Comparing Red Light and Infrared Light
Among the different types of light therapies available, red light and infrared light have risen to the top as two of the most talked-about options. But what exactly are the differences between these two sought after modalities?
Differences Between Red Light and Infrared Light
While both red light and infrared light therapies offer therapeutic benefits, they are distinct in several ways. Understanding these differences can help you decide which therapy might be best for your needs.
Wavelengths and Penetration
One of the primary differences between red light and infrared light is the wavelength. Red light therapy typically uses wavelengths ranging from 620 to 750 nanometers. These wavelengths penetrate the skin to a shallow depth, making them ideal for surface-level therapy.
Infrared light therapy, on the other hand, utilizes wavelengths between 700 and 1,000 nanometers. These longer wavelengths penetrate deeper into the body, reaching muscles, tissues, and even bones. This makes infrared therapy better suited for deeper-seated pain and inflammation.
All of our red light devices contain both 660nm and 850nm lights offering the best of both worlds.
Applications and Uses
Red light therapy is widely used for skincare applications. It is known for reducing wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging. Additionally, it can help with acne treatment, promoting collagen production, and improving skin tone.
Infrared therapy is more commonly used for pain relief and physical therapy. It can be beneficial for symptoms of arthritis, muscle soreness, and joint stiffness. Infrared therapy can also encourage circulation and promote tissue repair.
Red Light vs. Infrared Light Therapy: Which is Better?
Choosing between red light and infrared light therapy depends on your specific needs and health goals.
Benefits of Red Light Therapy
- Support Healthy Skin: Red light therapy is particularly effective for supporting healthy skin. It can reduce signs of aging, improve skin texture, and help with acne and scars.
- Energy Boost: Exposure to red light can boost energy levels and promote overall well-being.
Benefits of Infrared Light Therapy
- Discomfort Relief: Infrared light penetrates deep into tissues, providing effective discomfort relief for muscles and joints.
- Inflammation Reduction: It can reduce inflammation, making it beneficial for symptom reduction.
- Improved Circulation: Infrared therapy can enhance blood flow, promoting repair and reducing recovery time.
Conclusion
Red light therapy and infrared light therapy both offer unique benefits, but follow a similar path. Used alone, each therapy can be used to target specific issues, but combining both red light and infrared can have a synergistic effect, and more effectively support a healthy routine.
