Advantages of infrared therapy

How does red light therapy work?

Red light is thought to work by producing a biochemical effect in cells that strengthens the mitochondria. Mitochondria are the cell`s powerhouse - it is where the cell`s energy is created. The energy-carrying molecule found in the cells of all living things is called ATP (adenosine triphosphate).

Image by Flickr/Linda Cronin

By increasing the function of mitochondria using RLT, a cell can produce more ATP. With more energy, cells can function more efficiently, rejuvenate and repair damage.

RLT differs from laser or intense pulsed light (IPL) therapies because it does not cause damage to the skin`s surface. Laser and pulsed light therapies work by causing controlled damage to the outer layer of the skin, which then induces tissue repair. RLT bypasses this tough step by directly stimulating skin regeneration. The light emitted by RLT penetrates approximately 5 millimeters below the surface of the skin.

But does red light therapy really work?

While the internet is often abuzz with news about miracle treatments for almost any health condition, red light therapy is certainly not a cure for everything. RLT is considered experimental for most conditions.

There is limited to none evidence that red light therapy does the following:

? Important to note that when RLT is used with anticancer treatments, light is only used to activate another drug. Other mild therapies have been used to help with some of the conditions above.

For example, studies have found that white light therapy is more effective in treating symptoms of depression than red light. Blue light therapy is most commonly used for acne, with limited efficacy, and they show that red light therapy does the following:

? Important to note that when RLT is used with anticancer treatments, light is only used to activate another drug. Other mild therapies have been used to help with some of the conditions above.

For example, studies have found that white light therapy is more effective in treating symptoms of depression than red light. Blue light therapy is most commonly used for acne, with limited effectiveness.

How is red light therapy used?

Since the initial experiments in space, there have been hundreds of clinical trials and thousands of laboratory studies conducted to determine whether RLT has medical benefits.

Image by Flickr/Linda Cronin

Many studies have had promising results, but the benefits of red light therapy are still a source of controversy. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), for example, have determined that there is not enough evidence to show that these devices are better than currently existing treatments for treating wounds, ulcers and pain.

More clinical research is needed to prove the effectiveness of RLT. At present, however, there is some evidence to suggest that RLT may have the following benefits:

Currently, RLT is not approved or covered by insurance companies for these conditions due to lack of sufficient evidence. However, some insurance companies now cover the use of RLT to prevent oral mucositis during cancer treatment.

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Currently, RLT is not approved or covered by insurance companies for these conditions due to lack of sufficient evidence. However, some insurance companies now cover the use of RLT to prevent oral mucositis during cancer treatment.

Side effects

Red light therapy is considered safe and painless. However, there have been reports of burns and blisters resulting from the use of unit? RLT.

Image by Flickr/Linda Cronin

Some people have developed burns after falling asleep with the unit? in place , while others have suffered burns from broken cables or corrosion of the device.

Is there? also a potential risk of eye damage. While it is safer for the eyes than traditional lasers, proper eye protection should always be used during red light therapy.

Purchase devices

RLT has shown promise in treating some skin conditions, but within the community? scientific is not there? much consensus on the benefits of treatment.

Image by Flickr/Linda Cronin

Based on current research, you may find that RLT is a good tool to add to your skincare regimen. Always check with your doctor or dermatologist before trying anything new.

You can easily buy red light devices at specialty stores, but it`s best to get a doctor`s opinion on any symptoms before trying to self-treat. Keep in mind that RLT is not FDA approved for most conditions or covered by insurance companies. Any serious condition, such as psoriasis, arthritis, slow-healing wounds, or pain should be checked by a doctor.