Red Light Therapy

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I’m not a medical professional, and this post isn’t intended as medical advice. Always consult your provider before starting a new therapy.

Red light therapy (RLT) is a gentle, non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to support the body’s natural healing processes. When this light is absorbed by the mitochondria it boosts cellular energy, which can help reduce inflammation, promote collagen production, speed up healing, improve circulation, and support hormonal balance and mood, and more. Red light therapy is generally considered very safe when used properly, even for kids or during pregnancy (though you should always consult your provider before starting).

What to Look for in a Quality Red Light Device

Wavelength

The wavelength is the exact type of light being used, measured in nanometers (nm). Different wavelengths penetrate the body at different depths and trigger different benefits. Medical grade RLT devices use minimum wavelengths between 630-700nm. Ideally look for devices that emit both red light (630nm) and infrared light (810nm), to achieve deeper penetration.

 Irradiance

Irradiance is the intensity of the light that reaches your skin, measured in milliwatts per square centimeter (mW/cm²). It determines how much energy your body absorbs during a session.

The higher the irradiance, the more light energy delivered per second. Typical therapeutic ranges fall between 20–100 mW/cm² for skin treatments and 80–200 mW/cm² for deeper muscle or joint recovery. The total dose depends on both irradiance, distance, and time - so finding the right balance is key: too little may be ineffective, while too much can overstimulate cells.

As mentioned above, for skin, a moderate irradiance is often more effective than blasting your face with excessive light. For this, you may choose to hold the device further away from the treated area.

A higher irradiance can be achieved by holding the light closer to the skin, which allows the light to better reach deeper tissue, and can reduce treatment time by delivering light more efficiently.

EMF Emissions

Electric magnetic fields are invisible energy waves produced by electronic devices, including some red light therapies. These emissions come from the electrical components and wiring.

While the levels are typically very low and considered safe, prolonged or close exposure to strong EMFs may be concerning for people who are sensitive or who use these devices frequently. For this reason, it’s best to choose red light therapy devices that are low-EMF, meaning they minimize unnecessary electromagnetic exposure while still delivering effective light energy. Keeping EMF levels as low as possible ensures you receive the therapeutic benefits of red and near-infrared light without adding potential stressors to your body’s natural electrical balance.

RLT devices fall into the non-ionizing category

When looking at RLT devices, check if EMF emissions are tested, and how far from the device they measure (the closer to the device the better). A device with a lower EMF number, but measures from further away may not actually be as good as one with a slightly higher number that measures closer. For example, this device measures 0mG from 6 inches away, this one measures 0mG from 3 inches, and this one 2mG at 0cm (probably the closest you'll find).

0mG might seem better than 2mG, but the first two are measured from 6-inches and 3-inches, where as the last is measured at 0-cm. My question would be, what's the EMF levels on the first two as you get closer to the device? I know, for me, I use my devices much closer than 6 inches from my body most of the time.

Questions to Ask when Looking for RLT Devices

Wavelength? Medical-grade devices will have a minimum 630nm

• Ideally, look for devices that give off both red (630nm) and infrared light (810nm)

Irradiance?

• 20–100 mW/cm² for skin treatments and 80–200 mW/cm² for deeper muscle or joint recovery

• Many companies will report higher levels than actually offered, so ask how they test.

EMF? Does the company test, and if so, how far away from the device do they measure?

FDA approved and/or CE certified?: shows that the product meets established safety, quality, and performance standards

Quick Reference:

• Red light: 630–660 nm → great for skin, surface-level benefits

• Near infrared: 810–850 nm → penetrates deeper, supports muscles, joints, brain

• Ideal irradiance: 20–100 mW/cm² for skin, up to 200 mW/cm² for deeper tissue

• Low EMF: look for <3 mG at 0 cm, if possible

RLT Devices I Own

Lumebox

• Wavelength: BOTH red (660nm) AND near infrared (850nm)

• Irradiance (independently lab tested by SGS)

  • Red delivered at 1cm: 125 mW/cm²

  • Near infrared delivered at 2cm: 140.4 mW/cm²

• EMF: 2.5mG measured at 0cm

  • For perspective, hairdryers emit 60-20,000mG from 3cm away

• Both FDA approved and CE certified

This link should give $260 off, or code THENATURALMINDEDMAMA

Usuie

Wavelength: BOTH red (660nm) AND near infrared (850nm)

Irradiance: 181 mW/cm² delivered at 2in

EMF: no data I could find

FDA approved

POSSIBLE LUME DUPE???? Click here.

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RLT Uses & Research

(research is a work in progress, will continue to add)

Skin & Cosmetic

• Reduces wrinkles and fine lines (research 1, research 2)

• Improves skin elasticity

• Stimulates collagen and elastin production (research)

• Reduces sagging skin

• Helps with acne (research)

• Minimizes scars (surgical, acne, or injury scars) (research)

• Reduces stretch marks 

• Evens skin tone and reduces hyperpigmentation

• Helps with rosacea

• Reduces redness and irritation

• Improves skin texture and smoothness

• Promotes wound healing (research, research)

Hair & Scalp

• Stimulates hair growth (research, research)

• Improves hair density and thickness

• Reduces hair shedding

• Strengthens hair follicles

Pain & Inflammation

• Reduces joint pain (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis) (research, research, research, research)

• Reduces muscle pain and soreness (research)

• Speeds recovery from muscle injuries

• Reduces inflammation in tendons and ligaments

• Helps with back pain, neck pain, and shoulder pain

• Helps manage chronic pain conditions (fibromyalgia, tendonitis)

• Eases post-workout soreness and fatigue

Healing & Recovery

• Speeds wound healing

• Reduces bruising

• Improves recovery after surgery or injury

• Accelerates bone healing (some research on fractures)

• Supports tissue repair

• Improves circulation to injured areas

• Burn wounds (more research)

Nerve & Brain

• Supports nerve repair and regeneration

• May help with neuropathy (nerve pain or damage)

• Improves cognitive function in some studies

• Supports mood and may reduce depression or anxiety

• Helps with brain fog and fatigue

Muscle & Performance

• Boosts muscle recovery after exercise

• Improves athletic performance

• Reduces delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS)

• Increases endurance and stamina

Hormonal & Metabolic

• Supports thyroid function

• Helps regulate circadian rhythm / sleep disorders (research, research) 

• May support adrenal function and stress response

• Can improve energy levels by boosting cellular ATP production

• Helps with metabolic function and weight management (indirectly via mitochondria)

Immune & General Health

• Reduces inflammation in general

• May help support immune system function

• Improves circulation and blood flow

• Supports overall cellular health and mitochondrial function

Other Potential Uses

• Helps with cold sores or oral herpes outbreaks (research, research)

• Supports eye health (specific wavelengths for retina)

• May help with gum health and healing after dental procedures (research)

• Supports joint mobility and flexibility

• Helps reduce edema or swelling (research)

AND MORE!

Additional posts:

If You Can Think It...RLT Can Do It

Let's Ask ChatGPT About RLT

17 Ways I Use RLT

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