In recent years red light has made its way into beauty salons, physiotherapy practices and even athletes’ changing rooms. Behind a name that sounds like a trend there is actually a technology that has been studied for decades: photobiomodulation. Let’s see what it is, how it works and what you can expect.
What red light is
Red light is part of visible light, with wavelengths roughly between 620 and 700 nanometres (nm). Wellness devices usually use light at 660 nm, emitted by LEDs. It is not ultraviolet light: it does not tan, does not burn and does not cause the typical damage of UV rays.
Nor should it be confused with far infrared. Far infrared is invisible and is felt as heat; red light is visible, produces very little heat and works in a different way.
How it works: photobiomodulation
Photobiomodulation is the effect of red and near infrared light on cells. Light at 660 nm is absorbed in the outer layers of the skin by an enzyme in the mitochondria, the cell’s “power stations”. The result is an increase in the production of cellular energy (ATP), which the cell can use for its normal renewal processes.
The first studies date back to the 1960s; later NASA also studied red LED light. Today the scientific literature is extensive, especially in dermatology and aesthetics, although results depend a great deal on the intensity, duration and regularity of the sessions.
What it is used for in wellbeing and beauty
- Skin: it is used to improve its appearance – tone, elasticity, radiance and evenness of complexion.
- Collagen and elastin: several studies indicate that it supports the natural production of these proteins, which slows down with age.
- Recovery: athletes increasingly use it, together with heat, in their post-workout recovery routine.
Red light and far infrared together
The two technologies complement each other: red light works on the outer layers, while the warmth of far infrared reaches deeper and relaxes the whole body. This is the principle behind Sauna Smarty Lumina, which combines far infrared, negative ions, 660 nm red light and pulsed electromagnetic fields in a single session.
A few practical tips
- Regularity matters more than duration: consistent sessions are better than long, occasional ones.
- When exposing your face, keep your eyes closed and protect them with shielding glasses.
