The Amazing Benefits of Red Light Therapy

What is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy is a procedure that involves the use of red low-light wavelengths for skin rejuvenation and tissue repair to boost the look of one's skin. It is proven effective in diminishing wrinkles, scars, redness, acne, and some medical conditions.

There have been numerous small studies and many conversations online regarding the use of red light therapy for a variety of medical applications. The outcomes of some studies have demonstrated potential, but the overall effectiveness of red light therapy remains to be seen.

Red light therapy (RLT) is also widely known as: 

• Photobiomodulation (PBM)
• Biostimulation
• Low level light therapy (LLLT)
• Cold laser therapy
• Photonic stimulation
• Biostimulation

The Evolution of Red Light Therapy

It was NASA who started the use of red light therapy for the advancement of plant growth in space. Afterwards, they began to use it to treat the injuries of astronauts. As is often the case, other potential applications were explored.

Medically, red light therapy is already accepted and utilized in photodynamic therapy. During this treatment, a low-powered laser light is used to activate a photo-sensitizer drug, resulting in a chemical reaction that destroys cells. This method is employed to treat a wide range of skin conditions, including skin cancer, psoriasis, acne and warts, as well as other types of cancer.

Currently, RLT is being studied (or already employed) to assist with numerous health issues. 

How Does It Work?

It is believed that red light therapy influences the mitochondria, or “power plant” of the body's cells. This additional energy helps to improve the performance of various cells, such as mending skin, stimulating new cell growth, and improving skin rejuvenation. To be more precise, specific cells take up the light waves and become activated.

Red light therapy is beneficial for skin health in the following ways:

• Stimulating collagen production which is beneficial for giving skin its structural support, strength, and flexibility.
• Increasing fibroblast production. This helps to make collagen, which is an important component of the connective tissue that forms skin.
• Enhancing blood flow in the tissue.
• Reducing inflammation in cells.

What Are the Benefits of Red Light Therapy for the Skin?

Red light therapy is being applied as a potential remedy for the following skin issues:

• Speeding up healing of wounds.
• Diminishing the appearance of stretch marks.
• Reducing wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.
• Enhancing facial texture.
• Aiding in the treatment of psoriasis, rosacea and eczema.
• Diminishing scars.
• Treating sun-damaged skin.
• Promoting hair growth in people with androgenic alopecia.
• Improving acne.

The Value of Using Red Light Therapy

Though still an emerging treatment, red light therapy is effective in managing a wide range of conditions and skin issues. Its application to certain medical conditions is being explored and will need more research.

Randomized, placebo-controlled trials are generally considered the best way to evaluate the efficacy of a product. For this type of study, individuals with similar characteristics (age, weight, race, gender, etc.) are randomly assigned to receive either the study treatment or a placebo. In some cases, a comparison to another frequently used treatment may also be included. Subsequently, the results can be compared between the group receiving the new treatment and those that are given no treatment (placebo) or the current standard treatment.

A number of the studies that have utilized RLT have only had a few participants and did not involve a placebo group, being conducted on animals instead of humans or concentrated on cell tissue. According to the majority of researchers, the findings so far look encouraging, yet more quality studies with larger sample sizes are necessary.

Does Red Light Therapy Have Negative Effects?

It appears to be safe to use red light therapy with no reported side effects, provided it is used in the short-term as directed by a qualified professional. It is not toxic, nor invasive, and is not as severe as some topical skin treatments. Unlike light from the sun or tanning beds, RLT does not include ultraviolet (UV) light. Using red light therapy devices too often or not as directed may result in injury to your skin or eyes.

When it comes to your skin, visiting a dermatologist or competent aesthetician is your best choice. This professional can confirm the diagnosis of your skin condition and talk about the potential benefits that red light therapy and other treatments may offer.

What At-Home Devices Can You Use?

Have you been wondering what at-home devices are available in the market for red light therapy? Lucky for you, we have a variety of options that you can explore and use from the comfort of your home. 

If you look around on the internet, you can find plenty of red light therapy products. Despite being generally secure to use, the wave frequency of these devices may be lower than the ones used by skin professionals, such as dermatologists. Our devices are not only set to the right frequency but also are approved for home use, guaranteeing you an efficient process and great results.

We offer you belts/wraps, portable panels, floor racks and so much more!

Medical Conditions Exploring the Use of Red Light Therapy 

Researchers are also exploring other potential medicinal applications such as:

• Tackling cancer chemotherapy side effects such as mucositis.
• Reducing pain and inflammation caused by ankle tendonitis, rheumatoid arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and osteoarthritis of the knee
• Treating recurring cold sores caused by herpes simplex virus.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many sessions per week do I need to use the RedShift devices? 

This is not a single-session treatment for most skin issues. You will get the recommended frequency once you consult our professional coaches.

How many minutes per day should I use the device?

The generally recommended time is 10-20 minutes per day. However, if you sign up as a member of RedShift, you will get an assigned coach who will tailor your time according to your needs and priorities.

Get the Best At-Home Red Light and Experience at the Shift!