Red Light Therapy
Harnessing the Power of Light for Healing and Wellness
Red light therapy, also known as photo biomodulation (PBM) or low-level laser therapy (LLLT), utilizes specific wavelengths of light to promote cellular health and various therapeutic benefits.
Understanding the light spectrum used in this therapy is crucial for optimizing its effects.
Understanding the light spectrum used in this therapy is crucial for optimizing its effects.
The Red Light Therapy Spectrum.
Red light therapy encompasses a range of wavelengths within the visible and near-infrared (NIR) spectrum:
Visible Red Light (620-750nm):
This range is primarily absorbed by the skin’s surface layers, making it ideal for addressing skin concerns like wrinkles, scars, and wound healing. It also stimulates collagen production for improved skin elasticity and firmness.
This range is primarily absorbed by the skin’s surface layers, making it ideal for addressing skin concerns like wrinkles, scars, and wound healing. It also stimulates collagen production for improved skin elasticity and firmness.
Near-Infrared Light (NIR) (750-1100nm):
NIR light penetrates deeper into tissues, reaching muscles, joints, and even organs. It’s often used for pain relief, inflammation reduction, muscle recovery, and deeper tissue healing.
NIR light penetrates deeper into tissues, reaching muscles, joints, and even organs. It’s often used for pain relief, inflammation reduction, muscle recovery, and deeper tissue healing.
Penetration Depth:
How deep does the light go?
The penetration depth of light varies depending on its
wavelength:
wavelength:
Visible Red Light:
Penetrates approximately 8-10mm into the skin.
Penetrates approximately 8-10mm into the skin.
Near-Infrared Light:
Penetrates deeper, reaching up to 2-3cm into tissues.
Penetrates deeper, reaching up to 2-3cm into tissues.
Specific Wavelengths and their benefits
Different wavelengths within the red and NIR spectrum have been studied for their specific effects:
630nm: Skin health, wound healing, collagen production.
660nm: Inflammation reduction, pain relief, improved circulation.
810nm: Deeper tissue healing, wound recovery, pain management.
830nm: Brain health, cognitive function, cellular energy production.
850nm: Joint pain, arthritis, muscle recovery.
Far Infrared (FIR) vs. Near Infrared (NIR)
While not typically used in standard red light therapy
devices, it’s important to distinguish between FIR and NIR:
devices, it’s important to distinguish between FIR and NIR:
Far Infrared (FIR):
FIR light is a form of heat radiation and doesn’t have the same therapeutic effects as red and NIR light. It primarily warms the skin’s surface and can promote relaxation, detoxification and metabolic rate increase. (Typically used in weight loss or anti inflammation saunas)
FIR light is a form of heat radiation and doesn’t have the same therapeutic effects as red and NIR light. It primarily warms the skin’s surface and can promote relaxation, detoxification and metabolic rate increase. (Typically used in weight loss or anti inflammation saunas)
Near Infrared (NIR):
NIR light is the primary focus of red light therapy due to its ability to penetrate deeper into tissues and stimulate cellular processes.
NIR light is the primary focus of red light therapy due to its ability to penetrate deeper into tissues and stimulate cellular processes.
Optimizing Your Red Light Therapy
To get the most out of your red light therapy sessions:
Choose the right device:
Select a device that offers the specific wavelengths you need for your desired goals. Your Arukah Health Therapist will do this with you in consultation.
Select a device that offers the specific wavelengths you need for your desired goals. Your Arukah Health Therapist will do this with you in consultation.
Consistent use:
Regular sessions are key for achieving optimal results. (Minimum 3 times per week for geed results, and daily for optimum results)
Regular sessions are key for achieving optimal results. (Minimum 3 times per week for geed results, and daily for optimum results)
Consult a professional:
If you have any medical conditions or concerns, seek advice from a healthcare professional before starting red light therapy.
If you have any medical conditions or concerns, seek advice from a healthcare professional before starting red light therapy.
The Benefits of Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy offers a wide range of potential benefits, including:
Skin Rejuvenation
Stimulates collagen production, improves skin elasticity, reduces wrinkles and fine lines, and promotes a more youthful complexion.
Pain Relief
Reduces inflammation, eases muscle and joint pain, and may help with chronic pain conditions like arthritis.
Wound Healing
Accelerates the healing of wounds, burns, and scars.
Hair Growth
May stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth in individuals with hair loss.
Athletic Performance
May enhance muscle recovery, reduce fatigue, and improve athletic performance.
Mood Enhancement
May help reduce symptoms of depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Cognitive Function
May improve cognitive function and memory.