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You may have heard about an emerging form of therapeutic treatment with a wide range of proposed benefits. But how many of these claims are research-backed? We wanted to find out. Read on to hear our thoughts and research.
Medical Disclaimer: While we do out best to provide you researched backed information, our articles are just that: informational. Our team consists of members passionate about fitness and wellness, but no doctors at this time. Therefore this article can not and should not be considered medical advice, and we cannot be a judge of whether or not creatine is the best choice for you. Consult a healthcare provider before adding supplements to your daily routine.
In a time where many people are looking for alternatives to prescription-heavy western medicine, new research is emerging on treatments for common ailments.
One of the most popular of these is Red Light Therapy (RLT). RLT involves using LEDs to emit low energy (red) light waves into the body. These light waves impact cellular function, leading to a variety of positive outcomes.
While this subject is still relatively new and needs further research to significantly prove its efficacy, there are some studies that have begun to run/record experiments about the effects of this treatment. Read on for our analysis of RLT's efficacy.
Red Light Therapy Overview
How it Works
It has been known that light has effects on the body at different wavelengths and degrees. Sunlight provides a wide spectrum of light that is essential to well-known bodily functions including: vitamin D production, melanin production, hormone production, and circadian rhythm regulation. Certain ranges of blue light emitted by electronic devices has a negative effect on sleep quality. Ultraviolet (high-energy) light can cause genetic mutations and skin cancer. These are well known and documented occurrences, but little research has been put into the short/long term effects of long wavelength light in the body.
Red Light Therapy (RLT) involves direct and continuous exposure to low-energy (long wavelength) light. Most emerging studies focus on wavelengths in the range of 650 - 850 nanometers. While it is theorized that different wavelengths lead to different benefits, more research is needed to confirm this claim. RLT may also go by: low-level laser therapy (LLLT), soft laser therapy, cold laser therapy, biostimulation, or phototherapy.
While specific use cases are still being researched, there are some observable changes after RLT treatment.
Mitochondrial Stimulation
The most widely agreed upon effect of red light therapy is mitochondrial stimulation. Red light penetrates the skin and interacts with the mitochondria, a cell organelle known as the "powerhouse of the cell". This interactions stimulates the production of Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) which acts as energy for all cellular operations. This increased energy allows your cells to work more efficiently; they complete homeostatic tasks and begin working on repairing damaged tissue.
Fibroblast and Collagen Production
Increased production of fibroblasts, a type of cell responsible for tissue repair, leads to a greater production of collagen. Collagen is a compound that gives support, strength and elasticity to the skin, muscles, connective tissue and bones. The increase of these two factors give credit to many of the claimed benefits: scar healing, less acne, less wrinkles, stronger joints, potential arthritis reduction, and injury recovery.
Other Effects
Other commonly observed effects include reduced inflammation, and increased blood flow around targeted areas. Both of these effects are generally positive and could potentially contribute to more positive health benefits. However, more research is needed before making well-founded claims in this area.
Red Light Therapy (RLT) Benefits
Each of these mechanisms lead to health benefits. While it has not been proven as a treatment for any diseases, there are some healing properties to the treatment.
There has been some research that suggests different wavelengths could have different effects by targeting different levels of the body. Specifically, 650 - 725 nm for skin treatments and 725 - 850 nm for deeper penetration into joints and subcutaneous fat cells. However, more studies will need to be conducted for confirmation.
Skincare
Red light therapy increases collagen and cellular energy levels. This has a multitude of beneficial impacts on skin health. Collagen increases the skin's strength, elasticity, and vitality to fight wrinkling and preserve the youthful glow of healthy skin. In the cited study conducted by Alexander Wunsch, there were identifiable reductions in skin wrinkles after several rounds of red light therapy. While there were not quantifiable measures of success the trials had a significantly high patient satisfaction rating.
The increase in fibroblast cell concentration, in addition to increased energy, allows all epidermal cells to focus on repairing damage. This damage can be related to infections or scarring from various sources. In essence the increased mitochondrial activation from red light exposure can speed up the natural process by which scar tissue fades, and increased fibroblasts provide the collagen for it.
Finally, the anti-inflammatory impact of red light therapy effectively combats acne. While it cannot clean pores from being clogged, the reduced inflammation helps to minimize the visual impact of cystic occurrences. It prevents the formation of large, sore acne marks, and renders small spots nearly invisible. RLT's various, measurable effects are known to have positive impacts on skin health and appearance.
Joint Health
Red light therapy (RLT) could also have positive impacts on joint health, injury recovery, and short-term pain management for conditions like arthritis, carpal tunnel, and tendinopathy.
Collagen is a foundational compound for connective tissues such as tendons and ligaments. Increasing the available supply of collagen producing fibroblasts can help to strengthen joints that are under consistent strain. Strained connective tissue leads to any number of common movement-related aches and pains within the joints. Red light therapy could be a helpful supplement to stretching and performing therapeutic exercises to support joint health and avoid injury.
When the connective tissue within our joints is overstrained, it leads to small tears and sprains that can be painful and damaging to overall health and wellness. Additionally, as our bodies age, the connective tissue wears down and becomes a chronic condition for sore joints. In both of these cases, the area becomes inflamed and painful with continuous use; even with the support of braces.
Red light therapy can potentially combat this process in three key ways. First, collagen and fibroblast production strengthen connective tissues to repair and prevent the erosion of our joint's key cells. Secondly, the increased energy production and reduced inflammation helps the body to reduce swelling and repair any damage to the area. Inflammation is an important component in preventing further injury, but it can slow down the start of the healing process. Finally, some studies have suggested that RLT could reduce the pain associated with conditions related to joint degeneration. While the studies noted pain was not eliminated and it returned after a time of no treatment, it is a positive marker that red light therapy could be an alternative to traditional pain management solutions with more research.
