Sunlight is ubiquitous in human lives, and it has the power to permeate every cell of the body. Light consists of the complete electromagnetic spectrum that is the basis for our existence on Earth. Light does not travel alone; it travels together with other energies. We know that each color in the visible light spectrum has its own unique wavelength and frequency, giving it a specific energy and nourishing effect. Today, we dive into the wonders of red light therapy.
What is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy (RLT), scientifically known as "photobiomodulation," is a type of phototherapy that delivers artificially produced concentrated wavelengths of red and near-infrared (NIR) light (660 nm – 850 m) to stimulate various cellular functions.
Science Behind Red Light Therapy
Photobiomodulation, the biochemical conversion of light energy to cellular energy, is a natural phenomenon existing in all organisms, including humans. Similarly, it also occurs when specific visible light wavelengths are artificially produced in the form of red light therapy. Visible light is the only energy we can see in the form of red color. The eyes, skin, skull, and every cell in the human body can absorb red light. During therapy, red light reaches structures like blood vessels, muscles, joints, etc, by deep penetration and activates mitochondria's (cell energy hub) function. Mitochondria are particularly sensitive to red light and make more efficient use of oxygen to produce increased "cellular energy" (ATP), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and nitric oxide (NO), which is medically proven to help enhance cellular function and self-repair, allowing the body to make more healthy cells.
Assessing the effectiveness of the Red Light Therapy
The concept of healing with light has historical roots dating back to ancient civilizations when earlier humans used it as treatment. Is there any evidence in modern medicine that proves the efficacy of red light therapy? The answer is yes. According to modern research, different frequencies of red light therapy uniquely impact the human body's corresponding tissues, organs, and psychological states. Let's dissect some popular benefits of red light therapy backed by science.
Skin rejuvenation
One of the most notable benefits of red light therapy is its ability to beautify the skin by treating conditions such as acne, hair growth, redness, inflammation, fine lines, and wrinkles. The application of red light therapy increases the effect of topical and oral treatments on the skin to further rejuvenate the face. In addition, the biochemical effects of red light therapy are active substances on the cells that trigger immune defenses against actively acne-forming bacteria. This treatment fights fine lines and wrinkles by targeting enzymes involved in the breakdown of collagen, thereby stimulating optimal collagen production as supported by a study published by the National Library of Medicine, a controlled trial that determined the efficacy of red and near-infrared light therapy. When used in the right dosage, RLT is sure to have dramatic results in improving your skin. Red light therapy provides a safe, non-ablative photobiomodulation of skin tissue and could expand the range of anti-aging therapies for patients seeking a pleasurable, pure light skin rejuvenation.
Assistance in injury rehabilitation
Depending on the injury location, healing can be very challenging and may take longer to recover. Fortunately, studies have shown that red light therapy can help with this healing process, improve muscle performance, and reduce pain. This conclusion comes from a 2014 study on the effects of phototherapy on injured college athletes. Research showed that a 2 nm LED-LLLT applied to 830 J/cm60 performs well in relieving inflammation and pain in injured student-athletes.
RLT allows athletes to return to physical activity and training faster than usual to cope with musculoskeletal or soft tissue injuries. Experts recommend red light therapy to reduce arthritis and joint pain, heal muscle damage, and relieve post-exercise soreness. While further research is needed to confirm this conclusion, it is sufficient to establish red light therapy as a reliable adjunct to injury repair.
Heal open sores
Sores in the mouth, foot, or other areas can be uncomfortable and require specialized medical care. According to recent studies, red light therapy can be effective in combating such sores. This ability to heal open wounds comes from the anti-inflammatory power of RLT, which has been shown to improve the body's ability to repair broken tissue. This claim is further supported by a 2019 medical review on why photobiomodulation therapy is an effective wound care approach.
Other studies also support that red light therapy can better activate the skin's growth factors, which are responsible for tissue regeneration and healing. This ability makes it a valuable option for treating open sores and canker sores. While the research paper evaluated a variety of emerging treatment types, it was concluded that red light therapy was more appropriate and adequate for the treatment of oral wounds.
