Red light therapy has become a popular treatment option for various conditions, including skin issues, pain relief, and mood disorders. Red light therapy has recently increased in popularity as a daily wellness practice.
This article will outline the history of red light therapy, its benefits, and its uses.
The Origin Of Red Light Therapy
The popularity of this therapy can be traced back to its development for use in space.
NASA originally developed red light therapy in the 1990s to help astronauts living in space for extended periods. In space, astronauts are exposed to high radiation levels and experience various physiological changes that can impact their health. NASA researchers found that red light therapy could help to mitigate some of these effects by promoting cell regeneration and reducing inflammation.
Over time, researchers began to explore the potential of red light therapy for other applications, including wound healing, pain relief, and skin rejuvenation. Studies have found that red light therapy can stimulate collagen and elastin production, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation, making it an effective treatment for various skin issues.
As the benefits of red light therapy became more widely known, it began to gain popularity as a non-invasive, natural treatment option for various conditions. Today, red light therapy is widely used in spas, salons, wellness centers, and medical settings for various applications. Its popularity continues to grow as more research is conducted on its potential benefits.
Why Is Red Light Therapy Gaining Popularity
Red light therapy is gaining popularity due to its many potential benefits and the fact that it is a non-invasive, natural treatment option. Here are some reasons why red light therapy is getting popular:
- Non-invasive: Red light therapy is a non-invasive treatment option that does not require surgery or incisions. This makes it an attractive option for those who want to avoid invasive treatments’ risks and recovery time.
- Natural: Red light therapy harnesses the power of natural light to stimulate healing and promote wellness. Unlike many medications or treatments, it does not involve synthetic chemicals or invasive procedures.
- Versatile: Red light therapy can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including skin issues, pain relief, and mood disorders. This versatility makes it a popular option for those looking for a natural way to address various health concerns.
- Few side effects: Red light therapy is generally well-tolerated and has few side effects. This makes it a safe and effective option for many people.
- Convenient: Red light therapy can be done in a spa or salon setting, and many people also choose to purchase their own red light therapy devices for use at home. This convenience makes it a popular option for those who want to incorporate the therapy into their daily routine.
Overall, the many potential benefits of red light therapy, along with its non-invasive, natural approach, have made it an increasingly popular treatment option for many health concerns.
How Does Red Light Therapy Work
Red light therapy uses low-level wavelengths of red light to penetrate the skin and stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. The red light wavelengths used in therapy are in the range of 630 to 660 nanometers.
Here are a few ways red light therapy works.
Stimulates cell regeneration
The red light wavelengths penetrate the skin and stimulate the mitochondria within the cells to produce more energy. This energy production increase helps the cells regenerate and repair themselves more quickly.
Promotes collagen production
Red light therapy stimulates fibroblast cells in the skin, which produce collagen and elastin. Collagen is essential for maintaining healthy skin, and increased collagen production can improve skin texture and tone.
Reduces inflammation
Red light therapy has been shown to reduce inflammation by decreasing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This reduction in inflammation can help to alleviate pain and improve overall wellness.
Increases circulation
Red light therapy has been shown to improve circulation in the body, which can help to increase oxygen and nutrient delivery to the tissues. Improved circulation can also help to remove waste products from the body more efficiently.
Improves mood
Red light therapy has been shown to increase the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood. This increase in serotonin production can help to alleviate symptoms of depression and improve overall mood.
Red light therapy stimulates the body’s natural healing processes to improve skin health, alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote overall wellness.
Ways To Get Red Light Therapy
There are several ways that people can get red light therapy, including:
- In-office treatments: Many medical clinics, spas, and wellness centers offer red light therapy treatments that trained professionals can perform. These treatments can be customized based on the individual’s needs and may involve specialized equipment.
- Home devices: There are a variety of red light therapy devices that can be purchased for home use, including handheld devices, red light therapy masks, and light therapy panels. These devices are generally safe and easy to use, but it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure safety and effectiveness.
- Tanning beds: Some tanning salons offer red light therapy as an alternative to tanning. However, it is essential to note that tanning beds are associated with various health risks, including an increased risk of skin cancer, and are not recommended for red light therapy.
Speak with a healthcare provider before starting red light therapy to determine if it is a safe and appropriate treatment for your specific needs. Red light therapy may not be suitable for everyone, and some risks and side effects are associated with its use. It is also important to follow safety guidelines carefully and use the therapy as directed to ensure safety and effectiveness.
FAQ
When did red light therapy initially come into use?
Dr. Finsen created the first light therapy in 1896 to treat tuberculosis called lupus vulgaris. He treated a 2 cm diameter region of damaged skin with an electric light that was 15 times focused.
What are the other names for red light therapy?
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT), low-power laser therapy (LPLT), and photobiomodulation are other names for red light therapy (PBM).
Bottom Line
Red light therapy is becoming a more widely used treatment for many health issues due to its many potential advantages and non-invasive, all-natural approach. If you think you can benefit from red light therapy, consult a healthcare professional to create the proper treatment for yourself.
