Try Me-Red Light Therapy
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Have you heard of Red Light Therapy? It’s a fascinating subject, and I’ve been a fan for a while now. Red light therapy (RLT) has gained popularity for its potential health benefits, from improving skin health to reducing inflammation and boosting energy. But what exactly is it, and how can you incorporate its benefits into your life—even if you don’t have a specialized device?
What is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy involves exposure to low-wavelength red or near-infrared light, which penetrates the skin and stimulates cellular function. It enhances mitochondrial activity, promoting energy production (ATP), reducing oxidative stress, and supporting tissue repair. This process has been linked to:
• Improved Skin Health – Red light can stimulate collagen production, reducing wrinkles, scars, and inflammation from conditions like acne and rosacea. I decided to use my Lumebox on my neck for the next 30 days to see if it can improve the skin there. All hands on deck!
• Pain Relief & Reduced Inflammation – Studies show RLT helps with muscle recovery, joint pain, and chronic inflammatory conditions like arthritis. I used my Lumebox on my abdomen daily after my surgery last year.
• Enhanced Sleep & Mood – Red light exposure in the evening can support melatonin production and improve sleep quality while also potentially reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• Hair Growth – Red light may stimulate hair follicles, making it a promising option for those experiencing thinning hair. I have this wand* that is weirdly relaxing when I use it.
How to Incorporate Red Light Therapy Without a Device
If you don’t own a red light therapy device, there are still ways to tap into its benefits naturally. Here’s how:
1. Natural Sunlight
The sun provides a broad spectrum of light, including red and near-infrared wavelengths. Spending 10–20 minutes outside during sunrise or sunset exposes you to beneficial red light while minimizing harmful UV rays. Try morning walks, outdoor yoga, or simply sitting in the sun to soak up the benefits. Just be smart and don’t bake in the midday sun with baby oil and reflector blankets like we did in the 80’s.
2. Candlelight & Firelight
Traditional incandescent bulbs and natural firelight emit more red and infrared light compared to modern LED lighting. Using candles in the evening or spending time around a firepit can provide a calming, red-light-rich environment that supports relaxation and sleep.
3. Infrared Saunas
While infrared saunas* primarily emit near-infrared and mid-infrared light, they still offer overlapping benefits with RLT, such as improved circulation, detoxification, and reduced inflammation. Many spas and wellness centers offer infrared sauna sessions. My favorite in NY is Restore.
4. Red-Tinted Light Bulbs
Replacing standard blue-light-emitting bulbs with red or warm-toned bulbs in the evening can help regulate your circadian rhythm and promote melatonin production for better sleep.
Red light therapy is a powerful tool for improving overall well-being, but you don’t need an expensive device to experience its benefits. By embracing natural light sources, candlelight, infrared saunas, and red-tinted bulbs, you can incorporate red light exposure into your routine naturally. Small changes can make a big impact on your health, helping you look and feel your best at any age. Have you tried it?
