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Benefits of red and near-infrared light therapy
On this page you'll find the main benefits of using red and near infrared light therapy.
Numerous scientific studies are also listed, so that you can do your own research and increase your knowledge of this fabulous technology.
Reverse Skin Aging
Red and near-infrared light therapy stimulates collagen and elastin production, reducing wrinkles, scars, and cellulite.
It improves skin tone and smoothness, offering a safe alternative to injections and surgeries for anti-aging.
This therapy also supports the health of the extracellular matrix, which is crucial for overall body health and resilience.
Scientific studies:
- Pugliese, L. et al. (2003). The influence of low-level laser therapy on biomodulation of collagen and elastic fibers.
- Avci P, et al. (2013). Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) in skin: stimulating, healing, restoring.
- Lau et al. The effects of low level laser therapy on irradiated cells: a systematic review.
- Jiang, M. et. al. (2017). A prospective study of the safety and efficacy of a combined bipolar radiofrequency, intense pulsed light, and infrared diode laser treatment for global facial photoaging. Lasers in Medicine and Science, 32(5): 1051-1061.
- Kim, Hee-Kyong. (2017). Effects of radiofrequency, electroacupuncture, and low-level laser therapy on the wrinkles and moisture content of the forehead, eyes, and cheek. Journal I Physical Therapy and Science, 29(2): 290-294.
- Barolet, D. (2009). Regulation of Skin Collagen Metabolism In VitroUsing a Pulsed 660 nm LED Light Source: Clinical Correlation with a Single-Blinded Study,Journal oflnvcstigative Dermatology, 129(12): 2751-2759.
- Wunsch, A. (2014). A Controlled Trial to Determine the Efficacy of Red and near-infrared light Treatment in Patient Satisfaction, Reduction of Fine Lines, Wrinkles, Skin Roughness, and Intradermal Collagen Density Increase. Photomedicine in Lasers and Surgery, 32(2): 93- 100.
- Fabiana do Socorro da Silva Dias Andrade et al. (2014). Effects of low-level laser therapy on wound healing.
- Barolet, D. et al. (2016). Accelerating Ablative Fractional Resurfacing Wound Healing Recovery by Photobiomodulation, Current Dermatology Reports, 5(3): 232-38.
Slow Hair Loss and Re-Grow Hair
Red light therapy helps combat hair loss in both men and women by:
- Prolonging the growth phase of hair
- Stimulating dormant follicles
- Increasing the rate of hair growth
- Thickening the diameter of individual strands
These effects are likely due to increased growth factors, improved blood circulation, and enhanced cellular energy production in the scalp area.
Scientific studies:
- Lanzafame, R.J. et al. (2014). The growth of human scalp hair in females using visible red light laser and LED sources. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 46(8): 601-607.
- Wiley, A. et al. Hair stimulation following laser and intense pulsed light photo-epilation: Review of 543 cases and ways to manage it. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 39(4): 297-301.
- Kim, S.S. et al. (2007). Phototherapy of androgenetic alopecia with low level narrow band 655-nm red light and 780-nm infrared light.} of American Academy of Dermatology. American Academy of Dermatology 65th Annual Meeting. p. AB112.
- Jimenez]]., et al. (2014). Efficacy and safety of a low-level laser device in the treatment of male and female pattern hair loss: a multicenter, randomized, sham device-controlled, double-blind study.
- Dodd EM., et al. (2017). Photobiomodulation therapy for androgenetic alopecia: A clinician's guide to home-use devices cleared by the Federal Drug Administration.
- Adil A., et al. (2017). The effectiveness of treatments for androgenetic alopecia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Reduce Cellulite
Red and near-infrared light therapy combats cellulite by:
- Boosting collagen and elastin production
- Improving blood circulation
- Causing fat cells to release their contents
When combined with massage, it has shown up to a 71% reduction in cellulite, making it one of the most effective scientifically-proven treatments for this condition.
Speed Up Wound Healing
Red and near-infrared light therapy accelerates wound healing by:
- Increasing ATP production in skin cells
- Stimulating collagen synthesis and fibroblast formation
- Enhancing blood flow and formation of new capillaries
- Stimulating lymph activity
- Reducing inflammation
This results in faster healing, even for wounds resistant to other treatments, and less scarring.
Scientific studies:
- Vranova et al. (2015). Comparison of quality of facial scars after single low-level laser therapy and combined low-level with high-level (PDL 595 nm) laser therapy. Dermatologic Therapy.
