What Is Red-Light Therapy?

Did you know that basking in certain types of light can benefit your overall well-being? Although photomedicine includes a spectrum of colors, people have been intrigued by red-light therapy’s benefits for skin health. Let’s take a deep dive into how it works and why you should visit the WorldSprings Spa to try it.

What Is Red-Light Therapy?

Did you know that red light can energize cells? As they penetrate skin and cells, chromophores—the light particles—enter the tissue. Mitochondria in the cells absorb the particles, which prompts the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). If your cells were a car, think of ATP as its fuel. Although ATP is vital for proper cell function, levels can drop due to aging and other factors. Essentially, the red light gives mitochondria a nudge to churn out more ATP.

Different light therapy colors have different wavelengths and different effects on the body. Red light has a wavelength that can span up to 750 nanometers. The instrument emits low levels of red light, as higher levels can damage skin.

But red-light therapy isn't a brand-new spa trend. In fact, using red light to address different health conditions is a practice that spans decades. In the United States, professional and at-home red light therapy treatments are becoming more common practices as people explore alternatives to invasive procedures or medication while addressing multiple cosmetic and internal concerns.

During a session, a handheld device, face mask, or cap rests close to the skin. Therapy can also include relaxing on a spa bed.

Red-Light Therapy Benefits

What does red-light therapy do? Well, a lot. There is a reason you will come out of a session feeling like a new you, with possibly fewer aches and pains and persistent skin concerns. Here is a breakdown of specific benefits red-light therapy provides.

Skin Health

Red-light therapy improves the look of mature skin by creating more cells that give collagen production a boost. Collagen production naturally declines as we get older. Higher levels of collagen give skin a natural facelift.

Fifty million Americans are affected by acne each year. High sebum levels contribute to acne flair-ups, as sebum contains lipids. A lipid imbalance can lead to pore congestion and breakouts. Red-light therapy can reduce sebum levels, removing the slick shine and accompanying pimples.

Inflammation

Inflammation can cause mild to severe pain in different body parts. Incorporating red-light therapy into your pain management or recovery plan will provide relief. The red light helps curb cell inflammation, which can help ease tendonitis and arthritis pain.

Circulation

If you have poor circulation, red light therapy will help. The light promotes better blood circulation. Red skin cells need to get oxygen to your organs to thrive. The steady pace makes the journey easier.

Oxidative Stress Relief

The body struggles with having too many free radicals compared to antioxidants. Red-light therapy brings the free radical-to-antioxidant ratio back into balance.

How to Prepare for Red-Light Therapy

Stay Away from Harsh Skincare

Avoid using products that might irritate the skin leading up to a red-light therapy treatment. For instance, take a break from your scrub mask and opt for a mild exfoliator instead. Skip any other products that contain harsh chemicals and other skin sensitivity-triggering ingredients that day.

Don't Wear Sunscreen or Makeup

Wearing sunscreen every day is vital to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer and slow the signs of premature aging. A lot of us also apply makeup for a well-rested, youthful appearance. However, washing away those products before heading to a red-light therapy session is best.

Physical and chemical sunscreens, foundation, and other cosmetics create a difficult-to-penetrate barrier between red light and your skin and cells. Don't worry; we do recommend you reapply sunscreen and tend to your beauty routine after the session.

Ready for Red-Light Therapy?

Now that you know about red-light therapy's various health benefits and how to prepare for treatment, book an LED light therapy session at WorldSprings Spa. Sit back and relax while the red light does all the work. Before or after light therapy, explore other spa treatments, including muscle tension-releasing and detoxifying massage therapy and facials to renew the look of your skin for a confidence-boosting complexion.

WorldSprings is also home to over 40 mineral hot springs. Soak in the soothing, tranquil waters to further enhance your wellness practice. Book your next visit now.