Red Light Therapy - Shining a Light on Healing

Red Light Therapy (RLT) also known as photobiomodulation (PBM) or previously low level laser therapy (LLLT), has surged in popularity in the last few years and has shifted from only being available in specialised clinics to anyone being able to have a device in their home.

The term RLT refers to the use of red and near infrared (NIR) wavelengths of light, which are part of the wavelengths of light emitted by the sun, without the harmful UV light that damages the skin (1).

In this article we talk about the specifics of red light therapy for healing.

RLT is more than just a cosmetic trend known for slowing the signs of aging. This gentle yet powerful treatment uses specific wavelengths of light that trigger changes that have a biological effect deeper within the cells of your body.

With broader benefits, to just skin health, RLT is being more frequently used for injury healing, wound healing, chronic muscle and joint pain, muscle recovery after exercise, enhancing exercise performance, mood and brain health, sleep regulation and specific areas such as thyroid function (1,2,3,4). 

Through the emerging science and it's known benefits, RLT has the potential to support the prevention of disease, addressing a broad range of conditions, and enhancing patient outcomes in modern healthcare.

The Evolution of Red Light Therapy

The therapeutic use of natural sunlight for treating various conditions dates back thousands of years. In ancient Greece and Egypt, they intuitively recognised its benefits as a cellular fuel (5).

In the 18th Century the benefit of sunlight was documented in the medical literature and then various medical experts started to uncover the use of light for skin healing and conditions including rickets and tuberculous arthritis (6).

The scientific foundation of RLT began with Niels Ryberg Finsen, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1903 for his work using concentrated light radiation to treat lupus, after discovering that his own symptoms of Niemann-Pick’s disease improved with light exposure (7). 

In the 1900’s two Swiss physicians Oskar Bernhard and Auguste Rollier regularly used sunlight therapy as a treatment and in 1903 and 1905 respectively Rollier and Bernard established the first clinics for sunlight therapy in the world (3).

In 1967 Hungarian physician Endre Mester discovered that light could accelerate wound healing and stimulate growth when he was attempting to use a low level laser therapy (LLLT) to treat skin cancer in mice (8). His discovery shifted our understanding of how light interacts with living tissues.

Since then it was found that low level lasers weren’t needed and Light Emitting Diodes (LEDS) were just as effective. This discovery along with the term ‘low level’ being considered subjective and misleading lead to the more frequent use of LEDs and more frequent use of the term ‘red light therapy’ (9).

The most significant catalyst for RLT research came from NASA in the 1900s, who began using red LEDS to help plants grow in space. They then also discovered that red and near infrared wavelengths significantly accelerated human tissue repair (wound healing) and prevented muscle atrophy in astronauts (10).

Over the last few decades the scientific research of RLT has grown to several thousand studies and shown to have positive benefits to a broad range of human health conditions.

The Benefits of Red Light Therapy

The list of possible benefits of RLT is long and the research is still growing. In addition to the benefits below various mechanisms of RLT are also used in specialised medical fields such as promoting hair regrowth, mitigating chemotherapy induced oral mucositis, regulating the nervous system and enhanced tissue healing in dentistry (3, 11).

Skin health:

For people focused on skin quality and reducing signs of aging, red and near infrared light can improve the appearance of aged skin by influencing fibroblast activity and supporting collagen related pathways. 

A prospective, randomized controlled trial and clinical and laboratory evidence in humans found that red/near infrared light treatment improved the signs of aging and facial skin quality such as fine lines and wrinkles, skin roughness, and intradermal collagen density compared with controls (12, 13, 14). 

In addition emerging research and clinical reports suggest that red and near-infrared light therapy may help reduce inflammation, itching, redness, and skin irritation associated with chronic inflammatory skin conditions like eczema (atopic dermatitis) and psoriasis by modulating inflammatory processes and supporting tissue repair (15).

Muscle Recovery and Athletic Performance: 

A meta-analysis comparing RLT with cryotherapy (cold therapy), showed RLT to be significantly more effective for muscle recovery, reducing delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) by 87% and lowering biomarkers of muscle damage by 76% (16).