- Balboni, G.C., et al. (1986). Effects of He-Ne/LR. lasers irradiation on two lines of normal human fibroblasts in vitro. Arch Italian journal of Anatomy and Embryology, 91:179-1 88.
- Bosarta, M., et al. (1984). In vitro fibroblast and dermis fibroblast activation by laser irradiation at low energy. Dermatologica, 168:157-162.
- Trelles, M.A. et al. (2006). Red light-emitting diode (LED) therapy accelerates wound healing post-blepharoplasty and periocular laser ablative resurfacing.Journal of Cosmetic Laser Therapy, 8(1): 39-42.
- Barolet, D. et al. (2016). Accelerating Ablative Fractional Resurfacing Wound Healing Recovery by Photobiomodulation, Current Dermatology Reports, 5(3): 232-38.
- de Abreu Chaves, M. E. et al. (2014). Effects oflow-power light therapy on wound healing: LASER x LED*. Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia. 89(4): 616-623.
- de Lima, F. (2014). Use alone or in Combination of Red and Infrared Laser in Skin Wounds. Lasers in Medicine and Science, (2): 51-57.
- Mester, E. et al. (1978). Stimulation of wound healing by means of laser rays. Acta Chir Acad Sci Hung 19:163- 170.
- Mester, E, et al. (1985). The biomedical effects oflaser application. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 5:31-39.
- Kana,J. S., et al. (1981). Effect oflow-power density laser radiation on healing of open skin wound in rats. Archives in Surgery, 116: 293- 296.
Combat Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue
Red light therapy has shown effectiveness in treating fibromyalgia symptoms, including:
- Decreased pain and muscle spasms
- Reduced morning stiffness
- Improved quality of life
It may also benefit those with chronic fatigue syndrome by improving mitochondrial function, brain function, and reducing inflammation.
Scientific studies:
- Ruaro,J. A. (2014). Low-level laser therapy to treat fibromyalgia. Lasers and Medicine in Science, 29(6): 1815-9.
- Onur, A. (2006). Long-term efficacy oflow level laser therapy in women with fibromyalgia: A placebo-controlled study.Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, 19(4): 135-40
- Gur, A. (2002). Efficacy of low power laser therapy in fibromyalgia: a single-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Lasers in Medical Science, 17(1): 57-61.
- Da Silva, M. et al. (2017). Randomized, blinded, controlled trial on effectiveness of photobiomodulation therapy and exercise training in the fibromyalgia treatment. Lasers in Medical Science.
- Komaroff, A. (2017). Inflammation correlates with symptoms in chronic fatigue syndrome. PNAS.
- Johnson, Cort. (2017). Major Stanford Study Indicates Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is Inflammatory Disorder.
- Cohut, M. (2017). Is chronic fatigue syndrome an inflammatory disease? Medical News Today.
- Cordero, MD. et al. (2010). Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in fibromyalgia. Neuro Endocrinology Letters.
- Myhill, S. et al. (2009). Chronic fatigue syndrome and mitochondrial dysfunction. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine.
- Natclson, B. (2013). Brain dysfunction as one cause of CFS symptoms including difficulty with attention and concentration. Frontiers in Physiology.
Fight Hashimoto's Hypothyroidism
Studies have shown that red and near-infrared light therapy can significantly improve thyroid function in people with hypothyroidism.
Benefits include reduced need for thyroid medication, improved thyroid hormone levels, and decreased thyroid antibody levels.
In some cases, patients were able to stop medication completely.
Scientific studies:
- Hofling, D. (2013). Low-level laser in the treatment of patients with hypothyroidism induced by chronic autoimmune thyroiditis: a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Lasers in Medicine and Science, 28(3): 743-53.
- Hofling, D., et al. (2017) Long-term follow-up of patients with hypothy.roidisrn induced by autoimmune thyroiditis submitted to low-level laser therapy.
- Heiskanen V. "Valtsu" (205). Hypothyroidism: Could it be trea ted with light? Valtsu's.
Potentially Combat Cancer Growth
While direct application to tumors is not recommended, using red light therapy on other areas of the body may improve overall outcomes in cancer patients.
Some studies have shown anti-tumor effects and improved quality of life.
However, more research is needed, and this treatment should only be done under medical supervision.
Scientific studies:
- Wu, S., et al. (2014). Cancer phototherapy via selective photoinactivation of respiratory chain oxidase to trigger a fatal superoxide anion burst. Antioxidants and Redox Signal, 20(5): 733- 746.
