Red and Near-Infrared Light Therapy

Perhaps you have been wondering what the “big deal” is about Red, and Near-Infrared therapy is all about. Is this just another “FAD,” or is there real scientific evidence that explains and demonstrates its value? In a word, the answer is YES.

Red and near-infrared (NIR) light therapy, often referred to as low-level light therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation (PBM), has a fascinating history rooted in both ancient practices and modern scientific advancements.

Origins and Early Discoveries

1. Ancient Practices:

   • Ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and Greeks, recognized the healing power of sunlight and used it therapeutically. This practice, known as heliotherapy, was believed to improve various physical ailments.

2. 19th Century Developments:

   • In 1893, Danish physician Niels Ryberg Finsen discovered that certain wavelengths of light could treat diseases like lupus vulgaris (a skin form of tuberculosis). He developed the "Finsen lamp" and won the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 1903 for his contributions to phototherapy.

Modern Era of Red and NIR Light Therapy

1. 1960s - Laser Technology:

   • The invention of the laser in 1960 by Theodore Maiman at Hughes Research Laboratories revolutionized light-based therapies.

   • In 1967, Hungarian physician Endre Mester discovered that low-level laser light (at red wavelengths) could stimulate hair growth and wound healing in mice. This marked the beginning of LLLT.

2. 1970s and 1980s:

   • Early studies explored how light at specific wavelengths (600–1,000 nm, covering red and NIR) could enhance cellular activity. Mester and others found that these wavelengths could improve mitochondrial function and stimulate the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the energy currency of cells.

3. 1990s - LEDs and Accessibility:

   • The development of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) provided a more accessible, safer, and less expensive alternative to lasers. NASA conducted significant research on LED therapy to promote healing in astronauts experiencing wounds or muscle atrophy during space missions.

4. 2000s - Expansion of Applications:

   • Advances in understanding the mechanisms of PBM led to its application in a variety of fields, including dermatology, sports medicine, dentistry, and neurology. Red and NIR light therapy became widely used for skin rejuvenation, pain relief, wound healing, and reducing inflammation.

5. 2010s - Scientific Validation:

   • The number of clinical studies validating PBM's effectiveness increased dramatically. Researchers explored its potential for managing chronic conditions, such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

6. Present Day:

   • PBM is now recognized as a non-invasive and versatile therapeutic approach. Devices ranging from professional-grade systems to handheld consumer tools are widely available. Research continues to explore its effects on cellular health, aging, and systemic conditions.

How Red and NIR Light Therapy Works

Red (around 630–660 nm) and NIR light (around 800–850 nm) penetrate the skin and underlying tissues to stimulate cellular activity:

• Improves mitochondrial function: Enhances ATP production.

• Increases blood circulation: Promotes oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues.

• Reduces inflammation: Modulates inflammatory pathways.

• Encourages tissue repair and regeneration: Stimulates collagen production and cellular proliferation.

Conclusion

The evolution of red and NIR light therapy combines ancient insights with cutting-edge science. From the sunlight-based practices of antiquity to the precision technologies of today, it continues to evolve as a promising tool for improving health and well-being.

Overview

THE SHOCKING Benefits Of RED-LIGHT Therapy

(Watch this 8:25 video, it provides an excellent overview of red-light therapy)

Okay, let me break it down for you. The primary benefit of red and near-infrared light is its effect on the mitochondria. Hopefully, you had a chance to read last week’s newsletter on “Little Secrets “that discussed the function and importance of our mitochondria which is to convert glucose derived from the food we eat together with oxygen into ATP, our body’s source of energy.

It is also important to know that red & near-infrared therapy units utilize two primary light producing devices, the most prevalent and inexpensive device is the red-light emitting diode (R-LED). The second more powerful option is the NIR laser.

So now that we know this, what is the importance of wavelength, and light intensity? Here it is in a nutshell: the longer the wavelength of light, the deeper it penetrates the skin assuming that it is produced at the same power level for each wavelength. The wavelength of light is measured in nanometers. A nanometer is 1 billionth of a meter, and 1-inch equals 25.4 million nanometers.