Furthermore, using RLT prior to exercise has been shown to reduce muscle fatigue, suggesting a "pre-conditioning" benefit for athletes. A study of males between 20 and 30 years old who had red light therapy prior to a muscle fatigue induction protocol showed a less noticeable decrease in muscle strength, evidencing a lower rate of muscle fatigue than the control group (17).

Pain Management:

For those suffering from chronic pain conditions, RLT can offer lasting relief. Research reviews show reductions in pain from osteoarthritis and controlled clinical research shows RLT as a supportive therapy for symptom management (including pain and functional impact), in people with rheumatoid arthritis (18, 19). 

Studies including a 2013 meta analysis showed an immediate and longer term reduction in both acute and chronic neck pain and improved functionality measurements (such as range of motion) with low level laser red light therapy (20, 21). 

In addition, a 2014 trial with Fibromyalgia patients evaluating red and near infrared laser light therapy three times per week for 4 weeks, showed marked improvement in physical impairment, work missed, pain, fatigue, stiffness, anxiety, and depression scores compared to placebo (22).

Injuries:

While more research is needed in this area, studies show promising results for RLT supporting the healing of acute and ongoing injuries due to its ability to reduce inflammation. Systematic reviews evaluating the use of PBM or LLLT in human and animal tendon injuries show that RLT consistently reduces inflammatory markers and signs of inflammation which can lead to accelerated tissue repair (23, 24, 25).

Wound Healing and Tissue Repair:

RLT can support faster wound healing by stimulating cellular energy production, enhancing circulation and modulating inflammation, key drivers of tissue repair. A systematic review and meta-analysis of low-level laser/light therapy in skin wounds

reported improvements in healing related outcomes versus no light treatment (26). 

In a randomized clinical study in people with diabetic foot ulcers, red and/or infrared LED photobiomodulation was associated with improved ulcer healing outcomes compared with control treatment (27).

Neurological and Cognitive Support:

Emerging research suggests transcranial photobiomodulation (delivering near-infrared light to the scalp or head) may support brain metabolism and network function, with potential benefits for cognition and mood-related symptoms. In a randomized, placebo controlled study in mild cognitive impairment, participants receiving active transcranial photobiomodulation showed improvements on cognitive measures versus placebo (28). 

A 2026 pilot randomised controlled trial of participants with post covid cognitive dysfunction (“brain fog”) showed that RLT improved composite cognitive scores with improvement in attention tasks and related fatigue (29). 

A systematic review also evaluated pre-clinical and clinical studies on the use of PBM to improve outcomes in dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. The review found that all included studies (in vitro, animal models, and human participants) reported positive effects on brain function and dementia related outcomes, such as cognitive performance and neurological markers (30).

Chronic Illness: 

For chronic, multi-system conditions, especially those involving persistent pain, inflammation, or fatigue, RLT is being studied as an additional tool to help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. 

Clinical trials using red and near infrared light showed marked improvements in physical impairment, fatigue, and anxiety scores compared to placebo for those with chronic fatigue and Fibromyalgia (31). 

A placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial of low-level laser/light therapy reported improvements in tender points and multiple symptom measures compared with placebo in Fibromyalgia (32). 

A randomized, double-blind controlled trial on muscle function in individuals with multiple sclerosis found that an individualised dose of photobiomodulation significantly improved muscle force recovery and strength compared with placebo (33). 

Another clinical trial looking at combining transcranial photobiomodulation, using red and near-infrared light, with neuromuscular electrical stimulation found that participants experienced improvements in cognitive function, pain relief, manual dexterity, physical functioning, social/emotional health, and overall quality of life compared with placebo (34).

How Red Light Therapy Works

To understand how RLT works, it's important to understand some simple cell biology.

Within every cell are mitochondria (‘power stations’ of the cells) that are responsible for producing almost all the energy the body needs. 

Every cell needs energy for stem cell production, inflammation, growth and repair mechanisms, cell survival, cell turnover and more. The dysfunction of mitochondria is sited in many conditions and diseases.

