Red Light Therapy Devices: What to Look for Before Buying
Every sunrise tells a story your cells already know. Red and near-infrared (NIR) light, nature’s biological cues, are deeply woven into the fabric of our evolution. These wavelengths aren’t just light; they’re life, activating processes like photobiomodulation to energise your mitochondria and repair your cells. From the 42% of sunlight that is red light to the NIR glow at dawn and dusk, these natural rhythms shape your energy, hormonal balance, and even the water within your cells. Understanding these connections is more than science—it’s a return to the light your body craves.
The Role of Red and Near-Infrared Light in Health
Modern living often leaves us disconnected from natural light, compromising our body’s ability to thrive. Red and Near-Infrared Light Therapy (RLT) offers a restorative solution rooted in the healing power of specific light wavelengths. Harnessing these wavelengths, RLT works at a cellular level to energise, repair, and optimise our physiology.
At the heart of RLT’s benefits lies its impact on mitochondria—the energy engines of our cells. By stimulating mitochondrial function, RLT enhances the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the fuel for cellular repair and regeneration. This light-induced boost supports a more efficient cellular metabolism, producing beneficial byproducts such as low-deuterium water and carbon dioxide, which further optimise cellular health.
The ripple effects of RLT extend across the body. From promoting glowing, resilient skin to reducing chronic inflammation and accelerating recovery after injury, RLT is a potent ally in restoring balance to systems strained by artificial lighting, prolonged screen exposure, and sedentary habits.
For those seeking a non-invasive, downtime-free approach to wellbeing, RLT bridges the gap between ancient wisdom and modern science. By reintroducing the body to nourishing light frequencies, it addresses one of the critical deficiencies of our indoor-dominated lives, fostering vitality from within.
Understanding Effective Wavelengths in Red Light Therapy
Not all red light therapy devices are the same. Here's what you need to know about the specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared (NIR) light that have been studied for their effectiveness in improving tissue metabolism, brain bioenergetics, and systemic repair mechanisms:
Red Light (620–660 nm):
This range is effective for skin health, wound healing, and superficial tissue repair.
Optimal Skin Health: Wavelengths such as 633 and 660 nm stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation, and enhance cellular energy through improved ATP synthesis. These wavelengths are particularly effective for surface-level treatments, helping to improve skin tone and reduce wrinkles.
Clinical Applications: Research has shown that these wavelengths can speed up wound healing and address pigmentation issues.
Near-Infrared Light (700–850 nm):
Near-Infrared Light light penetrates deeper into tissues, supporting mitochondrial energy production, reducing inflammation, and enhancing brain function.
Deeper Tissue Healing: Wavelengths like 810 nm and 850 nm reach deeper tissues, benefiting muscle repair, joint health, and pain management. These wavelengths enhance mitochondrial efficiency and boost ATP production at the cellular level.
Neurological Health: Near-Infrared Light, particularly around 810 nm, can penetrate the skull, supporting brain health by facilitating neuronal repair and improving cognitive function.
Longer Near-Infrared Light Wavelengths (900–1100 nm):
These are targeted for deeper systemic repair, particularly concerning musculoskeletal and neurological health.
Combination Effects:
Using red and near-infrared light together offers a synergistic effect. For example, the simultaneous use of wavelengths like 660 nm and 810 nm has been found to improve nitric oxide production and cellular energy metabolism more effectively than using either wavelength alone. This combination supports both surface-level rejuvenation and deeper systemic benefits. These wavelengths also stimulate cytochrome c oxidase in mitochondria, which promotes ATP production and enhances cellular efficiency.
What To Look For When Buying a Red Light Therapy Device
Understanding Wavelengths
Look for devices with wavelengths between 630 and 680 nm for red light (skin and surface benefits) and 800 and 880 nm for near-infrared light (deeper tissue healing). Studies have validated these optimal ranges for effective results.Power Output
Ensure the device has sufficient irradiance (measured in mW/cm²). Higher irradiance means better energy delivery to the targeted area. Less time and not being too close to the light can have nnEMF concerns.Treatment Coverage
Consider devices that match your lifestyle—handhelds for spot treatment, panels for full-body therapy, or masks for targeted skin rejuvenation. Personally, I am not a fan of masks.Safety Features
Ensure it has third-party testing, many client reviews, and a refund policy.User Reviews and Research
Seek user testimonials, real-world results, and clinical validation for the product. Devices from brands with transparent research-backed claims typically offer better results.Flicker and nnEMF exposure
If a reputable brand is used, they should perform independent tests and guarantee the flicker rate (which will never be 0 but should be as low as possible) and the non-native electromagnetic frequencies it emits when turned on.
By understanding the interplay of red and infrared light and knowing what to look for in a device, health enthusiasts can make informed decisions to integrate this revolutionary therapy into their wellness routine. My favourite red light therapy device is EMR Tek which I discuss below.
