Red light therapy has exploded in popularity thanks to its ability to safely reduce wrinkles, smooth skin, regrow hair, ease pain, and much more. But how does simply exposing your body to red and near-infrared light provide these benefits? Read on to understand the science behind red light therapy.
Red light therapy utilizes very specific wavelengths of visible red light and invisible near-infrared light. These narrow bands are considered therapeutic as opposed to all other wavelengths.
It’s the exact nanometer range that provides the benefits, not just any red-appearing light. This allows the light to penetrate tissue and be absorbed by skin and cells.
Different wavelengths target different depths and provide unique benefits. Precision is crucial for optimal results.
When the optimal wavelength range enters your tissue, it interacts with chromophores. These are light-sensitive structures found within your cells.
Key chromophores that absorb red and near-infrared light include:
When these chromophores absorb the light photons, this sets off cellular changes and biological cascades for restoring optimal function.
One main way red light improves cell function is by increasing ATP energy production. The absorption kickstarts cytochrome c oxidase activity.
This ramps up metabolism by enhancing mitochondria performance. Your cells generate more of the ATP “fuel” required for all cellular processes.
This energy boost means your cells function better and can readily undertake repair and rejuvenation. More available energy supports overall wellness.
Specific wavelengths also stimulate fibroblasts within your skin. These cells specialize in producing structural proteins like collagen and elastin.
More collagen provides firmer, wrinkle-resistance skin. While increased elastin retains youthful elasticity and bounce.
By stimulating these structural proteins, red light therapy rejuvenates facial and body skin for a more youthful appearance.
Certain wavelengths of near-infrared light help release stored nitric oxide. This dilates blood vessels for better circulation.
Increased blood flow delivers more oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Tissues thrive with an enhanced nutrient supply.
Areas of poor circulation or tissue damage benefit greatly. Light exposure can aid wound and ulcer healing.
The wavelengths used also have a positive effect on inflammation. Reducing chronic low-grade inflammation provides system-wide benefits.
The light stimulates cells to release more anti-inflammatory cytokines. This mitigates inflammation for improved function.
Less inflammation means reduced pain, faster healing, improved joint mobility, and better overall wellness.
Certain wavelengths also stimulate fibroblasts and keratinocytes to divide quicker. These cells are involved in the repair process.
Light accelerates their regeneration and division (mitosis). This means faster healing and tissue regeneration.
Wounds, scars, and injuries can heal in less time. Damaged skin renews faster for an improved appearance.
As you can see, red light provides multiple cellular benefits. The cascading effects of increased ATP, collagen, blood flow, and mitosis promote proper function.
Tissues and glands perform better. Skin becomes suppler, tighter, and renewed. Hair growth and joint function improve. Overall vitality is enhanced.
Systemic light absorption optimizes cells, muscles, glands, and more. Red light therapy activates your body’s innate healing ability for whole-body rejuvenation.
Red light therapy leverages your body’s natural response to specific wavelengths to heal and restore itself from within. The light provides energy and information to get cells back to optimal performance.
By stimulating chromophores and biological cascades, red light reminds your body how to function properly. This allows safe, non-invasive self-healing.
Experience the power of nourishing wavelengths yourself. Contact us today to find the perfect red light device for your needs and improve your health, beauty and wellbeing.