Red light therapy (RLT) has already left the realm of wellness Clinique in niche settings and is now in our living rooms, with claims of an improved complexion and an enhanced post-workout muscle healing process. Brands like DNA Vibe are gaining much hype in the USA for overall wellness and muscle recovery.  

Although the idea of using light to heal people is like a novelty that sounds like science fiction, it can be traced back to NASA technology. Initially designed to assist plant growth in space, scientists have found out that high intensity of light emitted by red light-emitting diodes (LEDs) could also be used to facilitate healing in human cells.

This non-invasive treatment is becoming popular today due to its ability to cure a multitude of health issues. In the event that you have ever wondered how sitting before a red light may actually benefit your body, then you have come to the right place. We are unraveling the science and discussing the best health advantages of integrating red light therapy into your health regimen.

What is Red Light Therapy?

Now, before we get down to the benefits it is time to get straight as to what we are discussing. Red light therapy or low level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation (PBM) is the exposure of the skin to low levels of red light.

The red light is harmless and does not burn on the skin unlike the UV rays emitted by the sun that may damage the DNA and lead to skin cancer. Rather, it infiltrates to the deepest part of the dermis. The enchantment occurs on a cellular level. This light is taken up by your mitochondria, the powerhouse of your cells and this generates more energy the adenosine triphosphate (ATP).

Just imagine that you are recharging your battery. Cells with increased energy levels are able to perform healthier, better, and recover more quickly and restore themselves. This cellular amplification forms the basis of the extensive benefit of this therapy.

1. Developing Skin Health and Anti-Ageing.

Skincare is, by a far margin, the most popular application of red light therapy. It has become a household in the offices of many dermatologists in Australia and the beauty salons.

Collagen Production

Collagen is the protein that gives the skin its structure, elasticity and bouncy characteristic that makes us feel younger. When we get older, the production of collagen decreases naturally and thus causes wrinkles and falling. The red light therapy has been found to arouse the fibroblasts that are the cells involved in the production of collagen. A higher amount of collagen will also help to erase any fine lines and wrinkles in the skin to make the skin look plump and younger.

Acne Treatment

Although the blue light is commonly used to kill the bacteria causing acne, the red light is an essential support. It lowers inflammation and erythema related to breakouts. RTL can also become a potent part of a multifaceted approach towards acne treatment by soothing the skin and accelerating the process of acne scar healing.

Wound Healing

Since RLT activates cells, it is capable of accelerating the natural healing processes in the skin at a considerable rate. This allows it to be used as an effective agent in the treatment of sunburns, the appearance of a scar as well as in the treatment of minor burns/cuts.

2. Reduced Inflammation and pain relief.

In case you have a chronic pain or joint problem, the red light therapy may provide you with a drug-free option to relieve pain. Many of the ailments such as arthritis and tendonitis have inflammation as the primary cause.

Red light therapy is effective in lowering the inflammation by enhancing blood circulation in injured body parts. This enhanced circulation of blood and nutrients to the region and removal of toxic wastes.

Arthritis Management

LT is useful in the treatment of individuals with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis to lessen morning stiffness and enhance the movement of joints. It reduces the amount of pain by attacking the inflammation in the deep part of the joint, thus eliminating the side effects that are likely to be experienced during the prolonged use of the medication.

Back and Neck Pain

The back and neck pain are common in the modern sedentary and screen-oriented world. Frequent red light therapy has also been reported to soothe nagging pain in muscles, as well as increase range of motion, making people get back to their daily routines with fewer pain and discomfort.

3. Muscle Recovery and Sporting Results.

It is not only among beauty gurus, but even the elite sportspeople are boarding the red light bandwagon. Recovery is important to performance whether you are a professional footy player or simply like to go on a run over the weekend.

Red light can be used to prepare your muscles by applying red light therapy before exercise and this may avoid injury. Nevertheless, it has the greatest effect after exercise. The key to progress in any physical discipline is more regular training, which can only be achieved through quick recovery.

Read More: Red Light Therapy Wearables vs. Panels: Which Is Better for Pain Relief?

4.Better Sleep and Circadian Rhythm 

Our sleeping habit is being harmed in a world where phones and laptops have switched on artificial blue light. Blue light inhibits melatonin, the hormone which informs our bodies that we need to sleep.

Red light does the opposite. Its colour temperature is a lot lower and it does not disrupt the production of melatonin. The red light in the evenings, rather than cool-colored lights that are bright, may be used to make the body know that it is time to relax.

Other research findings indicate that red light therapy can actually improve the amount of melatonin in your body and help you fall asleep easier and have a better, more rewarding sleep. An easy lifestyle change to consider is beginning to use red ambient lighting during the evening, in case you are having problems with insomnia or an odd sleeping schedule.