Red Light Therapy: Potential Benefits & Side Effects

Red light therapy or RLT is a popular therapy that relies on reduced levels of red light to enhance appearance of skin as it helps in decreasing wrinkles, acne, scars, and redness. However, the complete effectiveness of red light therapy is yet to be assessed. It is generally considered to be safe, but its complete effectiveness still requires more scientific research. Before opting for red light therapy it is necessary to speak to the doctor as most of the devices are not FDA-approved for particular conditions. It Is worth noting that insurance coverage is also limited.

The therapy exposes an individual’s body to low wavelength red light that pierces the skin cells and may enhance production of adenosine triphosphate production for cellular repair.

How The Therapy Works?

RLT works in the skin health to boost collagen production that can provide the skin structure, elasticity, and strength. It helps in enhancing fibroblast product that can produce collagen. It improves blood circulation to the tissue and decreases inflammation in the cells.

Is Red Light Therapy Safe?

RLT is generally safe when performed properly. But some factors are likely to make the skin prone to some negative effects. These factors include:

• Darker skin tone

• Hyperpigmentation

• Pregnancy

• On a certain medication.

It is crucial to speak with your dermatologist or health care professional before opting for RLT. According to report featured in healthline, some people experienced burns after using the device for 30 minutes, after falling asleep with the unit in place, and due to broken wires or corrosion in device. There were also instances of burns, lesions, and blistering caused by RLT units. It occurred due to poor handling or malfunction of device.  

Benefits of Red Light Therapy

Improves Skin Health: RLT therapy can help in improving skin health. It supports increase in collagen production in the skin that can offer elasticity. It boosts fibroblast production that can produce collagen and other tissue fibres. It improves circulation between blood and tissue cells and decreases fine lines. According to a report featured in Medical News Today, most of the results pertaining to RLT arrived from animal and test-tube studies and there are no conclusive evidence that can work in every case.  

Improves Acne: RLT when combined with blue light therapy emerged an effective cure for acne vulgaris. The light can pierce into the skin and affect sebum production while also decreasing inflammation and irritation in the area.

Promotes Wound Healing: Red Light Therapy helps in supporting wound healing. It helps in decreasing inflammation in cells, stimulates new blood vessels also known as angiogenesis, boosts fibroblasts in skin, and enhances collagen production.  

Supports Hair Growth: Some particular forms of RLT can help in improving hair growth. According to a study conducted by National Library of Medicine, it was discovered that the application of a particular red light band stimulated hair follicle proliferation thus offering promising results for more research. RLT implementation in androgenetic alopecia cure discovered that light therapy can produce positive results on hair growth when paired with prescription hair growth medicines.

Decreases Pain: RLT can be a beneficial cure for discomfort for specific conditions. The low level laser and light therapy can decrease severity of osteoarthritis, neck pain, non-specific knee pain, fibromyalgia, and low back discomfort.

Improves Bone Recovery: As it stimulates blood vessels and adenosine triphosphate creation, the therapy helps in fracture cure and wound recovery.  

Potential Side Effects

• There can be some temporary redness, dryness, tightness after the sessions.

• Sometimes exposure to RLT can lead to mild eye strain and temporary discomfort. It is important to use protective eyewear while undergoing the therapy.

• People prone to migraine may experience mild headaches.

• Individuals taking certain medications like antibiotics or chemotherapy drugs may experience increased skin responses.

• Excessive sessions of RLT can cause skin burns or tissue overheating particularly with high power devices.

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or treatment options.