One of the most popular remedies and one that can now be easily accessed at home, is Red Light Therapy (RLT), a non-invasive technology. But what is it exactly, and does the science stack up with this hype?
This expert guide will clear the noise. We’ll go over the established rewards, break down the science in easy terms and generally give a clear roadmap on how to pick out the right device, all from an evidence-based standpoint.
What is Red Light Therapy – And How Does It Work?
But before we get into what it can do for you, let’s talk about the "how." Red Light Therapy ( also known as Photobiomodulation or PBM) uses specific wavelengths of red (630-670nm) and near-infrared light (810-850nm) to enhance your body’s natural healing processes.
The reaction also is an attractive example of photochemistry:
Light Absorption: When you shine these particular frequencies of light onto your skin, the photons pass through the dermis and epidermis and are absorbed by a photo acceptor in the mitochondria of your cells called Cytochrome c Oxidase. This is a critical enzyme in your mitochondria — the power source of the cell.
Cellular Energy Boost: This absorption supercharges the mitochondria, enabling them to produce more ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate), which is the fundamental fuel all cells need to function and repair themselves.
Therapeutic Cascade: This boosting of cellular energy produces a cascade of therapeutic effects:
- Reduced Inflammation
- Improved Blood Flow
- Accelerated Repair
Essentially Red Light Therapy is not forcing anything foreign on your body, it just gives your cells more energy to perform their jobs at a higher level.
The Facts about Red Light Therapy
Innovate Skin Health and Anti-Aging
One of the most well-studied and commonly used in Red Light Therapy studies.
Building Up Collagen for Less Wrinkles
Unfortunately, with age comes a decrease in collagen production. That’s where Red Light Therapy comes in as it actually activates fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin. Consistent use may even help by reducing fine lines, increasing firmness and a brightening complexion. This is what makes it a potent, non-invasive anti-aging skin treatment.
Curing Acne & Removing Redness
Red light is also anti-inflammatory and if you have irritated skin, a red light can help calm down your skin; it also has been shown to help with conditions like acne and rosacea. When combined with the blue light, it's even able to kill acne-causing bacteria (making this a great red light therapy for acne scars and active inflammation).
Faster Muscle Recovery and Pain Treatment
This is why you’ll see for Red Light Therapy devices at physical therapy clinics and in professional locker rooms.
Faster Post-Workout Recovery
Red Light Therapy If you have DOMS down to a tee, then red light therapy is the game-changer. It speeds up muscle recovery significantly by decreasing inflammation and oxidative stress of muscles so you can get back to the gym faster.
Management of Chronic and Joint Pain
For those with joint pain related to arthritis and other chronic conditions, such as lower back pain, Red Light Therapy has proven to be a drug-free solution for managing the symptoms of pain. The powerful near-infrared light penetrates below the skin to reach painful joints and inflamed muscles, making it an effective pain relief tool for tight achy muscles and joints.
Support of General Health and Recovery
The advantages extend to more than just skin-deep benefits and far reaching systemic health.
Improving Hair Growth
Can Red Light Therapy cause hair to grow For people who are suffering from thinning or balding of their hair, The Core familial laser has been known as a powerful specific aid to re-energize the dormant follicles. The enhanced flow of blood and cellular nutrients can stall the hair cycle growth phase to produce stronger, longer strands.
Improving Sleep and Cognitive Function
Early evidence has indicated that applying Red Light Therapy (especially in the morning) can support circadian rhythm37. In addition, the use of transcranial applications (i.e. shining light on your head) is being researched as a way to enhance cognitive functioning and brain health.
What to Consider When Purchasing Red Light Therapy Device
Every product seems to offer a dizzying array of options, and no two devices are equal in every respect. Here are the key considerations for making sure you receive a safe and effective product:
Key Wavelengths and Power Density
Make sure the product is shining at 660nm (red) and 850nm (near-infrared), the most beneficial wavelengths to your body! Stay away from ambiguous names (e.g "red light") that have no corresponding nanometers. Equally important is power density (so many mW/cm²), which is how much light energy you are providing for your tissue. When using clinical-grade devices, use enough power (usually 50 to 200 mW/cm² at the surface) ensuring there is an effect!
Irradiance and Treatment Time
All the others answer with power, when you asked about intensity. Intensity is defined as power per unit area. The higher the irradiance, the faster you can “take your dose” of light in a given red light therapy treatment time. Beware of low power devices that require marathon sessions to achieve any benefit.
Quality of components and safety certifications
Seek out a device that employs medical-grade LEDs and that is accompanied by independent laboratory test reports. Safety certifications such as the FDA-cleared or CE-marked symbolize that the device has been tested for both safety and effectiveness.
Navigating the Market: A Look at Reputable Brands
As you do your research, you’ll come across a few big players. Some brands, like Joovv, specialize in large, full-body panels; others offer targeted or handheld devices for skin care. Each of them has its strong points, but the magic number is a brand that marries scientific credentials with clear-cut spec info and user-friendly design — all without significantly inflated costs. The best brand will really depend on what you are looking for, your price point, and the size of area you plan to treat.
Our Perspective: Why We Trust RICIAL
After much deliberation over both science and the market, one brand that seems to check all of our boxes for quality and value is RICIAL.
We do not offer this recommendation lightly. We trust in RICIAL because they have a heart in the right place, and they believe in values which matter:
- Clinically-Optimized Wavelengths:Their devices include the specific 660nm and 850nm wavelengths that are used to get the most clinical benefit, so you know you’re getting what you paid for with your photobiomodulation.
- Clear power output: we provide with the clear power density and irradianc, you can easily calculate accurate treatment times for effective dosing.
- Durable and Well Designed: RICIAL devices, from their palm-sized models to larger panels, are strong, with thoughtful design that includes hands-free stands and long-life batteries.
- Professional Approval: Their devices are backed by the same technology so many professionals use in their clinics, well-suited for anyone looking for professional level RLT from home.
In an industry of smoke & mirrors RICIAL is a refreshing take on getting stuff done. So, if you’re one of those who want Invention over bulls**t advertising – See more information and specifications on RICIAL’s amazing products!
Want to try the advantages for yourself? Discover the RICIAL range of products and find your perfect one for stepping out into wellness consciousness.
