What Is Red Light Therapy & Why Is It Good for You?
At first glance, red light therapy honestly felt like just another random wellness trend trying to get me to buy more products. But the more I learned and the longer I used it the more I realized it’s actually far from useless.
One of my favorite things about red light therapy is that it’s completely non-invasive. It’s simple to use, and you’re not putting anything into your body. You’re simply using specific light wavelengths to stimulate cellular processes. Pretty amazing, right?
So why is red light therapy so beneficial?
Our modern environment is overloaded with blue light, artificial lighting, and a very indoor, sedentary lifestyle. Most of us aren’t getting outside nearly as much as we used to and there are so many benefits to simply stepping into the sunlight.
Side note: this is not a replacement for real sunlight and being outdoors.
BUT it does provide red and near-infrared (NIR) light which are light wavelengths many of us are depleted in.
So Why Is It Good For You?
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It supports your circadian rhythm.
Blue light suppresses melatonin production, making it harder for your body to wind down naturally. Red and near-infrared light do the opposite, they actually send healthy biological signals that help regulate your internal clock. Morning light exposure signals to your body that the day has begun, and about 12–14 hours later, melatonin production should increase. (Hello, sleep!) That’s why getting outside in the morning is so important because sunlight naturally triggers these hormone signals. -
It increases ATP production and supports cellular energy.
There’s clinical evidence showing that red light therapy can improve ATP synthesis which means enhanced cellular energy and regeneration. Your cells truly love red and NIR light. -
It may reduce inflammation and support recovery.
Because it supports energy production and cellular repair, it can also help reduce inflammation. This is why many people use it for pain relief, autoimmune support, and improved mobility.
How to Start Using Red Light Therapy
• Use it in the morning for 5–10 minutes. If you can’t get outside right away, this can be a helpful way to get red and NIR light exposure. Avoid staring directly into the device, but facial exposure is great. Even with your eyes closed, those wavelengths can help signal your circadian rhythm.
• Target specific pain points. If you’re dealing with back pain or joint discomfort, direct the light toward that area.
• Be consistent. Aim for 3–5 times per week for at least 8 weeks before deciding if it’s “working.” Cellular repair takes time so trust the process!!!
• Avoid nighttime use. Red light therapy isn’t ideal before bed. In the evening, candles or incandescent lighting are better because they provide a fuller spectrum and feel more natural. Instead of introducing isolated light wavelengths at night, it’s best to gradually dim all light and embrace a darker environment.
And honestly? Even if you’re skeptical about all of it, sitting in front of a warm red light for 10 quiet minutes a day with eyes closed, no phone, no distractions, is probably going to lower your cortisol a little anyway (;
Find Sami’s favorite device here:
https://platinumtherapylights.com/products/biomax-rlt?variant=15666982649922&_campaign_id=18311544688&tw_source=google&tw_adid=&tw_campaign=18311544688&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17518484636&gbraid=0AAAAAC9iDbbFhm_bBiGvo-aFeqKGQTbSs&gclid=CjwKCAiA-__MBhAKEiwASBmsBBVoFsEJzYQfLVmpZ5bTWSqzIzJjKAVLr5Xpg5W7YoCU-2_nAbg6oxoCE4cQAvD_BwE
- Audrey Wagner