The Science Behind and Benefits of Red Light Therapy on the Human Body

#Redlighttherapy (#RLT), also known as photobiomodulation (PBM) or low-level laser therapy (LLLT), involves exposing the body to low levels of red or near-infrared light. This therapy is non-invasive and painless, and it is used to treat a variety of conditions by stimulating cellular function. At Wellness By Resolve, we use a combination of Red Light and Near Infrared light in the form of a lie down bed for optimal therapy outcomes and comfort. We thought we'd dig deeper into how ths therapy works and some of the benefits you can expect with regular RLT sessions.

Red Light Therapy

Mechanisms of Action

1. Cellular Energy Production:

   • Red and near-infrared light wavelengths penetrate the skin and reach the mitochondria within cells.

   • These wavelengths are absorbed by cytochrome c oxidase, a component of the mitochondrial electron transport chain.

   • This absorption increases the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the cell, enhancing cellular function and repair.

2. Anti-inflammatory Effects:

   • Red light therapy reduces oxidative stress and inflammation by modulating cytokine levels and promoting antioxidant defenses.

   • It increases the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), an important antioxidant enzyme.

3. Enhanced Cellular Communication:

   • RLT improves intercellular communication, promoting tissue repair and regeneration.

   • It activates signaling pathways involved in cell proliferation and differentiation.

   
   

Benefits of Red Light Therapy

Skin Health

1. Wound Healing:

   • Accelerates the healing of wounds, cuts, and surgical incisions.

   • Promotes the regeneration of damaged tissue and reduces scar formation.

2. Anti-aging:

   • Stimulates collagen production, reducing wrinkles and fine lines.

   • Enhances skin elasticity and texture.

3. Acne Reduction:

   • Reduces inflammation and bacterial growth, helping to clear acne.

   • Minimizes the appearance of acne scars.

   
   

Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery

1. Pain Reduction:

   • Alleviates chronic and acute pain by reducing inflammation and enhancing blood flow.

   • Effective in treating conditions like arthritis, joint pain, and muscle soreness.

2. Muscle Recovery:

   • Speeds up recovery from exercise-induced muscle damage.

   • Reduces muscle fatigue and enhances performance.

   
   

Whole Body RLT

Mental Health and Cognitive Function

1. Mood Improvement:

   • Improves mood by regulating circadian rhythms and enhancing sleep quality.

   • Potential benefits for treating depression and anxiety.

2. Cognitive Enhancement:

   • Improves cognitive function and memory by enhancing cerebral blood flow and reducing neuroinflammation.

   • Potential applications in treating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

   
   

Eye Health

1. Visual Acuity:

   • Promotes retinal health and improves visual acuity.

   • Potential benefits for conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

   
   

Metabolic Health

1. Weight Loss and Metabolic Function:

   • Enhances mitochondrial function, potentially aiding in weight loss and metabolic health.

   • May improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of metabolic disorders.

   
   

Clinical Applications and Considerations

Red light therapy is used in various clinical settings, including dermatology, sports medicine, and physical therapy. It is also increasingly available in at-home devices for skincare and general wellness practises and in settings such as ours where people don't want to try and find solutions for illness but rather prevent problems from happening and optimise their wellness.

Safety and Side Effects

• Generally considered safe with minimal side effects.

• Possible side effects include mild eye strain or skin irritation.

• Not recommended for individuals with photosensitivity or specific medical conditions without consulting a healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Red light therapy offers a range of benefits for skin health, pain relief, muscle recovery, mental health, eye health, and metabolic function. Its non-invasive nature and minimal side effects make it an attractive option for many individuals seeking therapeutic benefits. The research base is constantly expanding our understanding of its mechanisms and potential applications, promising even broader uses in the future.

If you're ready to reap some of the benefits outlined above, book yourself a session at our boutique wellness studio in Sutton Coldfield.