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Red Light Therapy — The Apeiron Life Perspective


What is it:

Red light therapy (RLT) (i.e. low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation (PBM)) is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-level wavelengths of red or near-infrared light to support mitochondrial function. The mitochondria are known as the body's "power plants" due to their necessity for all cells' survival and energy. RLT claims to increase the number of mitochondria and their function by helping clear out nitric oxide (NO), a harmful roadblock to ATP production. Fully functioning mitochondria may, therefore, allow for cellular repair, healing, and efficient ATP production.


RLT has been studied widely and shows promise in treating many different health conditions and signs of aging. Spas, gyms, and wellness centers have started offering red light therapy, and you can buy FDA-approved devices online for home use.




Purported claims:

  • Reduced pain and inflammation

  • Improved skin health (e.g. wrinkles, scars, and acne)

  • Increased muscle recovery and performance

  • Improved joint pain

  • Improved mood and sleep

  • Reduced hair loss



What the science says:

Studies utilizing red light therapy in various conditions, including osteoarthritis, chronic lower back pain, and fibromyalgia, have shown reduced pain and inflammation. Reports of decreased activity of pain neurotransmitters and increased serotonin synthesis support the mechanism of pain reduction by red light therapy. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 221 randomized controlled trials found that red light therapy significantly reduced pain in patients with chronic musculoskeletal disorders. A study that analyzed the effect of photobiomodulation using either LLLT or light-emitting diode therapy (LEDT) showed that light therapy was effective in decreasing pain intensity and post-surgery inflammation in patients with hip arthritis who went through a total hip replacement.


Numerous studies have also found an overall reduction in inflammation and inflammatory disorders after red light therapy. A randomized placebo-controlled trial done in Norway for activated Achilles tendinitis showed increased intratendinous blood flow. Concentrations of PGE2, an inflammatory marker, were significantly reduced with light therapy vs. placebo. The pressure pain threshold also increased significantly.


Red light therapy is probably most known for improving skin health, including reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin texture and tone, and promoting wound healing. A randomized controlled trial found that red light therapy improved skin complexion, skin tone, and smoothness in participants with photoaged facial skin.


Research studies using low-power light therapy for wound healing has shown it to be effective. Both laser and LED devices seem to promote similar biological effects, such as decreased inflammatory cells, increased fibroblast proliferation, stimulation of angiogenesis, formation of granulation tissue, and increased synthesis of collagen. The effectiveness of low-power light therapy in wound healing depends on the irradiation parameters, such as wavelength and dose.


For athletes, red light therapy might provide a new way to enhance recovery and performance. A study with identical twins found that low-level laser therapy improved maximal load and increased protein synthesis and muscle hypertrophy (size). Light therapy may also reduce fatigue and muscle atrophy. Similarly, a study among young adults who received low-lever laser therapy before exercise had significantly lower levels of lactate, perceived exertion, and muscle soreness than the placebo group. These effects of red light therapy are likely mediated through its ability to enhance energy metabolism, reduce oxidative stress, and modulate gene expression in muscle cells.


Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease, is a significant cause of pain and disability in elderly adults. A randomized, partially double-blinded trial with 50 patients with degenerative osteoarthritis in both knees comparing red, infrared, and placebo light emitters found that pain reduction in the red and infrared groups after the treatment was more than 50% in all scoring methods. There was also significant functional improvement in red- and infrared-treated groups, and it took longer for these groups to require new treatment. These improvements were not seen in the placebo group.


There is evidence to suggest that red light treatment can be effective in treating mood and anxiety disorders with limited adverse side effects (e.g. headache, fatigue). One study found that t-PBM led to a significant reduction in depressive and anxiety symptoms in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and comorbid anxiety disorders. Mood disorders are usually associated with sleep disturbances, so the chances are that red light therapy can also improve sleep quality in people with mood disorders and in general. A study among female Chinese basketball players found that red light therapy improved the participants' sleep quality compared to the placebo group.


Alopecia (hair loss) is a common disorder affecting more than half of the population worldwide. Androgenetic alopecia is the most common type, affecting 50% of males over 40 and 75% of females over 65. A randomized controlled trial found that red light therapy accelerated hair growth in both male and female participants with androgenetic alopecia.



Our take:

Red light or low-level laser therapy is an emerging treatment method that may have many uses. Research has shown promise with wound healing, skin balance, joint health, improved circulation, athletic recovery, and performance. Red light therapy provides a non-invasive treatment option for patients who can’t tolerate medications or do not respond to them. Speak with your Doctor or Client Advocate to put you in touch with professionals who can further explain your options.



Will this benefit you:

Natural light is essential for good health. Unfortunately, the average American spends about 90% of their time indoors. Red light therapy may be an alternative light option without the heat and damaging UV rays or sunlight. The benefits and results will likely vary between people. It depends on your device (efficiency), the wavelengths, and the number of treatments.


If you’re still interested, here’s what to keep an eye on:

RLT is non-toxic, non-invasive, and generally deemed safe when used as directed. Some skin and eye damage (when not protected) have been reported in the literature when devices have been used too often, too long, or not as directed. Some medications can have harmful interactions with light therapy, so consult your doctor before starting the treatment. The lack of standardization on which wavelengths and colors produce optimal results can make it hard to judge what devices are most effective and safe. If you choose to buy your own device, purchase from a reputable company that can prove the science behind its devices.


References and additional reading:


Photobiomodulation and pain mgm in mice: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6037550/

Photobiomodulation and pain after hip surgery: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29909435/

Low-level laser therapy and non-specific back pain: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26667480/

LLLT and Achilles tendonitis: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16371497/

Low-level laser therapy for skin conditions: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4126803/

Low-power light therapy and wound healing: https://www.scielo.br/j/abd/a/pRwVq9Z7WyJrD6ZB8zscpTG/

LEDT on muscle repair and performance: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27088469/

LLLT and young adults perceived effort: https://aassjournal.com/article-1-912-en.pdf

RLT and mood and anxiety disorders: https://www.mdpi.com/2304-6732/9/8/507

Pain and functionality after red light therapy for osteoarthritis: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1727843/





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