What Is Red Light Therapy?

Red Light Therapy (RLT) is a treatment that uses low-level red light to improve skin appearance. It aids in treating acne, reducing inflammation, shortening healing times post-surgery, stimulating hair growth, and enhancing overall skin regeneration. There's a wealth of ongoing and published research, as well as extensive online discussions about its effectiveness for various health uses. Studies have shown promising outcomes, affirming the benefits of RLT.

How Did Interest in Red Light Therapy Develop?

Originally, NASA experimented with RLT to promote growth in space-bound plants and later to aid astronauts in wound healing. Over time, this spurred interest in exploring further applications. The medical community has widely accepted RLT, particularly in photodynamic therapy, where low-power red lasers activate photosensitizing drugs to destroy diseased cells. It’s used to treat skin diseases like cancer, psoriasis, and acne, as well as for pain relief post-surgery and for other cancer types. RLT is now being explored for a broader range of health issues.

How Does Red Light Therapy Work?

RLT is thought to act on mitochondria, the "powerhouses" in cells, enhancing their energy production. This energy boost allows cells to perform functions more effectively, such as repairing skin, promoting new cell growth, and enhancing rejuvenation. Specifically, certain cellular wavelengths absorb and respond to light, stimulating actions like collagen production, increasing blood flow in tissues, and reducing inflammation.

Is Red Light Therapy Effective?

Most experts agree that RLT shows potential for its claimed uses, although further research is necessary. The gold standard for efficacy studies involves randomized, placebo-controlled trials. Although RLT is still considered emerging, the existing evidence supports its use in many applications, yet more extensive, high-quality studies are needed.

Is Red Light Therapy Safe?

RLT appears to be safe without side effects when used as directed in the short term. It is non-toxic, non-invasive, and less irritating than some topical treatments. Unlike UV light from the sun or tanning beds, RLT does not involve harmful rays. However, misuse—such as overuse or incorrect application—can potentially damage skin or eyes.

What Skin Conditions Can Red Light Therapy Treat?

RLT is used for various skin conditions, including:

• Improving wound healing.
• Reducing stretch marks.
• Diminishing wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.
• Enhancing facial texture.
• Treating psoriasis, rosacea, and eczema.
• Improving scars and sun-damaged skin.
• Promoting hair growth in androgenic alopecia.
• Treating acne.

What Other Ailments is RLT Promoted For?

RLT is promoted for reducing side effects of cancer chemotherapy, such as oral mucositis, and alleviating pain and inflammation associated with conditions like ankle tendinitis, rheumatoid arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and knee osteoarthritis. It's also used to prevent herpes simplex virus-induced cold sores.

What to look for in at-home red light therapy tools？

When shopping for a red light therapy tool to combat inflammation or rejuvenate skin, it’s important to keep the following features in mind:

• FDA approval: When we asked our experts about specific red light therapy tools, all explained that you should seek out FDA-cleared devices. An FDA-cleared device signifies that the brand has gone through the process of submitting its information to the FDA for review, said Bodemer.
• Single color LEDs: While it may be tempting to splurge on a device that offers a rainbow of available light colors, Dr. Bodemer said not to “get wowed by extra bells and whistles,” especially with the lack of studies done on combination lights like purple light. Devices that let you choose one light at a time are preferred.
• Price: Red light therapy devices can range from under $100 to thousands of dollars. Generally, red light therapy wands are the most affordable, and you should be able to get a quality option for under $300.
• Wavelengths: Wavelengths of light are measured in nanometers (nm), and help us understand color temperature at a glance. Red light is found between 620 and 750 nm. Red light therapy devices generally operate around 630 nm. Some devices offer multiple wavelengths of red light, including near-infrared light slightly above 750 nm.

Additional Considerations for Red Light Therapy

When considering RLT, be aware that it generally requires ongoing treatment—typically visits one to three times a week for several weeks to months, depending on the condition. Results vary by individual due to differences in skin types and the specific wavelengths used by different RLT devices. If interested in RLT, consider purchasing devices approved for home use while following all safety instructions.