Light therapy was originally developed by NASA in the 1980s to grow plants in space but subsequently was found to have health benefits for humans.

 

Infrared radiation (IR), or infrared light, is a form of electromagnetic radiation that’s become widely known and studied. Infrared devices can include lasers, lamps, mats or saunas. When asked, "What is infrared light therapy?" This can be a confusing topic because IR therapy is known by various names, including photobiomodulation, low-level light therapy, near IR, and far IR. Some people use red light therapy interchangeably with IR therapy, although each wavelength has different benefits.

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Red Light

Wavelength: 620 to 780 nanometers

• Beneficial for skin rejuvenation and treating hair loss.

 

Near Infrared Light

Wavelength: 780 to 3,000 nanometers

• It can penetrate through the scalp and the skull.

• Increases vasodilation and cerebral blood flow.

• Increases energy production (ATP) in mitochondria.

 

Far Infrared Light

Wavelength: 50,000 to 1,000,000 nanometers​

• It can penetrate almost 4 cm beneath the skin surface.

• Causes increased blood flow and nitric oxide production.

 

Therapeutic effects of Infrared Light Therapy

• pain relief

• decreases muscle spasm

• acceleration of healing and tissue repair

• relaxation

• improved circulation

• detoxification including skin purification

• improving immune system

• lowering blood pressure

• promotes better sleep

• promotes hair growth