Explore Red Light Therapy: What It Is, How It Works and Its Benefits

In recent years, red light therapy has gained widespread attention as a non-invasive, drug-free wellness solution used to treat a wide range of health and skin concerns.

What Is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy (RLT), also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation, is a treatment that uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to penetrate the skin and promote cellular healing. Unlike ultraviolet (UV) light, which can damage the skin, red light is safe and has been shown to offer therapeutic benefits without side effects when used correctly.

Initially used in medical and clinical environments, red light therapy is now accessible for home use, allowing individuals to enjoy its benefits conveniently and affordably.

 

How Does Red Light Therapy Work?

Red light therapy works by emitting red and near-infrared light that penetrates deep into the skin layers. This light stimulates the mitochondria—the "powerhouse" of cells—to produce more adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which boosts energy production and accelerates cell regeneration.

This cellular-level response promotes:



  • Improved blood circulation




  • Reduced inflammation




  • Enhanced collagen production




  • Accelerated tissue repair and recovery



Because of this mechanism, red light therapy is widely used for both cosmetic and therapeutic purposes.

 

Red Light Therapy Benefits

The range of red light therapy benefits continues to grow as more studies validate its effects. Some of the most well-documented benefits include:

Skin Health



  • Reduces fine lines and wrinkles




  • Improves skin tone and texture




  • Speeds up wound healing




  • Fades scars andstretch marks




  • Helps treat acne and rosacea



Pain Relief and Recovery



  • Relieves joint and muscle pain




  • Reduces inflammation in arthritis




  • Speeds up muscle recovery for athletes




  • Supports post-surgical healing



Mental Wellness



  • Reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety (when combined with near-infrared light)




  • Improves sleep quality




  • Supports cognitive health



 

Best Red Light Therapy Device

With its rising popularity, there are many red light therapy devices on the market today. When choosing the best red light therapy device, consider:



  • Wavelengths – Look for devices with 630–660nm (red) and 800–850nm (near-infrared) ranges




  • Power Output – Higher irradiance levels ensure deeper penetration and more effective results




  • Size and Area Coverage – Choose based on your treatment goals (facial devices vs. full-body panels)




  • Portability – Handheld or compact models for travel convenience




  • FDA-Cleared – Always check for safety certifications



Popular brands include Joovv, Mito Red, and PlatinumLED, all of which offer both professional-grade and home-use red light therapy devices.

 

Red Light Therapy for Home Use

Thanks to technological advances, red light therapy for home use has become increasingly accessible. Home devices allow for consistent sessions without the need to visit clinics, saving both time and money. Common types of at-home devices include:



  • Red light therapy masks for facial treatments




  • Portable wands or handheld devices




  • Full-body panels for athletes and chronic pain sufferers



To use safely at home:



  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for distance and session time




  • Use goggles to protect eyes from intense light




  • Be consistent—3 to 5 times a week yields the best results