Do you know what red light therapy is? If not, don’t worry; you’re not alone. Red light therapy is a newer form of treatment that is said to have a long list of benefits, including treating anxiety, chronic pain, and mood disorders. But does it really work? In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about it, including red light therapy pros and cons. Read on to learn more!
What Is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy is a form of light therapy that uses red light wavelengths and near-infrared light to improve health and wellness. The mitochondria absorb the red light wavelengths in our cells, which increases ATP production and helps to repair damaged cells. Near-infrared light penetrates more deeply into the body and can help to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and promote healing.
It is also called photobiomodulation (PMB), low-power laser therapy (LPLT) or low-level light therapy(LLLT), and LED light therapy. Red light therapy is a safe, non-invasive treatment that has been used for years to treat various conditions. Red light has many benefits, which is why it is becoming a popular treatment option.
How Does Red Light Therapy Work?
Red light therapy works by penetrating the skin and increasing blood flow to the treated area. The increased blood flow helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Red light therapy also stimulates the production of collagen, which is the protein that helps to keep skin looking young and healthy.
Most red light therapy sessions use a technique called low-level laser therapy, which uses “cold” lasers rather than LED bulbs, and delivers very low levels of red light to the skin. However, newer methods use LED lights that emit red light at a range of different wavelengths.
LED devices are powerful and can achieve results that rival laser treatments. They are safe for both professional and consumer use. Red light therapy differs from laser or intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy because it uses lower energy levels and does not damage the skin.
Red light therapy devices are becoming more popular and are now available for professional and home use. You can find red light therapy devices at beauty salons, spas, and medical offices. You can also purchase your red light therapy device for home use.
Some red light therapy devices are handheld, while others are larger panels that you can sit under or stand next to. The size of the red light therapy device will determine the size of the area that can be treated at one time.
Red Light Therapy Pros And Cons
Red Light Therapy Pros
There are many pros to red light therapy treatments, including
It Helps With Skin Health
RLT can help with skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It can also help reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots and improve skin health. Taking in healthy red light is crucial for skin cells, skin rejuvenation, and healing
Red light therapy has the potential to reach deep below the surface of the skin to repair cells and encourage regular, healthy activity. It also helps restore collagen production, which gives skin elasticity and a youthful appearance.
It Relieves Joint Pain
Red light therapy can help to relieve joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation. It increases blood flow to the treated area, which helps reduce inflammation and promote healing.
It Improves Mood And Energy Levels
Red light therapy can help to improve mood and energy levels. It helps reduce the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs during the winter months when there is less sunlight. Red light therapy can also help to increase energy levels and improve cognitive function.
Red Light Therapy Promotes Muscle Recovery and Athletic Performance
Red light therapy can help to promote muscle recovery and athletic performance. It helps reduce inflammation and pain and increases blood flow to the muscles. This can help to improve recovery time after exercise and reduce the risk of injury.
It is safe and non-invasive
Red light therapy is a safe and non-invasive treatment option. It does not require any downtime, and there are little or no side effects. Unlike some other treatments, red light therapy can be used daily. They’re also quick and easy to do in your home. You just need to make sure you have the right device.
Red Light Therapy Cons
However, there are also some cons of red light therapy, which include:
It is not a cure-all
Red light therapy is not a cure-all and will not work for everyone. Some conditions may not respond to treatment, and results can vary from person to person. While it can provide many benefits, it is not a panacea.
Lack of transparency and honesty in the red light therapy industry
Unfortunately, the red light therapy industry is not always transparent or honest. There are a lot of claims made about the benefits of red light therapy that are not backed up by science. It’s essential to be skeptical of claims that seem too good to be true.
It can be harmful if misused
Red light therapy can be harmful if misused. It is essential to follow the instructions of your red light therapy device and to avoid staring directly into the light. Pregnant women or those who are photosensitive should not use red light therapy.
It can be time-consuming and requires commitment
Red light therapy can be time-consuming. Treatment sessions can last anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour, and you may need to do multiple sessions per week for several weeks or months to see results. This cannot be easy to stick to, especially if you’re busy.
