Dosing Theory
There are only 3 outcomes of red light therapy:
-
Too little dose - no response
If you use the red light panel for too little time, too far, or one that isn't powerful enough, there will not be sufficient mitochondria stimulation, failing to produce sufficient ATP - therefore little or no response from the cells.
-
Too much dose - inhibitory response
Excessive use of red light therapy may lead to an inhibitory response, primarily due to overstimulation of cellular processes. This overstimulation can disrupt the delicate balance of cellular functions, potentially hindering the therapeutic benefits of the treatment. Additionally, prolonged exposure to high-intensity red light may induce oxidative stress and inflammation, counteracting the intended healing effects of the therapy. Therefore, moderation and adherence to recommended dosage guidelines are crucial to avoid adverse reactions and optimise the therapeutic outcome of red light therapy sessions.
-
The right dose - stimulatory response
The right amount of red light therapy stimulates cellular energy production, enhances circulation, reduces inflammation, accelerates wound healing, and provides pain relief.
Which is better?
Too much of a good thing?
As you can see in the charts above, too much red light therapy can have an inhibitory effect on cellular processes. Whilst it is not as detrimental as too much UV light or other forms of radiation, it will cease to have a beneficial effect. So as long as you don't experience too much localised heating, the only consequence of too much or too long of a usage of Red Light Therapy or Near InfraRed Therapy, will only negate outcomes by overstimulating the mitochondria, therefore restricting the output of ATP.
Optimal Usage
Skin Health - Acne, scars, wrinkles, psoriasis
Reduces inflammation, stimulates collagen production, and accelerates wound healing by enhancing cellular metabolism and increasing circulation.
- Duration: 10-20 minutes per session.
- Distance: 6-12 inches away from the skin.
Pain Management - Arthritis, muscle soreness, joint pain, back pain
Alleviates pain by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair, triggering the release of endorphins for natural pain relief.
- Duration: 10-20 minutes per session.
- Distance: 6-12 inches away from the affected area.
Hair Growth - Alopecia, Hair loss, thinning hair
Stimulates hair follicles, increases blood flow, and promotes cellular activity, prolonging the growth phase of hair.
- Duration: 10-15 minutes per session.
- Distance: 3-6 inches away from the scalp.
Joint Health - Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis
Reduces inflammation and supports tissue repair in joints by enhancing cellular regeneration and modulating immune response.
- Duration: 10-20 minutes per session.
- Distance: 6-12 inches away from the affected joint.
Wound Healing - Diabetic ulcers, surgical wounds, burns
Accelerates wound closure and promotes tissue regeneration by increasing collagen synthesis and improving cellular proliferation.
- Duration: 10-20 minutes per session.
- Distance: 6-12 inches away from the wound.
Mental Health - Depression, anxiety, seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
Modulates neurotransmitter levels, reduces inflammation, and improves mitochondrial function, potentially alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety.
- Duration: 20-30 minutes per session.
- Distance: 12-18 inches away, or as recommended for whole-body treatment.
Circulation - Poor circulation, cardiovascular issues
Enhances blood flow and oxygenation of tissues, promoting cardiovascular health and improving peripheral circulation.
- Duration: 10-20 minutes per session.
- Distance: 6-12 inches away from the target area.
Eye Health - Macular degeneration, retinal disorders
Supports mitochondrial function and reduces oxidative stress in the eyes, potentially benefiting conditions like macular degeneration.
- Duration: 1-5 minutes per eye.
- Distance: 6-12 inches away from closed eyelids.
Bone Health - Osteoporosis, bone fractures
Stimulates osteoblast activity and accelerates fracture healing by increasing bone density and promoting bone regeneration.
- Duration: 10-20 minutes per session.
- Distance: 6-12 inches away from the affected bone.
Sports Performance & Recovery - Sports injuries, muscle fatigue
Reduces muscle fatigue and promotes muscle recovery by enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis and reducing oxidative stress.
- Duration: 10-20 minutes per session.
- Distance: 6-12 inches away from targeted muscles.
Hormonal Balance - Hormonal imbalances, sleep disorders
Modulates hormone levels, particularly cortisol and melatonin, supporting endocrine function and circadian rhythm regulation.
- Duration: 20-30 minutes per session.
- Distance: 12-18 inches away, or as recommended for whole-body treatment.
Dermatological Conditions - Eczema, rosacea, vitiligo, psoriasis
Treats various skin conditions by reducing inflammation, promoting tissue repair, and modulating immune response.
- Duration: 10-20 minutes per session.
- Distance: 6-12 inches away from the affected skin.
Dental Health - Oral mucositis, dental surgeries
Aids in treating oral mucositis and promotes healing after dental procedures by reducing pain and inflammation.
- Duration: 10-15 minutes per session.
- Distance: 6-12 inches away from the affected area.
Scarring - Surgical scars, traumatic scars
Minimizes scar formation and improves scar appearance by enhancing tissue remodeling and collagen synthesis.
- Duration: 10-20 minutes per session.
- Distance: 6-12 inches away from the scarred area.
Immune Function - Autoimmune conditions, weakened immune system
Modulates immune response, reduces inflammation, and enhances cellular repair, potentially boosting overall immune health.
- Duration: 20-30 minutes per session.
- Distance: 12-18 inches away, or as recommended for whole-body treatment.
Sleep - Circadian rhythm reset, poor sleep, bad sleep, too little sleep
RLT & NIRT helps to balance your circadian rhythm, but providing soothing red light, similar to sunsets at night (with a low brightness or with our Vital panels diffused by pointing to a wall) - it helps to block blue light. Use in a morning at full brightness to help start your day.
- Duration: 20-30 minutes per session.
- Distance: 18-24 inches away, or as recommended for whole-body treatment.
