Red Light Therapy for Inflammation: How It Works and How to Use It Effectively

Red light therapy (RLT) involves exposing the body to low-wavelength red light. It aims to treat skin conditions such as scarring and signs of aging, such as wrinkles. Although the exact reason is not yet clear, RLT has significant anti-inflammatory effects in the body. These effects are both local, where practitioners apply the light, and systemic, in other tissues and organs in the body.

Inflammation isn’t just a symptom though, it’s a complex (and necessary) process that takes place in every living thing. You can think of inflammation as your body’s programmed response to danger. It’s one of your immune system’s first actions against germs, irritation, and cell damage. But if inflammation becomes a chronic problem, it can also be a route to disease and wider dysfunction in the body.

Chronic inflammation is the type that is associated with most diseases. It is also associated with oxidative stress. Chronic inflammation is not associated with visible signs of inflammation (such as redness, heat, and swelling), so people often aren’t even aware it is happening. This contrasts with acute inflammation, which is usually visible and occurs because of trauma or infection.

How Red Light Therapy Works to Reduce Inflammation

Red light therapy works by stimulating blood flow and energy production (ATP) in the cells of the targeted area. This reduces pain and inflammation, and triggers the healing process to help damaged tissues repair themselves. More specifically, red light therapy is thought to work by acting on the “power plant” in your body’s cells called mitochondria. The red and near-infrared light is thought to stimulate the activity of the mitochondrial protein cytochrome c oxidase (CCO), which increases ATP production. This increase in ATP synthesis can in turn lead to enhanced tissue repair, changes in gene expression, and the generation of cell signaling molecules, all potentially contributing to the biological effects of red light therapy.

When photons (particles of light) are placed near the skin, they enter tissues and activate chromophores (a part of a molecule that gives it its color), which triggers changes in cells. In addition, red light therapy also affects the mitochondria (the powerhouse of cells), generating ATP (energy) to promote healing. As described by Dr. Michael Hamblin, former Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School, “one of the most reproducible effects of [light therapy] is an overall reduction of inflammation.” Studies have found that light therapy affects levels of many molecules involved in inflammation, including reactive oxygen species, reactive nitrogen species, and prostaglandins.

Red light therapy alleviates chronic inflammation by increasing blood flow to the damaged tissues, and it’s been found in numerous clinical trials to increase the body’s antioxidant defenses. This increases function, speeds healing, and lowers inflammation & pain, as demonstrated in numerous peer-reviewed studies. The process is simple—A device emits red light over a targeted area. It uses wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin's layers. These wavelengths stimulate cellular processes as the cells absorb this light energy, leading to various healing effects.

Benefits of Red Light Therapy for Inflammation

Research shows that red light therapy may be useful for relieving some types of pain, particularly pain due to inflammation (irritation and swelling of body tissues). A review of 11 studies looking at the effect of red light therapy on pain found mostly positive results, though the authors said that more studies are needed. Red light therapy can provide relief for those suffering from chronic pain by decreasing inflammation while increasing the production of blood cells and cellular energy production.

Red light therapy supports cellular homeostasis and efficient energy production. In conjunction with a healthy lifestyle, red light therapy can have a positive impact on your body’s natural response to inflammation. When you get the healthy light you need to make energy and perform at your best, inflammation is less likely to impact your day-to-day life. It can help reduce chronic pain, like arthritis, by lowering inflammation and increasing blood flow to the affected areas. Athletes often use red light therapy to speed up recovery times and reduce muscle soreness after workouts.

Given how common inflammatory conditions are, and the limitation of existing treatments, it’s not surprising that many people are looking beyond NSAIDs and pharmaceuticals for solutions to chronic inflammation and pain. Natural red light therapy is showing immense potential to be just that: a natural inflammation treatment without the pharma risks of traditional NSAIDs. Treatment with red light therapy may have a range of positive effects, such as preserving joint function, avoiding joint deformities, and reducing drug side effects and toxicities.

How to Use Red Light Therapy Effectively

Using red light therapy is relatively simple. Devices are available for both professional and at-home use. Professional treatments are typically administered by healthcare providers or in specialized clinics, while at-home devices range from handheld gadgets to full-body panels. Professional treatments from medical skincare experts may offer powerful results, as they often use higher-intensity devices. For example, you can explore options like Medical-Grade Red Light Therapy at Home for clinical-level benefits in a home setting.

There is no single right way to use red light therapy to reduce inflammation. It all depends on what condition you are trying to treat and what your personal preferences are as far as treatment approach. The following are a few simple questions that can be used to guide you towards selecting the device that is most suitable for your needs: What are your specific health concerns? Red light is usually applied to the affected body part, either directly in contact with the skin or at a distance of around 4 to 12 inches away.

