Something that I’ve had on my wish list for a couple of years now is a red light. The amount of research and testimonials supporting them provide an impressive amount of health and wellness benefits. From skin healing and anti-aging benefits to relief of pain, we’ll get into the nitty-gritty of why this tool is getting a lot of attention. We’ll also dive into the potential benefits related to gut health.
Some Background on Red Light
Also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation, red light therapy involves exposing the body to low levels of red or near-infrared light. Red light provides specific wavelengths of light to enhance the function of the mitochondria. Remember from middle school biology class how the mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cells? They are really important in creating energy. Our mitochondria have an affinity for light and can absorb it, especially in the red wavelength range. Unlike harmful ultraviolet rays, red light does not cause damage to the skin but works to restore cellular function. It’s based on the concept of photobiomodulation, where light energy is absorbed by cells, increasing function and regeneration.
Benefits of Red Light Therapy
Some of the benefits of using red light therapy:
- Decreased inflammation and faster wound healing
- Increased collagen production
- Reduced joint pain
- Supports mood and energy
- Supports skin healing and is anti-aging
- Supports circadian rhythm
- Relieves sore muscles
Gut Health Benefits
There is also research showing the likely benefits of red light on gut health. Red light has shown anti-inflammatory effects which can soothe the digestive system, allowing conditions linked with inflammation to improve.
Due to red light’s effects of promoting cellular energy, absorption of important nutrients in the digestive system may improve too. Optimizing digestion helps the vitality of the entire body.
Near-infrared light has been shown to increase beneficial bacteria in the gut microbiome in animal studies.1 A balanced gut microbiome boosts the immune system, digestion, helps protect the gut barrier, increases gut motility and more.
The use of light therapy has even been expanded into being used by doctors in the treatment of neurological diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injury, and multiple sclerosis.2
The Red Light Device I Chose
I finally decided I couldn’t resist any longer when I saw the Lumebox go on sale a couple of months ago. I’m super impressed with the level of quality that they deliver. The Lumebox is third-party independent tested for safety, was developed by a medical doctor, uses low EMF, uses 25% more LEDs, and covers more body surface area. It is independently tested to be 87% more powerful than leading competitors, which can save you time!
Red light panels come in a variety of sizes. I like this travel-size panel. It comes with a case making it easy to take everywhere.
I love that it uses both near-infrared and red light. It gives you the choice of using just one or combining them. The primary difference between the two is that near-infrared penetrates deeper than red light. Near infra-red is better for deeper tissues like muscle and joints. Red light is more appropriate for skin issues.
Lumebox contains LED-based RLT which does not contain harmful UV rays, which is the part of the light spectrum that can cause damage. LED-based light therapy is generally thought to be safe.
Our Experience With the Lumebox
Personally, my husband has found relief from stiff and sore muscles, as well as decreasing inflammation, after injuring his knee recently. I have noticed an increased feeling of relaxation when I use it. I look forward to using it for increasing collagen and supporting microbiome health too. We have only had our Lumebox for about 8 weeks. I will report back in the future more of my experience with the Lumebox!
If you are interested in trying out the Lumebox, you can use my exclusive link to receive a very generous discount on their red light therapy device.
Contraindications
- Avoid if you are photo-sensitive
- Avoid if you are using steroids (including topical, oral, and injectable)
- Avoid using it during the healing period after Lasik eye surgery.
- Avoid using if you are lactating or pregnant.
Consult with your physician before using. I would also recommend starting low and slow if you are just beginning to use one. (Avoid more than 3 minutes and slowly work your way up to longer sessions). One more bonus tip: some HSA plans just recently started covering red lights!
Have you used red light therapy? What are your experiences? I’d love to hear in the comments.
References:
- Bicknell B, Liebert A, Johnstone D, Kiat H. Photobiomodulation of the microbiome: implications for metabolic and inflammatory diseases. Lasers Med Sci. 2019 Mar;34(2):317-327. doi: 10.1007/s10103-018-2594-6. Epub 2018 Aug 3.
- Liebert A, Kiat H. The history of light therapy in hospital physiotherapy and medicine with emphasis on Australia: Evolution into novel areas of practice. Physiother Theory Pract. 2021 Mar;37(3):389-400. doi: 10.1080/09593985.2021.1887060. Epub 2021 Mar 7.
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