Benefits of Red Light Therapy

Red light therapy is great for treating scars, wrinkles, acne, redness, and other signs of aging. Are you considering having this form of treatment? If so, consult our doctors to determine whether it is a good option for your skin problem. 

What Is Red Light Therapy?

RLT is an emerging treatment that uses low levels of red light to address skin issues like persistent wounds, scars, and wrinkles. Proponents of RLT say that it can help treat other medical conditions. 

In the early 90s, scientists used red light to help grow plants in space. They found that the light produced by red LEDs helped promote photosynthesis and the growth of plant cells. Consequently, they started studying red light for potential applications in medical science. More specifically, they wanted to determine whether red light therapy could increase energy in human cells. 

Other names for red light therapy include:

• Biostimulation.
• Photobiomodulation.
• Cold laser therapy.
• Photonic stimulation.
• Soft laser therapy.
• Low-power laser therapy.
• Low-level light therapy.

Benefits of RLT 

To appreciate the benefits of low-level light therapy, you must understand how it works. Experts say it produces a biochemical effect that strengthens the mitochondria in cells. By boosting the function and strength of the mitochondria, cells can make more energy-carrying molecules. More energy means that cells can rejuvenate themselves, function more efficiently, and repair damage. Below are several benefits of RLT.

Reduced Inflammation

Inflammation helps the body fight infection and heal. However, chronic inflammation can lead to various disorders. These include diabetes, bowel disease, heart disease, depression, and cancer. Animal studies of RLT suggest this treatment can decrease the levels of molecules that cause inflammation, leading to reduced inflammation.

Improved Acne

Skin care professionals often use laser and light-based therapies to treat acne. Studies show that light can infiltrate deep within the skin to target the sebaceous glands. These tiny ducts release the acne-causing, pore-clogging oil called sebum. Red light energy helps reduce inflammation within those glands, thereby improving the appearance of acne. 

Decreased Signs of Aging

Your skin primarily consists of collagen, a protein that helps prevent sagging. Collagen also keeps the skin feeling and looking plump. While your body naturally produces collagen, factors like pollution, smoking, sun exposure, and aging decrease production. That causes your skin to wrinkle and sag. Regular red light therapy sessions can help increase collagen density and improve skin roughness and wrinkles.

Reduced Pain From Arthritis

Studies suggest that RLT could help reduce pain from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. According to one study, it can lead to more than 50 percent reduction in pain for those with degenerative osteoarthritis in their knees.

Other potential benefits of red-light therapy include:

• Accelerated healing of cutaneous wounds.
• Improved hair count in patients with androgenic alopecia.

For more on red light therapy, visit Pinellas Laser Lipo at our Seminole, Florida office. Call (727) 397-3000 to schedule an appointment today.