Red and near-infrared light interacting with a shoulder joint

RED VS. NEAR-INFRARED

Red vs. Near-Infrared

Understand two wavelengths, their differences, and how they work together.

Explore the Differences
660 nmRed Light
850 nmNear-Infrared

AT A GLANCE

Two Wavelengths, Different Characteristics

Both red and near-infrared light are used in light therapy, but they have different wavelengths, visible properties, and ways of interacting with the body.

660 nm Red Light card with wavelength curve and key characteristics
850 nm Near-Infrared card with wavelength curve and key characteristics

INTERACTION WITH TISSUE

How They Reach Different Depths

Red and near-infrared light interact with tissue in different ways. Wavelength is one factor among several that influence how light travels and is absorbed.

Scientific illustration comparing red and near-infrared light paths through tissue

TISSUE DEPTH DIAGRAM

How Light Interacts with Tissue

As light encounters biological tissue, it can be reflected, scattered, transmitted, or absorbed.

Illustrative tissue depth comparison for red and near-infrared wavelengths

Illustrations are conceptual. Light distribution depends on tissue properties, device output, distance, and exposure conditions.

SPECTRUM COMPARISON

Where They Sit on the Light Spectrum

Red light around 630–680 nm falls within the visible spectrum. Near-infrared wavelengths such as 850 nm are beyond the range visible to the human eye.

4005006007008009001000 660 nm850 nm Visible lightNear-infraredWavelength (nm)

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU

Different Wavelengths, Different Research Applications

Both wavelengths are studied across different tissue and application areas.

Close-up visual representing visible red light

660 nm Red Light

  • Skin appearance research
  • Cellular response studies
  • Superficial tissue interactions
Close-up scientific visual representing near-infrared light and tissue

850 nm Near-Infrared

  • Muscle-related studies
  • Joint-related research
  • Deeper tissue interactions
Red light therapy device in a warm, calm setting

A MORE POWERFUL COMBINATION

Better Together

Red and near-infrared light work in different ways and may complement each other in devices designed to combine both wavelengths.

Compare Devices