Does Red Light Therapy Really Work? Here Are the Benefits and Drawbacks

Should you be intrigued by emerging beauty practices and personal wellness routines, chances are high that you've stumbled upon red light therapy (RLT). This method was originally termed photobiomodulation when physicians realized back in the 1960s that specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared lights could accelerate hair growth. Further research later highlighted their role in enhancing tissue repair after injuries. Over time, this technique slowly made its way into cosmetic treatments, primarily being adopted as part of clinical procedures aimed at aiding recovery following surgeries related to aesthetic enhancements, according to Dr Prem Tripathi, who specializes in facial plastics and operates from his practice in Alamo, California.

By the middle of the 2010s, RLT devices became available for personal use at home. They've become increasingly popular due to their non-intrusive nature, which supposedly helps reduce fine lines, treat acne and blemishes, enhance overall skin complexion, and stimulate hair regrowth.

The price and design of RLT devices differ. For example, Solawave’s red-light wand retails for $169, whereas Dr. Dennis Gross’s mask goes for $455, and the canopy-style Dermalux Flex MD is approximately $2,600. It is projected that the worldwide market for these gadgets will reach about $350 million in 2024. one projection indicates it will hit $620 million by 2031.

Even though red-light gadgets have become quite common recently, they "remain a nascent therapeutic field," according to Toronto-based dermatologist Dr. Annie Liu. There is comparatively scant research on the prolonged impacts of home-use devices when contrasted with stronger in-clinic light treatments. Therefore, where does this leave us? really Are you familiar with do-it-yourself red light therapy for skin care, and what benefits it offers?

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What is the mechanism behind red light therapy?

Red LED light focuses on specific cells in the skin known as fibroblasts, essential for generating collagen—a protein responsible for giving skin its young appearance through attributes such as fullness and flexibility," says Liu. This therapy stimulates elements inside the cell’s mitochondria—referred to as the 'cellular powerhouse' because they produce chemical energy—which enhances both repair and regrowth at the cellular level.

"Light therapies can boost collagen production and enhance the renewal of connective tissues," explains Dr. Praveen Arany, an expert in wound healing and tissue regeneration at the University of Buffalo.

Devices frequently include various settings. One typical choice is a wavelength of about 630 nanometers, penetrating several millimeters beneath the skin’s surface – this could help improve fine lines and stimulate hair growth Does this imply that this wavelength might accelerate the growth of peach fuzz on your face? "While I've come across informal accounts suggesting that existing facial hair grows quicker with the use of red-light LED face masks, further studies are certainly required," remarks Liu.

Studies demonstrate that at a wavelength of 830 nm, which lies within the near-infrared range (just beyond the visible spectrum), red light penetrates more deeply into tissue layers, offering anti-inflammatory advantages and therapeutic outcomes that initially attracted scientists' attention. Additionally, certain devices incorporate blue light with wavelengths around 480 nm or shorter, since this type of light possesses antibacterial qualities and may fight acne on the skin’s surface.

What factors make certain red light therapy devices stronger compared to others?

RLT gadgets vary in potency based on their irradiance, or energy emission, quantified as milliwatts per square centimeter of skin. The majority of these devices available for purchase typically provide outputs between 40mW/cm² and 100mW/cm². However, according to Tripathi, several elements such as the gap between your skin and the light emitter, the spread of the beam, and the amount of light reflected off your skin can influence how effectively this energy reaches beneath the surface.

Less powerful gadgets often necessitate extended usage periods, whereas high-output devices yield quicker outcomes that are similar to professional salon treatments. "Usually, the greater the number of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) a device contains, the superior," explains Tripathi, since this enhances energy dispersion and ensures uniform effectiveness.

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According to Arany, in-office professional RLT devices "typically consist of lasers or high-intensity LEDs, offering greater precision in treatments yet also imposing stricter safety standards, which consequently increases the risk of harm."

Home-use red light therapy devices are designed to be operated safely without professional supervision. However, many of the studies supporting their development often rely on data from more potent, medically approved versions, as stated by Tripathi. Without independent clinical testing conducted by the manufacturer, such products' effectiveness might be inferred from tests involving distinct and potentially stronger instruments.

If you're working with a device such as a wand with just a handful of LEDs, and you move it over your skin, achieving the correct power, duration of treatment, and beam angle is quite difficult compared to professional settings," explains Tripathi. Some individuals on TikTok try to mimic RLT using red Christmas lights or similar alternatives. heat lamps Commonly utilized for poultry farming, these are not likely to produce the appropriate wavelengths or sufficient power to be advantageous for your skin, he notes.

If you plan to dedicate time to RLT, choosing a product from a well-established brand that has been validated through independent clinical studies would be wise—examples being the Mito Light Mitohacker 3.0 and the CurrentBody mask.

Can red-light therapy devices actually lead to noticeable enhancements in your skin?

RLT devices appear promising. Many users claim they notice an improvement in their skin's luminosity and brightness, however, Tripathi remains skeptical. He warns, "There will be limitations regarding the outcomes you achieve with these gadgets." Consider them akin to maintaining oral hygiene; think of RLT devices as something you should utilize regularly, each evening, over several years, much like how one would brush their teeth consistently between dental appointments.

Hardworking skincare forms the basis for radiant skin, and RLT isn't a substitute but more like "the cherry on top".

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“If you were to compare red light therapy to using a skin brightener, a retinoid and a sunscreen, I can almost guarantee you that the skincare products used consistently are going to be much more effective and maintainable than red light,” Tripathi adds.

It should be used on bare skin before applying other products, though. Plus, “you definitely still need to wear sunscreen, otherwise any anti-ageing gains from your LED device are undone from UV damage,” notes Liu.

Nevertheless, Tripathi, an advisor for the Qure line within the RLT brand, suggests RLT to patients undergoing frequent laser therapies, chemical peels, or micro-needling procedures, aiming to accelerate their skin's healing process. Additionally, individuals suffering from dermatological issues such as eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis may find RLT beneficial. "Many of my patients have effectively managed their rosacea mainly through at-home LED devices," notes Liu, adding that these options tend to be considerably less expensive compared to traditional clinic-based treatments.

What are the possible dangers or adverse reactions from misusing red light therapy?

Although RLT is typically considered safe, it's crucial to discuss with a healthcare provider or dermatologist whether it suits you, especially if you suffer from conditions like melasma, hyperpigmentation, or other disorders impacting your skin's pigment. These issues may make your skin more susceptible to irritation from the minimal heat produced by LED equipment.

Be cautious of localized skin irritations like redness, burning sensations, and eye irritation," advises Liu. "Since this product is not monitored, make sure to strictly adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines at all times, and consult an expert if necessary.

Can red light therapy offer additional health advantages apart from improving skin care?

Since RLT helps reduce inflammation, it may alleviate muscle pain – particularly when used with high-energy settings and near-infrared light. Several limited studies indicate that RLT could improve your sleep by boosting the body's melatonin production.

There is some evidence Near-infrared light directed at the brain has been shown to enhance cognitive performance for short periods. even in healthy individuals , and potentially repair damaged brain tissue.

This past summer, scholars at the University of Notre Dame created A wireless LED gadget they aspire to someday utilize for treating deeply situated cancers.

"I strongly believe that the application of red light in the skincare and beauty sector will keep expanding, with at-home gadgets becoming increasingly significant as product technology advances and additional medical studies on these therapies come to light," according to Liu.