Red Light Therapy Explained

How Red Light Enhances Skin, Reduces Pain, and Boosts Wellness

Heidi Petrusaitis, BSN RN

11/26/20243 min read

The Incredible Benefits of Red Light Therapy: Why You Need It in Your Wellness Routine

In recent years, red light therapy (RLT) also called photobiomodulation has become a go-to solution for enhancing wellness naturally. From reducing inflammation to improving skin health, this safe, non-invasive therapy offers a wide range of science-backed benefits.

Whether you’re seeking a way to recover from workouts, boost your energy, decrease your pain, or improve your sleep, red light therapy can revolutionize your self-care routine.

What Is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of light (630–660 nm red light and 810–850 nm near-infrared light) to penetrate the skin and stimulate cell regeneration. By targeting the mitochondria (the powerhouses of your cells), it boosts energy production, helping your body repair and rejuvenate itself. When the cells are healthy and energized it can optimize how your body functions and how you feel.

Red Light at 660nm is better for skin issues or how I like to think of it as "things you can see."
Near Infrared Light at 850nm is better for deeper tissues, muscles and joints.

Unlike UV light, red light is non-damaging and safe for regular use. Its applications range from skincare to pain management and beyond. There are actually over 2,000 studies on Pubmed on the benefits of redlight therapy. I figured I would highlight just a couple of them below for you.

Benefits of Red Light Therapy

1. Skin Rejuvenation and Anti-Aging

Red light stimulates collagen production, reduces wrinkles, and improves skin tone, making it a favorite among those looking for natural beauty treatments.

Study Link: A 2014 study in Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery showed significant skin improvements after red light therapy: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4126803/.

2. Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery

Athletes and chronic pain sufferers love red light therapy for its ability to reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and accelerate muscle recovery after exercise or injury. Stem cells can be activated, allowing increased tissue repair and healing.

Study Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24049929/

3. Better Sleep Quality

Struggling with sleep? Exposure to red light in the evening can increase melatonin production, promoting restful and restorative sleep.

Study Link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3499892/

4. Hormonal Balance

Red light therapy helps regulate hormones like cortisol (the stress hormone) and supports thyroid health, offering natural support for hormonal balance.

Study Link: A 2018 study in Lasers in Medical Science found red light therapy improved thyroid function in patients with hypothyroidism: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6247385/.

5. Faster Wound Healing and Scar Reduction

Red light therapy accelerates tissue repair, making it ideal for healing surgical scars, acne scars, or minor wounds.

Study Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27943458/

My favorite portable Red Light Therapy

When it comes to at-home red light therapy, Lumebox offer unparalleled benefits:

Clinically Backed Wavelengths: Lumebox uses the most effective red and near-infrared wavelengths for proven results.
Portable and Convenient: Lumebox fits seamlessly into your routine, whether you're at home or on the go.
Low EMF
3rd Party Tested for Safety
Delivers Both Red and Near Infrared Light at the same time for added benefits
Developed by a doctor

If you do decide to try the Lumebox, they did give me a discounted link to share with my community. This link will take $260 OFF at checkout.

How to Use Red Light Therapy

Duration: Use your RedLight device for 10–20 minutes per session.
Frequency: For best results, aim for 3–5 sessions per week or daily if your a go getter!
Target Areas: Focus on problem areas like your face, joints, or muscles.
Consistency is Key: Regular use leads to the best outcomes over time.

Incorporate Red Light Therapy Into Your Wellness Routine

Red light therapy offers a safe, effective way to rejuvenate your skin, manage pain, and improve overall health. Whether you’re a busy parent, a fitness enthusiast, or someone seeking natural beauty treatments, it’s an excellent addition to your self-care routine.

Disclaimer: I love my Lumebox so much that I was able to partner with the company to get you a deep discount on it. If you use my link I may earn a small commission or product credit. By no means feel obligated to use my link.