All About Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy is used as a drug free treatment for skin, muscle tissue, sleep, chronic pain and immunity disorders.
Often referred to as photobiomodulation (PBM) or low level laser therapy (LLLT), the most effective form of red light therapy (RLT) involves exposing the body to a combination of red light and near infrared light (which produces mild heat) via a red light lamp or panel*. These light waves are very different to UVA (ultraviolet A) radiation from the sun which has been associated with damage to skin cells. Instead the RLT spectrum is restricted to those wavelengths that nourish and promote cellular healing in human bodies, much like photosynthesis in plants.
*Not all red light therapies provide this combination - there are many products that labelled as red light therapy devices which may not produce the benefits discussed below.
Red light therapy is included on Wellness & Yoga retreats
How does it work?
Medical grade RLT panels utilise low light and near infrared wavelengths, which transmit painlessly through our skin to a depth of ~8-10 millimetres. These wavelengths act on the mitochondria of our cells, which are drivers of cellular health and energy.
Traditional laser therapy operates at a much higher wavelength & density, often resulting in a stinging, hot sensation with lasting redness. These laser devices effectively cause intentional damage to skin in order to 'trigger' the bodies natural healing response.
By comparison, the low level laser therapy in RLT has only positive effects on functions of the immune, hormonal and nervous systems as well as encouraging cellular repair, circulation and wound healing, with no significant heat, discomfort or risks.
RLT is approved by the FDA for conditions including chronic joint pain (including osteoarthritis) and post surgical wound healing in animals - with human use currently pending. As an ongoing treatment program (2x per week for 4-12 weeks), dermatologists promote RLT for eczema, sun damage, increased collagen production, acne and rosacea. There are claims that RLT also assists with depression, reversal of hair loss and has anti-aging effects at a cellular level - however further quality research is yet to be published in these areas.
What should I expect from my RLT & Infrared Sauna session at Little Farm of Calm
Starting off as sceptics ourselves, we are 100% converted and have invested in the highest quality medical grade and FDA approved panels configured to provide a whole body treatment.
Each session takes ~45 minutes: We recommend 10-20 minutes each of RLT for the front and back sides of the body - with studies recommending no more than 20 minutes per body part as the maximum dosage (after which there are no further benefits to be achieved).
To complement your RLT treatment, make sure to include 10-30 minutes in our FAR infrared sauna to experience the following benefits:
An increase in blood flow and circulation - improving the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to muscles, skin and joints --> enhanced recovery and healing times.
A deep sense of relaxation and reduction in stress levels - from increased melatonin levels and a reduction in cortisol production - cortisol being our body's self produced answer to caffeine --> better sleep and a clearer mind.
A reduction in body aches and pains - potentially due to increased circulation, reduced inflammation levels as well as boosts to melatonin & natural endorphin levels
Glowing skin and a sense of wellbeing - as a result of the red light penetration to skin cells and visual receptors that transmit signals directly to your brain centre.
Feeling hot and thirsty! Mostly from the FAR infrared sauna making you hot and sweaty and raising your heart rate. Use this to remind you to drink after your session - as your lymphatic system has also been kicked into hyperdrive. This is a prime opportunity to flush it out with some big glasses of water.
Got more questions or are you filled with a thirst for research articles to support any or all of the above?? Then please reach out, we're happy to help in any way.
PS. Ok We’re assuming you are filled with a thirst for knowledge and don't want you to have to wait for me. Here's a link that will get you started with research papers - yes, reading journal articles is like eating cardboard, so stick with the abstract and results. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=photobiomodulation
