In a world where wellness trends come and go like passing fads, one practice has steadily gained traction for its promising health benefits: red light therapy. While the concept might sound like something out of a sci-fi novel, red light therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy or photobiomodulation, is grounded in scientific research and has been utilized for various therapeutic purposes. In this blog post, we'll delve into what red light therapy is, how it works, and explore its potential benefits and applications.
What is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy involves exposing the body to low levels of red or near-infrared light. These wavelengths penetrate the skin without causing harm and are absorbed by cells, triggering a cascade of biological reactions. Unlike ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can damage the skin, red light therapy is non-invasive and poses minimal risk of side effects.
Our Mito Red light therapy is 100% UV free and uses only the red and near infrared wavelengths that are clinically proven to be effective and safe. Research shows that these wavelengths used together have the most amazing effects on our bodies. Most wavelengths of light (UV, blue, green, yellow, etc.) are unable to penetrate into the body, instead they stay in the layers of the skin. However, the red and near-infrared light combination are able to penetrate deeper into the human body and are able to reach the cells, tissues, nerves, into the bones and even into the brain!
Red light between 600-700nm offers the benefits for skin texture and tone, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, decreasing the appearance (get rid) of sun and age spots, promoting collagen production and generally rejuvenating the appearance of skin and hair.
Near-infrared light (NIR) between 700nm-110nm penetrates deeper into the tissues to assist with wound healing, muscle recovery, nerve injury, and joint pain.
How Does Red Light Therapy Work?
At the cellular level, red and near-infrared light interact with mitochondria, the powerhouse of cells responsible for producing energy (adenosine triphosphate or ATP). This interaction stimulates cellular metabolism and enhances the production of ATP, leading to various therapeutic effects. Additionally, red light therapy has been shown to modulate inflammation, promote tissue repair, and increase blood circulation, among other mechanisms.
The most well studied benefit surrounding the red and near infrared light therapy is increased mitochondrial energy production in the cells, the energy power plants of all cells in our body.
Red and near infrared light therapy helps the mitochondria create more of that energy. When our cells have more energy, they simply perform better and the body follows suit.
Benefits of Red Light Therapy:
Skin Health: Red light therapy has gained popularity for its potential to improve skin health. It can reduce wrinkles and fine lines, promote collagen production, and enhance skin tone and texture.
Pain Relief: Studies suggest that red light therapy may alleviate pain and inflammation associated with conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and muscle soreness.
Wound Healing: By promoting cellular repair and regeneration, red light therapy can accelerate the healing process of wounds, cuts, and injuries.
Mood Enhancement: Some research indicates that red light therapy may have positive effects on mood and mental health, potentially alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Athletic Performance: Athletes and fitness enthusiasts have turned to red light therapy to enhance recovery, improve muscle strength, and reduce exercise-induced inflammation.
Is Red Light Therapy Safe?
Red light does not carry any known safety risks. While red light therapy providers recommend wearing protective glasses during red light therapy out of an overabundance of caution, there is not even conclusive evidence that red light therapy causes eye damage. In fact, some evidence suggests there may be eye-related benefits to using red light therapy.
What to expect for your Red Light Therapy Session at Wave Wellness
Before
Every client will fill out the online waiver form as part of the booking process. Please plan to arrive 5-10 minutes early so we can check you in and show you to your private red light therapy shower suite.
Suit up**
Turn off or silence your phone.
Adjust the red light time/setting. If a beginner we recommend starting at 2-3 minutes per side, building up your time to 10 minutes as you become accustomed.
Adjust the bed to your comfortable level, ~6-12 inches from the light
Put on your goggles
Start the timer
Switch sides if you wish and repeat!
**required with Red Light Therapy experiences
During- Relax!
After
Take a rinse or cool your body down and refresh with a cold towel (request at check-in). Please leave any towels in the suite and we’ll take care of them. Relax in our community area and be sure to check out our retail area before signing out.
Red Light Therapy Suggestion
First time users: We recommend starting out at 2-3 minutes per side, and slowly working up to a 10-minute session over the course of 2-3 weeks as your body acclimates to the therapy.
Standard Use: We recommend 10-minute treatments at 6-12 inches from the device. Additional 10-minute treatments for specific areas could be beneficial but the scientific evidence points to diminishing returns. More is not always better. For this reason, we recommend you allow at least 6 hours between treatments of the same area. We recommend no more than 15 minutes in any one session on one area. We recommend using the device 4-10 times per week.
Red light therapy represents a promising avenue for promoting health and wellness across various domains. From skincare and pain management to athletic performance and mental well-being, the therapeutic potential of red light therapy continues to be illuminated by ongoing research and clinical applications. As interest in holistic approaches to health continues to grow, red light therapy stands out as a beacon of hope for those seeking safe, non-invasive solutions to enhance their well-being.
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