Start Here: Light Therapy 101 + Buyers Guide

What Is Light Therapy?

Light therapy involves enhancing your health by utilizing specific wavelengths of light. This light is applied to various parts of the body, utilizing particular colors and intensities for effective results.

If you wish to know more about Far Infrared Therapy Products, do not hesitate to contact us.

There are several forms of light therapy, including natural sunlight exposure and artificial tanning beds. However, certain modalities have gained popularity in recent times.

The most recognized modalities are red light therapy and infrared sauna therapy, both praised for their affordability, simplicity, research support, and efficacy.

Red light therapy, known scientifically as "Low-Level Laser Therapy" (LLLT) or "photobiomodulation," employs red and near-infrared light to produce biological effects. Similarly, infrared saunas harness infrared light within their functionality.

This red and infrared light forms a part of the "light spectrum," consisting of infrared light (which intensifies heat on your skin), visible light (the spectrum of colors perceptible to the human eye, such as red), and ultraviolet light (which may lead to sunburn).

Various Administration techniques for light therapy exist, like lasers, traditional light bulbs, and the modern use of LEDs. The rapid technological advancements seen with LEDs—and the subsequent reduction in costs—are significant factors promoting light therapy's migration from clinical settings to private households.

We have composed an extensive blog post detailing the fundamentals of red light therapy, which predominantly utilizes LEDs and lasers to impact biological processes within the body.

Light Therapy vs Red Light Therapy

Light therapy signifies the utilization of various wavelengths from the light spectrum for therapeutic benefits. Below is a representation of that spectrum:

Red light therapy specifically harnesses red wavelengths from the visible spectrum along with a small fraction of near-infrared light, contrasting with infrared saunas that rely on far infrared light.

Conversely, light therapy can involve blue light, green light, ultraviolet light, and more. Essentially, red light therapy can be perceived as a subspecialty of light therapy. A simpler way to put this: red light therapy is just one category beneath the overarching umbrella of light therapy.

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Red light therapy encompasses not only visible red light (600-700nm) but also includes near-infrared light extending to approximately 800nm.

Light Therapy vs Infrared Sauna

Infrared saunas represent a distinct classification within light therapy. These saunas utilize a substantial portion of the infrared spectrum, which can be divided into near, mid, and far infrared categories. While some infrared saunas may also emit limited red light, creating a warm ambiance inside.

Near, mid, and far infrared rays each invoke varied biological effects. Most near and all the mid and far infrared contribute to bodily heating.

This effect arises from the fact that water cells in the body absorb infrared light, causing an increase in body temperature and promoting sweating—this process benefits health in myriad ways.

Infrared saunas provide unique health advantages as a form of light therapy. Various other forms of light therapy also offer health benefits, details of which are elaborated below:

Who Is Light Therapy For?

Inquiring about the beneficiaries of light therapy? The answer is straightforward: everyone can benefit! Just as regular moderate exercise is advantageous for all, a balanced diet aids everyone, similarly, light therapy is universally beneficial.

Different types of light therapies, including red light therapy, seasonal affective disorder (SAD) lights, infrared saunas, and natural sunlight, boast their unique health perks.

Red light therapy is backed by over 8,000 studies demonstrating its benefits in sports recovery, sleep enhancement, inflammation reduction, disease risk mitigation, and improving well-being, skin health, wound healing, as well as brain health.

Multiple studies on sauna therapy show efficacy in lowering health risks (for conditions including heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and respiratory afflictions), aiding weight loss, enhancing skin health, fostering well-being, improving sleep, and more.

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The conclusion is clear: If you are human, light therapy likely benefits you.

Does Light Therapy Work?

Since the mid-20th century, extensive research has been conducted on light therapy, initially focusing on sunlight and ultraviolet light’s impacts.

During the 1960s, lasers began to be employed for health enhancement, primarily utilizing red and near-infrared light. Since the 2000s, LEDs have seen a remarkable decline in price, making them more accessible as consumer products.

As mentioned, more than 8,000 studies have predominantly explored red and near-infrared light, the majority displayed positive outcomes—these findings are catalogued in a comprehensive spreadsheet by Vladimir Heiskanen, showcasing over 90% positive results.

Furthermore, numerous studies investigate sauna therapy, often depicting favorable outcomes.

Thus, the evidence overwhelmingly supports the efficacy of light therapy. Anecdotal experiences tell similar sentiments, with countless individuals reporting life-altering improvements following the acquisition of red light therapy devices or infrared saunas.

Next, let’s delve into the mechanisms behind its functioning:

How Light Therapy Works

Light therapy operates through several mechanisms, wherein different wavelengths of light penetrate body tissues at varying depths.

For instance, infrared light can permeate several inches into the body, while red light has moderate penetration capabilities. In contrast, some light types—like blue light or certain ultraviolet rays—remain at skin level.

Light penetrates the skin -

Red and infrared light can reach individual cells, particularly impacting the "mitochondria," the energy-producing components of our cells. Specific steps within the energy production process can be influenced by red and infrared light, leading to enhanced energy creation.