Red light therapy (RLT) is only a supplemental method of supporting joint health. Please consult a medical professional if you are experiencing pain and do not rely solely on RLT as a form of direct treatment.
Weight Loss
Finally, there is a belief that red light therapy exposure could lead to a passive form of targeted weight loss. While the research surrounding this effect is extremely inconclusive, there is a biological basis for the theory. The idea is that the proven effect of increased mitochondrial activation raises the body's basal metabolic rate. The rate that your body naturally converts consumed calories into cellular energy daily to maintain homeostasis.
There are some studies that have tried to measure this change to establish a foundation for the theory, but there is no conclusive research to support the claims. The idea of it being a targeted form of weight loss is even less well established. Red light exposure increases blood flow to the skin tissue and part of this increase is a supply of glucose and other consumed energy sources from the digestive tract.
Red Light Therapy (RLT) Protocols
Please consult a dermatologist before beginning treatment. We are not licensed medical practitioners and this article is for informational purposes only. See sources for more information.
Red light therapy (RLT) is still in the early stages of research for the most efficient and effective protocols. It is currently viewed as supplemental to a primary form of treatment. This means the frequency of receiving the therapy will vary on a case by case basis. When developing your own protocol, it is important to consider various factors of the treatment: frequency, exposure length, light intensity, and desired effect.
The use of RLT is almost exclusively satisfaction-based. Consult with a professional and find a protocol that works for your specific needs.
Red Light Therapy (RLT) Studios
Try and find studios in your local area. They can be found at some salons, spas, gyms, medical offices, wellness centers, and as independent studios. Studios can often be expensive with sessions costing, (based on our research in the local area), anywhere from $75 to $120 per hour. Depending on the studio, there are two different common forms of RLT, direct exposure and indirect exposure.
Direct exposure includes places that use a process similar to a tanning bed, but with a specialty for longer wavelength red light. Indirect exposure usually involves a private room that can be used as a meditative space entirely lit by red light. Depending on the delivery, there may be different protocols for the time, intensity, and frequency of exposure.
Research both methods and decide which better suits your desired benefits. Some key things to look out for are certifications by medical associations or endorsements by medical professionals you trust. Ask your dermatologist for local recommendations.
At-Home Options
There are numerous devices that use led lights to replicate the effect of red light therapy studios: masks, hand-held wands, and panels. If you are considering buying a product for at-home therapy, it is important to do research into the brand/product you are considering. Before looking for a product, you should set parameters for what you want based on your budget and desired benefits. Consult your dermatologist for any of their recommendations or insight into the area.
Some key things to look for are the exact metrics on the wavelength, in nanometers (nm), that the product emits. Research information about the intensity of energy emitted as some products can generate heat or have some high wavelength emission which can be dangerous to your skin long-term. Look for any certifications from medical associations or US FDA approval for safety and effectiveness. Finally, read through reviews for satisfaction ratings by real consumers. Poor satisfaction may be a sign the product does not hit the optimal wavelength or energy thresholds for results.
Stay involved in our community for articles with Vitallis certified recommendations.
Safety Concerns
In regards to the overall safety of the treatment, there are currently no statistically significant concerns for short-term treatment. There is little to no research on long-term side effects. Red light therapy (RLT) is commonly considered to be safe amongst medical professionals in relevant fields of study. Always follow the directions given to you by the provider, and consult a medical professional to be sure RLT is right for you and your condition.
Light Wavelength
Ensure that the treatment you are receiving is at or longer than the recommended 650 nm wavelength. A common misconception is that direct exposure can increase risk of skin cancer as seen with long-term unprotected exposure to sunlight. This does not apply to red light as the wavelengths associated with skin cancer is ultraviolet light in the 100 - 400 nm range.
Overexposure
Another safety consideration applies to direct exposure by applying light emitting devices directly to the surface of the skin. Too much energy when combined with long sessions will produce heat in the lights and this can lead to damage such as skin irritation. Follow the given directions and do not exceed exposure limits set by the provider.
Eye Protection
Whenever dealing with direct application of light, it is important to wear eye protection to prevent any potential harm to ocular nerves. Any product or service that involves direct light exposure to the face or upper body should include specialized eye protection. If not, consider a sleep mask or at least a strong pair of polarized sunglasses.
Conclusion
Red Light Therapy (RLT) uses long wavelength light (650-850 nm) to induce mitochondrial activation, fibroblast production of collagen, and reduced inflammation. It can be found at medical offices, studios, or at-home with certified products. Research indicates high-patient satisfaction and no significant danger when performed as directed by the providers.
Red Light Therapy (RLT) is a new alternative form of treatment with potential applications in skincare, joint health, and weight loss. While there is not a large pool of researched studies, there are proven effects and health benefits commonly associated with those effects. In the upcoming age of alternative forms of treatment, this will certainly be at the forefront of health and wellness protocols.
To read more about health & wellness topics, check out our blogs here.
Sources
Wunsch A, Matuschka K. A controlled trial to determine the efficacy of red and near-infrared light treatment in patient satisfaction, reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, skin roughness, and intradermal collagen density increase. Photomed Laser Surg. 2014 Feb;32(2):93-100. doi: 10.1089/pho.2013.3616. Epub 2013 Nov 28. PMID: 24286286; PMCID: PMC3926176.
Noe Pagan, Camille. “Red Light Therapy: Effectiveness, Treatment, and Risks.” WebMD, WebMD, 14 May 2024, www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/red-light-therapy.
“Red Light Therapy: Benefits, Side Effects & Uses.” Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, 2021, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22114-red-light-therapy.
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