Most red-light units range between 660 and 850 nm. However, some offer near-infrared wavelengths greater than a thousand nanometers, and therefore will penetrate more deeply into the body, thus reaching mitochondria residing in deeper layers of the skin and muscle. Listed below are a number of the most common conditions that have been proven to benefit from the use of red and near infrared light therapy:

1. Skin Health and Wound Healing

• Acne: May reduce inflammation and kill bacteria contributing to acne.

• Wrinkles and Aging Skin: Stimulates collagen production, improving skin elasticity and reducing fine lines.

• Scars and Stretch Marks: Promotes tissue regeneration and reduces visibility.

• Wound Healing: Speeds up healing by enhancing cell repair and reducing inflammation.

Clinical evidence shows consistent improvements in skin texture, collagen synthesis, and reduced inflammation with wavelengths in these ranges 660 nm (red light) and 850 nm (NIR)

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2. Pain Management and Inflammation

• Arthritis: Reduces joint inflammation and alleviates pain associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

• Muscle Recovery: Relieves soreness and improves recovery after exercise or injury.

• Chronic Pain: Beneficial for conditions like fibromyalgia and chronic back pain.

Best Combination for Pain Management

• Many therapeutic devices combine 660 nm (red light) and 850 nm (NIR light) to provide dual benefits:

• Surface-level inflammation and pain relief (red light).

• Deep tissue repair and chronic pain relief (NIR light).

• This dual-wavelength approach has been shown to be highly effective for conditions like arthritis, muscle recovery, nerve pain, and chronic inflammatory disorders.

3. Brain and Neurological Health

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): May reduce inflammation and promote recovery after brain injuries.

• Cognitive Decline and Alzheimer’s Disease: Emerging research suggests potential benefits in improving brain function and slowing neurodegeneration.

• Depression and Anxiety: Light therapy may help balance mood by influencing mitochondrial function and increasing serotonin levels.

Beneficial Effects

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI):

  • Reduces inflammation, promotes repair of damaged neurons, and improves blood flow to the brain.

• Stroke Recovery:

  • Enhances neuroplasticity, aiding in the recovery of motor and cognitive function post-stroke.

• Cognitive Decline (e.g., Alzheimer’s Disease):

  • Improves mitochondrial function in brain cells, potentially slowing neurodegeneration.

• Depression and Anxiety:

  • Increases serotonin production and modulates mood-regulating brain areas.

• Parkinson’s Disease:

  • Reduces oxidative stress and supports the survival of dopamine-producing neurons.

Most Beneficial Wavelengths for this purpose: Spectrum from 600 -1100 nm (red - NIR) Generally NIR is more useful for cranial penetration…the longer the wavelength, the deeper the penetration. It is also important to note that lasers provide a significant advantage over NIR diodes due to their increased intensity.

4. Circulation and Metabolic Health

• Diabetic Ulcers and Neuropathy: Improves blood flow and reduces nerve pain.

• Cardiovascular Health: Enhances nitric oxide production, potentially benefiting circulation and heart health.

• Metabolic Syndrome: Improves insulin sensitivity and reduces inflammation.

Conditions That May Benefit

• Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s disease.

• PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome).

• Endometriosis.

• Infertility (both male and female).

• Low Testosterone.

• Menstrual Pain and Irregularities.

• Erectile Dysfunction.

Most Beneficial Wavelengths for circulation and metabolic health: the most beneficial wavelengths of red and near-infrared (NIR) light fall within the 630–900 nanometer (nm) range. These wavelengths improve blood flow, oxygenation, and cellular metabolism by enhancing mitochondrial activity and nitric oxide production.

5. Hormonal and Reproductive Health

• Thyroid Function: Supports individuals with hypothyroidism by reducing inflammation and improving thyroid hormone production.

• Testosterone Levels: Some studies suggest it can boost testosterone by stimulating the testes.

• Menstrual Pain: Alleviates discomfort and improves blood flow to the pelvic area.

6. Eye Health

• Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): Low-level red light may help improve mitochondrial function in the retina.

• Dry Eye Syndrome: May relieve symptoms by reducing inflammation.

