An accessible treatment proven to boost muscle recovery, improve skin health, and promote psychological benefits. Will red light therapy be an addition to your wellness routine?
Red light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses low levels of red light to promote cellular health and repair. While it’s been used for decades in medical settings, it’s recently gained popularity as a potential anti-aging and wellness tool.
How Does Red Light Therapy Work?
Red light therapy (RLT) delivers specific wavelengths of light to the body. These wavelengths are absorbed by cells, stimulating mitochondria. This increased energy production can lead to a range of benefits, including:
- Increased collagen production: Collagen is a protein that gives skin its structure and elasticity. RLT can stimulate collagen production, reducing wrinkles and improving skin texture.
- Reduced inflammation: RLT reduces inflammation throughout the body, which can benefit conditions like arthritis and muscle soreness.
- Improved wound healing: Accelerate the healing process by increasing blood flow and promoting tissue growth.
- Enhanced mood: Some studies suggest it may help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
- Faster Muscle Recovery: Enhances blood flow and reduces oxidative stress, accelerating recovery after workouts.
- Hair Growth: RLT has been used to stimulate hair follicles in individuals experiencing hair loss.
Scientific Evidence for Red Light Therapy
Throughout my athletic career I had to resort to many medications just to get through practice or games. The side-effects begin stacking up and health issues arise outside of the game. This was when I was obediently taking what was prescribed to me, and not doing my own research on how I can help my health in the long-term, as well as the short term.
A study from 2017 added, “PBM has an almost complete lack of reported adverse effects, provided the parameters are understood at least at a basic level. The remarkable range of medical benefits provided by PBM, has led some to suggest that it may be “too good to be true”. However one of the most general benefits of PBM that has recently emerged, is its pronounced anti-inflammatory effects.”
PBM means photobiomodulation. This is the scientific name.
Red light therapy has been reported to have minimal adverse effects, with proven benefits. The anti-inflammatory and muscle recovery functions would have been incredibly valuable throughout my career. I use it religiously now and I’m glad to share this with you on your journey.
Using Red Light Therapy at Home
Red light therapy devices are becoming increasingly popular for home use. These devices are typically LED panels or wands that emit red light. They are safe and easy to use, with most sessions lasting only a few minutes per day
If you’re considering using RLT at home, it’s important to choose a reputable device from a trusted brand.
It’s also a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that RLT is right for you.
How Often to use it?
The frequency of red light therapy sessions depends on the desired outcome and the device’s intensity. General recommendations include:
- For Skin Health:
• Frequency: 3-5 times per week.
• Duration: 10-20 minutes per session.
• When to Reduce: After noticeable improvement, maintenance sessions 1-2 times weekly are sufficient.
- For Muscle Recovery or Pain Relief:
• Frequency: Daily or every other day, especially after workouts or during flare-ups.
• Duration: 15-30 minutes.
- For Hair Growth:
• Frequency: 2-3 times per week.
• Duration: 15-20 minutes.
- For Sleep and Mental Health:
• Frequency: Daily in the evening.
Red light therapy is a promising non-invasive treatment with a range of potential benefits. While more research is needed, the available evidence suggests that RLT may be an effective way to improve skin health, reduce inflammation, and promote overall wellness.
If you’re looking for a natural and drug-free approach to improving your health, red light therapy may be worth considering.
