5 Best Red Light Therapy Devices
- WM Contributor
- Apr 8, 2024
- 4 min read
If you've been following the latest skincare trends, you might have noticed red light therapy is becoming an increasingly common treatment option. Although infrared technology has only recently gained mainstream prominence, it is hardly new—in fact, it dates back to the 1800s!
Red light therapy devices have become popular for good reason. They have significant benefits for many who use them! Today, we'll discuss not only those benefits but also how this treatment works, how you can prepare for it, and whether it's better to receive it professionally or at home.
Top red light therapy device picks
Best Red Light Therapy Device Overall: Solawave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand, $169
Best Hands-Free Red Light Therapy Treatment: Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLight FaceWare Pro, $465
Best Handheld Red Light Therapy Device: TheraFace PRO, $400
Best Medical-Grade Red Light Therapy Device: LightStim for Wrinkles, $249
Most Comfortable Red Light Therapy LED Face Mask: Omnilux Contour,$495
Your red light therapy questions, answered
The Science Behind Red Light Therapy
As you've probably guessed, a red light therapy device uses an LED (light-emitting diode) to create infrared wavelengths. These wavelengths have been scientifically proven to stimulate your skin on a cellular level to provide extraordinary results in both cosmetic appearances and internal health.
The most stunning part about using a red light therapy device is that it is an entirely non-invasive treatment. Infrared light has the uncanny ability to penetrate deep down without actually breaking the skin or making any kind of mark on the body.
The Many Benefits Of Red Light Therapy
By now, you've heard a thing or two about what these treatments can do. Below, however, we'll outline the specific advantages of utilizing red light therapy!
Skin Health and Appearance
The first (and perhaps most well-known) benefit of red light therapy devices is their ability to improve the appearance and health of the skin. Infrared therapy does this in three key ways:
● Increased Collagen Production: Collagen is pivotal for the skin's elasticity, firmness, and overall integrity. Red light therapy boosts collagen production, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and contributes to a younger and more vibrant skin texture.
● Reduced Inflammation: The therapy's ability to improve skin appearance by reducing inflammation makes it an effective treatment for many skin issues, especially acne. It contributes to a smoother, healthier skin appearance with fewer pores and a more even complexion. Even those with severe acne will see a visible difference!
● Cell Growth: Red light therapy invigorates skin cells and promotes tissue repair. This helps reduce scars and stretch marks and, in some instances, can even contribute to quicker wound healing. There has even been some evidence that using a red light therapy device can help those with skin cancer, though this is anecdotal.
Pain Management and Muscle Recovery
The benefits of red light therapy aren't just skin-deep, either! Exposure to near-infrared light can lead to chronic pain relief for those with medical conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia. The light's anti-inflammatory properties also help increase blood flow, allowing for healed damaged muscle tissue and consequently reducing muscle pain.
In combination with other strategies, using a red light therapy device can also improve your sports performance by helping to ease the pain that occurs after practicing.
At-Home VS Professional Red Light Therapy: The Differences
Now that you're hooked on the idea of red light therapy, the next question to ask is where you should get this treatment conducted. While it's increasingly common for this kind of therapy to be offered at wellness and beauty spas, some opt to DIY it in their own home! Below, we'll quickly go over the benefits and drawbacks of each.
Professional Red Light Therapy
● Expert Guidance: One primary advantage of professional red light therapy sessions is the direct oversight by professionals. This allows for a tailored treatment plan based on individual desired outcomes.
● Advanced Options: Professional settings typically use more powerful LED devices capable of emitting a broad range of red and near-infrared light wavelengths.
● Cost and Accessibility: While professional treatments may offer better results, they come with higher fees and the need for frequent visits to the clinic, which may not be convenient or accessible for everyone.
At-Home Red Light Therapy
● Convenience and Accessibility: At-home LED light therapy devices have made treatment more accessible, allowing individuals to incorporate sessions into their daily routines. The convenience of doing this in your own home means that maintaining frequent sessions—crucial for sustaining results—becomes significantly easier.
● Cost-Effectiveness: Over time, investing in an at-home device can be more cost-effective, eliminating the need for regular clinic visits.
● Self-Administered Care: While the convenience of using devices at home is a significant advantage, users must take responsibility for following guidelines, such as duration and frequency of use, to prevent under or overexposure.
Does Red Light Therapy Have Side Effects?
If you're considering using a red light therapy device, you may be wondering about safety. Well, it's important to distinguish this kind of light from UV light, which is emitted from the sun. Red and NIR light is considered safe, and as long as overexposure is avoided, your desired results can be achieved without worry. However, if you do experience some mild irritation, it's important to stop treatment immediately and consult a professional for further information.
All products featured on LLAM are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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