00266-023-03647-x. Epub 2023 Sep 25. PMID: 37749418.
• 40 subjects: Caruso-Davis MK, Guillot TS, Podichetty VK, Mashtalir N, Dhurandhar NV, Dubuisson O, Yu Y, Greenway FL. Efficacy of low-level laser therapy for body contouring and spot fat reduction. Obes Surg. 2011 Jun;21(6):722-9. doi: 10.1007/s11695-010-0126-y. PMID: 20393809; PMCID: PMC5225499.

7. Red Light Therapy for Eye Health

Red light therapy can potentially help with eye health. Having said that, I do not write about the studies because treating your own eyes is DANGEROUS. I will happily share the articles with anyone who wants to take them to the eye doctor.

Please don’t treat your own eyes. If the light is too bright, you can permanently damage them and blind yourself.

The rule is to close your eyes and wear safety goggles if you have to squint.

Syntonics is the branch of vision science that uses light to assist in healing eye issues. One of the most interesting aspects of this field is that light through the eyes invokes hormonal responses. Therefore, a light therapy session for the eyes can easily affect melatonin. Syntonics also treat eye muscle and nerve issues such as lazy eye and focusing problems.

CAUTION! Light therapy is generally safe, but it can damage eyes. Lasers can certainly damage eyes under the best of circumstances.

LEDs are generally too weak to damage vision, but brightness can get very strong. There is NO POINT in risking your eyesight, which will only make a cognitive issues suck more when you’re half-blind, too.

Studies support using light to help eye conditions, but not without caution.

Author and light expert Jon Iovine compares a typical panel’s 850 nm output with sunlight. He finds that a panel’s infrared light is much greater than typical sun exposure in the same amount of time.

He cautions that the 850 nm light portion of typical panels is greater than IEEE standards for infrared exposure to the eye.

WARNING! PLEASE DON’T SHINE LIGHTS AT YOUR EYES. PLEASE CONSULT A DOCTOR BEFORE USING LIGHTS FOR YOUR EYES. THE SAFETY IS NOT A SETTLED SCIENCE.

References

• Shinhmar, C. Hogg, M. Neveu, G. Jeffery Weeklong improved colour contrasts sensitivity after single 670 nm exposures associated with enhanced mitochondrial function Sci. Rep., 11 (2021), p. 22872, jdoi 10.1038/s41598-021-02311-1
• Moos WH, Faller DV, Glavas IP, Harpp DN, Kamperi N, Kanara I, Kodukula K, Mavrakis AN, Pernokas J, Pernokas M, Pinkert CA, Powers WR, Sampani K, Steliou K, Tamvakopoulos C, Vavvas DG, Zamboni RJ, Chen X. Treatment and prevention of pathological mitochondrial dysfunction in retinal degeneration and in photoreceptor injury. Biochem Pharmacol. 2022 Jul 12;203:115168. doi: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115168. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 35835206.
• Using Light (Sunlight, Blue Light & Red Light) to Optimize Health, Huberman Lab Podcast #68, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UF0nqolsNZc and https://hubermanlab.com/using-light-sunlight-blue-light-and-red-light-to-optimize-health/
• The Dangers of Infrared Light (IR) in Red Light Therapy (RLT)
• Optically Improved Mitochondrial Function Redeems Aged Human Visual Decline
• Low-level laser therapy improves vision in patients with age-related macular degeneration
• Low-level laser therapy improves vision in a patient with retinitis pigmentosa

8 – Red Light Therapy for Hormone Health

Red and infrared (635 nm and 904 nm) light improve sperm survival, motility, and movement speed. Infrared (780 nm) improves sperm motility calcium factors.

While some studies have examined the effect of therapeutic light on sperm, no studies have tested the effect of red light therapy on testosterone (there are five animal studies and no human studies).

That hasn’t stopped plenty of biohackers from shining light on the boys and enjoying it, too.

The key is to expose the testicles to 6-60 joules of red and infrared light per treatment. A 1939 study found that ultraviolet light exposure increased testosterone levels in rat testicles. Of course, you’re not using UV light, and don’t consider using it unless you want testicular cancer.

A 2019 study found that red and infrared light exposure increased testosterone levels in rat testicles. It honestly never occurred to me that rats have testicles.

