Red light therapy (RLT) is a form of light therapy that uses red and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular processes and promote healing. It is used to treat various skin, cognitive, dental, and inflammatory conditions. RLT is noninvasive, painless, and does not use heat.
Red light therapy works by increasing the energy production of the cells. The red and near-infrared light penetrate the skin and reach the mitochondria, which are the powerhouses of the cells. The mitochondria absorb the light and produce more energy via adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the molecule that stores and transports energy. With more ATP, cells can function better and repair themselves faster.
Studies show the following benefits of RLT:
1. RLT stimulates collagen production. Collagen gives skin its structure, strength, and elasticity. It also helps with wound healing and reduces scarring and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
2. RLT increases blood circulation to the tissue, bringing more oxygen and nutrients and removing waste products. This can improve skin health, reduce inflammation, and speed up healing and recovery.
3. RLT reduces oxidative stress, which is caused by an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants. Oxidative stress can damage the cells and contribute to aging and disease. RLT can increase the levels of antioxidants thereby protecting the cells from oxidative damage.
More than 5,000 studies have been published about RLT and near-infrared light (NIR) therapy (also known as photobiomodulation.) Many users of these light therapies have reported many unexpected health benefits.
NIR therapy operates similarly to RLT but uses longer wavelengths. Its benefits include:
1. Muscle Performance: NIR applied before exercise may enhance muscle performance, heal injuries, and reduce post-workout pain and soreness3.
2. Cellular Repair: NIR penetrates deeper into tissues, promoting cellular repair and regeneration.
There is even evidence that RLT and NIR help brain function by doing the following:
1. Improved Cerebral Blood Flow: RLT stimulates blood flow in the brain, aiding conditions like traumatic brain injury (TBI) recovery. Increasing blood flow delivers more oxygen and nutrients to damaged brain tissue, which supports healing, and reduces ischemia associated with TBI1.
2. Enhanced Brain Cell Functioning: RLT and NIR stimulate mitochondria in neurons, leading to increased adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production. This metabolic boost improves brain cell functioning and overall cognitive health1.
3. Executive Cognitive Function: A study found that RLT and NIR therapy enhance executive cognitive function in young healthy adults. These findings provide hope for potential Alzheimer’s disease treatment and prevention2.
4. Mild Cognitive Impairment: Infrared light therapy may improve memory and motor function in middle-aged individuals with mild cognitive impairment3. When used properly, RLT therapy holds significant potential for positive cognitive effects. Remember to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen!1
Sunbelievable in Somerville now offers full body sessions in a medical grade Red Light Therapy bed at very affordable rates. You can contact them directly for rates and availability.
155 N. Adamsville Rd.
Somerville, NJ 08876
908-252-1811
1. Red Light Therapy For The Brain: Boost Your Cognitive Function | Therapeutic Beams
2. Red Light Therapy for Brain Health and Cognitive Function. (vitalredlight.com)
3. Dementia: Could infrared light therapy be the future? (medicalnewstoday.com)