In most situations, our bodies can handle repairing or recovering from the usual wear and tear we go through in daily life. But sometimes our body’s natural healing processes just aren’t enough. In those situations, some health experts are hoping red light therapy can make up the difference.
Although research on the efficiency of red-light therapy is still limited, the idea is that this noninvasive treatment option can stimulate our body’s cells to heal and repair. That means healthier skin with less redness, inflammation, acne, wrinkles, or other dermatological issues.
In fact, as red-light therapy becomes more mainstream, you may hear more about it from dermatologists. Here are four facts about red-light therapy you should know:
1. There’s a scientific explanation behind it.
The Cleveland Clinic actually gives credit to NASA—yes, as in the National Aeronautics and Space Administration—for having started using red light therapy to grow plants in space. The idea is to use low-energy red or infrared light waves to stimulate our cells. When about 630–700 nanometers of light penetrate the skin, they stimulate the cells to start producing more energy. When cells produce this kind of energy more effectively, they can naturally repair skin and reduce inflammation.
2. It could potentially treat a variety of dermatological issues.
One of the most prominent ways these stimulated skin cells can change skin appearance is through collagen production. As skin cells start to produce more collagen, this boosts the skin’s elasticity, which smooths out the appearance of the skin and reduces wrinkles. Plus, there’s faster healing time, meaning that skin conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, and sun damage are less severe, and you’re less likely to see scarring or stretch marks.
3. Some early research supports it as a treatment option.
Nothing is conclusive yet, but small-scale studies have shown promise. The next step for researchers is to conduct larger studies with placebo controls. Right now, health experts see potential for red light treatment as an option, but acknowledge that it’s still emerging and needs conclusive support.
4. At-home options exist, but professional application may be most effective.
There are red-light wands and similar devices on the market you can buy for home use, but the American Academy of Dermatology Association emphasizes that red-light treatment performed by a dermatologist is going to have better results. Expect your dermatologist to use red-light therapy as a complementary treatment in tandem with other options like microneedling or chemical peels.