- Cohen,]. (2017). lnterview With Dr Michael Hamblin: Harvard Professor and Infrared Therapy Expert.
- Santana-Blank, L.A., (2002). Phase I Trial of an Infrared Pulsed Laser Device in Patients with Advanced Neoplasias. Clinical Cancer Research. 8(10): 3082-91.
- Santana-Blank, L., (2012). Concurrence of emerging developments in photobiomodulation and cancer. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery 30: 615- 616.
- Santana-Blank, L., et al. (2014). Water-light interaction: a novel pathway for multi hallmark therapy in cancer. International Journal ofCancer1herapy and Oncology, 2:02012
- Coussens, L.M., t. al. (2013). Neutralizing tumor-promoting chronic inflammation: a magic bullet? Science, 339: 286-291.
- Tanaka, Y., et al. (2010). Non-thermal cytocidal efl:ect of infrared irradiation on cultured cancer cells using specialized device. Cancer Science, 101: 1396-1402.
- Traitcheva, N ., (2003). ELF fields and photooxidation yielding lethal effects on cancer cells. Bioelectromagnetics, 24: 148- 150.
- Radeva, M., (2004). Differences in lethality between cancer cells and human lymphocytes caused by LF-electromagnetic fields. Bioelectromagnetics, 25: 503-507.
- Wang F., et al. (2005). Measuring dynamics of caspase-3 activity in living cells using FRET technique during apoptosis induced by high fluence low power laser irradiation. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine 36: 2-7.
Increase Bone Healing
Red and near-infrared light therapy aids in healing bone fractures and defects by:
- Stimulating energy production in bone cells
- Increasing bone growth factors
- Enhancing blood vessel formation
- Modulating inflammation
- Stimulating collagen production
This accelerates the bone repair process and is becoming popular in sports medicine.
Scientific studies:
- Kazem Shakouri S et al. (2010). Effect oflow-level laser therapy on the fracture healing process.
- Hamblin, M, et al. (2018). Low-level light therapy: Photobiomodulation. Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE).
- Zein, R. (2017). Effect of Low-Level Laser Therapy on Bone Regeneration During Osseointegration and Bone Graft. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery
- Mostafavinia, A. (2017). Effect of in vivo low-level laser therapy on bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells in ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis of rats.Journal of Photochemistry and Photo biology, 175: 29-36.
- Pinheiro, A. L.B. (2006). Photomedicine and Laser Surgery. Photoengineering of Bone Repair Processes, 24(2): 169-178
Combat Inflammation
Red and near-infrared light therapy effectively reduces chronic inflammation throughout the body.
It suppresses inflammatory pathways and cytokine production, potentially benefiting a wide range of inflammation-related diseases.
Its anti-inflammatory effects have been compared to those of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Scientific studies:
- Franceschi C (2014). Chronic inflammation (infiammaging) and its potential contribution to age-associated diseases.
- Lyons,J-A. (2015). Light therapy to treat autoimmune disease SPIE Newsroom. 144 Brosseau, L. Low level laser therapy (Classes I, II and III) for treating rheumatoid arthritis. Cochrane Musculoskeletal Group.
- Alfaya, T. A. et al. (2012). Sjogren's syndrome: Use of a low-level laser for treatment of xerostomia, Medical Science Technology, 53( 4): CRl 97-200
- Cotler et al. (2015). The Use of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) For Musculoskeletal Pain.
Improve Eye Health
Research suggests red light therapy may benefit eye health, particularly in age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Studies have shown improvements in vision, edema, bleeding, and other eye-related issues.
However, due to the sensitivity of eye tissues, shorter sessions at increased distances are recommended for self-use.
Scientific studies:
- Albarracin, R. et al. Photobiomodulation protects the retina from lightinduced photoreceptor degeneration. Investigative Ophthalmological and Visual Science, 52(6): 3582-92.
- Ivandic, B. T. et al. (2008). Low-level laser therapy improves vision in patients with age-related macular degeneration. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 26(3): 241 -5.
Combat Depression and Anxiety
Early research on red and near-infrared light therapy for treating depression and anxiety disorders is promising.
It may improve blood flow in the frontal cortex of the brain, which is often abnormal in people with depression.
Several studies have shown positive results in reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other related disorders.
