What is Red Light Therapy or Photobiomodulation?

Originally referred to as Low-Level Laser Therapy it was used to reduce joint pain and inflammation. Science has since discovered that LED’s are just as effective as lasers and when delivered at the right wavelength and intensity they are able to provide benefits at a cellular level. To better understand the powerful effects of light check out our article on Color Therapy.

The intensity of the LED lights paired with the right wavelength of color directly effect the 4th phase of cellular respiration by boosting ATP production in mitochondria. Mitochondria are the powerhouses of cells from food and light and produce ATP (cellular energy AKA what makes everything happen in the body). Generally speaking, you want to be using a red light device with the following specs:

• Red Spectrum: 630-670nnm: critically affects cellular respiration and restoring healthy cellular function in mitochondria.
• Infrared Invisible Wavelengths: mid 800’s, penetrates to deeper into the body and muscle tissue to reduce joint pain, inflammation, muscle recovery, etc.
• Intensity or Radiance: using bright LED’s

Benefits of Red Light Treatments

• Reduces oxidative stress
• Reduces inflammation
• Reduces joint pain
• Increases muscle recovery
• Increases collagen production
• Tightens skin
• Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
• Increases hair growth
• Increases overall energy and vitality
• Increases wound healing
• Improves memory
• Improves resilience to light
• Improves some degenerative eye disorders
• Can improve vision quality
• Increases testosterone production
• Improves sleep

Red Light Therapy vs. Blue Light

Blue light has both positive and negative effects depending on the context. Among others things, blue light can affect the body’s natural circadian rhythm. Exposure to blue light after sunset can affect the length and quality of sleep. Modern technological advances (e.g. cell phones and computer screens) give us an almost constant barrage of blue light without any red. Too much blue light can also lead to increased oxidative stress (AKA increased fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation). Utilizing red light balances out the overdose of blue we receive and for many provides instant relaxation while healing any damage caused by excess blue light.

For an incredibly comprehensive article on blue light looking at both benefits and harmful effects click here.

Red Light Therapy at Facial Lounge

We are ecstatic to share that we are now offering red and/or blue light treatments as a $40 add-on to a full-length facial or mini facial. Treatments replace the masking part of our custom facials and our clients have been absolutely raving about the results. Clients notice visibly tighter and smoother skin after just one treatment, reduced inflammation, clearer skin tone. Regular treatments can lead to decreased fine lines and wrinkles through increased collagen production, decreased hyperpigmentation, redness and uneven skin tone, reduced pore size, scarring, inflammation and breakouts.

Book your full-length facial or mini facial today.