When it comes to choosing the optimal wavelengths, you should look for light in the red and/or near infrared spectrums – but avoid the range of 700-780nm which has been found to be ineffective. Multi-wavelength devices including both red and near infrared light may be the most versatile. In terms of intensity, it has been found that it is ideal to mimic the intensity of the sun, which is around 24 mW/cm2 at the skin. This is described as the “sweet spot” between higher intensities, which can have harmful effects, and lower intensities, which will have no effect at all.

The procedure for red light therapy can vary depending on the specific application and the device being used. For portable convenience, a Portable Red Light Therapy Device might be ideal for targeting specific areas on the go. For full-body coverage, consider Red Light Therapy Devices Full Body. Many devices on the market are at a much higher intensity than the sun, so choose a sun-mimicking product and don’t overdo it when it comes to treatment frequency and duration.

Red light therapy is still in the investigational stages for pain management. This means there are not randomized control studies that outline how often or for how long a patient needs to get this therapy. However, we know that red light therapy has benefits – that is why we offer it to patients. Your provider will work with you to decide how many red light therapy sessions will give you the most benefit. Typically, patients notice benefits quickly after a short procedure where they sit in an exam room, and the light is shone at a target location.

Practical Tips for At-Home Use

If you do choose to purchase a red light therapy device, make sure to shield your eyes for protection, follow all directions and take good care of the device. There are many different types of red light therapy devices, some of which can be used at home. But home devices are usually less powerful than those used in clinics and may be less effective or take longer to work. Red light therapy devices include masks that fit over your entire face with red LED lights on the inside, pointed toward your skin, designed to be worn for a short length of time several times a week, or beds that look like tanning beds but have red LED lights instead of UV lights, big enough for you to lie down inside.

For a variety of options, check out Red Light Therapy Devices for Sale, which include tabletop models for easy home use. Combine red light therapy with an anti-inflammatory diet and supplements, regular exercise, stress management, and good sleep hygiene for best results. It’s always best to check in with a medical professional about the best options to treat your specific condition or issue before starting any treatment on your own.

Safety and Considerations

Red light therapy appears to be mostly safe when used correctly, especially in the short term. Many forms of red light therapy are more effective when done at a doctor’s office rather than at home. That's because doctors can use stronger lights. Even at a doctor’s office, however, there are some risks. One early-stage clinical trial found that at high levels, red LED lights such as those used in red light therapy can cause blistering and redness on the skin. Patients who receive red light therapy at professional settings often wear goggles and an eye protection shield to protect from retina damage that can be caused by the laser shining directly into the eye.

There is a low risk of side effects from undergoing RLT. However, prolonged or high-intensity exposure outside of treatment guidelines may damage the skin. Products for use at home may also lead to misuse, causing burns, blisters, or damage to unprotected eyes. It’s rare to experience side effects from LED light therapy. If side effects do occur, they may include increased inflammation, rash, or redness. Experts do caution that while LED light therapy seems to be safe in the short term, there’s less information about its long-term safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to see results from red light therapy for inflammation?

Results can vary depending on the condition being treated and the consistency of use. Some people notice reduced inflammation or pain within a few sessions, often within 1-2 weeks, while chronic conditions may take longer—up to a month or more—with regular use.

2. Can I use red light therapy every day?

Yes, daily use is generally safe for most people, especially with at-home devices, as long as you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Start with shorter sessions (5-10 minutes) and adjust based on how your body responds. Overuse at high intensities might cause skin irritation.

3. What’s the difference between red light therapy at home and in a clinic?

Clinic-based treatments often use higher-powered devices, delivering faster and more pronounced results. At-home devices, like portable wands or full-body panels, are less intense but convenient for regular maintenance. Professional sessions might be better for severe inflammation.

4. Does red light therapy work for all types of inflammation?

It’s most effective for inflammation linked to muscle soreness, joint pain, or skin conditions. Evidence is stronger for acute and localized inflammation than for systemic or complex chronic conditions like autoimmune diseases, where more research is needed.

5. Are there any conditions where I should avoid red light therapy?

If you have photosensitivity, active skin infections, or are pregnant, consult a doctor first. Avoid using it over cancerous areas unless directed by a healthcare provider, as its effects on cancer cells are still under investigation.

6. How do I choose the right device for inflammation?

Look for devices with wavelengths between 630-850 nm, as these penetrate skin effectively. Consider your needs: a portable device for targeted areas, or a full-body panel for broader coverage. Ensure it’s FDA-cleared for safety and efficacy.