The biological effects of blue light are noteworthy too; for instance, it can inhibit bacterial growth on the skin. Moreover, exposure of blue light to the eyes signals to the brain that it is daytime; the eyes function as more than mere visual organs, serving as a connection to the brain's internal clock.

Ultraviolet light also exhibits varied effects, primarily characterized by its splitting into ultraviolet-A (UVA) and ultraviolet-B (UVB). UVA light encourages relaxation upon skin contact, provides circulation support, and even catalyzes brain signaling compounds like serotonin and dopamine when exposed to the eyes. UVB, conversely, supports vitamin D synthesis within the skin.

What Are The Side Effects of Light Therapy?

While side effects are minimal and rare, improper use of light therapy can lead to negative outcomes. As with anything, misuse can trigger adverse effects. For instance, excessive water intake can induce harmful effects, while overexercise may lead to injury, stress, and burnout.

Excessive ultraviolet light exposure from summer sun results in sunburn. Almost any light can be harmful when overused; blue light might disrupt sleep patterns, while excessive red light could sap your energy. Prolonged exposure to infrared light can worsen skin health, especially if using an infrared sauna excessively.

Following the provisions provided with your light therapy device should prevent complications. Nevertheless, if you possess significant health conditions, consult your healthcare provider prior to initiating any new therapeutic modality.

How Do I Use Light Therapy?

The usage of light therapy hinges on the specific device in question. For example, a red light therapy panel ideally requires use three to five days a week for approximately 10-20 minutes each session depending on the size and power output of the device.

For targeted devices—such as red light therapy lasers—treatment durations can be significantly shorter given they emit higher energy within a constrained area.

Blue light treatments for acne can usually be applied for about 10-30 minutes several times weekly.

Infrared sauna sessions generally last between 15-40 minutes, conducted 1-4 times a week.

Nonetheless, various individual factors need to be factored into your routine, including health status, device type, personal goals, and optimal timing.

Broadly considered, frequent usage of most light therapy devices is necessary for effective treatment; the body must be exposed to the emitted light for benefits to occur.

What Light Therapy Device Should I Buy?

Determining which device to acquire is akin to consulting a store clerk for the right tools for a specific job.

The answer? It hinges on your goals.

Thankfully, numerous light therapy 'tools' are presently available. Additionally, we have crafted a detailed guide below to assist in identifying the optimal light therapy product tailored to your needs.

Red Light Therapy Buyers Guide

When looking to purchase a Red Light Therapy device, we highly recommend viewing the informative video below:

Otherwise, continue reading for additional insights.

Goals - What Are You Trying To Achieve?

Begin by introspecting:

'What do you want from a red light therapy device?

• Looking for something portable for gym use? A handheld device or body wrap would be ideal.
• Need to assist with a joint issue? Targeted devices are recommended.
• Focused on anti-aging or skin rejuvenation? Consider an LED Mask.
• Seeking full-body benefits at home? A larger Body Panel would suit your needs better.

Should you require a device for joint assistance or favor one for facial treatments? Opt for the device best suited for your intended use.

Looking for assistance with hair loss? Or perhaps you wish to treat a neurological condition.

Also consider if you’ll need a portable device that accommodates travel.

How technically inclined are you? Would you prefer intuitive apps and menus, or simpler controls with large buttons?

What about space constraints? An LED Mat might be preferable if your area is limited compared to a large panel array.

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There’s much to contemplate, so take time to evaluate your desires for a red light therapy product. Review the video mentioned to gather fresh insights.

Types of Red Light Therapy Products

Red Light Therapy products exhibit an array of differences that can be grouped into various categories:

• Targeted vs Full Body

This distinction is straightforward.

Is the device designed for localized treatment in a specific 'targeted' area such as a handheld device, helmet, or facial mask?

Or is it a larger device for more comprehensive light exposure (such as a wall panel or handheld LED array)?

Your personal objectives will dictate the most effective course of action.

Targeted or full body treatments?

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One key observation is that a larger full body device may still function for targeted treatments; however, the reverse isn't true.

For instance, a larger wall panel can serve for full body benefits while effectively targeting areas like a sprained ankle or facial treatments.

It’s equally worthwhile to note that the delineation between 'targeted' and 'full body' is often indistinct. For example, choosing a Table Top panel—an array with 60-100 LEDs—could perfectly facilitate both facial treatments as well as an affected knee. But treating the entire body may require more time compared to a larger 600 LED Body Panel.

• Battery Powered vs Cabled

Next, consider your preferred setup for treatments.

Do you wish to be mobile within the house or gym during treatments? Or are you comfortable remaining stationary for 10-20 minutes?

If mobility is essential while undergoing treatment, you should opt for a battery-powered device.

Battery-powered devices typically limit you to smaller or less powerful models when compared to larger mains-powered units.

If your aim is recovery post-knee surgery or skin rejuvenation, consider battery-powered products like Kineon Move+ Pro for joint recovery or JOVS 4D face mask for beauty effects.

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Alternatively, if a higher-powered yet more cost-effective option suits you better, choose a corded plug-in device.