Scientific studies:
- Cassano, P. (2016). Review of transcranial photobiomodulation for major depressive disorder: targeting brain metabolism, inflammation, oxidative stress, and neurogenesis. Neurophotonics, 3(3): 031404.
- Henderson et al. (2015). Near-infrared photonic energy penetration: can infrared phototherapy effectively reach the human brain? Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment.
- Disner, S. G. (2016). Transcranial Laser Stimulation as Neuroenhancement for Attention Bias Modification in Adults with Elevated Depression Symptoms. Sep-Oct; 9(5): 780-7.
- Mohammed, H. S. (2016). Transcranial low-level infrared laser irradiation ameliorates depression induced by reserpine in rats. Lasers in Medical Science, 31(8): 1651-1656.
- Xu, Z. (2017). Low-Level Laser Irradiation Improves Depression-Like Behaviors in Mice. Molecular Neurobiology, 54(6): 4551-4559.
- Salehpour, F. (2016). Therapeutic effects of 10-HzPulsed wave lasers in rat depression model: A comparison between near-infrared and red wavelengths. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 48(7): 695-705. doi: 10.1002/lsm.22542. Epub 2016 Jul 1.
- Wu, X. (2012). Pulsed light irradiation improves behavioral outcome in a rat model of chronic mild stress. Lasers in Surgical Medicine, 44(3): 227-32.
- Tanaka, Y. (2011). Infrared radiation has potential antidepressant and anxiolytic effects in animal model of depression and anxiety. Brain Stimulation, 4(2): 71-6.
- Schiffer, F. (2009). Psychological benefits 2 and 4 weeks after a single treatment with near infrared light to the forehead: a pilot study of 10 patients with major depression and anxiety. Behavioral Brain Function, 5:46.
- Henderson TA., et al. (2017). Multi-Watt Near-Infrared Phototherapy for the Treatment of Comorbid Depression: An Open-Label Single-Arm Study.
Improve Cognitive Performance
Red and near-infrared light therapy has been shown to enhance cognitive performance by:
- Improving metabolic pathways in the brain
- Enhancing mitochondrial health
- Increasing neurocognitive function
Studies have demonstrated improvements in sustained attention, short-term memory retrieval, and executive cognitive function in both young and older adults.
Scientific studies:
- Hwang,]. (2016). Cognitive enhancement by transcranial laser stimulation and acute aerobic exercise. Lasers in Medical Science, 31(6): 1151-60.
- Blanco, N. (2017). Improving executive function using transcranial infrared laser stimulation. Journal ofNeuropsyhology, 11(1): 14-25.
- Vargas, E. (2017). Beneficial neurocognitive effects of transcranial laser in older adults. Lasers in Medical Science, 32(5): 1153-1162.
Help Tendonitis
Red and near-infrared light therapy is highly effective in treating tendon disorders by:
- Modulating inflammation
- Improving energy production in tendon cells
- Stimulating collagen production
- Enhancing tendon healing processes
A systematic review of research has shown positive results in all studies conducted on this application.
Scientific studies:
- Tumilty, S. (2010). Low level laser treatment of tendinopathy: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 28(1): 3-16.
- Bjordal,J.M., (2006). A randomised, placebo controlled trial oflow level laser therapy for activated achilles tendinitis with microdialysis measurement of peritendinous prostaglandin E2 concentrations. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 40: 76-80.
- Tumilty, S. (2010). Low level laser treatment of tendinopathy: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 28(1): 3-16.
- de Jesus, ]. F. (2014). Low-level laser therapy on tissue repair of partially injured achilles tendon in rats. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 32(6): 345-50.
Increase Fertility
Red and near-infrared light therapy may boost fertility in both men and women by:
- Improving ATP production in eggs, enhancing their viability
- Enhancing follicular health
- Increasing sperm motility
Studies have shown improved pregnancy rates, even in cases where other assisted reproduction treatments had failed.
Scientific studies:
- Grinsted, A. (2016). Laser therapy for female and male infertility. Annals of Laser Therapy Research, 4.
- Ohshiro, T. (2012). Personal Overview of the Application of red and near-infrared light in Severely Infertile Japanese Females. Laser 1berapy, 21(2): 97-103.
- Yazdi, S., et al. (2014). Effect of 830-nm diode laser irradiation on human sperm motility. Lasers in Medicine and Science, 29: 97-104
- Iurshin, V. V., et al. (2003). Etiopathogenetic basis for using magnetolaser therapy in the complex treatment of male infertility. Urologiia, (2): 23-5
- Jin-Chul Ahn, Young-Hoon Kim, Chung-Ku Rhee. The effects of low level laser therapy (LLLT) on the testis in elevating serum testosterone levels in rats. Biomedical Research 2013; 24 (1): 28-32.