My personal favourite Red Light Therapy Device
Since 2017, I have owned and used various red light therapy devices. Many of these devices may look impressive on the outside, be lightweight, or competitively priced, but most do not live up to their hype.
I have used—and recommended to my clients worldwide EMR Tek devices, which offer evidence-based wavelengths and models that provide sufficient power to achieve clinical efficacy. I use the Inferno and Firestorm, which have high power outputs.
I recommend the following with the following context:
For a budget-friendly option, Firedragon covers four wavelengths.
For travel: The Firewave is slightly smaller and has less power, making it more portable and suitable for travel. It benefits general wellness, skin health, and superficial tissue healing. Still, it likely lacks the intensity offered by the other three models, which provide more profound and powerful penetrations.
For power and coverage, The Inferno would be my pick. It covers more surface area and has the power to increase the intensity and clinical effects.
For intensity, I recommend the Firestorm. It is cubed similarly to the firewall, but its power output is slightly stronger than Inferno's, with less surface cover. It is more suited for face treatments or specific focussed areas. I currently use the Firestorm because when I bought it, it allowed me to travel with it, fitting in a suitcase with hand luggage.
For professional athletes or those with no budget, The Firehawk is a beast. I have used it and had clients invest in this red-light device. It does not disappoint at all.
Finally, If you want a more advanced red light therapy device, EMR Tek now offers UVA and UVB alongside its new models. I have heard many good things about this. Compared to UV light alone, it comes with red light and the option to choose what you want. It is an unbelievable step forward in the photobiomodulation space.
Additionally, EMR Tek offers free worldwide shipping, excellent customer service that supports you in case of any issues, and competitive pricing for what they deliver.
I highly recommend investing in an EMR Tek red light therapy device. My 20% discount code, LIVEVITAE20, applies to all devices.
Optimal Tips in Using a Red Light Therapy Device
Use the red light therapy once or twice a day for 10 to 20 minutes each session.
Position yourself about one foot away from the device.
Depending on your device, lie down or stand up. Some devices can be leaned against a wall.
Use the red light directly on the area where you require the support. The face, neck, arm, wrist, gut, and any organ or tissue can be exposed to the red light therapy device.
Removing all clothing you're exposing your body to the red light device is always best.
Make sure the skin is clean before use. You should remove or avoid makeup.
Avoid any facial creams before use.
For better results, try dry brushing or exfoliating to remove dead skin before use.
Safety glasses are not required. I do not use any glasses, but I also do not intentionally stare or look directly at the device whilst using (THIS IS NOT MEDICAL ADVICE = NOT IMPLIED FOR YOU)
Go about your day as usual afterward.
Limit late-night red light therapy sessions, which can still blunt melatonin release.
Be mindful when using topical medicine such as antibiotics or Tretinoin (Retin-A).
For best results, consume collagen a few hours before—the night before or upon waking—to stimulate collagen synthesis. Hydrate well during the day and eat a nutrient-dense diet.
Finally, I typically use it in the morning and early evening, mimicking the time of sunrise or sunset. However, it should be noted that there is no substitute for natural sunlight. I do not think there is a problem using a red light device during the day, either.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Red Light Therapy Device
When investing in a red light therapy device, it's essential to prioritize quality and efficacy. Look for devices that emit low levels of EMFs and provide targeted wavelengths in the red and near-infrared spectrum for maximum benefit. A reliable device complements natural light exposure and serves as a valuable tool for addressing recovery, cellular repair, and mitigating the effects of artificial blue light. Remember, while a red light therapy device is an excellent supplement to sunlight, it works best as part of a holistic approach to health. I recommend EMR Tek devices for their superior design and effectiveness—plus, you can receive 20% off with my code LIVEVITAE20, supporting your health and my work simultaneously.
References:
Ari Whitten (2018). The ultimate guide to red light therapy. Archangel Ink.
Glass, G.E. (2021). Photobiomodulation: The Clinical Applications of Low-Level Light Therapy. Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 41(6). doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjab025.
Hamblin, M.R. and Huang, Y. (2013). Handbook of Photomedicine. Taylor & Francis.
Hamblin, M.R. and Huang, Y.-Y. (2019). Photobiomodulation in the Brain : Low-Level Laser (Light) Therapy in Neurology and Neuroscience. Cambridge, MA: Academic Press.
Herrera, M.A., Ribas, A.P., da Costa, P.E. and Baptista, M.S. (2024). Red-light photons on skin cells and the mechanism of photobiomodulation. Frontiers in Photonics, 5. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fphot.2024.1460722.
Maria Luisa Hernández-Bule, Naharro-Rodríguez, J., Bacci, S. and Montserrat Fernández-Guarino (2024). Unlocking the Power of Light on the Skin: A Comprehensive Review on Photobiomodulation. International journal of molecular sciences, 25(8), pp.4483–4483. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25084483.
Sloan, M. (2020). Red Light Therapy: Miracle Medicine. Lulu.com.