• Panels vs Mat vs Beds

Regarding larger products, there are three key types to select from:

1. A LED Mat
2. A Panel
3. A 'Bed' or 'Booth'

This arrangement ranks them from smallest and least expensive to larger and more costly.

Typically, larger devices generate mightier outputs, although that’s not always true.

An LED Mat serves as an economical way to access Red Light Therapy.

It can be stored rolled up between uses, though it aptly requires direct contact for efficacy. Therefore, the coverage may not sustain the same level of intensity like a panel or bed would. Additionally, the output is generally lower. Price ranges hover around $500 - $+

For many users, the optimum solution is the Red Light Panel. It offers solid power, extensive coverage, user-friendliness, minimal space occupation, and presents a pleasing price point (approximately $500 - $ depending on dimensions).

If budget permits, the ultimate solution lies in the 'Beds' or walk-in 'Booths', offering maximum coverage and minimizing time commitment for full-body red light therapy treatment.

However, note that these come with considerable dimensions (not suitable for small apartments) and a hefty price tag ranging from $30,000 to $120,000)

Power Output

When assessing red light therapy, two metrics are key: the wavelength (elaborated on below) and the irradiance or power density.

This represents the intensity of light emitted from the source. The more powerful and brighter the light, the greater the number of photons and energy penetrating the body.

Determining the optimal therapeutic power output remains a complex, sometimes contentious issue (for further insight, read here). However, it’s crystal clear that underpowered devices won’t provide enough penetration or energy for a beneficial effect.

Thus, those festive red LEDs from the holiday decor aisle won't do the trick.

Ensuring the device delivers a therapeutically effective light source is paramount. If you intend to penetrate deeper into the body (for example, a knee joint), typically a more potent light proves beneficial.

In our reviews, we utilize a spectrometer for precise measurements of real-world irradiance figures across various red light therapy devices.

We publicly share results in our comprehensive product database. Notably, our verified figures often diverge from those marketed (it’s common to see advertised claims 2-5x higher than tested figures in our reviews).

Wavelengths: Red Light, Near Infrared Light, Blue Light...

While power output is a significant metric when acquiring a Red Light Therapy device, the wavelength or emitted 'color' of light holds equal importance.

Different wavelengths yield distinct biological reactions in the body. For instance, x-rays can inflict damage. UV-B rays assist in synthesizing vitamin D.

Research has confirmed that red and near-infrared light gets absorbed by cellular mitochondria, resulting in ATP production increase—one reason red light therapy is so effective.

The ideal wavelengths for these enhancements typically span from ~600nm (red) to ~800nm (near-infrared). Interestingly, unique benefits derive from certain specific wavelengths within this range.

Wavelengths around 805-810nm have demonstrated pronounced benefits in recovery and sports performance.

Approximately 700-780nm light resonates well with various brain disorders.

Red light in the 620-670nm range appears optimal for enhancing cellular ATP levels.

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When investing in a light therapy device, ensuring it emits within this wavelength spectrum is crucial. How can you ascertain this? Dependable metrics are generally available in the manufacturer’s specifications, but as with power readings, we also test real-world wavelengths in our reviews.

Red Light On A Budget

Lastly, budget considerations come into play.

While premium options like the $120,000 NovoThor boast exceptional attributes, if that’s beyond financial reach, alternatives await.

With the multitude of options available, there’s a fit for every financial capacity. For instance, while premium full-body products feature advanced controls, remote capabilities, motorized stands, and extensive warranties on one end, budget models offer smaller treatment areas with basic controls and little extra features on the other.

Ultimately, if a device emits the right wavelengths with sufficient power, it’ll confer results.

Utilizing our Shopping Tool significantly aids in discovering the right product within your budget.

For those on tighter budgets, our reviews and comparisons highlight affordable opportunities.

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Don’t let budget constraints keep you from the advantages of Red Light Therapy. Effective products available start around $100.

Finding The Right Red Light Therapy Device For You

Now that you comprehend what factors to consider before acquiring a red light therapy device, your next step is essential: Where can you find your ideal choice? Here are resources poised to aid your search:

Once you finalize a product, be sure to check our Deals Page for potential discounts pre-purchase. Light Therapy Insiders has sourced discounts between 5%-10% or more across numerous red light therapy products.

If you crave a straightforward suggestion without delving into data, visit our Recommendations page, where we delineate the best products for varying aspirations (and budgets!).

We continually review a vast assortment of Red Light Therapy devices, releasing new reviews weekly (so ensure you subscribe to our newsletter). Our Review page documents all extensive critiques, with additional video reviews accessible on our YouTube Channel.

This database promises to be your ultimate tool for finding a perfect red light device tailored to your specific needs. If you're certain about your requirements regarding size, wavelengths, or even product origin, navigate to our product database, adjust your filters, and see what options remain.

If confusion persists after this thorough examination, venture to our Facebook Group and drop a comment.

One of our LTI team members will connect within 24 hours—if fellow members don’t assist first!

• Eager To Learn More?

If you're not yet ready to purchase but are keen to delve deeper into the fantastic world of light therapy, here are a few thought-provoking articles and videos we recommend: