💡 Frequently Asked Questions About Light Therapy

Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation (PBM), is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular processes in the body.

The treatment delivers light in the 600-1000nm wavelength range, which penetrates through the skin and is absorbed by mitochondria in cells, stimulating ATP production and initiating beneficial biological processes.

Light therapy works through several mechanisms:

• Mitochondrial stimulation: Increases ATP production by up to 200%
• Reduced oxidative stress: Balances reactive oxygen species
• Improved blood flow: Stimulates nitric oxide production
• Reduced inflammation: Modulates inflammatory processes
• Increased collagen production: Stimulates fibroblasts

Red Light (630-680nm): Visible light that penetrates 8-10mm into tissue. Ideal for skin issues, wound healing, and superficial conditions.

Near-Infrared Light (810-850nm): Invisible light that penetrates deeper, up to 5cm. Reaches muscles, joints, tendons, and internal organs.

Many devices combine both wavelengths for maximum effectiveness.

No, light therapy is fundamentally different:

• No UV radiation: Only red and near-infrared light
• Safe for skin: No risk of skin cancer or burning
• Therapeutic action: Focuses on cellular healing, not pigmentation

Red light therapy has documented effects in many areas:

• Skin health: Reduces wrinkles, acne, scars
• Pain relief: Joint pain, arthritis, muscle soreness
• Muscle recovery: Faster recovery after exercise
• Wound healing: Accelerates the healing process
• Mental health: Improved mood and energy levels
• Sleep quality: Supports natural circadian rhythm

Yes, light therapy has shown promising results:

• Reduces inflammation in joints
• Improves blood flow to affected areas
• Reduces pain by affecting nerve signals
• Stimulates cartilage and collagen production
• Improves mobility and reduces stiffness

Light exposure is one of the most important factors for regulating circadian rhythm:

• Morning exposure: Blue/white light signals daytime and increases energy
• Evening exposure: Red light doesn't disrupt melatonin production
• Improved sleep quality: Synchronizes the biological clock

Yes, light therapy is very effective for various skin conditions:

For acne:

• Blue light (415nm) kills acne-causing bacteria
• Red light reduces inflammation and promotes healing of acne scars
• Reduces sebum production

For anti-aging:

• Stimulates fibroblasts to produce collagen and elastin
• Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Improves skin tone, texture, and firmness

Frequency depends on your goal and device intensity:

• General health: 3-5 times per week
• Skin problems: Daily for 8-12 weeks, then 3-4 times/week for maintenance
• Pain relief: Daily for acute pain, 2-3 times/week for chronic conditions
• Athletic recovery: Immediately after training

Consistency over time is more important than long individual sessions.

Distance is completely individual and depends on:

• Your specific device and its power density
• What you're treating (skin, deep tissue, joints)
• Your individual comfort and tolerance
• Your health conditions and goals

Some people need to be very close to the device (15cm or closer), while others work best with greater distance (30cm+).

General light therapy (white/blue light):

• Morning: Synchronizes circadian rhythm and increases energy
• Evening: Should be avoided as it disrupts sleep

Red light therapy:

• Morning: Positive effects on blood sugar and mitochondrial function
• Daytime: Great for pain relief and recovery
• Evening: Safe - doesn't disrupt melatonin

Consistency is key: Find a time that works for you and stick to it. Regular use at the same time gives better results than perfect timing with irregular use.

• Same day: Improved energy, relaxation
• 1-2 weeks: Better sleep, reduced acute pain
• 4-6 weeks: Visible skin improvements, reduced inflammation
• 8-12 weeks: Significant improvements in skin and chronic conditions
• 3-6 months: Maximum anti-aging effects

Yes, light therapy works well complementary with skincare, physical therapy, exercise, and supplements.

Avoid using light therapy immediately after strong exfoliating treatments or laser treatments. Wait 48-72 hours.

It depends on the intensity and how you use the device:

• Recommended: With high-intensity devices close to the face or direct eye exposure
• Optional: At moderate distances (50cm+) and indirect exposure
• Not necessary: For body panels and extremity treatment

Red and near-infrared light is generally safe for eyes in moderate doses, but prolonged direct staring into strong LED lights should be avoided.

Yes, light therapy is generally very safe. Over 5,000 studies have documented its safety.

Possible mild side effects (rare):

• Mild headache on first use
• Slight fatigue initially
• Temporary increase in acne (purging effect)
• Mild redness after treatment

While light therapy is safe for most people, there are some contraindications:

• Pregnant women: Insufficient research on safety during pregnancy - consult your doctor first
• Active cancer: Light therapy may stimulate cell growth - avoid or discuss with oncologist
• Photosensitivity: People with light hypersensitivity or taking photosensitizing medications
• Epilepsy: Flashing lights may trigger seizures in some individuals
• Thyroid: Avoid direct thyroid exposure with hyperthyroidism
• Active infections: Wait until infections are treated

Always consult with healthcare professionals if unsure or have serious health conditions.

