Red light therapy is a non-invasive treatment method that uses low-level light wavelengths to penetrate the skin at the deeper level. The red light possesses the power of optimizing cellular functions, which leads to boosting the long chain of processes going in our body.
Because of this, red light sessions have numerous proven advantages for treating multiple health concerns. Moreover, excessive research that is being conducted by scientists all over the world shows that RLT has even more potential than we are currently giving it credit for.
In this article, we’re going to tell you about the most prominent benefits of red light therapy and the science behind each.
How Does RLT Work?
As mentioned, the main source of red light therapy’s effectiveness is its power to optimize cellular function. Let’s break down what exactly it means and why it works:
Our cells need the energy to perform their basic function. Each cell has its power source mitochondria that are responsible for supplying cellular energy. However, sometimes our body doesn’t have enough resources to work to its full potential and requires a little help from outside. That’s where the red light therapy comes in.
Exposure to red and near-infrared light wavelengths boosts mitochondria to produce more ATP (cellular energy), optimizing our cells’ performance. With RLT’s assistance, the human body does a much better job repairing itself and fighting inflammation that often causes many health concerns.
Red Light Therapy Benefits
Now let’s take a break from science-talk and cut to the chase – exactly what issues can RLT target? From what we already know, red light therapy can be used (and is being used) to aid in treating common skin problems, muscle fatigue, nerve pain, sleep diseases, hair loss, low testosterone, improve cognitive functions, and general well-being.
1. RLT For Skin Improvement
Dealing with skin issues such as acne, eczema, rosacea, sun-damage, hyperpigmentation, and compromised skin barrier can be a long process. Certified dermatologists and skin care specialists recommend using complex treatment methods for these skin issues.
So, it can be a great idea to add red light therapy to your treatment plan. Recent studies have proven that continuous exposure to red and near-infrared light increases skin’s rejuvenation powers and helps fight inflammation. Furthermore, red light therapy has shown to boost collagen production, making it an excellent way to slow skin aging and improve skin texture.
2. RLT For Muscle Fatigue
We all know how hard it can be to stick with the workout routine, especially when the sore muscles are ruining it every time. When we begin working out or exercise harder than usual, muscle tissue gets inflamed and causes pain for a few days.
Common ways of treating muscle fatigue are gentle stretching, massage, and applying ice, however, they only work so much. Research has shown that red light therapy can promote faster tissue recovery and help you get rid of muscle pain quicker than other remedies.
3. RLT For Insomnia
According to Sleep Foundation, 10% to 30% of adults live with chronic insomnia. Lack of sleep is not something to joke around. In the long run, sleep deprivation can lead to severe health issues such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Unlike other forms of light, red light has positive effects on sleep quality. It is proven to enhance the secretion of melatonin (sleep hormone) and calm the brain, leading to healthier sleeping patterns.
4. RLT For Hair Loss
Red light therapy has a few tricks up its sleeve for those battling with hair loss. Studies have shown that continuous exposure to low-light wavelengths revitalizes hair follicles, optimizing hair growth. Additionally, RLT’s power to increase collagen production aids in improving hair quality as well.
5. RLT For Lack Of Testosterone
Testosterone is a male sex hormone that plays a vital role in developing male characteristics during puberty and maintaining life quality in adulthood. That said, healthy testosterone levels are essential for women too. Lack of testosterone presents itself in low sex drive, weight gain, erectile dysfunction, muscle fatigue, and weakened bone density.
Various studies done in both animals and humans show the positive impact of red light therapy on testosterone levels. The science behind it lies in increased cellular energy, which results in stimulating the Leydig cells – the main testosterone generators in the male body.
6. RLT For Cognitive Functions
Red light therapy is beneficial not only for our bodies but our minds as well. Studies indicate that boosted cells help deliver more oxygen to our brain, enhancing cognitive function.
This results in better memory, increased focus, and improved mood. Because of these advantages, more and more physicians recommend using red light therapy for depression and anxiety.
Further research is being conducted to look into RLT’s benefits for treating Alzheimer’s and dementia, so there’s much more to expect from this treatment method in the future.
Where Can I Get Red Light Therapy?
Just a few years ago, red light therapy was only accessible in doctor’s offices. Nowadays, you can get an in-home RLT device to get the same level of treatment. So if you don’t have time to visit a physician for appointments, you can purchase your own red light therapy device. Light panels come in different sizes and combinations, which allows you to pick the most optimal option for your unique requirements.