A 2014 study found that irradiating human sperm samples with red and infrared light improved sperm motility. A 2022 study found that red light therapy can induce vasodilation, which could enhance blood flow and nutrient delivery to the testicles.

Red and infrared light enhance mitochondrial energy production and nitric oxide signaling in the testicles, which could theoretically boost testosterone synthesis. The evidence is mostly from animal studies and in vitro experiments rather than direct human trials. The mechanisms by which red/infrared light could increase testosterone are plausible, but human research is still limited.

References

• Greenfield, Ben. I Put a Giant Red Light on My Balls to Triple My Testosterone Levels, Men’s Health, 2017.
• Photostimulation as a function of different wavelengths
• Lubart R, Friedmann H, Sinyakov M, Cohen N, Breitbart H. Changes in calcium transport in mammalian sperm mitochondria and plasma membranes caused by 780 nm irradiation. Lasers Surg Med. 1997;21(5):493-9. doi: 10.1002/(sici)1096-9101(1997)21:5<493::aid-lsm12>3.0.co;2-a. PMID: 9365961.
• Moskvin SV, Apolikhin OI. Effectiveness of low level laser therapy for treating male infertility. Biomedicine (Taipei). 2018 Jun;8(2):7. doi: 10.1051/bmdcn/2018080207. Epub 2018 May 28. PMID: 29806585; PMCID: PMC5992952.
• Myerson, Abraham. Influence of Ultraviolet Irradiation Upon Excretion of Sex Hormones in the Mail. Journal of Endocrinology, 1939. https://doi.org/10.1210/endo-25-1-7
• Sullivan ME, Thompson CS, Dashwood MR, Khan MA, Jeremy JY, Morgan RJ and Mikhailidis DP.  Nitric oxide and penile erection: Is erectile dysfunction another manifestation of vascular disease? Cardiovascular Research, Volume 43, Issue 3, August 1999, Pages 658-665, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0008-6363(99)00135-2
• Salman Yazdi R, Bakhshi S, Jannat Alipoor F, Akhoond MR, Borhani S, Farrahi F, Lotfi Panah M, Sadighi Gilani MA. Effect of 830-nm diode laser irradiation on human sperm motility. Lasers Med Sci. 2014 Jan;29(1):97-104. doi: 10.1007/s10103-013-1276-7. Epub 2013 Feb 14. PMID: 23407899.

9 – Red Light Therapy for The Mouth and Gums

Red light therapy helps with tooth and gum health.

Blue, red, and infrared light support cell health in gum tissue and bones. This can help reverse receding gums and reduce tooth sensitivity.

The light reduces inflammation and pain signals. The blue kills harmful oral bacteria, helping to prevent and treat conditions like gum disease and dental caries.

Key benefits of LED therapy for oral health include:

• Restoring receding gums
• Reducing the severity of periodontal disease
• Eliminating bad breath
• Reducing unwanted oral bacteria
• Brightening teeth
• Reducing tooth sensitivity
• Reducing discomfort and post-surgery pain

References

• Cardoso MEOP, Takeuchi EV, Alencar CM, de Mesquita RA, Alves EB, Silva CM. The effect of photobiomodulation therapy associated with casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate fluoride paste on the treatment of posthome whitening tooth sensitivity and color change: A randomized clinical trial. Clin Exp Dent Res. 2024 Feb;10(1):e817. doi: 10.1002/cre2.817. PMID: 38345511; PMCID: PMC10828902.
• Rech CA, Pansani TN, Cardoso LM, Ribeiro IM, Silva-Sousa YTC, de Souza Costa CA, Basso FG. Photobiomodulation using LLLT and LED of cells involved in osseointegration and peri-implant soft tissue healing. Lasers Med Sci. 2022 Feb;37(1):573-580. doi: 10.1007/s10103-021-03299-w. Epub 2021 Apr 12. PMID: 33844114.
• Ebrahimi P, Hadilou M, Naserneysari F, Dolatabadi A, Tarzemany R, Vahed N, Nikniaz L, Fekrazad R, Gholami L. Effect of photobiomodulation in secondary intention gingival wound healing-a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Oral Health. 2021 May 13;21(1):258. doi: 10.1186/s12903-021-01611-2. PMID: 33985492; PMCID: PMC8120828.
• Brannstrom M. The hydrodynamic theory of dentinal pain: sensation in preparations, caries, and the dentinal crack syndrome. J Endod. 1986 Oct;12(10):453-7. doi: 10.1016/S0099-2399(86)80198-4. PMID: 3465849.
• West NX, Lussi A, Seong J, Hellwig E. Dentin hypersensitivity: pain mechanisms and aetiology of exposed cervical dentin. Clin Oral Investig. 2013 Mar;17 Suppl 1:S9-19. doi: 10.1007/s00784-012-0887-x. Epub 2012 Dec 9. PMID: 23224116.
• Favaro Zeola L, Soares PV, Cunha-Cruz J. Prevalence of dentin hypersensitivity: Systematic review and meta-analysis. J Dent. 2019 Feb;81:1-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jdent.2018.12.015. Epub 2019 Jan 11. PMID: 30639724.
• Nammour S, El Mobadder M, Namour M, Brugnera Junior A, Zanin F, Brugnera AP, Geerts S, Namour A. Twelve-Month Follow-Up of Different Dentinal Hypersensitivity Treatments by Photobiomodulation Therapy, Nd:YAG and Nd:YAP Lasers. Life (Basel). 2022 Nov 30;12(12):1996. doi: 10.3390/life12121996. PMID: 36556361; PMCID: PMC9784673.
• da Rosa WL, Lund RG, Piva E, da Silva AF. The effectiveness of current dentin desensitizing agents used to treat dental hypersensitivity: a systematic review. Quintessence Int. 2013 Jul;44(7):535-46. doi: 10.3290/j.qi.a29610. PMID: 23616976.
• Guanipa Ortiz MI, Alencar CM, Freitas De Paula BL, Alves EB, Nogueira Araújo JL, Silva CM. Effect of the casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate fluoride (CPP-ACPF) and photobiomodulation (PBM) on dental hypersensitivity: A randomized controlled clinical trial. PLoS One. 2019 Dec 2;14(12):e0225501. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0225501. PMID: 31790452; PMCID: PMC6886796.
• Moosavi H, Arjmand N, Ahrari F, Zakeri M, Maleknejad F. Effect of low-level laser therapy on tooth sensitivity induced by in-office bleaching. Lasers Med Sci. 2016 May;31(4):713-9. doi: 10.1007/s10103-016-1913-z. Epub 2016 Mar 10. PMID: 26964798.
• Praveen R, Thakur S, Kirthiga M, Narmatha M. Comparative evaluation of a low-level laser and topical desensitizing agent for treating dentinal hypersensitivity: A randomized controlled trial. J Conserv Dent. 2018 Sep-Oct;21(5):495-499. doi: 10.4103/JCD.JCD_197_18. PMID: 30294109; PMCID: PMC6161530.

Red Light Therapy Devices

1. For acne, wrinkles, and skin conditions, use a panel or face mask
2. For pain relief and soft tissue support, use a handheld or pad
3. For brain health, use a headset or wrap
4. For hair growth, use a cap or helmet
5. For muscle and soft tissue energy and recovery, use a handheld, panel, or pad.
6. Use a wrap (belt or pad) for weight loss.

Panel

The most popular therapy device is the large panel that shines on half or 3/4 of the body.

Despite its popularity, I don’t have any large red light therapy panels. I do have tabletops. I like therapy devices that direct my energy to the area of concern. I use pads, handheld panels, handhelds, and bulbs. They are much less expensive than large panels.

Panels have their place. If you want to reach large areas with your red light therapy, there’s no better design than a panel.

Face Mask

A face mask concentrates light on the face, and the neck/chest area if you buy an attachment. It helps you get a proper dose of light.

Wrap/Belt/Pad

A wrap or belt embeds LEDs in neoprene for close contact with the skin. A pad has a similar design but is designed to lay flat on the body or wrap around a body part.

Handheld

A handheld concentrates light on the target. It’s good for small areas especially when working on acute pain and soft tissue repair.

Bulb

Bulbs are by far the cheapest red light therapy option but are still versatile and worthwhile for chronic pain and acne and wrinkle skincare.

What Makes a Good Light?

• Wavelengths: the wavelengths that match your goal
• Power density: the power density at the distance you will be from your device during use to impart the correct amount of photons (joules) in the treatment time
• EMFs: low to no unwanted electromagnetic fields (EMFs) which can interfere with health
• UVs: no UV light, which can also interfere with health
• Solid build: a device design compatible with your treatment goal
• Quality: quality materials
• Trust: from a trusted vendor

Beware of Heat

Photons heal. Healing may begin if they have the therapeutic wavelengths and are transmitted to the target sufficiently.

