How Do Red Light Devices Work?

Usually if it sounds too good to be true, it isn’t true. We were initially skeptical about the wellness and beauty benefits claimed for light, and for red light in particular. But the evidence is mounting that red light is a simple, noninvasive way to stimulate the health and rejuvenation of cells and tissues. (Blue light can also be useful—more on that below.)

First, a quick summary of how the different wavelengths of light affect us: The color of light, and whether we can see it, is determined by its wavelength. The shortest wavelength our eyes can see is violet light, and the longest wavelength we can see is red light. In between come blue, green, yellow, and orange light. We don’t see ultraviolet light (with wavelengths that are shorter than violet light) or infrared light (with wavelengths that are longer than red light).

We know a fair bit about how the UV and infrared wavelengths that we can’t see affect our bodies. Infrared light is warming, and we love devices with infrared heat. UV light is used by our skin to produce vitamin D, which is essential for cellular health, immunity, and bones. Of course, excessive UV light burns and damages skin, so doctors recommend using sunscreen and taking a vitamin D supplement as needed.

But it’s also turning out that visible red wavelengths of light affect us, too—and that we can harness their powers to support skin, pelvic health, and other body benefits.

Clinical research has shown that red light triggers reactions in cells that support skin rejuvenation and boost smoothness, elasticity, and appearance. This is called photorejuvenation. One of the ways that red light appears to work is by supporting the production of collagen and reducing the amount of an enzyme (MMP-1) that breaks down collagen.

Red light can also promote the health of cells and tissues in other ways, including stimulating tissue maintenance and repair, and energy (ATP) production in cells’ power plants, the mitochondria.

FOR THE FACE

Strap on this soft, flexible, ultramodern mask for a 20-minute red light treatment at home instead of in your dermatologist’s office. LEDs in the HigherDOSE red light face mask deliver both red light (630 nanometers) and near-infrared light (880 nanometers) wavelengths without any ultraviolet light. With regular use, the combination of red light and near-infrared light has been shown to promote the appearance of rejuvenated and smoother-looking skin.

The high-tech SpectraLite FaceWare Pro from Dr. Dennis Gross uses both red light and blue light for a dual approach to smooth, rejuvenated skin. While red light stimulates collagen and helps promote elasticity, blue light is designed to target blemishes and prevent breakouts. The mask has three settings and is designed for all skin types, from oily to sensitive.

FOR THE BODY

The Gemstone Heat Therapy Mat from HealthyLine combines red light–emitting LEDs with 13 pounds of amethyst, tourmaline, and jade gemstones. Lying on the warm stones is designed to stimulate local circulation and ease muscle tension for relaxation and well-being.

This article is for informational purposes only, even if and regardless of whether it features the advice of physicians and medical practitioners. This article is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice. The views expressed in this article are the views of the expert and do not necessarily represent the views of goop.