- Ahmed Saed Al-Ebady. (2014 ). The effect of expose the rat testis to low level laser light on changing serum lh and testosterone levels
- Alves MB., et al. (2016). Low-level laser therapy to recovery testicular degeneration in rams: effects on seminal characteristics, scrotal temperature, plasma testosterone concentration, and testes histopathology.
- Wehr, E. et al. Association of vitamin D status with serum androgen levels in men. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf). 2010; 73(2): 243-8
- Nimptsch, K. et al. Association between plasma 25-0H vitamin D and testosterone levels in men. Clin Endoc. 2012; 77(1): 106-112.
Improve Joint Health and Combat Arthritis
Red and near-infrared light therapy can help with osteoarthritis by:
- Decreasing pain
- Modulating inflammation
- Increasing circulation to affected areas
- Stimulating wound healing and cellular repair in damaged joints
While some studies show mixed results, detailed reviews of the research indicate significant benefits for osteoarthritis patients.
Scientific studies:
- Hegedus et al. (2009). The Effect of Low-Level Laser in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial.
- Taheri et al. (2014). The effect oflow-level laser therapy on knee osteoarthritis: prospective, descriptive study.
- Alves, A. et al. (2013). Effect of low-level laser therapy on the expression of inflammatory mediators and on neutrophils and macrophages in acute joint inflammation. Arthritis Research and therapy.
- Hamblin, M. et al. (2013). Can osteoarthritis be treated with light? Arthritis Research & therapy.
Decrease Diabetes Symptoms
Red and near-infrared light therapy has shown benefits for diabetics, particularly in:
- Healing foot ulcers by restoring normal healing ability
- Relieving painful diabetic neuropathy
- Improving nerve function and foot skin microcirculation
Scientific studies:
- Houreld, N. N. (2014). Shedding light on a new treatment for diabetic wound healing: a review on phototherapy. 2014:398412
- Feitosa, M. C. (2015). Effects of the Low-Level Laser Therapy (red and near-infrared light) in the process of healing diabetic foot ulcers. Acta cirurgica brasileira, 30(12): 852-7.
- Houreld, N. N. (2015). Healing of diabetic ulcers using photobiomodulation. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 33(5): 237-9.
- Maltese, G. (2015). A pilot study to evaluate the efficacy of class IV lasers on nonhealing neuroischemic diabetic foot ulcers in patients with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care, 38(10):e152-3.
- Sashi, K. C. G. Efficacy oflow level laser therapy on painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Laser Therapy, 24(3): 195-200.
- Bashiri, H. Evaluation oflow level laser therapy in reducing diabetic polyneuropathy related pain and sensorimotor disorders. Acta Medicical Iran, 51(8): 543-7.
- Yamany, A. A. and H. M. Sayed. (2012). Effect of low level laser therapy on neurovascular function of diabetic peripheral neuropathy.Journal of Advanced Research, 3(1): 21-28.
Improve Oral Health
Red and near-infrared light therapy has numerous benefits for oral health, including:
- Combating viral and bacterial infections in the mouth
- Reducing mouth pain
- Facilitating tooth movement and reducing pain from braces
- Helping with gum problems and periodontal disease
- Reducing thrush and improving tooth sensitivity
- Fighting gum disease and gingivitis
Scientific studies:
- Zohreh, V. (2007). Application Of Low Level Laser Therapy (Red and near-infrared light) In Treatment Of Chronic Tonsillitis: (Case Series)
- Carvalho, D. (2011). Herpes simplex recorrente: laser terapia como metodo alternativo para. Revista da Sociedade Brasileira de Medicina Tropical, 44(3): 397-399.
- Gene, G. (2013). Effect oflow-level laser therapy (red and near-infrared light) on orthodontic tooth movement. Lasers in Medical Science, 28(1): 41-7.
- Seifi, M. (2014). Effects oflow-level laser therapy on orthodontic tooth movement and root resorption after artificial socket preservation. Dental research journal, 11(1): 61-6.
- Yassaei, S. (2013 ). Effect of Low Level Laser Therapy on Orthodontic Tooth Movement: A Review Article. Journal of Dentistry (Tehran) . 10(3): 264-272.