Light therapy is non-thermal. If the light source gives off heat, the photon energy is altered before reaching the target. Heat can be healing, but it is not light therapy.

Color + Infrared = Good

Healing wavelengths are scattered throughout the electromagnetic spectrum’s blue, green, amber, red, and infrared ranges. Our body responds to a range of wavelengths in each spot, so you do not need to get a 650 nm device because that’s “the” wavelength. There are ideal wavelengths, but LEDs emit ranges of light waves in and around the ideal target, and that is good enough.

Power Density is the Delivery Size

Power Density is not the device’s wattage. There is no way to derive power density from watts input into the device. The device’s internals are a black box that yields a stepped-down amount of photons toward the target. The manufacturer has to tell you the lamp’s power density.

Vendors Overstate Power Density

Power density is the light that reaches the target from a given distance. A lamp that emits 50 mW/cm^2 at 6 inches delivers 50 milliwatts of energy per squared centimeter of the target when the lamp and target are 6 inches apart. There’s a huge problem with power density in the consumer market.

It is almost universally overstated. One reason is that cheap solar meters overstate power density by a factor of at least two. So, any power density measured with a solar meter is no more than half the stated amount.

Phone Screen?

The red wallpaper on your phone can have positive psychological effects. However, those effects are not red light therapy. For that to happen, the light from the phone would have to meet specific wavelength and energy requirements. A phone screen does not have enough energy to have a biological effect.

Light Bulbs?

Unfortunately, light bulbs are not strong or focused enough to allow light to absorb into the mitochondria. You will have the same issue with weak LEDs.

It doesn’t heal with what color hits the eyeball or because something is red. If an incandescent, fluorescent, or LED bulb is therapeutic, that’s a coincidence and not by design.

The device to measure wavelengths (a spectrophotometer) is expensive, and I don’t have one. If I did, I could tell you what wavelengths a light emits. Does that mean it is emitting enough of that wavelength? At a high enough power to get a good dose in 5 to 30 minutes? I don’t know.

Red clothing, images, cell phone lights, and everything else are psychologically interesting as color therapy, but these are not therapeutic lamps. Painting a bulb does not change the wavelengths emitted from it, and filtering does not change the wavelengths.

A proper therapy lamp has the right wavelengths and power to deliver the target between 0.5 and 65 joules of light. However, a lamp’s power density cannot be determined from its wattage. The manufacturer must state the light’s power density, or you must measure it. It is much easier to buy a cheap therapy bulb.

Lasers?

LEDs and lasers work and provide the same health effects. Low-level light therapy works best when applied with low energy, not high energy.

The first principle of light therapy is that the body must absorb the photons to create a response. The second principle is that too many photons stop (and often reverse) the healthy response.

How do you get enough photons with a weaker device? You do this by spending more time spreading light onto the target using the weaker lamp.

• LED does not burn the skin
• LED is much cheaper than laser
• LED is available to the consumer

Cheap Therapy Lamps?

You do not need an expensive lamp to get benefits, but you cannot use just any lamp with blue, green, red, or infrared light. The issues are:

• the light might not emit the right wavelength
• the lamp might not have enough power

There’s nothing special about LEDs and light therapy; they are not required as the only alternative to doctor’s office lasers. But they do offer something you won’t get in a household lamp. LEDs can emit specific wavelengths (usually give or take up to 20 nanometers), and that’s very specific.

That specificity is necessary to get the same absorption as we know works from the studies. Multichromatic lights (of many colors) can interfere with absorption as wavelengths cancel each other out.

Plant Grow Bulbs?

You can successfully use plant grow lights for home therapy, and many people do. Grow light manufacturers often sell their plant lights as therapeutic devices because the wavelengths appropriate to plants and humans overlap.

CAUTION: DO NOT USE GROW LIGHTS WITH ULTRAVIOLET WAVELENGTHS. UV is bad, mmkay?

Grow lights usually offer wavelengths between 400 and 700 nm, encompassing blue, green, red, and orange. Therapy lights usually have 400 to 850 nm wavelengths, which add to the infrared range of electromagnetic fields.

