Over the years, newer technologies have been channeling light as a method of treatment. Among these innovations, red light therapy (RLT) or photobiomodulation (PBM) is gaining popularity for managing various health and aesthetic concerns. It has even gained acceptance in the field as facilities adopted it for its beneficial effects.
Red light therapy is a form of photomedicine that treats skin and health conditions. Today, you can find being used in a variety of settings. Some tanning salons offer the treatment to manage issues such as wrinkles or stretch marks. It can even be used to treat skin conditions like acne, wrinkles, and even cold sores.
As for red light therapy in a medical setting, its high precision makes it a useful tool for treating a variety of healthcare problems.
How Does It Work?
Red light therapy utilizes light in specific wavelengths, usually up to near-infrared levels. These are capable of penetrating the skin without causing damage to its layers.
Upon contact, it triggers a response at the cellular level, specifically in the mitochondria, the cell’s source of energy. As a result, the cells get a boost in their natural function.
Over the years, treatment has been considered a non-invasive option with minimal side effects.
Where Red Light Therapy Is Used
Many studies suggest that red light therapy does offer a variety of benefits. Knowing this, experts use it for the following applications:
- Promotes rapid healing of wounds and tissue repair, including slow-healing wounds associated with diabetes
- Boosts hair growth
- Improves the complexion of the skin by building up collagen to reduce lines and wrinkles
- Help reduce the appearance of scars
- Lessens pain and inflammation
- Improves overall skin health and serves as an anti-aging remedy
- Reduces joint and muscle pain
These make it a useful tool in helping many people maintain their health and appearance.
The Benefits Of Red Light Therapy
While there has yet to be an official consensus in the research field on its actual merits, it has been used in various settings to achieve safe, sustainable results.
The potential benefits go beyond acne, wrinkles, and other skin care concerns. Here is a breakdown of its more specific uses:
- Addresses Skin And Hair Problems
Red light therapy is popularly used to manage various skin conditions and promote hair growth.
For those suffering from hair loss, red light therapy rejuvenates the skin cells on the head. As a result, the scalp and hair receive more oxygen and nutrients from the increased blood flow that reduced inflammation, allowing you to recover your full crown.
Those who want to take care of their appearance should know that it serves as a form of direct and preventive treatment. By penetrating the skin’s layers without causing damage, red light stimulates collagen production, enhancing tissue flexibility to smoothen lines and wrinkles. For those with acne, it can reduce inflammation and eliminate bacteria.
- Promotes Wound Healing
Red light therapy may help improve the healing of skin and oral wounds. Most procedures involve focusing light on the site of the wound to boost the healing. It also helps reduce the appearance of bruises, scars, and burns.
- Aids With Pain Management
Chronic pain is becoming a major issue as the mean population ages longer. Red light therapy may serve as a remedy. The reason for this is that it can work on the neurons responsible for the transmission of pain signals. This can help relieve the pain caused by conditions like osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, and neuropathy.
- Assists With Sports Recovery And Performance
Among athletes, red light therapy has seen some use in regaining regular function after an injury. The red light may be used to boost the regrowth and metabolism of cells. As a result, it helps improve muscle repair and growth. This can help heal muscular injuries and lessen soreness after activity.
What Are The Risks?
Like any treatment, it’s crucial to consider the potential side effects and risks. It may interact with other remedies or medications. Your level of sensitivity may also affect the outcomes of any treatment.
In red light therapy, the possible risks depend on the type of device, distance, time frame, and treatment intensity. Side effects are usually minor but can include skin tightness, redness, stinging, and burning. They’re more likely to appear on those with sensitive skin. However, most reactions typically subside around three weeks after treatment.
Should You Try It?
Several studies may support red light therapy as of now. But as mentioned before, the medical community has yet to come down to any consensus on its viability as a regular form of treatment. Knowing the uses, benefits, and potential risks will come in handy if you have been considering red light therapy for your issues. Consult your doctor to weigh your options.