- Basso, F. G. (2011). In Vitro effect oflow-level laser therapy on typical oral microbial biofilms. Brazilian Dental Journal, 22(6): 502-10.
- Asnaashari, M. (2016). A comparison of the antibac terial activity of the two methods of photodynamic therapy (using diode laser 810 nm and LED lamp 630 nm) against Enterococcus faecalis in extracted human anterior teeth. Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy, 13: 233-237.
- Rios, A. (2011). Evaluation of photodynamic therapy using a lightemitting diode lamp against Enterococcus faecalis in extracted human teeth. Journal of Endocrinology, 37(6): 856-9.
- Maver-Biscanin,M. (2005). Effect ofLow-Level Laser Therapy on Candida albicans Growth in Patients with Denture Stomatitis. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 23(3): 328-332.
- Teichert, M.C., et al. (2002). Treatment of oral candidiasis with methylene blue- mediated photodynamic therapy in an immunodeficient murine model. Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology, And Endodontics, 93(2): 155-60.
- Gerschman,J. A. (1994). Low level laser therapy for dentinal tooth hypersensitivity. Australian Dental Journal, 3 9( 6): 353-7.
- Orban, K. (2011). Low-level laser therapy of dentin hypersensitivity: a short-term clinical trial. Lasers in Medical Science, 26(5): 591-8.
- Vieru, D. (201 7). Low Level Laser Therapy In The Treatment Of Periodontal Disease. Laser Therapy, 16( 4): 199-206.
- Obradovic, R. (2012). Low-Level Lasers as an Adjunct in Periodontal Therapy in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus. Diabetes Technology and Therapy, 14(9): 799-803.
Improve Respiratory Health
Red and near-infrared light therapy has shown benefits for those with chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma, COPD, bronchiectasis, and ILD.
It can decrease lung inflammation in rodents exposed to toxins and indoor air pollutants.
This therapy may offer a non-invasive approach to improving respiratory function and reducing inflammation in various lung conditions.
Scientific studies:
- Mohamed,A. (2014). Role of laser acupuncture in chronic respiratory diseases. Egyptian Journal of Chest Diseases and Tuberculosis, 63( 4): 1065- 1070.
- Landyshev, Iu., et al. (2002). Efficacy of low intensity laser irradiation and sodium nedocromil in the complex treatment of patients with bronchial asthma. Ter Arkh, 74(3): 25-28.
- Faradzheva, N .A. (2007). Efficiency of a combination of haloaerosols and helium-neon laser in the multimodality treatment of patients with bronchial asthma. Prob. Tuberk Bolezn Legk, 8: 50-53.
- de Lima F.M., et. al. (2011). Low-level laser therapy (red and nearinfrared light) acts as cAMP-elevating agent in acute respiratory distress syndrome. Lasers in Medical Science, 26(3): 389-400.
- Kashanskaia, E.P. et al. (2009). Low-intensity laser radiation in the combined treatment of patients with chronic obstructive bronchitis. Vopr Kurortol Fizioter Lech Fiz Kult, 2:19-22. pmid:19514298.
- Christiane, M. et al. (2015). Low Level Laser Therapy Reduces the Development of Lung Inflammation Induced by Formaldehyde Exposure. PLoS One.
Improve Heart Health
Animal studies have shown positive effects of red light therapy on heart health, particularly after cardiac events and surgery. Benefits include:
- Reducing infarct size by up to 76%
- Decreasing inflammation and scarring
- Accelerating tissue repair
- Modulating inflammatory cytokines and signaling molecules
While human studies are still needed, these results are promising for potential cardiac applications.
Scientific studies:
- Liebert, A. (2017). A Role for Photobiomodulation in the Prevention of Myocardial Ischemic Reperfusion Injury: A Systematic Review and Potenti al Molecular Mechanisms. Science Reports, 7: 423 86.
- Hentschke, V. S. (2013). Low-level laser therapy improves the inflammatory profile of rats with heart failure. Lasers and Medicine in Science, 28(3): 1007-16.
- Tuby, H. (2011). Induction of autologous mesenchymal stem cells in the bone marrow by low-level laser therapy has profound beneficial effects on the infarcted rat heart.
- Khanna, A. (1999). Augmentation of the expression of proangiogenic genes in cardiomyocytes with low dose laser irradiation in vitro. Cardiovascular Radiation Medicine, 1(3): 265-9.