It may not be covered by insurance
Red light therapy is considered a cosmetic treatment, so it is not typically covered by insurance. This means that you will need to pay for treatments out-of-pocket.
It can be challenging to find a qualified provider
Red light therapy is not offered by all dermatologists or skin care professionals. If you’re considering red light therapy, be sure to find a qualified provider who has experience with the treatment.
It is hard to deny the incredible list of benefits red light therapy offers; however, weighing the pros and cons before starting any new treatment is crucial. If you’re considering red light therapy, consult a physician or skin care specialist to see if it’s right for you.
When And How To Use Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy is a safe and easy treatment to use. You must ensure you have a suitable device and follow the instructions. Most devices require that you sit or stand in front of the light, and some devices may require that you wear goggles.
Red light therapy is most effective when used regularly. As stated earlier, treatment sessions can last anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour, and you may need to do multiple sessions per week for several weeks or months to see results. Many people use red light therapy after regular skincare routines, such as cleansing and moisturizing. Some use it after workouts to help with muscle recovery.
Where To Use Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy can be done in several different places, including:
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At Home
You can purchase a red light therapy device for use at home. Home devices are typically small and portable, so you can use them whenever and wherever you like. Be sure to follow the instructions of your red light therapy device and avoid staring directly into the light.
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At A Spa Or Salon
You can also get red light therapy treatments at spas or salons. These treatments are typically done by estheticians or other skin care professionals.
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In A Dermatologist’s Office
Red light therapy is sometimes offered in dermatologists’ offices. These treatments are typically done by a licensed medical professional, such as a dermatologist or plastic surgeon.
Any Adverse Health Effects That Can Arise From Using Red Light Therapy?
While red light therapy is generally safe, there are some potential side effects, such as:
Eye Damage
One of the few risks associated with red light therapy is eye damage. This is because the eyes are susceptible to light. To avoid this, wear goggles or sunglasses when exposed to red light therapy. You should also avoid staring directly into the light. If you experience any discomfort during treatment, be sure to stop the treatment and consult with a medical professional.
Skin Irritation
Some people may experience temporary skin irritation, such as redness, swelling, or itching, after red light therapy treatments, especially if they have sensitive skin. This is usually mild and should go away on its own within a few hours. If you experience any severe or persistent skin irritation, be sure to consult with a medical professional.
Pigmentation Changes
Red light therapy can sometimes cause pigmentation changes in the skin. This is more likely to occur if you have darker skin. If you experience any pigmentation changes, be sure to stop the treatment and consult with a physician.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
SAD is a form of depression related to changes in seasons. It typically occurs in the winter, when there’s less natural sunlight. Red light therapy can help to combat SAD by providing artificial sunlight.
Signs And Symptoms Of SAD
The signs and symptoms of SAD can vary from person to person, but they typically include the following:
-Feeling depressed most of the day, almost every day
-Losing interest in activities that you used to enjoy
-Having low energy levels
-Having difficulty concentrating
-Changes in appetite or weight
– Feeling hopeless or worthless
-Having thoughts of death or suicide
Treatment Of SAD
If you think you may have SAD, it’s important to see a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. They can help to diagnose SAD and develop a treatment plan.
The most common treatment for SAD is light therapy, also known as phototherapy. Light therapy involves exposure to artificial sunlight using a lightbox. A lightbox is a device that emits bright light. It’s typically used for 30 minutes to 2 hours per day.
How Can Red Light Therapy Help Treat SAD?
Red light therapy can help to treat SAD by increasing levels of serotonin. Serotonin is a chemical in the brain that helps to regulate mood. By increasing serotonin levels, red light therapy can help to improve mood and alleviate the symptoms of SAD.
If you’re interested in trying red light therapy for SAD, it’s essential to consult with a mental health professional first. They can help to determine if red light therapy is right for you and develop a treatment plan.
Conclusion
Red light therapy is an excellent cure for many conditions like acne, psoriasis, eczema, wrinkles, etc. Not only that, but it can also help alleviate the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
