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Scouted reports on the benefits of using red light therapy (also known as low-level light therapy) to reduce fine lines and wrinkles on the skin, but the treatment also boasts a host of other beauty and health benefits. In fact, multiple studies have shown that red light therapy can be effective in treating a wide range of ailments and conditions, from reducing anxiety and depression to combating hair loss and relieving chronic pain. To learn more about the many health benefits of red light therapy, Scouted spoke with Joylux Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sara de la Torre.
Although red light exposure has recently become the latest health trend, it has been intensively studied for decades. In the 1990s, NASA funded research into the health benefits of red light exposure in humans. Some astronauts had previously used the technique to test the effects of red light on plant growth and found that small scrapes and blemishes began to heal quickly in space. “Scientists have been studying [light] for decades and have found that narrow-band red and near-infrared light can safely provide health benefits. Thousands of peer-reviewed papers have shown that light in this wavelength range can stimulate the mitochondria in cells to produce the energy we need,” said Dr. de la Torre.
There’s some pretty compelling basic science to back up these claims: When mitochondria are excited, they release adenosine triphosphate and nitric oxide, which help strengthen collagen, increase blood flow, and speed up tissue repair. “Light energy is now being used in a variety of health applications, from reducing wrinkles, stimulating hair growth, and healing wounds to reducing pain and inflammation, improving vaginal health, and helping with postpartum perineal repair,” says Dr. De La Torre. While light therapy has a variety of uses, from cosmetic to medical, doctors say people with sleep problems, depression, or anxiety may benefit most from red light therapy, including athletes, menopausal women, and people with chronic pain, especially arthritis or fibromyalgia.
Of course, Dr. De La Torre recommends checking with your doctor before starting any new treatment, including light therapy. “While red light therapy is generally safe for most people, some people should avoid it or take precautions.” This is especially important if you have photosensitivity (or a history of epilepsy), open wounds, or are taking medications that may increase photosensitivity.
The best part? You don’t have to join a wellness studio or spa to reap the benefits of red light—there are plenty of doctor-approved at-home devices on the market. Whether you’re a newbie curious about red light or an experienced user who’s experienced the full power of these rays, recent advances in light therapy and red light treatment, as well as the recent emergence of high-tech “home spa” technology, make these rays accessible.
This targeted red light therapy mask may seem a little silly, but its complexion-boosting effects are no joke. This dermatologist-approved LED light therapy mask is formulated with clinical-grade LED light, which is proven to help stimulate collagen production, speeding up cell turnover and improving the appearance of fine lines, skin texture, and even hyperpigmentation.