Red light therapy: all you need to know

Red and infrared LED light therapy: what is it, how it works, what can it help with, how to choose, how to use it

• Red light therapy, photobiomodulation, low level light therapy: three labels, one technique

• What is red and infrared LED light therapy?

• How does infrared and red light therapy work?

• Skin anti-aging benefits of infrared and red light therapy

• Infrared/red light therapy for cellulite prevention

• Infrared/red light therapy for cellulite reduction, in combination with radiofrequency and ultrasound

• Infrared and red light therapy for skin healing

• LED red light therapy for burns and diabetic wounds

• Red light therapy for acne

• Red light therapy for hyperpigmentation

• Health benefits of red and infrared LED light therapy

• Infrared LED light therapy for musculoskeletal injuries

• Infrared light therapy and back pain

• Infrared LED light therapy pain relief

• Red/infrared light therapy, depression and mood disorders

• Infrared/red light therapy for relaxation and stress relief

• Additional benefits for red/infrared LED therapy

• Depth of penetration: red vs. infrared light

• How often to have infrared and red light therapy treatment

• Why LED power is important

• Limitations of red/infrared light led masks and panels

• Red light therapy with an LED mask

• Red light therapy with an LED panel

• Advantages of canopy-style devices

• Low-level red and infrared light increases expression of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid in skin

• A controlled trial to determine the efficacy of red and near-infrared light treatment in patient satisfaction, reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, skin roughness, and intradermal collagen density increase

• Reverse skin aging signs by red light photobiomodulation

• Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation

• Have a skin tightening/cellulite treatment in London with the experts

• Advanced, infrared / blue / red light therapy treatments in London at LipoTherapeia

• The Cellulite School™: Get advanced training in cellulite reduction and skin tightening

Red light therapy, photobiomodulation, low level light therapy: three labels, one technique

Red light therapy (RLT), often termed photobiomodulation (PBM) or low level light therapy (LLLT), is a non-invasive treatment mostly applied with LEDs that employs specific wavelengths of light, in both the red and infrared range, to stimulate healing and address a variety of health and aesthetic conditions.

This innovative therapy has surged in popularity in the last decade, celebrated for its efficacy, safety, and adaptability. In this article, we will explore the scientific foundations of red and infrared LED light therapy, clarifying its mechanisms, its multiple health benefits and the practical considerations for its application.

What is red and infrared LED light therapy?

Red and infrared LED light therapy utilises light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to deliver light at precise wavelengths within the red and infrared colour wavelengths.

Red light typically spans wavelengths from 630 to 700 nanometres (nm), while infrared light extends from 700 to 1200 nm. These wavelengths are specifically selected for their capacity to penetrate human tissues and trigger beneficial physiological responses - all without inflicting thermal damage.

This therapy stands apart from more invasive treatments, offering a gentle yet potent means of enhancing bodily function at a cellular level.

How does infrared and red light therapy work?

At the heart of red and infrared LED light therapy lies its interaction with mitochondria - the cellular organelles often dubbed the "powerhouses" of our cells.

Mitochondria contain chromophores, notably cytochrome c oxidase, which absorb light at specific wavelengths. When red or infrared light strikes these chromophores, it initiates photochemical reactions that bolster mitochondrial efficiency.

The result is an upsurge in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the molecule that fuels cellular activities, thereby accelerating repair and regeneration processes.

The target wavelengths are well-defined: red light is most effective at around 630-600 nm, while infrared light excels at approximately 810-880 nm.

These wavelengths have been rigorously studied and are optimised to penetrate tissues to varying depths, rendering them suitable for both superficial and deeper-seated conditions. This scientific precision underpins the therapy’s ability to address a broad spectrum of health concerns with remarkable efficacy.

Skin anti-aging benefits of infrared and red light therapy

The therapy’s efficacy in skin anti-aging is supported by clinical and experimental studies, focusing on reducing wrinkles, fine lines, and improving skin texture and elasticity:

• Collagen and Elastin Synthesis: Red light therapy, at approximately 660 nm, penetrates the dermis to stimulate fibroblasts, significantly increasing collagen (COL1A1, COL3A1) and elastin (ELN) gene expression, as evidenced at Low-level red and infrared light increases expression of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid in skin. This fortifies skin structure, reducing the depth of crow’s feet and other wrinkles, with studies showing improved dermal density, as seen in A Controlled Trial to Determine the Efficacy of Red and Near-Infrared Light Treatment in Patient Satisfaction, Reduction of Fine Lines, Wrinkles, ....

• Hyaluronic Acid and Hydration: Treatment also boosts hyaluronic acid synthase (HAS2) expression, enhancing skin hydration and plumpness, which mitigates age-related dryness and sagging, as noted in the first study above.

• Skin Texture and Elasticity: Clinical trials demonstrate improved facial texture and elasticity, with measurements showing firmer skin, particularly after 2-3 months of treatment, as per Reverse skin aging signs by red light photobiomodulation.

• Photoaging Mitigation: By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, the therapy counters photoaging effects, smoothing fine lines and improving complexion homogeneity, supported by measurements in the third study above.

Infrared/red light therapy for cellulite prevention

Red and infrared LED light therapy offers a compelling, non-invasive approach to cellulite prevention, a complex condition affecting the hypodermis.

This therapy modestly reduces inflammation, oxidative damage, and fibrosis - key drivers of cellulite progression - while gently enhancing blood and lymphatic microcirculation to combat poor drainage and fluid retention.

By stimulating collagen and elastin synthesis, it bolsters skin firmness and elasticity, helping prevent tissue laxity. Additionally, it offers some support with connective tissue remodelling and improves oxygenation, addressing the underlying factors of adipose tissue accumulation and vessel degradation.

While LED red and infrared light therapy aids in preventing cellulite, it lacks the potency for swift or substantial reduction. For fast, noticeable results, a more dynamic treatment is needed, underpinned by a commitment to healthy diet, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle.

Infrared/red light therapy for cellulite reduction, in combination with radiofrequency and ultrasound

The most effective approach combines deep-acting, high-power radiofrequency - strongly stimulating fat breakdown (lipolysis and adipolysis), skin tightening, and enhanced microcirculation - with deep-acting, high-power ultrasound cavitation, which also boosts fat reduction and circulation.

When paired with high-power LED phototherapy post-treatment, mitochondrial function is optimised, amplifying the outcomes of radiofrequency and cavitation for superior, lasting cellulite reduction.

So, in regard to cellulite, LED light therapy does not directly reduce cellulite but enhances the effects of radiofrequency and cavitation when applied immediately after these treatments, optimising results.

Only high-power LED devices work effectively, as cellulite lies deep in the skin, and low-power devices lack sufficient penetration to make a significant impact.

Infrared and red light therapy for skin healing

Red light accelerates wound healing by stimulating collagen synthesis and enhancing fibroblast activity - key players in tissue repair.

Its anti-inflammatory properties further expedite recovery, making it a staple in dermatological care.

LED red light therapy for burns and diabetic wounds

Red light therapy shows promise in speeding the healing of burns and chronic wounds, such as those linked to diabetes. By enhancing cellular metabolism and mitigating oxidative stress, it supports recovery in even the most challenging cases.

Red light therapy for acne

Red light therapy combats acne by reducing inflammation and hastening the healing of lesions. It targets the sebaceous glands to regulate oil production and diminishes bacterial presence via its actions on porphyrins (molecules found in bacteria), thereby providing a dual-action approach to clearer skin.

Red light therapy for hyperpigmentation

Red light LED therapy can help manage hyperpigmentation by stimulating skin cell turnover and reducing inflammation, potentially lightening dark spots. It promotes the replacement of pigmented cells and calms the skin to prevent further pigmentation.

Health benefits of red and infrared LED light therapy

The therapeutic applications of red and infrared LED light therapy are extensive, offering relief and recovery across numerous domains. Below, we outline its key benefits.

Infrared LED light therapy for musculoskeletal injuries

For sprains, strains, and other soft tissue injuries, red and infrared light therapy promotes tissue regeneration and reduces discomfort, supporting faster recovery for athletes and active individuals alike.

Infrared light therapy and back pain

Infrared light’s deep penetration makes it especially effective for chronic back pain. It targets inflammation and muscle tension at deeper levels, offering respite where other treatments may fall short.

Infrared LED light therapy pain relief

Infrared light, in particular, excels in pain management, addressing conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and neuropathy.

By reducing inflammation and boosting circulation, it provides relief that is both swift and sustained.

Red/infrared light therapy, depression and mood disorders

Emerging evidence suggests that red and infrared light can alleviate symptoms of depression and enhance mood.

This may occur through the modulation of neurotransmitters and a reduction in oxidative stress, offering a novel adjunct to traditional mental health interventions.

Infrared/red light therapy for relaxation and stress relief

The therapy promotes relaxation by lowering cortisol levels - the hormone associated with stress - while encouraging the release of endorphins, the body’s natural "feel-good" chemicals. This makes it a valuable tool for combating the pressures of modern life.