Light is useful for treating skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and rosacea.

The Mars Hydro SP3000 doesn’t state the wavelengths in the description, but they are listed in one of the product images. According to that graphic, the SP3000 has the following wavelengths:

• 260-400 nm UV
• 660 nm red
• 730 nm infrared

The 660 nm and 730 nm are healing. The 260-400 nm are dangerous.

Sunlight?

We know that we are not getting enough sunlight from two global phenomena.

First, when we treat body areas with red light therapy, the mitochondria at these target points increase the production of ATP. If we were getting enough red and infrared photons, the mitochondria would not increase production; they would already be at full capacity.

Second, we have a global vitamin D deficiency epidemic.

Red light therapy does not induce the production of vitamin D. The point is that if people were getting sufficient sunlight, there would be no worldwide vitamin D deficiency. Fires emit infrared, which imparts a warm, calm feeling to the body. Infrared warmth is healing but not the healthy part of infrared light therapy. When using infrared for its photons (light), the photons heal.

When using infrared light for its photons, heat can be counterproductive. Infrared can help heal skin issues when used as a light. When used as heat, however, it can cause minor skin issues. It’s almost impossible for people outside the equator and tropical areas to get enough sunlight. In colder weather, people cover sun-absorbing skin.

In warmer weather, people wear sunblock to avoid harmful UVs. Red and infrared are beneficial, but UV can be harmful. Sunrise and sunset light have greater reds and less UV. A 15-minute session with a red/infrared lamp gives a day of sunlight without UV to the human body.

References

• Sunlight and health: shifting the focus from vitamin D3 to photobiomodulation by red and near-infrared light
• Sunlight, ultraviolet radiation, vitamin D and skin cancer: how much sunlight do we need?
• Infrared and skin: Friend or foe
• The role of near infrared radiation in photoaging of the skin
• The role of latitude, ultraviolet radiation exposure and vitamin D in childhood asthma and hayfever: an Australian multicenter study
• Seasonal Affective Disorder: An Overview of Assessment and Treatment Approaches

DIY Lamps?

You can build your therapy device. That is the purpose of the Red Light Therapy DIY group on Facebook.

Resources

• Red Light Therapy DIY on Facebook
• Wendy Zelmer on YouTube
• Inflammation Coach

Wavelengths and Their Benefits

• Red and infrared light are universal healers. They should be included in any red light therapy device.
• Blue light is antibacterial and more energetic than red and infrared light. You should use blue light for skin conditions such as dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, and acne. If your red and infrared light doesn’t have blue, it should still be useful in reducing symptoms. Blue adds power and amplifies the effects.
• Green light is soothing to the skin and brain. Its wavelength is FDA-approved for migraine reduction. Your red and infrared devices will work without green, but adding this wavelength will add power to smooth skin tone and relieve stress.
• Yellow light is also soothing to the skin. It can transform dullness or redness into a healthy glow. Red and infrared do much heavy lifting, but adding yellow improves the results.

Remembering that red and infrared are doing most of the work, here is how to choose red light therapy wavelengths:

Red light for skin, pain, and hair:

• Superficial skin conditions, including wrinkles, lines, sagging, acne, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and rosacea
• Chronic and acute pain relief
• Hair growth

Infrared light for skin, pain, and brain support:

• Deeper skin conditions, including wrinkles, lines, sagging, acne, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and rosacea
• Chronic and acute pain relief
• Brain support for dementia, Parkinson’s, and brain injury

Blue light for skin:

• Extra support for chronic skin conditions, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and rosacea

Green light for skin and migraines:

• Extra support for reducing redness and dullness
• Migraine support

Yellow light for skin:

• Extra support for reducing redness and dullness

How to Use Red Light Therapy

• How to Use a Panel
• How to Use a Face Mask
• How to Use a Handheld
• How to Use a Headset
• How to Use a Hat
• How to Use a Belt/Wrap/Pad

Side Effects and Cautions

We don’t have enough evidence that shining a therapy light on a tumor is safe. Logically, it is UNSAFE, but the guru of light therapy, Dr. Michael Hamblin, is not overly cautious.

Cancer

At a seminar in 2020, Dr. Hamblin stated he believed the good outweighed possible harm, as red light therapy is extremely good at treating the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Dr. Michael Hamblin said:

“Light therapy could not conceivably cause cancer… It’s entirely possible that light therapy makes an existing tumor grow faster.