- Blatt, A. (2016 ). Low-Level Laser Therapy to the Bone Marrow Reduces Scarring and Improves Heart Function Post-Acute Myocardial Infarction in the Pig. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 34(11): 516-524.
- Carlos, F. P. (2016). Role oflow-level laser therapy on the cardiac remodeling after myocardial infarction: A systematic review of experimental studies. Life Sciences, 151: 109-114.
- Manchini, M. T. (2014). Amelioration of cardiac function and activation of anti-inflammatoryvasoactive peptides expression in the rat myocardium by low level laser therapy. PLoS One, 9(7):e101270.
Improve Liver Function
Although research is in early stages, animal studies have shown positive results for:
- Healing cirrhotic livers in rodents
- Enhancing liver regeneration during transplants
These preliminary findings suggest potential applications in liver health and surgical procedures.
Scientific studies:
- Oliveira-Junior, M. C. (2013). Low-level laser therapy ameliorates CC14- induced liver cirrhosis in rats. Photochemical Photobiology, 89(1): 173-8.
- Araujo, T. G. (2013). Liver regeneration following partial hepatectomy is improved by enhancing the HGF/Met axis and Akt and Erk pathways after low-power laser irradiation in rats. Lasers I Medicine and Science, 28(6): 1511-7.
Increase Pancreas Health
Limited studies have shown that red and near-infrared light therapy can:
- Enhance islet cell function before transplantation
- Stimulate regeneration of islets and ducts in experimental diabetes models
While more research is needed, these results indicate potential benefits for pancreatic health and diabetes treatment.
Scientific studies:
- Irani, S. et al. (2009). Effect oflow-level laser irradiation on in vitro function of pancreatic islets.Transplant Proceedings, 41(10): 4313-5. doi: 10. 1016/j. transproceed .2009 .09 .065.
- Tatmasu-Rocha,J. et al. (2017). Light-emitting diode modulates carbohydrate metabolism by pancreatic duct regeneration. Lasers in Medicine and Surgery [Epub ahead of print]
Decrease Pain
Red and near-infrared light therapy has been effective in reducing joint pain throughout the body. It works by:
- Changing tissue opioid receptors
- Altering substance P
- Interfering with nerve transmission and pain sensation
Studies have shown benefits for chronic neck pain, knee pain, fibromyalgia, low back pain, and various other pain conditions.
Scientific studies:
- Hamblin, M, et al. (2018). Low-level light therapy: Photobiomodulation. Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE).
- Cotler, H. et al. (2015). TI1e Use of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) For Musculoskeletal Pain. Orthopedics and Rheumatology.
- Roberta T. Chow (2006). The effect of 300 mW, 830 nm laser on chronic neck pain
- Kingsley,J. D. (2014). Low-level laser therapy as a treatment for chronic pain. Fronteirs in Physiology, 5: 306.
- ZeYu Huang. (2015). The effectiveness of low-level laser therapy for nonspecific chronic low back pain
- Okuni, I. (2012). Low Level Laser Therapy (Red and near-infrared light) for Chronic Joint Pain of the Elbow, Wrist and Fingers, Laser Therapy, 21(1): 33- 37.
- Jan M Bjordal. (2003). A systematic review of low level laser therapy with location-specific doses for pain from chronic joint disorders
- Ohkuin, I. (2011). Low level laser therapy (red and near-infrared light) for patients with sacroiliac joint pain. Laser Therapy, 20(2): 117-21.
- Arslan, H. (2017). Effect of Low-level Laser Therapy on Postoperative Pain after Root Canal Retreatment: A Preliminary Placebo-controlled, Tripleblind, Randomized Clinical Trial Journal of Endocrinology.
- Alayat, M. S. (2017). Efficacy ofMultiwave Locked System Laser on Pain and Function in Patients with Chronic Neck Pain: A Randomized Placebo Controlled Trial. Photomedicine in Laser Surgery, 35(8): 450-455.
- Dima, R. (2017). Review of Literature on Low-level Laser Therapy Benefits for Nonpharmacological Pain Control in Chronic Pain and Osteoarthritis. Alternative Therapy in Health and Medicine.
Improve Immunity
Red/NIR light therapy has shown to benefit the immune system by:
- Boosting immune function in immune-deficient animals
- Increasing T cells in preoperative cancer patients
- Enhancing wound healing through immune modulation
- Potentially reversing age-related thymic involution
- Beneficially modulating immune activity in autoimmune conditions
It appears to support optimal immune function in various scenarios, regardless of whether immune function is underor overactive.
