The Top 10 Health Benefits Of Red Light Therapy (and why you really are missing out)

The recent surge in the popularity of red light therapy has been noticeable across various platforms, from online spaces to endorsements by health influencers and even discussions among social circles. But what exactly is the fascination with this therapy? Red light therapy utilizes specific light wavelengths to bolster the body’s biological functions. I’ve long held the belief that similar to our choices in food and drink, light sources possess the potential to either nourish or harm us.

Read: The Benefits of Red Light and Near-Infrared Light Therapy

Understanding the impact of light on our well-being

As I’ve delved deeper into understanding light’s impact on fundamental aspects of our well-being, such as sleep, energy levels, mitochondria, immunity, and lymphatic health, it’s become evident that light acts as a pivotal ‘nutrient’ contributing to our holistic health. The invigorating sensation experienced in sunlight goes beyond mere vitamin D synthesis; it can trigger the lymphatic system, bolster circulation, and offer multifaceted benefits. To truly appreciate the advantages of red light therapy, comprehending the inherent benefits of sunlight becomes a crucial starting point.

What is Red Light Therapy?

At its core, red light therapy endeavors to replicate the effects of sunlight through technological means. The spectrum of nanometer wavelengths ranging from 400 to 750 has served as inspiration for most red light therapy manufacturers, guiding them to mimic these wavelengths in their devices. Their goal? To replicate the skin’s response to sunlight when exposed to red light. Undoubtedly, natural sunlight remains the pinnacle of beneficial light for our health. However, for individuals residing in regions with limited sunlight exposure for substantial periods, issues such as vitamin D deficiency and seasonal affective disorder can significantly impact immune functionality.

Read: Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy the Key to Treating Fibromyalgia?

The Health Benefits of Different Red Light Spectrums:

Red light therapy devices have been designed to encompass wavelengths like 630nm, 660nm, 810nm, and 850nm—effectively replicating the beneficial aspects of sunlight during periods of grey, cloudy weather.

Each spectrum offers unique advantages:

• 630nm Wavelength: Scientifically demonstrated to benefit skin health by reducing wrinkles, stimulating hair growth, and aiding in acne treatment.
• 660nm Wavelength: Reduces fatigue, inflammation, aids in bone healing, post-injury swelling reduction, alleviates neuropathic pain, and accelerates wound healing. Ideal for post-workout physical recovery.
• 810nm Wavelength: Promotes wound healing, aids in recovery, and even plays a role in stroke recovery and neuroprotection for individuals dealing with moderate to severe strokes or traumatic brain injuries. Additionally, it’s beneficial for psychiatric disorders, stress, anxiety, and hair growth.
• 830nm Wavelength (Near Infrared Light): Reduces infections, accelerates healing, boosts endorphins, enhances bone repair, and growth.
• 850nm Wavelength: Enhances muscle performance and recovery, reduces inflammation, aids in skin healing, and addresses various skin conditions.

The Top 10 Benefits of Red Light Therapy:

These diverse spectrums unveil a multitude of benefits, only skimming the surface of red light therapy’s extensive potential. Exploring these wide-ranging benefits can be a fulfilling journey for anyone keen on optimizing their well-being.

1. Optimize Vitamin D Synthesis:

Red light therapy doesn’t just complement natural sunlight; it synergizes with it. Exposure to red light helps prime the skin, facilitating increased vitamin D synthesis when you’re out in the sun. Red light does not stimulate Vitamin D synthesis on its own. However, it has a symbiotic relationship that enhances the body’s ability to utilize and create this essential vitamin. Studies suggest that red light exposure before or after sun exposure may optimize the skin’s vitamin D synthesis. This combined approach assists in maximizing the benefits derived from sunlight, aiding in vitamin D synthesis, a crucial component for bone health, immune function, and overall well-being.

Read: Is Taking Vitamin D Without Vitamin K Harmful to Your Health?

2. Improved Skin Health:

One of the most touted benefits of red light therapy is its ability to revitalize skin health. The wavelengths used in red light therapy penetrate the skin, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. These natural proteins play a pivotal role in maintaining skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Furthermore, red light therapy aids in reducing inflammation and improving blood flow to the skin, contributing to a more radiant complexion. Its effectiveness in addressing skin conditions like acne has garnered attention, offering a non-invasive alternative for individuals seeking clearer, healthier skin.

3. Reduced Inflammation:

Chronic inflammation is a common underlying factor in various health conditions. Red light therapy has emerged as a promising non-pharmacological approach to mitigating inflammation. By penetrating deep into the skin, these light wavelengths stimulate cellular activity, triggering biochemical responses that aid in reducing inflammation. This anti-inflammatory effect extends beyond the skin, potentially benefiting individuals dealing with conditions like arthritis, muscle soreness, and even inflammatory skin disorders. The reduction in inflammation not only alleviates discomfort but also supports the body’s natural healing processes.

