Red Light Therapy

What is red-light therapy?

Red light therapy (RLT), also known as red light therapy, is a treatment that uses light of low wavelength to improve the appearance of your skin, including reducing wrinkles and scars. It can also reduce redness, acne, and. The treatment is also advertised to treat other medical issues.

A lot is going on in terms of research, small studies, and internet discussion about the efficacy of red light therapy. Some studies have shown promising results, but it is still too early to determine the effectiveness of red-light treatment.

Red light therapy is also known as:

• Low-level Laser Light Therapy
• Low-power Laser Therapy
• Non-thermal LED Light
• Soft laser therapy
• Cold laser therapy
• Photonic stimulation and biostimulation are both terms that can be used.
• Photobiomodulation (also known as phototherapy) and photobiomodulation.

What is the history of red light therapy?

NASA began by experimenting with the effects of red light therapy in space to promote plant growth. Later, NASA used it as a way to heal astronauts’ wounds. As with many other developments, the potential for red light therapy was investigated.

Medical professionals have widely accepted red light therapy for its use in Photodynamic Therapy. This therapy uses low-power laser light to activate photosensitizer drugs. This interaction causes a chemical reaction that destroys the cells. It is used to treat certain skin conditions, such as skin carcinoma and psoriasis.

RLT has been studied (or is already being used) to treat a variety of medical conditions. The effectiveness of RLT for the uses it promotes can be confusing and controversial.

What is the red light therapy?

The mitochondria in your cells are thought to be the “power plants” that red light therapy works on. Other cells will be able to do their jobs more efficiently with more energy. This includes skin repair, stimulating new cell growth, and skin rejuvenation. Specifically, certain wavelengths of light stimulate cells to work.

Skin health may benefit from red light therapy.

• Increase collagen production to give skin structure, strength, and elasticity.
• Increase the production of fibroblasts, which produce collagen. Collagen is an important component of the connective tissue which builds skin.
• Increase the blood flow to tissues.
• Reduce inflammation in cells.

What skin conditions are red light therapies used for?

The red light therapy is recommended as a treatment to treat certain common skin conditions.

• Enhance wound healing.
• Reduce stretch marks
• Reduce wrinkles and fine lines.
• Enhance facial texture
• Improve psoriasis and rosacea.
• Enhance scars.
• Improve sun-damaged skin.
• Hair growth can be improved in those with androgenic Alopecia.
• Acne can be treated.

Does red light therapy work?

The majority of experts don’t yet know if RLT works for all the uses it is claimed to be effective. The majority of experts say that studies have shown some potential, but more research is needed. The red light therapy treatment is still a newer one, but it’s gaining popularity. At this time, however, there is not enough evidence for most of the uses.

A randomized, controlled trial is the gold standard for determining if a particular product is effective. A certain number of individuals with similar characteristics (age range, weight, race, and gender) are included in the study. The same condition is treated with either the placebo treatment (a fake or “sham”) or the medicine used in the study. Some studies include a comparison with another drug that is commonly used. The results can be compared to a placebo or an “old standard” treatment.

Most published RLT studies were conducted on a very small number of subjects, did not include a control group, and weren’t done in humans. Researchers say that the results are promising, but more studies with a larger number of participants are needed.

Is red-light therapy safe?

Red light therapy does not appear to have any negative side effects when used as directed and for a short period. This therapy is non-toxic, non-invasive, and less harsh than some topical treatments. RLT does not use UV light that can cause cancer.

If products are misused – perhaps too frequently or without following directions – there is a risk that your skin (or eyes, if you’re not wearing protection) may be damaged. It is still unknown if devices that use red-light therapy are safe over the long term.

The best option for you is to consult a dermatologist or a cosmetic therapist who has been trained and qualified. A dermatologist will confirm that your skin condition is as you believe it to be and discuss treatment options such as red light therapy.

Is buying devices for home use a reasonable and safe option?

If you search the Internet, you’ll come across many products that use red light therapy. These products are generally safe, but they use a lower frequency wavelength (meaning that they’re weaker) than the devices used by dermatologists and other skin professionals. You may not see the results that you expect.

Follow all instructions and make sure you take care of your device if you decide to buy a red-light therapy device.

You may also see RLT promoted in beauty salons and spas, saunas, and tanning salons. It would help if you were cautious about who supplies the treatment and where it is being provided. Always consult a doctor about the best treatment options for your skin issue or condition.

What other medical conditions are red light therapies promoted for?

The following are other potential medical uses that are being explored:

• Reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, including mucositis.
• Relieves pain and inflammation caused by ankle tendonitis and rheumatoid arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and osteoarthritis in the knee.
• Prevent cold Sores caused by the herpes simplex viral from returning.

On the Internet, there are many other uses. Red light therapy is not supported by scientific evidence for weight loss, cancer treatment, cellulite reduction, or mental health issues like depression and seasonal effect disorder (SAD).

What else should I know about red-light therapy?

When considering red light therapy, there are many variables to take into consideration:

• Does my health insurance cover RLT? Generally, red light therapy is not covered by health insurance. Before seeking treatment, you should contact your insurance provider.
• How many treatments do I need? Most likely, you’ll need to continue treatments. Most skin problems do not respond to a single treatment. You will need to see your doctor one to three days a week for several weeks or months. Is there a requirement for touch-up treatments or additional touch-ups? It could take a long time to complete and cost a lot.
• Will I get the results I want? Results can differ because everyone’s skin is unique. The wavelengths of the source of red light can also vary. The wavelength determines how deep the light penetrates your skin. Your desired outcome could be affected by the wavelength of a red light device used in a physician’s office as opposed to your at-home device.
• Do you have confidence in the person who provides the red light therapy treatment? You might ask yourself if you would feel more comfortable getting this treatment in a tanning studio or if it is better to be treated by a doctor first.
• Does red light therapy work for my skin problem? Other, more scientifically tested approaches are better for my skin condition. Consult your doctor to confirm the diagnosis and discuss treatment options.

A Note from Cleveland Clinic

The red light therapy is promoted as a way to treat some skin conditions. This is a new therapy that holds great promise. It’s important to discuss RLT with your dermatologist or healthcare provider first if you are interested. The skin specialist will first examine your skin and confirm the diagnosis. You’ll then discuss with your skin professional the treatment options you want to achieve. Red light therapy may be included in the options. Ask your doctor about your treatment options. This includes if you are interested in a certain medicine, whether it is appropriate for your skin condition, and if the treatment is safe and effective.