Conditions That May Benefit

• Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD):

  • Red light (660 nm) supports photoreceptor health and slows degenerative changes in the retina.

• Diabetic Retinopathy:

  • Improves microvascular health in the retina, reducing the progression of damage.

• Glaucoma:

  • Reduces oxidative stress and may support optic nerve health indirectly.

• Eye Fatigue (Digital Eye Strain):

  • Enhances mitochondrial function and alleviates oxidative stress caused by prolonged screen exposure.

• Retinitis Pigmentosa:

  • Protects photoreceptors and reduces inflammation.

Best wavelengths and safety considerations:

• Use red light therapy devices emitting 630–670 nm for 3–5 minutes per session, 3–5 times per week.

• Ensure the device is designed for ocular use and includes proper safety measures, such as eye shields if needed.

By targeting the retina with appropriate wavelengths, red light therapy can enhance eye health and mitigate age-related or stress-induced visual issues effectively.

7. Hair Regrowth

Red Light (630-670 nm) and

• Targets the superficial layers of the skin and stimulates hair follicles by improving cellular metabolism and blood flow.

Near-Infrared Light (810-850 nm)

• Penetrates deeper into the scalp tissue, and may enhance mitochondrial activity improving overall scalp health.

Recommended Treatment Parameters:

Session Duration: 10 to 20 minutes per session

• Frequency: 2 to 3 times per week for several months to see noticeable results.

• Energy Density (Fluence): Studies suggest an effective range of 4-6 J/cm²

8. General Wellness and Energy

• Fatigue: Boosts cellular energy by stimulating ATP production in mitochondria.

• Immune Function: Reduces systemic inflammation and supports immune system regulation.

• Hair Growth: Stimulates hair follicles, improving hair density in cases of alopecia.

Most effective wavelengths for general wellness and energy

• Mitochondrial Activation:

  • Both red (630–670 nm) and NIR (810–850 nm) wavelengths target cytochrome c oxidase, a key enzyme in the mitochondrial respiratory chain, enhancing ATP production.

• Improved Circulation:

  • Red light enhances superficial blood flow, while NIR light supports deep tissue oxygenation and nutrient delivery.

• Stress and Inflammation Reduction:

  • Chronic stress and inflammation drain energy reserves. These wavelengths reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines, restoring balance and vitality.

While these potential benefits are supported by numerous studies, individual results may vary, and it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before starting R/NIR light therapy, especially for treating medical conditions.

Light Therapy All-Spectrum Benefits

 UV+ Benefits of Red & Near Infrared Light 9:06

This video explains how red and near infrared light produces its beneficial effects

in the human body. Many of these benefits can be obtained by exposure to sunlight alone.

While it is indeed true that much of the benefit of red and near-infrared light is provided by the sun, which is free, there are a number of factors related to its variability that suggest that the use of dedicated wavelength therapeutic light is more efficient. Thus, well designed R-NIR panels provide their benefits in a much shorter period of time.

If you spend a great deal of time outdoors where substantial portions of your body are directly exposed to sunlight, you will gain a significant benefit from the healing power of red light, particularly for shorter wavelengths.

Within this range, approximately 660 nm is particularly prominent and widely studied for its biological effects because it is efficiently absorbed by chromophores, such as cytochrome c oxidase, in the mitochondria of cells. This absorption enhances cellular energy production and has therapeutic effects.

Although sunlight contains the full spectrum of wavelengths, the intensity and relative proportion of red light can vary depending on factors such as:

• Time of day: Red wavelengths become more prominent during sunrise and sunset due to atmospheric scattering (Rayleigh scattering).

• Geographical location: The amount of red light reaching the Earth's surface can differ with latitude and altitude.

• Environmental conditions: Clouds, pollution, and other atmospheric factors can influence the spectrum of sunlight.

It is also important to note that wavelengths available from natural sunlight benefit the upper layers of skin, i.e., the epidermis and dermis. And to a much lesser degree the deeper tissues such as musculature and organs, which are most easily accessed by near infrared wavelengths. As wavelength increases, this light can penetrate deeper into the body. Light Intensity also determines penetration.