Additional benefits for red/infrared LED therapy

Beyond these, red and infrared light therapy may improve sleep quality, boost athletic performance through enhanced muscle recovery, and even offer neuroprotective effects in conditions like Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease. Its versatility underscores its growing prominence in holistic health.

Depth of penetration: red vs. infrared light

A critical distinction between red and infrared light lies in their penetration capabilities.

Red light, with its shorter wavelength of around 630-660 nm, reaches depths of approximately 5-10 mm. This makes it ideal for superficial conditions such as acne, surface wounds, or skin ageing.

Infrared light, operating at around 810-850 nm, penetrates far deeper - up to 30-40 mm - reaching muscles, tendons, and even bones. This deeper reach renders infrared light particularly suited to treating conditions like joint pain, deep muscle injuries, or chronic back issues, where superficial therapies may prove inadequate.

How often to have infrared and red light therapy treatment

The frequency of red and infrared LED light therapy depends on the condition and the individual’s response.

For acute issues, such as a recent injury or flare-up of acne, treatments are typically recommended 3-5 times per week, with sessions lasting 10-20 minutes.

Chronic conditions, such as persistent back pain or arthritis, may benefit from a maintenance schedule of 1-2 sessions weekly once initial improvements are achieved.

Consistency is paramount, as the benefits of photobiomodulation accumulate over time, necessitating a disciplined approach for optimal outcomes.

Why LED power is important

The efficacy of LED light therapy hinges significantly on power output, particularly for infrared light, which targets thicker, deeper tissues.

Higher power translates to greater light intensity, enabling deeper penetration and more robust stimulation of cellular processes.

Low-power devices may fail to deliver sufficient energy to effect meaningful change, especially in conditions requiring deep tissue intervention, such as musculoskeletal injuries or joint inflammation.

For this reason, selecting a red light therapy treatment with adequate power is a critical consideration for achieving therapeutic success.

Limitations of red/infrared light led masks and panels

While LED masks and panels are widely available and convenient, they come with notable drawbacks:

Red light therapy with an LED mask

LED masks, often marketed for facial treatments, tend to be low in power, limiting their effectiveness.

They can also produce hotspots - areas of uneven light distribution - leading to inconsistent results and potential discomfort.

Moreover, their design restricts use to the face, rendering them impractical for treating other body areas like the back or limbs.

Red light therapy with an LED panel

LED panels, though often boasting higher power, do not envelop the body.

This limits their ability to treat multiple areas simultaneously or provide uniform exposure, which can be a hindrance for conditions requiring comprehensive coverage, such as areas like the shoulder, the knee, the thighs and hips etc

Their static nature makes them less practical for versatile application.

Advantages of canopy-style devices

Canopy-style red light therapy offers a superior alternative, addressing the shortcomings of masks and panels:

• Uniform Coverage: By surrounding the body, canopy devices ensure even light distribution, eliminating hotspots and delivering consistent treatment across large areas

• Higher Power Output: Equipped with high-power LEDs, they provide the intensity needed for effective therapy, particularly for deeper tissues targeted by infrared light

• Versatility: These devices can treat multiple body parts in a single session, making them ideal for large body areass

• Comfort: Users can lie down or sit comfortably during treatment, enhancing the experience and encouraging adherence to a regular schedule

For those seeking the effectiveness and fast results, canopy-style devices represent the gold standard in LED light therapy.

Read about the most advanced red light therapy treatment in London with the strongest canopy style device and advanced treatment protocols here.

Low-level red and infrared light increases expression of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid in skin

• Research paper link: https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(19)33160-3/abstract

