Red light therapy (RLT), also known as photobiomodulation or low-level laser therapy, has gained popularity as a treatment for various health conditions and cosmetic skin concerns.
However, as with any therapy, it’s important to understand the safety profile and potential side effects.
What is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy involves exposing the body to red and near-infrared wavelengths of light. These wavelengths penetrate the skin and cells, where the light energy is absorbed and utilized to stimulate beneficial biological processes.
Some potential benefits of RLT can include:
- Increased collagen and elastin production
- Reduced inflammation and pain
- Faster wound healing
- Improved joint health and mobility
- Neurological benefits like improved mood and cognitive function
RLT devices include panel arrays designed for full body treatment, as well as smaller handheld wands for targeting specific areas.
Sessions typically range from 5-30 minutes depending on the device and condition being treated.
Is Red Light Therapy Safe?
Low-Risk Profile
Numerous studies have demonstrated that RLT treatments carry a low-risk profile with minimal side effects when clinically appropriate protocols and parameters are adhered to.
The light energy emitted from RLT devices does not damage the skin or DNA like higher frequency ultraviolet light from the sun and tanning beds is known to do. However, basic safety precautions should still be followed.
Important Safety Precautions
- Use goggles to protect eyes from light exposure.
- Follow treatment parameters and schedules recommended for your RLT device.
- Inform your doctor of all supplements or medications you are taking, as photosensitizing reactions are possible.
- Discontinue use if pain, rashes, or other reactions develop.
What are the Potential Side Effects?
The majority of RLT users do not experience any negative side effects. However, these are some of the uncommon side effects that have been reported:
Mild Reactions
- Warmth, tingling, itching, or redness of the skin
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Eye strain or dry eyes
These mild reactions typically resolve quickly on their own without treatment. Properly adhering to eye protection and treatment schedules can prevent many of these effects.
| RLT Reaction | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Warmth, tingling | 10-15% |
| Headaches | 5-10% |
| Fatigue | <5% |
| Dizziness | <5% |
| Eye strain | <5% |
Photosensitive Reactions
RLT is not known to cause photosensitivity. However, if taking any oral supplements or topical products that make the skin more sensitive to light, photosensitive reactions are possible. These can include:
- Rashes
- Red, inflamed skin
- Blistering skin burns
Discontinue all photosensitizing substances before undergoing RLT treatments to prevent this rare reaction.
Long-Term Safety Considerations
Long-term RLT treatment safety over many years is not yet conclusively established as it is an emerging therapy. Effects of daily home use for anti-aging over decades require further study.
Using RLT devices under medical supervision is advised for any serious health conditions or when incorporated into an anti-aging regimen. This allows for proper treatment monitoring and parameters.
Contraindications for Red Light Therapy
The following conditions or situations may preclude safe use of RLT or require physician monitoring:
- Pregnancy – Effects on a developing fetus are unknown. Use caution when pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Children & adolescents – Safety profile has not been established in pediatric populations.
- Light-sensitive conditions – Such as porphyria or solar urticaria.
- Cancer – Effects of stimulating cell growth need further research. Avoid directly over tumors.
- Photosensitizing medications/supplements – May cause photosensitive reactions.
- Thyroid conditions – Modulates thyroid function in some cases so levels should be monitored.
Patients with any medical conditions or taking photosensitizing medications should discuss RLT treatments with their doctor.
Optimizing Safe Yet Effective Use
When following clinical protocols and usage guidelines, red light therapy presents a very low-risk profile compared to many conventional medical treatments while offering a variety of evidence-based health and anti-aging benefits.
Optimizing and balancing both the safety and efficacy of RLT comes down to strategically using the therapy based on these key factors:
- Device quality and parameters
- Exposure times and treatment locations
- Frequency and duration of treatment sessions
- Avoiding contraindications and photosensitizing substances
Working under the guidance of an experienced practitioner is advisable to help customize parameters and oversee safe, effective treatments. Tracking progress and any reactions will also inform proper ongoing application.
With professional oversight and reasonable precautions, RLT therapy can be incorporated into healthcare treatment protocols and at-home wellness routines with an excellent safety profile.
References
- Effects on Skin Graft Healing: Martignago et al. (2020) – “Effects of red and near-infrared LED light therapy on full-thickness skin graft in rats” available at Springer.
- Facial Skin Rejuvenation: Russell, Kellett, and Reilly (2005) – “A study to determine the efficacy of combination LED light therapy (633 nm and 830 nm) in facial skin rejuvenation” available at Taylor & Francis Online.
- Stimulating, Healing, and Restoring Skin: Avci et al. (2013) – “Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) in skin: stimulating, healing, restoring” available at NCBI.
- Phototherapy for Acne Vulgaris: Lee, You, and Park (2007) – “Blue and red light combination LED phototherapy for acne vulgaris in patients with skin phototype IV” available at Wiley Online Library.