The three ways RLT benefits our cells is through:

• Increasing cellular energy Increasing oxygen and nutrient delivery

• Enhanced protein synthesis, and

• Reducing inflammation

Red and near-infrared light are absorbed by pigments within the mitochondria called chromophores (specifically, an enzyme called cytochrome c oxidase (CcO)) (2, 35, 36).

Research indicates that when our bodies are under stress or exposed to toxins, nitric oxide builds up in the mitochondria and inhibits energy production. RLT triggers the release of this nitric oxide, leading to a significant increase in energy production in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which enhances cellular functions and enables faster cell regeneration and quicker healing of muscles, tendons and other tissues (2, 35, 36, 37, 38, 6).

In addition the release of nitric oxide helps to increase blood flow delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the skin and other cells of the body and enhancing circulation. This effect further aids in repair and regeneration while also facilitating the removal of metabolic waste from damaged tissues (36, 37, 39, 40). 

The increased circulation with RLT also helps modulate the inflammatory response by suppressing pro-inflammatory molecules and reducing oxidative stress. This results in pain relief and accelerated recovery from injury or exercise, specifically with delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), while providing long-term support for chronic immune and inflammatory conditions including skin, joint and connective tissue disorders (2, 41, 42, 43, 44).

Within the skin, RLT activates fibroblast cells increasing their production of collagen, elastin and basic fibroblast growth factors (bFGF). This helps to improve firmness and texture, and reduce fine lines, supporting more youthful looking skin (1, 45, 41).

Wavelengths and Devices

Therapeutic devices typically use powerful LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) or sometimes low-level lasers (LLLT) to deliver concentrated and optimized wavelengths to the targeted area of the body (1). Devices range from targeted handheld wands, torches, helmets, body wraps and facial masks to a range of small, medium and full length body panels or therapy beds. Smaller devices are portable and easy to travel with and generally used to target a specific area just as the face, head or the site of an injury. Larger panels can be used to target the whole body for a more systemic response.

Red light wavelengths used typically fall within the 630 nm to 700 nm range. This visible light is absorbed superficially, making it ideal for skin health, collagen production, and surface wound healing (1, 45).

Near infrared (NIR) light wavelengths used fall within the 700 nm to 1100 nm range. This light is invisible to the naked eye and penetrates much deeper into the body, targeting muscle tissue, joints, nerves, and even bone (1).

Because RLT works at the cellular level, the type of device, wavelength and intensity is important for the outcome you want to achieve.

Practical Tips for using Red Light Therapy

The use of RLT depends on the device and what you are treating. Some devices require contact with the skin, whereas the panels require you to stand around 30-40cm away from the light. You can use RLT at any time of the day or before bed to support a restful night sleep. Use before or after exercise to help enhance performance and reduce muscle soreness or use daily to target a chronic condition or injury healing.

It is essential to follow the manufacturer’s specific protocols. RLT operates on a biphasic dose response. This means that more is not necessarily better - there is a therapeutic 'window' or 'sweet spot' for both duration and intensity. While the right dose maximises cellular benefits, exceeding that threshold can lead to diminishing returns or even inhibit the very processes you are trying to stimulate (4, 38). 

To maxmise the effectiveness of your treatments ensure your skin is clean and free from creams, makeup, and oils prior to treatment as this allows the light to be absorbed more easily and refrain from using citrus essential oils on your skin beforehand as these can cause photosensitivity.

Red light therapy is generally safe, however please consult your doctor if you: 

• are taking photosensitizing medications (e.g., certain antibiotics, St. John’s Wort) 

• have an eye disease that impacts the retina of the eye (e.g., Diabetes, Retinal Disease) 

• have active skin cancer or a history of malignant melanoma (43) 

• have epilepsy or a seizure disorder (47) 

• are sensitive to light (47)

Conclusion on Red Light Therapy for Healing

In summary, the use of red light therapy represents a shift from clinic only laser skin treatments to a range of at-home devices for more broader treatments. By providing our mitochondria with the specific light energy they need to produce ATP, we empower our body to repair, regenerate, and communicate more effectively at a foundational level.