• Abstract: Light therapy has attracted medical interests as a safe, alternative treatment for photoaging and photodamaged skin. Clinical treatment with a relatively high energy level of red or infrared light using light-emitting diode (LED) devices has been shown to augment tissue repair and promote regeneration and skin rejuvenation. Recent research has suggested that the therapeutic activity of red or infrared light may be effective at much lower-energy levels than are used clinically; however, previous studies have not investigated the effect of submilliwatt/cm2 levels of red or infrared light on skin in order to determine if the low level red or infrared light therapy is effective for photoaging. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of low level red or infrared LED light on the expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in human skin cells. Primary human dermal fibroblasts or human skin tissues obtained from plastic surgery were irradiated daily by red (640 nm), infrared (830 nm) LED lights, or combinations of red/infrared LED lights at 0.3 J/cm2 (0.5 mW for 10 minutes), and ECM protein expression measured. Real time qPCR was used to investigate gene expression and either ELISA or histology measured to determine protein expression. In addition a novel noninvasive fluorescent measurement was used to assess cross-linking of ECM, which is an indication of functional ECM proteins. Treatment of human skin cells with low level red and infrared LED lights were found to significantly increase hyaluronic acid synthase (HAS2) and elastin (ELN) gene expression in human fibroblasts in as little as 3 days. Furthermore, synthesis of hyaluronic acid, collagen protein and elastin protein were also increased in human fibroblasts exposed to red or infrared light. Treating human skin explants with low level red and infrared LED lights similarly induced gene expression of HAS2, ELN, and collagen types Col1A1 and Col1A3 within 1 week. In addition, treating human skin explants with low level red and infrared LED lights was found to increase the expression of cross-linked dermal fibers as measured by fluorescence and increased procollagen and elastin fiber formation in human skin explants. In conclusion, these results demonstrate that low level red and infrared light can significantly induce the expression of extracellular matrix proteins in human skin. Since low level red and infrared light stimulated the production of multiple biomarkers associated with antiaging skin benefits these findings suggest that low level red and infrared light treatments present opportunities for daily, at-home treatments for patients with photoaging and photodamaged skin.

A controlled trial to determine the efficacy of red and near-infrared light treatment in patient satisfaction, reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, skin roughness, and intradermal collagen density increase

• Research paper link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3926176/

• Abstract: Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of two novel light sources for large area and full body application, providing polychromatic, non-thermal photobiomodulation (PBM) for improving skin feeling and appearance. Background data: For non-thermal photorejuvenation, laser and LED light sources have been demonstrated to be safe and effective. However, lasers and LEDs may offer some disadvantages because of dot-shaped (punctiform) emission characteristics and their narrow spectral bandwidths. Because the action spectra for tissue regeneration and repair consist of more than one wavelength, we investigated if it is favorable to apply a polychromatic spectrum covering a broader spectral region for skin rejuvenation and repair. Materials and methods: A total of 136 volunteers participated in this prospective, randomized, and controlled study. Of these volunteers, 113 subjects randomly assigned into four treatment groups were treated twice a week with either 611–650 or 570–850 nm polychromatic light (normalized to ∼9 J/cm2 in the range of 611–650 nm) and were compared with controls (n=23). Irradiances and treatment durations varied in all treatment groups. The data collected at baseline and after 30 sessions included blinded evaluations of clinical photography, ultrasonographic collagen density measurements, computerized digital profilometry, and an assessment of patient satisfaction. Results: The treated subjects experienced significantly improved skin complexion and skin feeling, profilometrically assessed skin roughness, and ultrasonographically measured collagen density. The blinded clinical evaluation of photographs confirmed significant improvement in the intervention groups compared with the control. Conclusions: Broadband polychromatic PBM showed no advantage over the red-light-only spectrum. However, both novel light sources that have not been previously used for PBM have demonstrated efficacy and safety for skin rejuvenation and intradermal collagen increase when compared with controls.

Reverse skin aging signs by red light photobiomodulation

• Research paper link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37522497/

• Abstract: Background: Photobiomodulation is a process by which the absorption of red light energy produces a series of physiological effects at the cellular level such as the enhancement of mitochondrial Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) production, cell signaling and growth factor synthesis, and the reduction of oxidative stress. Light emitting diodes (LEDs) photobiomodulation is an increasingly popular therapy for treating skin problems, especially for reversing the signs of skin aging. Objective: The objective of this study is to demonstrate the effectiveness of a photobiomodulation treatment using red LEDs on the facial skin at a rate of two sessions per week for 3 months. The LED mask used is the Skin Light Dior x Lucibel mask diffusing a cold red light with a wavelength of 630 ± 10 nm and a power of 15.6 J/cm2 for a duration of 12 min. Method: In order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the mask in reversing the signs of skin aging, a clinical study was conducted on 20 healthy Caucasian women: the antiwrinkle effect by measuring the depth of the crow's feet wrinkle, the relaxation of the oval of the face by clinical scoring, the firmness and elasticity of the skin by cutometric measurement, the density of the dermis by ultrasound analysis, the smoothness of the skin by measuring the roughness at the cheek, the homogeneity of the complexion by chromametric measurement, the diameter of the pores by macrophotographs and finally the sebo‐regulating effect by measurement of the rate of sebum and quantification of the number of pores containing porphyrin in the subjects presenting a mixed to oily skin. The satisfaction of the volunteers was also evaluated at the end of the study via a self‐questionnaire. Results: The efficacy results measured after 1, 2, and 3 months of use are progressive and confirm the interest of LED photobiomodulation to reverse the visible signs of skin aging. All the volunteers observed an overall improvement in skin quality. Conclusion: All the results observed confirm the interest of using photobiomodulation to reverse the visible signs of aging. These results last for up to 1 month after stopping the use of the mask, which is a sign of lasting structural and functional rejuvenation of the skin.

Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation

• Research paper link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5523874/

• Abstract: Photobiomodulation (PBM) also known as low-level level laser therapy is the use of red and near-infrared light to stimulate healing, relieve pain, and reduce inflammation. The primary chromophores have been identified as cytochrome c oxidase in mitochondria, and calcium ion channels (possibly mediated by light absorption by opsins). Secondary effects of photon absorption include increases in ATP, a brief burst of reactive oxygen species, an increase in nitric oxide, and modulation of calcium levels. Tertiary effects include activation of a wide range of transcription factors leading to improved cell survival, increased proliferation and migration, and new protein synthesis. There is a pronounced biphasic dose response whereby low levels of light have stimulating effects, while high levels of light have inhibitory effects. It has been found that PBM can produce ROS in normal cells, but when used in oxidatively stressed cells or in animal models of disease, ROS levels are lowered. PBM is able to up-regulate anti-oxidant defenses and reduce oxidative stress. It was shown that PBM can activate NF-kB in normal quiescent cells, however in activated inflammatory cells, inflammatory markers were decreased. One of the most reproducible effects of PBM is an overall reduction in inflammation, which is particularly important for disorders of the joints, traumatic injuries, lung disorders, and in the brain. PBM has been shown to reduce markers of M1 phenotype in activated macrophages. Many reports have shown reductions in reactive nitrogen species and prostaglandins in various animal models. PBM can reduce inflammation in the brain, abdominal fat, wounds, lungs, spinal cord.

Advanced, infrared / blue / red light therapy treatments in London at LipoTherapeia

At LipoTherapeia we are passionate about phototherapy (also known as photobiomodulation/PBM, red light therapy, infrared light therapy, blue light therapy, LED light therapy etc) and we use the most powerful equipment available today (up to 200mW/cm2), for best results and treatment of large body areas.

We use specialised therapy protocols for skin rejuvenation / anti-ageing, pigmentation / post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), moderate/severe acne, skin redness, sensitive/inflamed/irritated skin, wound healing, sports injuries / musculoskeletal pain and overall wellness / well-being.

Our LED phototherapy sessions are comfortable, deeply relaxing and super-safe and are great to enhance our radiofrequency/ultrasound treatments for skin tightening / cellulite reduction.

On our booking page you can book stand-alone phototherapy sessions or combine them with our other treatments, as an add-on.

Learn more or check prices and book an expert LED phototherapy treatment at our London clinic.

Have a skin tightening/cellulite treatment in London with the experts

At LipoTherapeia we have specialised 100% in skin tightening and cellulite reduction for more than two decades and 20,000+ sessions.

This is all we study and practise every day and have researched and tried hands-on all the important skin tightening equipment and their manufacturers.

As strong, deep acting radiofrequency and deep-acting, high-power ultrasound cavitation are the technologies of choice for skin tightening and cellulite reduction, we have invested in the best RF/ultrasound technologies in the world.

Furthermore, over the last two decades we have developed advanced RF and cavitation treatment protocols in order to make the most of our technologies, for maximum results, naturally and safely.

And for even better, faster results, we now combine our RF/ultrasound treatments with high-power red/infrared light LED treatment.

Our radiofrequency/ultrasound/LED treatments are comfortable, pain-free, downtime-free, injection-free, microneedling-free, 99.5%+ safe and always non-invasive.

And our focus is on honest, realistic, science-based treatment, combined with caring, professional service, with a smile.

We will be pleased to see you, assess your cellulite, skin laxity or fibrosis, listen to your story, discuss your case and offer you the best possible treatment.

Learn more, check prices and book an expert cellulite / skin tightening treatment at our London clinic.

The Cellulite School™: Get advanced training in cellulite reduction and skin tightening

Do you want to deeply understand radiofrequency, ultrasound cavitation, LED phototherapy, cellulite and skin tightening?

Attend a half-day, 1-day, 2-day or 3-day one-to-one masterclass and confidently offer your clients the safest, strongest and most effective treatment possible.

Service available via Zoom or at our central London practice.

Learn more or check prices and book training at our London clinic or via Zoom.