RLT and NIR are an emerging treatment that is showing in treating wrinkles, redness, acne, scars, muscle pain, inflammation, and other signs of aging.

RLT and NIR Light are both in the natural light spectrum and have been clinically proven to enhance cellular function.

Red Light has wavelengths in the range of about 620–700 nm and is readily absorbed by skin tissue, leading to improved skin health and collagen production., while near-infrared light has wavelengths in the range of about 700–1,400 nm and penetrates deeper into the tissue, leading to benefits such as increased muscle recovery, reduced inflammation, and speed healing.

What are the different names for red light therapy?

• Low-level laser light therapy.
• Low-power laser therapy.
• Non-thermal LED light.
• Soft laser therapy.
• Cold laser therapy.
• Biostimulation, photonic stimulation.
• Photobiomodulation and phototherapy.

NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) originally began experimenting with red light therapy on plant growth in space and then to help heal wounds in astronauts. Like many developments, other potential uses began to be investigated.

Red light therapy is already widely medically accepted in its use in photodynamic therapy. In this therapy, low-power red laser light is used to activate a photosensitizer drug. The interaction creates a chemical reaction that destroys cells. It’s used to treat some skin conditions, including skin cancer and psoriasis, acne and warts, and other types of cancer.

Red light therapy is thought to work by acting on the “power plant” in your body’s cells called mitochondria. With more energy, other cells can do their work more efficiently, doing things like repairing skin, boosting new cell growth, and enhancing skin rejuvenation. More specifically, certain cells absorb light wavelengths and are stimulated to work.

Red light therapy works in skin health to:

• stimulate collagen production, which gives skin its structure, strength, and elasticity.
• increase fibroblast production, which makes collagen. Collagen is a component of connective tissue that builds skin.
• increase blood circulation to the tissue.
• reduce inflammation in cells.

Red light therapy is promoted as a treatment for some common skin conditions, including to improve:

• wound healing.
• stretch marks
• wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.
• facial texture.
• psoriasis, rosacea, and eczema.
• scars.
• sun-damaged skin 
• hair growth in people with androgenic alopecia.
• acne.

Red light therapy is safe and isn’t associated with any side effects, at least, if used short-term and as directed. This therapy isn’t toxic, not invasive, and not as harsh as some topical skin treatments. Unlike the cancer-causing ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or tanning booths, RLT doesn’t use this type of light.

However, if products are misused — perhaps used too often or not according to directions — there’s a chance your skin or eyes (if not protected) could be damaged. The long-term safety of devices that use red light therapy isn’t yet known.

Your safest option is to see a dermatologist or qualified, trained, cosmetic therapist. A dermatologist can make sure your skin condition is what you think it is and can discuss the merits of red light therapy and other treatment options.

You’ll find many red light therapy products if you search on the internet. While these products are generally safe to use, they may be less powerful than devices that may be used by dermatologists or other trained skin professionals. You may not get the results you hope for.

If you do choose to purchase a red-light therapy device, make sure to shield your eyes for protection, follow all directions, and take good care of the device.

In addition to medical office-based use and at-home use with a purchased device, you may see RLT being promoted at beauty spas and salons, saunas, tanning salons, gyms, and wellness centers. Be cautious of who is supplying and where you are receiving treatment. It’s always best to check in with a medical professional about the best options to treat your skin condition or issue.

Other potential medical uses being investigated include:

• To reduce cancer chemotherapy side effects, including oral mucositis.
• To relieve pain and inflammation associated with ankle tendonitis, rheumatoid arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and osteoarthritis of the knee.
• To prevent cold sores from herpes simplex virus from recurring.

Lots of other uses are being touted on the internet. There’s no scientific evidence to support red light therapy use in weight loss, cancer, cellulite removal, or mental health conditions like depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Both RLT and NIR therapy have shown potential in reducing inflammation and redness in the skin. By promoting natural anti-inflammatory mechanisms, these therapies can help manage skin conditions and provide a calm, even-toned complexion.

You can see the cost at www.thewls/cost

We recommend that you schedule an in-person or virtual consultation visit at NO COST to understand the procedure and determine the number of treatments needed. Additionally, special prices for packages and easy financing options are available only at the consultation visit/call.  These consultations take as little as 30 minutes and are private one-on-one consultations.

Call or text 703 299 0707 to schedule.