4. Enhanced Physical Performance and Energy:

The application of red light therapy pre- or post-exercise sessions has shown promise in boosting physical performance and aiding in muscle recovery. The wavelengths of red light penetrate the skin and reach the muscle tissues, promoting cellular energy production. This enhancement in cellular energy metabolism contributes to improved endurance, quicker recovery from exertion, and reduced muscle fatigue. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts have embraced red light therapy as a complementary technique to optimize their performance and recuperation, experiencing increased stamina and vitality.

5. Optimized Mitochondrial Function:

Mitochondria, often referred to as the powerhouse of the cell, are essential for generating cellular energy. Red light therapy stimulates mitochondrial function by improving their efficiency in producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the body’s primary energy source. These light wavelengths facilitate the activation of enzymes crucial for ATP synthesis within the mitochondria. Enhanced mitochondrial function not only boosts cellular energy production but also supports various physiological processes, fostering overall vitality and well-being.

6. Increased Circulation:

The application of red light therapy has demonstrated a remarkable ability to improve blood circulation. As the light wavelengths penetrate the skin, they stimulate the production of nitric oxide (NO), a key molecule that relaxes and dilates blood vessels, promoting better blood flow. Enhanced circulation ensures a more efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs throughout the body. Moreover, this improved blood flow aids in the removal of metabolic waste products, supporting tissue repair and overall cellular health.

Read: What Happens to Your Body If You Drink Ginger Tea Everyday

7. Strengthened Body Tissues:

Red light therapy’s ability to bolster the body’s tissues is multifaceted. These light wavelengths encourage the proliferation of fibroblasts, cells crucial for collagen production and maintaining the integrity of connective tissues. Collagen, a vital structural protein, contributes to the strength and elasticity of tendons, ligaments, and skin by promoting collagen synthesis; red light therapy aids in tissue repair, fortifying the body’s structural framework. This strengthening effect extends to enhancing joint health and flexibility, contributing to overall physical resilience.

8. Pain Reduction:

Chronic pain, stemming from various sources like injuries, inflammation, or underlying health conditions, can significantly impact one’s quality of life. Red light therapy has emerged as a non-invasive method for managing pain and discomfort. The anti-inflammatory properties of red light therapy, combined with its ability to enhance circulation and tissue repair, contribute to pain reduction. These light wavelengths target affected areas, potentially alleviating discomfort and supporting the body’s natural healing mechanisms. Whether it’s muscular soreness, joint pain, or localized injuries, red light therapy offers a promising avenue for pain relief.

9. Enhanced Hair Growth:

For those seeking solutions for hair loss or aiming to promote healthier hair growth, red light therapy presents a promising option. These light wavelengths penetrate the scalp, stimulating the hair follicles and enhancing blood flow to the area. This stimulation triggers a cascade of events, including increased nutrient supply to the hair follicles, leading to improved hair growth and density. Moreover, red light therapy aids in preventing the premature shedding of hair by strengthening the hair shafts and supporting a healthier scalp environment.

10. Enhanced Antioxidant Capacity:

Red light therapy doesn’t just impact the body on a cellular level; it also influences the body’s antioxidant defenses. Certain light-based compounds found in plants, such as chlorophyll, lycopene, and curcumin, are known for their antioxidant properties. Red light therapy can potentially enhance the effect of these antioxidants. Combining the intake of these photoreceptive antioxidants with red light exposure can amplify their beneficial effects. This synergistic interaction may support the body’s defense against oxidative stress, promoting cellular health and resilience. Moreover, red light therapy aids in regulating sleep patterns by promoting timely melatonin production, leading to improved rest and heightened energy levels.

Which Light is Best?

For recommendations on a red light device and deeper insights into the subject, I encourage a visit to Mito Red Light (link) using the code “healthywildfree” for a 5% discount. Having explored various red light therapy brands over the span of five years, I’ve come to favor Mito Red Light for its blend of quality and affordability when compared to similar products in the market. We scoured the internet and researched brands for hours. The best brand that we found for the best price was Mito Red light, which is already the cheapest compared to it’s competitors, but we also found the coupon code: outmatch to work to give you an additional 5% off. Click here to visit Mito Red light and get a red light unit for your home today.

Here’s A Review Of The Model We Use in Our Home:

Click here to visit Mito Red Light, remember to use the discount code: outmatch to get 5% off your order. The full-body red light device is definitely the best device for full-body benefits. For skin health, circulation, mood, and more. If you travel a lot, however, or are on a budget, I recommend getting the Mito portable unit.

Keep Reading: Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy the Key to Treating Fibromyalgia?

This site contains product affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links.