Choosing your red light therapy device
TL;DR:
The device I use: Red Light Man Red-Infrared Combo Mini
Other brands that I haven’t personally tried, but have researched:
The concept of using light for therapeutic purposes dates back to ancient times. One of the earliest documented uses (in the western world at least) of RLT (which is also known as low-level laser therapy or photobiomodulation) dates back to the 1960s and 1970s.
Hungarian physician Endre Mester accidentally discovered its potential benefits while conducting experiments with low-level lasers on mice.
He found that the light stimulated hair growth and wound healing in the treated areas. This laid the groundwork for further research.
Since then RLT applications have broadened to include pain relief, skin rejuvenation, enhanced muscle recovery, increased blood circulation, mood enhancement, reduced scarring, and other medical and cosmetic purposes.
Red LED light vs Near infrared light
You may have heard of many versions and names for RLT devices. My recommendation is to opt for a device that uses near infrared light or both red LED and near infrared light, and here's why...
Both red LED (600-700 nm) wavelengths and near-infrared (700-1000 nm) wavelengths are absorbed by chromophores(components within molecules that are essential for various biological, chemical, and physical processes where the absorption of light plays a significant role) in the mitochondria.
This absorption triggers a series of reactions within the mitochondria that lead to an increase in ATP production (cells’ energy currency).
With increased ATP production, cells have more energy to carry out their essential functions: repair, regeneration, and communication. This leads to improved cellular metabolism, protein synthesis, and overall cellular health.
Near infrared light penetrates through the skin more effectively, up to 3 times more deeply than red light, so it can reach muscles, bones, and organs.
Red LED light on the other hand is visible to the naked and absorbed within the first 2.5cm of the skin tissue, making it effective for treating superficial epidermal issues.
Beneficial actions of RLT:
increased energy levels
reduced local and systemic inflammation
protects against excess oestrogen
reduces cortisol levels / stress hormones
activates formation of new cells for healing
protects against radiation
supports thyroid function
normalises and maximises thyroid hormones and progesterone
increases lymph and blood flow
improves circadian rhythm
stimulates collagen production
improves skin elasticity
enhances tissue repair
useful for reducing acne, eczema, psoriasis and other skin conditions
improves exercise recovery rate
neuroprotective and nootropic effects
improves sleep quality
promotes hormonal balance
How long and how often should I use RLT?
Application depends on how close the device is sitting to the area receiving treatment, the quality and specifications of the product itself, and it also varies depending on your goal. The following recommendations are based on devices that have red LED and near infrared lights.
Device is 10cm from the body:
For hair and skin conditions, scars and hair loss: 3-7 minutes
For thyroid health: 6-10 minutes
For muscles and joints: 7-10 minutes
Device is 35cm from the body:
15-20 minutes for all of the areas described above
Your device should ideally be used every other day for maximum benefits; this gives cells time to respond to the beneficial effects. (NOT medical advice; this is *my* recommendation based on *my* research!!!).
Start slow (less than 5 minutes per use) if you are new to RLT as those with sensitive skin may experience unpleasant reactions. Gradually increase length of use over time.
Once you have noticed improvement and benefit, you may continue using your device 2 to 3 times per week to maintain it.
Consistency is ✨key✨ if you are going to invest £££ in a device, ensure you make it a part of your self-care and wellness routine ;)
This is the device/brand I use is the Red Light Man Red-Infrared Combo Mini. It combines best of red & infrared light therapy. I would like to purchase a face mask, but back when I bought it, they were not common or as affordable as they are now! It is on my wishlist, so inshaAllah, one day I’ll get my hands on one to concentrate the red light on my face skin.
A bonus with the handheld device is that I can easily move it around to other parts of my body. I also fitted in a gooseneck holder stand to the side of my bed to keep the handle device in place while I rest/read and red light my face/hair, etc. at the same time!