How does red light therapy work?

Without going into too much detail (because trust me, I could!), exposure to red and near infrared light helps support mitochondrial function by increasing the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), your body’s fuel. 

Human cells have power generators called mitochondria. They convert oxygen and nutrients through the oxidative phosphorylation process and electron transport chain into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the currency on which all of our cells run or the energy product that all of our cells utilize in order to perform their tasks. It was found that mitochondria increase production of ATP when they were exposed to laser or other forms of illumination. Visible and near-infrared light (NIR) is also absorbed by the cell and increases cellular respiration of the mitochondria. Pretty neat right? 

During cellular respiration, there are several complexes within the cell doing work, the most important of which is Complex IV or CCO. One of the events that can happen in a stressed cell is that a substance called Nitric Oxide (NO) can displace oxygen from CCO complex which decreases cellular respiration, decreasing how much energy it produces. Red light therapy has been shown on a cellular level to displace NO and allow oxygen to bind to the CCO complex, promoting uninterrupted cellular respiration and continuous production of ATP. It has also been shown to increase activity of immune responses associated with cellular growth, migration and proliferation.

What are the benefits of red light therapy?

Since red and near-infrared light exposure improves your mitochondrial function and tolerance to stress, there are a host of conditions that light therapy is beneficial for. There are thousands of studies looking at the beneficial effects and uses of red and near-infrared light therapy on the body and brain.

 Red light therapy benefits include:

• Increase in blood flow

• Pain reduction (e.g. arthritis, tendonitis)

• Cellulite reduction

• Fat burning

• Hair growth

• Mood improvement (anxiety/depression)

• Anti-inflammatory

• Enhancement of muscle strength and recovery

• Reduce wrinkles and scarring of the skin

Is red light therapy safe?

Red light therapy is generally considered safe and non-invasive. It does not produce any harmful UV rays, and there are no known side effects associated with the treatment. However, individuals with certain conditions, such as epilepsy or those taking medication that increases photosensitivity, should consult with a healthcare provider before undergoing red light therapy. 

How to use red light therapy

Now that we’ve gone over how red light therapy works, let’s talk about how to use this therapy at Anew. Once you’re comfortable in our red light therapy room, you will want to lie down or stand in the device for roughly 20 minutes. Clothing will greatly diminish the light’s effectiveness, so make sure the area you are treating is free of clothing.

Try red light therapy at a discount!

We love red light therapy so much that we are offering a promotion until April 9! Get 10 red light therapy sessions for $150—that’s $300 in savings! A session is 20 minutes under the light.  

Take advantage of this great promotion by booking your first appointment here. When you come into the clinic for your first appointment we will get you signed up fo the package and you can book the rest of your appointments easily through our online booking platform. This great deal is available to new or existing patients. Additionally, existing patients can provide a Google review and get a free session.

If you have questions about red light therapy or any other methods to support your healing journey, send us a message. We’re here to help.