Scientific studies:
- Skobelkin O.K., et al. Preoperative Activation of the Immune System by Low Reactive Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) in Oncologic Patient: A preliminary report.
- Jingke Yang. (2016). Low-level light treatment ameliorates immune thrombocytopenia
- Qi Zhang. (2016). Noninvasive low-level laser therapy for thrombocytopenia
- Masixole Y. (2017). The effects of low level laser therapy on both HIV-1 infected and uninfected TZM-bl cells
- E G Novoselova. (2006). Effects of low-power laser radiation on mice immunity
- Denis Odinokov. (2017). Aging of lymphoid organs: Can photobiomodulation reverse age-associated thymic involution via stimulation of extrapineal melatonin synthesis and bone marrow stem cells?
- Kut'ko II, Frolov VM, Pustovoi IuG, Pavlenko VV, and Rachkauskas GS. The effect of endovascular laser therapy and antioxidants on the immune status and energy metabolism of patients with treatment-resistant forms of schizophrenia. Zh Nevropatol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova.1996. 96(2): 34-38.
- Hofling, D. (2013). Low-level laser in the treatment of patients with hypothyroidism induced by chronic autoimmune thyroiditis: a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Lasers in Medicine and Science, 28(3): 743-53.
- Jeri-Anne Lyons. (2015). Light therapy to treat autoimmune disease
Help Heal Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Spinal Cord Injury
Red light therapy has shown promise in:
- Improving cognition and sleep in TBI patients
- Accelerating recovery in animals after stroke
- Enhancing regeneration of injured peripheral nerves
- Improving functional recovery towards normal levels in spinal cord injuries
These findings suggest potential applications in treating various central nervous system injuries.
Improve Stem Cell Therapy
Red and near-infrared light therapy has shown potential to enhance stem cell treatments by:
- Promoting cellular migration and preventing apoptosis in transplanted cells
- Increasing stem cell growth and proliferation
- Aiding in repair of heart tissue after heart attacks
- Potentially improving transplant success and organ regeneration
These findings suggest exciting possibilities for combining red light therapy with regenerative medicine.
Improve Sleep Quality
Red/NIR light therapy has shown potential to improve sleep by:
- Increasing melatonin production in the body
- Improving sleep quality in people with insomnia
- Potentially enhancing mitochondrial function and cellular repair during sleep
While more research is needed, initial studies and anecdotal evidence suggest promising effects on sleep quality and duration.
Improve Brain Health and Slow Neurodegenerative Diseases
Red and near-infrared light therapy shows potential in improving brain health and slowing the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Benefits include:
- Improving cognitive performance and memory
- Enhancing mitochondrial function in brain cells
- Protecting neurons and promoting cellular repair
- Increasing growth factors like BDNF and NGF
- Decreasing brain inflammation
These effects suggest potential neuroprotective applications, especially if applied early in disease progression.
Enhance Muscle Gain, Strength, Endurance, and Recovery
Red and near-infrared light therapy can significantly benefit muscle performance and recovery by:
- Reducing muscle fatigue and damage
- Enhancing muscle strength and endurance
- Increasing fat loss and muscle growth responses from exercise
- Promoting faster recovery after strenuous exercise
- Increasing mitochondrial adaptations and biogenesis
Studies have shown improvements in exercise performance, reduced muscle damage markers, and enhanced muscle growth when combined with training programs.
Fat Loss and Weight Reduction
Red and near-infrared light therapy can enhance fat loss and weight reduction by:
- Causing fat cells to release stored fat into the bloodstream
- Dramatically enhancing fat loss from exercise (nearly doubling effects compared to exercise alone)
- Reducing waist and hip circumference by 3.5 to 5.17 inches in just four weeks
- Improving insulin resistance
- Potentially targeting stubborn fat areas through increased blood flow and fat cell stimulation
Fat Spot Reduction
While traditional spot reduction through exercise is largely ineffective, red/NIR light therapy may offer a solution by:
- Increasing blood flow to specific fatty areas
- Stimulating fat cells to release their contents
- Potentially allowing for targeted fat loss in stubborn areas when combined with proper diet and exercise
Enhanced Exercise Performance
Red/NIR light therapy can improve exercise performance by:
- Nearly doubling fat loss from exercise when used in conjunction
- Significantly improving insulin resistance when combined with exercise
- Potentially increasing muscle growth and recovery