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What Is Red Light Therapy and How Does It Work?

What Is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy (RLT), also known as photobiomodulation (PBM), is a non-invasive wellness technology that uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to support healthy cellular function.

Unlike ultraviolet (UV) light, which can damage the skin, red and near-infrared light are non-ionizing and have been widely studied for their potential to support skin health, muscle recovery, circulation, and overall wellness.

When absorbed by the body's cells, these wavelengths interact with mitochondria—the cell's energy producers. Research suggests this process may help support ATP (cellular energy) production, which plays an important role in normal cellular function and recovery.

Today, red light therapy is commonly used at home, in wellness clinics, and in professional sports settings as part of a healthy lifestyle.

Note: Red light therapy is intended to support general wellness and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Key Facts

Red Light: Typically 630–660 nm
Near-Infrared Light: Typically 810–850 nm
Non-invasive & Drug-free
No UV Radiation
Suitable for Daily Wellness Routines

How Does It Work?

Red and near-infrared light penetrate the body at different depths.

Red Light (630–660 nm) primarily reaches the skin's surface layers and is commonly associated with skin appearance and healthy collagen production.
Near-Infrared Light (810–850 nm) penetrates deeper into tissues and is often studied for its role in supporting muscles, joints, and post-exercise recovery.

Together, these wavelengths work at different depths to support overall cellular wellness.

Why Do People Use Red Light Therapy?

Millions of people use red light therapy as part of their daily wellness routine. Research suggests it may support healthy cellular function and overall well-being when used consistently.

People commonly use red light therapy to support:

🌙Daily Wellness- Help your body recover from everyday physical stress and activity.

⚡ Cellular Energy- Support healthy cellular energy production through photobiomodulation (PBM).

🌿 Skin Health – Support healthy-looking skin and collagen production.

💪 Muscle Recovery – Help the body recover after exercise and physical activity.

🦵 Joint Comfort- Help support everyday joint comfort and flexibility.

😌 Relaxation & Wellness- A calming addition to your daily wellness and self-care routine.

Red Light vs Near Infrared

Feature	🔴 Red Light	⚫ Near Infrared
Wavelength	630–660 nm	810–850 nm
Visibility	Visible	Invisible
Works Best For	Skin wellness	Deep tissue wellness
Penetrates	Surface layers	Deeper muscles & joints
Supports	Healthy-looking skin & collagen	Recovery, circulation & everyday comfort
Ideal Use	Face & skin care	Body, muscles & joints

Why use both?
Many red light therapy devices combine Red Light (630–660 nm) and Near Infrared (810–850 nm) to support both surface skin and deeper tissues in a single treatment.

Is Red Light Therapy Safe?

Does It Produce Radiation?

Yes—but not the harmful kind.

Red light therapy uses non-ionizing light, which is part of the visible and near-infrared light spectrum. Unlike X-rays or ultraviolet (UV) radiation, it does not damage DNA or make you radioactive.

The light simply delivers photons that may be absorbed by cells to support normal cellular function.

Key points

✅ No ionizing radiation
✅ No UV exposure
✅ Does not make your body radioactive
✅ Non-invasive and drug-free

Can Red Light Therapy Cause Burns?

Under normal use, red light therapy should not cause burns.

Most FDA-listed red light therapy devices are designed to operate at temperatures that are comfortable for skin contact. Some users may feel a gentle warming sensation during treatment.

However, burns or skin irritation could occur if:

The device is used longer than recommended.
The device is damaged or malfunctioning.
It is used on skin with reduced heat sensitivity.
The device is covered by thick fabrics that trap heat.

To use safely:

Follow the recommended treatment time.
Stop use if you experience unusual discomfort.
Allow the device to cool if instructed in the user manual.

Who Should Not Use Red Light Therapy?

Although red light therapy is generally considered safe for many people, some individuals should consult a healthcare professional before use.

This includes people who:

Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Have active cancer unless advised by their physician.
Have epilepsy or a history of light-triggered seizures.
Take medications that increase sensitivity to light.
Have severe skin conditions or open wounds.
Have recently undergone surgery unless approved by their healthcare provider.
Are unable to feel heat normally due to nerve damage or reduced sensation.

If you have any medical condition or are unsure whether red light therapy is appropriate for you, consult your healthcare provider before use.

Safety Precautions：

For a safe and comfortable experience:

Follow the recommended treatment time and frequency.
Do not stare directly into high-intensity LEDs. Wear protective eyewear if recommended.
Keep the device clean and dry.
Do not use the device if it is damaged.
Do not cover the LEDs during operation.
Stop use if you experience persistent discomfort or skin irritation.
Keep out of reach of children unless supervised.
Consult a healthcare professional if you have a medical condition or use photosensitizing medications.