Another thing to consider is that infrared light produced by the sun is also responsible for the generation of most of the heat that is experienced with exposure to sunlight. Whereas near-infrared light produced by therapeutic panels can deliver much more intense infrared light of longer wavelengths with far less heat. This is possible because NIR diodes and lasers produce a much narrower spectrum of light that produce surprisingly little perceptible heat.

Recommended Devices

LED Mask Vs Red Light Therapy Panel 12:26

This aspect of red-light therapy is one of the most difficult to navigate because there are SO MANY devices available. I promise you, there are more than you have ever imagined. The market is both extremely competitive and very confusing because there is so much data that can be provided to influence your decision-making process. As with most medical devices, there are requirements that manufacturers must follow to make their divices available to the public. As a result, the best products can be quite expensive.

Additionally, there are dozens of specifications for these devices that hint to their efficacy… But don’t be fooled, specifications can be very misleading. Quantifying known parameters provides comparative data that can be used for decision-making. However, I don’t need to tell you these measurements can often be used as a deceptive form of advertising, which lead to making a purchasing decision.

Let me give you an example of something I believe you can relate to. When shopping for stereo hi-fi equipment one of the first things most people do is look at the specifications; the frequency response, the watts per channel, the noise floor, and the stereo separation. If you are experienced, you come to realize that these published values mean very little, in terms of knowing what the music actually sounds like… Which at the end of the day is all that matters.

The same is true for red light devices, except you can’t hear the difference… The only way to correctly evaluate their performance is by the results obtained by their use…and that is not immediate. Additionally, their sometimes high price creates a strong incentive to distort the importance of these parameters. Therefore, I am going to suggest you trust me, knowing the care I take to be technically accurate and transparent.

For those of you who have followed me since the beginning you may recall that one of my major motivations and beginning THE HUMAN CONDITION was my decision to cure my peripheral neuropathy, still considered by most doctors to be incurable… Essential to achieving the fastest possible reversal of the condition, is the use of near-infrared light. Additionally, I should add the best results are achieved with the deepest penetration, which can only be achieved with longer wavelengths and greater intensity of infrared light.

After considerable research, utilizing all of the factors I have learned, I decided to go with the products offered by Platinum LED. This is a US company that has been in business for 15 years, and provides a range of products that are being used by medical professionals, universities, and governmental agencies more than any other LED company as well as being fully FDA approved class II medical devices that are ETL inspected for electrical safety.

Specifically, I own the smallest BIOMAX unit that provides one of the most powerful, widest spectrum red and near-infrared therapy lights available. I should also point out that I purchased it with 90-day, same as cash financing through Affirm. Most importantly, I have effectively used this unit to “cure” my peripheral neuropathy of the feet and hands, which my primary care doctors have told me was incurable… I am satisfied in every way with this high quality unit that carries with it a best-in-industry warranty. As a matter of full disclosure, I am an affiliate of the company which earns me a small commission, equal to the discount that I can provide for you by using my special link listed below.

BIOMAX Features:

• ETL certified medical grade

• Zero EMF

• Class II Medical Device

• Simple remote control included

• Adjustable spectrum and intensity

• Smartphone app that times and controls all features

• Voice recognition control

• Three-year warranty, with 60-day trial

• Worldwide shipping

•  0% financing available

• HSA/FSA accepted

Platinum Therapy Lights

Referral Link: (5% off) 

Another Option

Mitoredlight Is another well-know manufacturer thar offers panels, portable, flexible, specialized, and commercial Red and Near-Infrared devices. Which gives you almost unlimited choices. Portable, flexible, and specialized devices offer convenience and mobility. The downside is always the result of reduced intensity, meaning that to derive the same benefit from their use, requires longer sessions.

Their specialized units offer more unusual products that include therapy masks, laser helmets, intranasal immune support, and helmets designed to boost brain health. Please make use of the information provided in the second section of this newsletter to serve as your guide as to whether a particular device is appropriate for your desired use or condition. Both product websites also offer a plethora of technical advice worth your consideration.

Mito Red Light Family

Referral Link: (5% off)

Listen to the Podcast

Until next time, take care and stay POSITIVE…Dr. G

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