In recent years, red light therapy has gained significant attention in the field of alternative medicine and wellness. This non-invasive treatment involves exposing the skin to low-level red and near-infrared light, and it has been the subject of various research studies.
In this blog post, we'll explore the top six benefits of red light therapy, backed by scientific research from reputable sources like PubMed and PMC.
Before we go any further, if you’d like to learn more about how you enjoy red light therapy at home, or install it in your facility, visit the Body Boost Beds page on our website.
More on how photobiomodulation (PBM) benefits your health and wellness…
Chronic pain can be debilitating and have a significant impact on your quality of life. Fortunately, red light therapy has shown promise in alleviating various types of pain. A 2006 study titled Clinical and experimental applications of NIR-LED photobiomodulation suggests that red light therapy can effectively reduce pain in conditions like osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia.
By stimulating the release of endorphins and improving blood flow, red light therapy can provide natural pain relief without the need for medication.
Inflammation is a common underlying factor in many chronic diseases. Red light therapy has demonstrated its ability to reduce inflammation in various studies. Researchers in a 2009 study titled ‘Biphasic Dose Response in Low Level Light Therapy’ discuss how red light therapy can modulate the inflammatory response and may be beneficial for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammation-related skin disorders. They conclude that low levels of light stimulates and repairs tissues.
By reducing inflammation, red light therapy can contribute to overall well-being.
Red light therapy has gained popularity for its ability to enhance skin health. It stimulates collagen production, which is essential for maintaining youthful, healthy-looking skin. Whether you're dealing with acne scars, wrinkles, or sun damage, red light therapy can promote skin repair and rejuvenation. Users have reported improvements in skin tone, texture, and overall complexion.
Research from 2020 highlighted an important role played by PBM in the immune response. By regulating neutrophil accumulation, red light therapy helps to control inflammatory responses to conditions and improve response to illness.
Red light therapy may help boost immunity by stimulating the production of white blood cells and enhancing the function of immune cells.
Athletes and fitness enthusiasts are increasingly turning to red light therapy to enhance their performance and recovery. By enhancing mitochondrial function, red light therapy enables cells to produce more energy, aiding in better physical performance.
A study from 2008 concluded that the mitochondrial electron transport chain is photosensitive to red and near-infrared (NIR) light. Mitochondrial photostimulation has been shown to increase ATP production, which improves energy.
Aging is a natural process, but red light therapy may slow down its visible effects. By increasing collagen and elastin production, this therapy can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps improve the skin's elasticity and firmness, contributing to a more youthful look.
Research from 2023 titled Reverse skin aging signs by red light photobiomodulation exposed 20 women to 2 red light therapy sessions per week for three months. They concluded… ‘All the results observed confirm the interest of using photobiomodulation to reverse the visible signs of aging. These results last for up to 1 month after stopping the use of the mask, which is a sign of lasting structural and functional rejuvenation of the skin.’
Red light therapy offers a range of potential benefits, from relieving pain and reducing inflammation to improving skin health, boosting immunity, enhancing physical performance, and promoting anti-aging effects.
Whilst you should always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment (especially if you have underlying medical conditions), the use of red light therapy can’t be ignored for a range of non-medical benefits.
RP-X are the leading providers of Body Boost Beds in the UK. We have nearly two decades in the space and offer a wide range of turnkey solutions for facilities looking to invest in this technology. For more information on infrared saunas, pricing, and the right model for you, contact us on info@rp-x.com or 01234 862762.