It’s not a great idea to put it directly on a tumor, but putting it on your thymus is a good idea.

It could also be beneficial by increasing the local area of the immune system so that it can fight cancer better. There are some studies on infrared light therapy in advanced cancer and preliminary studies have been positive. But at this stage, it’s too early to say if it can benefit or not.”

Light therapy, in general, and red light therapy, in particular, has few side effects or contraindications.

People with cancer should consult their doctors before using red light therapy. Do not irradiate tumors.

References

• Michael Hamblin Interview: Infrared Therapy Expert
• Mitochondrial metabolism and cancer
• Low level laser therapy/photobiomodulation in the management of side effects of chemoradiation therapy in head and neck cancer: part 1: mechanisms of action, dosimetric, and safety considerations

Blue Light

Blue can and infrared might hurt the eyes. Blue light reduces melatonin production and so causes insomnia. Infrared light has been used to improve eyesight; however, there is not enough evidence that it is safe for everyone.

Photosensitive Medications

People on photosensitive medications might have photosensitive reactions using light therapy. Photosensitive medications cause unwanted biological reactions when the body is exposed to certain kinds of light. The heat from infrared — not the light photons but the heat — can cause skin aging.

References

• Drug-induced photosensitivity: culprit drugs, management and prevention
• Laser therapy and photosensitive medication: a review of the evidence

Some therapeutic lights emit unwanted electromagnetic fields (EMFs). EMFs aren’t good or bad except in how the body responds to them. We are bathed in EMFs from wireless, cell phones, and Bluetooth. Are we dropping dead? No, Yes, and Sort of.

While the EMFs emitted from low-power devices are non-ionizing, this doesn’t mean they’re safe. Leaving a cell phone in your pocket long enough will reduce your hip bone mass.

A multi-year study of cell phone use concluded in its abstract that cell phones probably did not cause cancer. The authors worked so hard to turn the data into submission that they concluded cell phones PREVENT cancer. Meanwhile, if you read the data, you found that 40% of heavy cell phone users who always used their phones to their ears developed glia blastoma, a fatal brain tumor.

Cell phone radiation is non-ionizing, which does not stop it from being dangerous. The lengths these authors went to appease their telecom Gods are downright fraud. But I digress.

So yes, non-natural EMFs can cause damage to biological creatures, including humans. I don’t know if the EMFs emitted from therapeutic lights cause damage, but I’d still rather not have one hugged to my body. This is a shame because Dr. Michael Hamblin said at a conference last year that he’d like to see people who stand in front of lamps hug them to their bodies.

Dr. Hamblin specializes in photonic biology and did not address the EMF elephant in the room. So I’ll sort this out so you can make an intelligent choice. Any device that uses electricity from the wall cycles at 60 Hz (America) or 50 Hz (everywhere else) alternating current.

Transformers of such devices usually put off non-natural EMFs. Any device with a fan uses electric current to run the motor, potentially outputting non-natural EMFs in the process. Man-made devices can emit polarized EMFs, which increase biological activity.

Constructive interference amplifies field intensity and alters the body’s cells’ electromagnetic balance. Therapeutic lamps are man-made; are we doomed? No, not all man-made devices affect biological activity. Therapy lamps powered by BATTERY or USB CORD will likely be safe from unwanted EMFs.

References

• Polarization: A Key Difference between Man-made and Natural Electromagnetic Fields, in regard to Biological Activity
• Mobile Phones [Don’t] Cause Brain Tumors (study summary)
• How a Canary in the Coal Mine Transformed Red Light Therapy Engineering

Conclusion

As you’ve learned from this comprehensive guide, red light therapy offers a range of potential health benefits. This non-invasive treatment has shown promise in improving skin health, managing pain, supporting brain function, and promoting hair growth.

You’ve seen how red light therapy works by stimulating cellular function through light absorption in the mitochondria, leading to increased ATP production and beneficial biological responses. The guide has taught you about different types of devices – panels, face masks, wraps, handhelds, and bulbs – each suited for specific uses.

Remember to wear eye protection and avoid using red light therapy with cancer or while taking photosensitive medications. While red light therapy is generally safe, it’s not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for serious conditions.

I can help you find the right device for your needs. Just contact me using the form.