Red Light Therapy

Is it a passing trend or is it truly something we all need to add to our tool box?

What is Red Light Therapy
Red Light Therapy uses light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and has been used to treat a variety of medical and cosmetic conditions. It is painless and noninvasive. It seems to be all the rage right now. However, it has been around a LONG time. Did you know that NASA astronauts used Red Light Therapy to aid wound healthy and help grow plants in space? Yep. Me neither until I began researching.

What's the Difference between Red Light and Near-Infared Light

I know some of you who like the details, you will want to hear this next bit. When we talk about Red Light- there are 2 types. Red Light is visible with wavelengths of 630nm-700nm. Infrared light has a longer wavelength which is why it is known to penetrate deeper into tissue& muscles than just red light. Infrared light is invisible and sits near red light on the electromagnetic spectrum at 800nm- 1 millimeter. Most Red Light devices use Near-Infrared Light (NIR) in conjunction with the Red Light function.

What Ailments Can You Use Red Light For

While I am NOT a medical doctor- I do like to try therapies on the market to see if they produce any true results- I suppose you could say I am a Passionate Realtor. There are many studies showing Red Light being used therapeutically for so many physical ailments.  Red Light can increase collagen production which helps with fine lines & wrinkles, wound healing, acne, scars & skin elasticity. It helps with general pain relief by reducing inflammation. It has been touted to stimulate hair follicle growth to improve and prevent hair loss.  During my research I also found that Red Light Therapy can have a positive impact on your thyroid. There are studies that show you can increase your thyroid hormone levels, decrease TSH & TPO antibodies, and even help soften hard thyroid nodules. I read a bold claim that it can stop the progression of hypothyroidism. We know that it can increase production of thyroid-protective youth hormones, and even improve energy production at the cellular level so I could see it helping with thyroid disease. It can be beneficial for mood enhancement by reducing feelings of anxiety, and depression. It also helps with sleep patterns. It can help regulate the sleep-wake cycle and provide better sleep quality.

Near-Infrared light can be beneficial for many ailments as well- think deep tissue and muscular. It can help with healthy thyroid function, reducing general pain & inflammation, and improving recovery times after strenuous activity. 

How I Use my Red Light/s

When I use my red light, I do use NIR with it every time. It allows me use targeted treatments simultaneously. I use it for a minimum of 10 minutes and have used it for up to 30 minutes at a time depending on what I am targeting. I am currently getting certified in Red Light therapy, so as I learn more that may change. But as of now, I run both the Red Light and the Near Infrared Light simultaneously. I am only recommended these 3 brands because these are the ones I have and use almost daily. 

My Go-To Devices (with Affiliate/Referral Links)

1. The Lumebox Red Light was my first purchase and it is wonderful. It is my smaller device and it does have the ability to use Red Light as well as Near-Infrared Light. I love this one because it is portable. It is super easy to travel with. It comes with a great travel case. I, literally, never go on a trip without it. This one charges while plugged in and holds a charge well. It does not need to be plugged in while you are using it. This one runs about $629 without the stand. I do not have a stand but I hear it is useful. But use my referral code and pay only $365! Always use my code to get your BEST deal, even if you see it on sale. Click here for the link for the Lumbox. Very low EMFs. You can read more about it on their website  
2. The Forefront Health Quad Red Light is larger and less portable. But that too, has it’s perks. I feel like it is stronger simply because it is larger in surface area. You can hang it from a doorway or sit the device upright on any surface. It covers more surface area on your body at once simply because it is larger. You do have to keep it plugged in while charging. This one sells out quickly, so if you see it on the website- purchase it before it is gone. It just came back on the market this week after several months. This one is around $400. Currently, it is on sale for $265.32 and if you use my link you may get another $10 off. Click here for the link for the Forefront Health Quad Red Light.
3. I have a Red Light Therapy Wrap from Fringe. This one is cordless and is nice to lay directly on your skin and does not get too warm. In my opinion, it is a great option for specifically targeting sore muscles, low back issues, and sleep-simply because it is easy to manipulate. I do not use it as much as my Lumebox but I should. Fringe does a significant amount of education as well and they are a great company. 

Final Thoughts and Take Aways

My basic synopsis is that we still have a lot of research to do on the subject, but for now, I am finding positive benefits with the use of my red lights. When I start my day with using the Red Light, I notice more alertness and calm. It has personally helped us with injury recovery, targeted ailments (like tummy aches & headaches), and improved sleep. I am noticing the more I use it, the better I feel. Consistency is key for targeting long term ailments. For me, the benefits are well worth the investment and it is here to stay, at least in my household. Feeling grateful that Red Light is part of my alternative treatments tool box.

Have you tried Red Light Therapy yet? If so, what are you using and what benefits are you seeing? 

*Full disclosure: I may receive a small commission if you use my links, but it doesn’t cost you extra. I only recommend devices I actually use myself.