Does red light really work as well as they say?

Interest in red light therapy is growing exponentially, thanks in part to scientific research from renowned institutes such as Harvard Medical School and the Netherlands Institute for Health Research (NIVEL). More and more people are looking for natural ways to improve their health, and red light seems promising in this regard. From skin improvement to pain relief, the applications seem endless. But what has actually been proven and what is mainly marketing? In this blog, we delve deep into the science behind this treatment method.

The scientific basis of red light therapy

Recent research from Erasmus MC shows that with red light therapy , specific wavelengths between 630-850 nanometers can penetrate deep into the tissue. These wavelengths stimulate the mitochondria, the powerhouses of our cells, which leads to increased ATP production. LUMC has shown that this cellular boost has an anti-inflammatory effect and activates the body's natural recovery processes. The results are particularly promising for chronic inflammation and tissue repair. The scientific substantiation is becoming increasingly stronger, particularly through long-term studies that are now being completed.

Applications in the medical world

Red light therapy is already being successfully applied in the Amsterdam UMC in the treatment of chronic pain complaints. Physiotherapists in the Máxima Medical Center use the technology for muscle and joint recovery. The Sint Antonius Hospital in Utrecht has developed a special protocol for the treatment of osteoarthritis and tendonitis. The results are so positive that more and more health insurers are reimbursing the treatment. Practitioners see accelerated recovery, especially when combined with traditional therapies. The VUmc is currently investigating its effectiveness in neurological disorders.

Skin improvement and anti-aging effects

The dermatological department of the Radboud UMC has conducted extensive research into the effects on skin rejuvenation. They discovered that regular treatments can increase collagen production by up to 30%. This explains the visible improvement in fine lines and wrinkles. Loptimize confirms these findings in their practical studies. The combination of red and near-infrared wavelengths in particular appears to be effective in skin aging. Dermatologists at the Leiden UMC also see good results in the treatment of acne and scars, in which the anti-inflammatory effect plays an important role.

Home treatment with red light equipment

For home use, there are several FDA-approved devices available, ranging from handheld panels to professional full-body systems. The RIVM emphasizes the importance of CE certification and correct usage guidelines. The optimal treatment time is usually between 10-20 minutes per session, with a distance of 15-45 cm to the device. Eye protection is essential, so always use the safety glasses provided. Start with short sessions and gradually build up the treatment time for the best results.

Long story short

The science of red light therapy continues to evolve, with promising results from various research centers worldwide. Although not all claims are equally well-founded, studies from the Erasmus MC and the Mayo Clinic, among others, show that this treatment method can be effective for specific applications. For the best results, it is important to remain realistic and seek professional advice before starting this form of therapy.