Red Light Therapy (RLT) is a procedure involving exposing the body to low wavelength red light. Low-level laser light therapy is another name for the process, though RLT is more common. This red light is natural and can penetrate deep into the skin, where the cells can absorb and use it.
A study in the journal; Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery (1) notes that mitochondria in the skin cells can absorb light particles which can help the cells produce more adenosine triphosphate, the energy source for all cells. Many experts attribute the potential positive benefits of RLT to this function. With this extra energy, the cells may be able to respond better to damage and rejuvenate themselves.
This makes RLT an effective skin treatment option for scarring, and signs of aging, including wrinkles and age spots.
RLT also rejuvenates the skin by:
- Improving skin elasticity by increasing collagen production
- Increasing fibroblast production, which helps produce collagen and other tissue fibers
- Improving circulation between blood and tissue cells
- Protecting cells from damage
- Increasing mRNA in the cells, which helps stimulate skin cells
- Improving facial texture
- Reducing fine lines and wrinkles
A clinical trial in the journal Photomedicine and Laser Surgery (2) explored light treatment for some basic skin issues in a small group of 136 people. The researchers found that these light therapies could:
- Rejuvenate the skin
- Improve complexion
- Improve the texture of skin
Acne
Our skin’s sebaceous glands produce sebum, which can clog the pores and cause acne, sunlight may help calm overactive glands however, the risks associated with (UV) A and UVB rays, cause other skin issues over time. As such, RLT either alone or in combination with other treatments, is an alternative effective treatment for acne. The light penetrates deep into the skin and affects its sebum production while also reducing inflammation and irritation in the area.
Additionally, RLT can assist with:
- Pain treatment in adults with different musculoskeletal disorders
- Enhancing bone recovery, reducing both inflammation and pain
- Anti-inflammatory benefits
RLT is a completely natural process. It exposes the skin to levels of light that are not harmful, unlike UV light coming from the sun. Because of this, there is virtually no risk of side effects from undergoing RLT. However, a practitioner with little experience or someone who exposes themselves to too much of the treatment may cause tissue and cell damage. Home products may also lead to misuse, causing damage to the skin, burns, or damage to unprotected eyes.
It may take several treatments of RLT for a person to begin noticing the changes in their skin, and it should be noted that RLT is only one part of a complete skincare routine!
If you are uncertain about whether or not RLT is right choice for you, please chat to us at IHA.
Source 1) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4126803/
Source 2) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3926176/