From the visible benefits of improved skin texture and collagen density to the deeper relief of reduced chronic pain and accelerated muscle recovery, RLT is a versatile, non-invasive tool for modern health management. As research continues to uncover its potential for brain health, mood regulation, and metabolic support, RLT stands as a powerful fuel for our cells that helps ground your wellness routine in proven science.

Whether you are seeking to manage a chronic condition or simply looking to optimise your daily recovery, RLT works by giving your body’s cells the extra boost they need to kickstart their natural healing processes.

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References:

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2. Hamblin MR. Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation. AIMS Biophysics. 2017;4(3):337–61. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5523874/

3. Hamblin, M. R. (2017). "Photobiomodulation or low-level laser therapy." Journal of Biophotonics, 10(1), 5-22. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5215795/

4. Huang, Y. Y., et al. (2009). "Biphasic dose response in low level light therapy." https://doi.org/10.2203/dose-response.09-027.Hamblin

5. Hönigsmann H. History of phototherapy in dermatology. Photochem Photobiol Sci. 2013;12(1):16-21. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22739720/

6. Whitten, Ari, (2018), The Ultimate Guide to Red Light Therapy.

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8. Mester, E., et al. (1967). The effect of laser beams on the growth of hair in mice. Radiobiologia Radiotherapia.

9. Chung, H., et al. (2012). "The nuts and bolts of low-level laser (light) therapy." Annals of Biomedical Engineering, 40(2), 516-533. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22045511/

10. Whelan, H. T., et al. (2001). Effect of NASA light-emitting diode irradiation on wound healing. Journal of Clinical Laser Medicine & Surgery.

11. Petrowski K, et al. Effects of Post-awakening Light Exposure on Heart Rate Variability in Healthy Male Individuals. Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback. 2023;48(3):311-321. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10412670/

12. A Controlled Trial to Determine the Efficacy of Red and Near-Infrared Light Treatment. https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/pdf/10.1089/pho.2013.3616

13. Weiss RA, et al. Clinical experience with light-emitting diode (LED) photomodulation. Dermatol Surg. 2005 Sep;31(9 Pt 2):1199-205. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16176771/

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16. Ferlito JV, et al. Comparison between cryotherapy and photobiomodulation in Muscle Recovery: A systematic review and meta-analysis. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34669081/

17. Stamborowski SF, et al. The influence of photobiomodulation on the temperature of the brachial biceps during muscle fatigue protocol. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34255219/

18. Stausholm MB, et al. Efficacy of low-level laser therapy on pain and disability in knee osteoarthritis. https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/9/10/e031142

19. Lourinho I, et al (2023) Effects of low-level laser therapy in adults with rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0291345

20. Chow, R. T., et al. (2009). Efficacy of low-level laser therapy in the management of neck pain. The Lancet.

21. Gross AR, et al. Low level laser therapy (LLLT) for Neck Pain: A systematic review and meta-regression. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3802126/

22. RA; RJAFARRMBN. Low-level laser therapy to treat fibromyalgia. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24801056/

23. Lopes Silva RSD, et al. Systematic Review of Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) on the Experimental Calcaneal Tendon Injury in Rats. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32191817/

24. Nascimento LDES, et al. Effects of Therapy with Light Emitting Diode (LED) in the Calcaneal Tendon Lesions of Rats. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30853864/

25. Lyu K, et al. The Functions and Mechanisms of Low-Level Laser Therapy in Tendon Repair (Review). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35242050/

26. The Effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy on Wound Healing and Pain Management in Skin Wounds. https://assets.cureus.com/uploads/review_article/pdf/311024/20241128-2197180-7p5bxq.pdf

27. Borges, N.C., et al. Photobiomodulation using red and infrared spectrum LED for the healing of diabetic foot ulcers. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10103-024-04199-5

28. Vargas, E., et al. Transcranial photobiomodulation for cognitive enhancement. https://www.brainstimjrnl.com/article/S1935-861X%2824%2901266-X/fulltext

29. The Lancet. Pilot randomised controlled trial of participants with post covid cognitive dysfunction. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanepe/article/PIIS2589-5370%2825%2900665-0/fulltext