How Does Red Light Therapy Work?

Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to interact with the body’s cells. This process is commonly known as photobiomodulation, or PBM.

Unlike ultraviolet light, red and near-infrared light do not tan the skin. They also do not work by heating the body to high temperatures. Instead, certain wavelengths of light may influence how cells produce and use energy.

1. Light Reaches the Body’s Cells

When red or near-infrared light is applied to the body, some of the light is reflected, while some is absorbed by the skin and underlying tissues.

Different wavelengths interact with the body differently:

Red light, commonly around 630–660 nm, is mainly used for the skin and more superficial tissues.
Near-infrared light, commonly around 810–850 nm, is invisible to the human eye and can reach deeper tissues than visible red light.

The amount of light that reaches the tissue depends on several factors, including the wavelength, device power, treatment distance, treatment time, skin characteristics and the part of the body being treated.

2. Cells Absorb the Light

The human body is made up of trillions of cells. Inside many of these cells are structures called mitochondria.

Mitochondria are often described as the cell’s “powerhouses” because they help convert nutrients and oxygen into usable cellular energy.

During photobiomodulation, light-sensitive molecules within cells may absorb some of the red and near-infrared light. Researchers believe that one important area of interaction is the mitochondrial respiratory system.

This light interaction may temporarily influence cellular signaling and energy-related processes.

3. Mitochondria Support Energy Production

Mitochondria produce energy through a process known as cellular respiration.

One molecule involved in the mitochondrial respiratory chain is cytochrome c oxidase. It is often discussed as a possible photoacceptor—a molecule that may absorb certain wavelengths of red and near-infrared light.

When these wavelengths interact with cellular photoacceptors, they may help support normal mitochondrial activity under certain conditions.

However, the biological response depends on the dose. More light is not always better. The wavelength, intensity, treatment time and frequency all influence how cells respond.

4. Cells Produce ATP

Mitochondria help produce a molecule called adenosine triphosphate, commonly known as ATP.

ATP is the main form of usable energy inside the cell. Cells use it to support many everyday functions, including:

Cellular maintenance
Protein production
Muscle activity
Cellular communication
Normal tissue repair processes

A simple way to understand ATP is to think of it as a rechargeable energy supply for the cell.

Photobiomodulation does not directly “give” the body energy. Instead, it may support the cellular processes involved in producing and managing energy.

5. Cellular Signals May Change

The effects of photobiomodulation may extend beyond ATP production.

Red and near-infrared light may also influence temporary cellular signals involving:

Reactive oxygen species
Nitric oxide
Calcium signaling
Gene expression
Local blood flow
Inflammatory signaling

These responses are complex and are still being studied. Researchers believe they may help explain why red light therapy is being investigated for areas such as skin health, exercise recovery and general tissue wellness.

This does not mean that every device or treatment protocol will produce the same result. Outcomes can vary depending on the wavelength, light dose, treatment schedule, device design and individual user.

What Is Photobiomodulation?

Photobiomodulation, or PBM, is the scientific term used to describe how non-ionizing light may influence biological activity.

The word can be divided into two parts:

Photo means light.
Biomodulation means influencing or modifying a biological process.

PBM usually involves red or near-infrared light delivered at controlled wavelengths and doses.

It is different from:

UV tanning
High-powered surgical lasers
Infrared saunas
Heat-only therapy

PBM is generally designed to create a biological response without cutting, burning or significantly heating the tissue.

The Process in Four Simple Steps

1. Light
Red and near-infrared wavelengths reach the skin and underlying tissues.

2. Mitochondria
Light-sensitive molecules within cells absorb part of the light.

3. ATP
Mitochondrial activity may support the production of usable cellular energy.

4. Cellular Response
Changes in energy availability and cellular signaling may support normal recovery and wellness processes.

In Simple Terms

Red light therapy gives cells a specific light signal.

The cells may use this signal to support mitochondrial activity, energy production and normal cellular communication. These responses may contribute to the wellness benefits associated with photobiomodulation.

Red light therapy is not a replacement for medical treatment, and results vary depending on the device, treatment protocol and individual.

How Often Should You Use It?

For most beginners, start with shorter sessions three times per week. If the treatment feels comfortable, gradually build toward the routine recommended for your device.

Stage	Session Length	Frequency	Main Goal
Week 1	5–10 minutes	3 times per week	Start gradually
Weeks 2–4	10–15 minutes	3–5 times per week	Build consistency
Week 4+	Follow device instructions	3–5 times per week	Maintain your routine

How Long Does It Take to Notice Results?

Red light therapy is not usually a one-time treatment.

Some users may notice temporary warmth or relaxation shortly after a session. Changes related to skin appearance, exercise recovery or everyday comfort generally require consistent use over time.

Results vary depending on: