Red Light Therapy
How Red Light Therapy Works
Red light therapy works by stimulating the mitochondria, which are the powerhouses of our cells. The mitochondria convert the energy from the red and near-infrared light into ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate), which is the primary source of energy for our cells. This increase in ATP production helps to improve cellular function and promote healing.
Red light therapy also promotes the production of collagen, which is a protein that gives the skin its elasticity. By increasing collagen production, red light therapy can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin tone and texture, and promote healing of wounds and scars.
Pain relief
Consistent red light therapy use relieves pain in the body, including muscle pain from exercise, nerve pain, joint pain, and others. This is caused by an increase in the rapidity of energy production in the cells as a result of RLT stimulation.
Anti-Aging Treatment
Research shows that treatment stimulates collagen production, which can slow down the aging process and in some cases even cause more youthful-looking skin. Collagen production is one of the many positive impacts of energizing and revitalizing the mitochondria.
Faster Healing
This process stimulates collagen production, improves blood circulation, and reduces inflammation, causing a ripple effect that enhances overall health and contributes to faster healing.
Reduced Inflammation
Red light therapy treatment reduces inflammation, thus helping treat a wide variety of conditions that can be exacerbated in an over-inflamed cell environment. This may potentially help reduce the onset of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and more.
Red light therapy for skin
Research shows red light therapy may smooth your skin and help with wrinkles. Researchers think it does this by stimulating collagen production, which helps improve skin elasticity. Research shows it also helps improve signs of sun damage.
Red light therapy for acne
Research has found that red light therapy can be effective for acne treatment. This may have to do with its ability to help reduce inflammation. In addition to helping with active acne lesions, red light lasers may also help treat old acne scars.
Can it cause cancer?
Red light therapy does not use ultraviolet rays, a form of radiation found in tanning booths and sunlight that can lead to skin cancer.
Who should not use red light therapy?
Anyone who takes medication that increases their skin or eye sensitivity should not use red light therapy. Anyone who has a history of skin cancer or eye disease should speak with their doctor before using red light therapy.
The Science
For more information on Red Light Therapy visit the Cleveland Clinic website here