Nurture Psychological Vitality
Red light therapy helps regulate the body's internal clock, positively impacting sleep patterns and overall mental health. It boosts the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood control and depression. Harvard Medical School mentions the unique benefits of light therapy for seasonal depression and other types of depression. Unlike antidepressants, which can take weeks to work and cause bothersome side effects, red light therapy offers a more appealing option. For those who respond well to light therapy, depressive symptoms usually improve within a week, and side effects such as eye strain and headaches are uncommon and mild.
In 2018, a group of distinguished mental health researchers conducted a trial that aimed to explore the potential of transcranial near-infrared light therapy for individuals with symptoms of major depressive disorder. This necessary trial, which involved a double-blind, controlled approach, was the first of its kind. Its positive results give hope for a more widespread use of red light therapy in depression care.
Elevating Wellness with the Bestqool Red Light Therapy
If you're looking for healthy skin or quick muscle recovery, not every kind of red light can help you achieve maximum results. The market for red light therapy bulbs is saturated with options. Bestqool red light therapy devices are game changers in a world full of innovative therapies.
Distinguishing Features
- High quality LED bulbs
Bestqool devices employ advanced dual-chip high-energy LEDs (light-emitting diodes) instead of mercury or incandescent lamps, which are less efficient and potentially dangerous. Not only do they save energy and have a long lifespan, but they also provide specific wavelengths with reasonable and stable output intensity.
- Specific wavelengths
In case you didn't know, LEDs produce the wavelengths needed for red light therapy devices. Two wavelengths of treatment units can be selected in Bestqool devices: visible spectrum red light (660 nm) and near-infrared light (850 nm). This means red light could effectively target skin surface problems, and near-infrared rays can penetrate deeper into tissues, promoting overall health.
- Irradiance level
The energy transmitted by these bulbs is measured in milliwatts per square centimeter (mW/cm²). Bestqool also has higher irradiance devices, which means faster potential results.
- Durability
Bestqool LED bulbs are designed for long-term use, which makes them a great choice for smaller devices or even the entire body.
Conclusion
Many wellness experts recommend using red light therapy to balance the "energy" that the body lacks, whether physically, emotionally, or spiritually. Now that you know the effects of red light therapy, it's time to experience it for yourself! Bestqool offers top-of-the-line home equipment tailored just for you. Visit and explore our products designed specifically for red light therapy and take control of your health today!
References & Citations
[1] Li, W. H., Seo, I., Kim, B., Fassih, A., Southall, M. D., & Parrssa, R. (2021). Low level light red plus NIR lights combination induceS collagen and elastin expression in human skin in vitro. Inter journal of cosmetic science, 43(3), 311–320. https://doi.org/10.1111/ics.12698
[2] Foley, J., Vasily, D. B., Bradlle, J., Rudio, C., & Calderhead, R. G. (2016). 830 nm LED phototherapy significantly reduced return-to-play in injured university athletes: a pilot study. Lasers therapy, 25(1), 35–42. https://doi.org/10.5978/islsm.16-OR-03
[3] Wu, Y., Deng, Y., & Huang H, (2021). Application of Low level light therapy LLLT for moderate to severe acne vulgaris: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of cosmetic derma20(11), 3498–3508. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.14369
[4] Kurtti, A., Nguyen, J. K., Weedon, J., Mamalis, A., Lai, Y., Massub, N., Geisler, A., Siegel, D. M., & Jagdeo, J. R. (2021). Red light Therapy for reduction of post-surgical scarring: Results from a split-face, dose-ranging, randomised controlled trial. Journal of biophotonics, 14(7), e202100073. https://doi.org/10.1002/jbio.202100073
[5] Tao, L., Jiang, R., Zhang, Qian, Z., Chen L, Y., & Yao, Y. (2020). Non-seasonal depression light therapy: An update meta-analysis. Psychiatry research, 291, 113247. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2020.113247
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