Most medications have no interactions with light therapy, but it's important to be cautious:

Be especially careful with:

• Photosensitizing medications: Some antibiotics, retinoids, NSAIDs, and certain antidepressants
• Immunosuppressive medications: May be affected by light therapy's effect on immune response
• Anticoagulants: Theoretical risk with strong tissue stimulation

Your safety is our priority, and we always recommend getting professional advice when combining light therapy with medical treatment.

Yes, light therapy can be safe for children when used correctly:

• Red light is safe for children of all ages for circadian rhythm support
• Shorter sessions (5-10 minutes) recommended for young children
• Lower intensity and greater distance for children's sensitive skin
• Always under adult supervision
• Can help with sleep issues, wound healing, and growing pains

Consult a pediatrician before use for specific health conditions or if the child is under 1 year old.

No. This is a common misconception:

• Light therapy does NOT use UV radiation that causes skin cancer
• Red and near-infrared light is non-ionizing radiation that doesn't damage DNA
• No risk of burning like with sunlight or tanning beds
• You may feel mild warmth, but this is normal and safe
• In fact, studies have shown red light may protect against UV-induced damage

Important factors to consider:

• Wavelengths: Ideally both red (620-680nm) and near-infrared (810-850nm up 1072nm) If you are in any doubt, please contact Dominic and he will explain. Bespoke panels with light ranges outside these can be arrange for specific issues.
• Power density: Minimum 50 mW/cm² at 15cm (Measured by an appropirate meter, not a solar meter) distance for therapeutic effect. Contact devices such as masks, wraps, torches are different as they rely on contact on the skin
• EMF levels: Low electromagnetic fields (under 3mG at 15cm)
• Flicker rate: No or high-frequency flicker (>1000Hz)
• LED quality: High-quality LEDs with narrow wavelength spread
• Size: Depends on use - larger for full body, smaller for targeted areas
• Certifications: FDA-approved, CE-marked, or equivalent quality standards
• Warranty: Minimum 1-2 year warranty on quality products

LED-based light therapy:

• Non-coherent light that spreads over larger areas
• Safer for home use
• More cost-effective
• Ideal for larger areas and general treatment
• Lower risk of overexposure

Laser therapy (LLLT):

• Coherent, focused light that penetrates deeper
• Used mainly in clinical settings
• More precise for point treatment
• Requires professional training
• Higher cost

For home use, LED-based devices are the best and safest solution for most people.

Yes, light therapy is very well documented:

• Over 5,000 published studies on photobiomodulation
• More than 700 randomized controlled trials
• FDA-approved for pain relief, wound healing, and skin treatment
• Supported by NASA for tissue regeneration
• Used by professional sports teams and military

Research shows consistent positive effects at the cellular level, with mechanisms well understood and documented by leading research institutions worldwide.

There are several reasons why light therapy isn't more mainstream:

• Relatively new for consumers: Clinical use has existed long, but home devices are relatively new
• Complexity: Requires understanding of wavelengths, dosing, and biology
• Lack of patentability: Natural light cannot be patented, less commercial incentive
• Variable quality: Many low-quality products have weakened trust
• Growing recognition: Light therapy is becoming more accepted and used in healthcare

Maximize your results with these tips:

• Consistency: Regular use is more important than long individual sessions
• Clean skin: Remove makeup, cream, and dirt before treatment for best penetration
• Optimal distance: Find the right balance between intensity and comfort
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water before and after treatment
• Combine with healthy lifestyle: Good sleep, nutrition, and exercise amplify effects
• Track progress: Take photos and notes to monitor improvements
• Patience: Give your body time to respond - results come gradually

Yes, but with certain precautions:

• Established tattoos: Generally safe, may actually promote healing of surrounding skin
• New tattoos: Wait 4-6 weeks until the tattoo is fully healed
• Dark pigments: May absorb more light and get warmer - monitor temperature
• No fading: Red/near-infrared light doesn't cause tattoo fading

If you're concerned, start with shorter sessions and lower intensity.

Simple maintenance extends lifespan:

• Cleaning: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth after each use
• Avoid liquids: Don't spray water or cleaners directly on LEDs
• Mild soap: If needed, use mild soapy water on the cloth, not directly on device
• Ventilation: Keep ventilation openings clean and free from dust
• Storage: Store in a dry, cool place when not in use
• Cables: Avoid bending or straining power cables

Yes, many with inflammatory skin conditions experience improvement:

• Eczema: Red light can reduce inflammation and improve skin barrier
• Psoriasis: Studies show reduction in plaque thickness and inflammation
• Rosacea: Can reduce redness and inflammation
• Caution: Start with low doses and shorter sessions
• Consult dermatologist: Especially for severe or active outbreaks

Monitor your skin's response carefully and adjust treatment accordingly.