A science paper published in 2014 explored the effectiveness of photobiomodulation (PBM) using novel polychromatic light sources vs red light for skin rejuvenation. The study investigates how non-thermal red and infrared light can improve skin appearance and stimulate collagen production, offering a gentler and more effective alternative to traditional skin rejuvenation methods like laser resurfacing or intense pulsed light (IPL). The study also compares red/infrared light therapy versus green, yellow and orange light therapy, in terms of skin rejuvenation (fine lines, wrinkles, skin roughness and skin collagen content)…
How red/infrared light therapy fights skin and whole body inflammation
Red/infrared light therapy works by shining light on the body, where it’s absorbed by specific molecules called chromophores. One key chromophore is cytochrome c oxidase, found in the mitochondria—the powerhouses of cells that produce energy. When red (about 630nm) or infrared light (about 830nm) hits this molecule, it boosts energy production by increasing ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the cell’s energy currency. It also causes a small burst of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are molecules that can signal changes in the cell. Other chromophores include calcium ion channels, which might respond to blue or green light, and water molecules, which absorb infrared light. All these interactions lead to a chain reaction: ATP rises, ROS briefly spikes, and nitric oxide increases, all helping cells function better and reducing inflammation…
Can I have infrared / red light therapy treatment with makeup on?
Red and infrared light therapy (phototherapy) is very popular as an anti-ageing facial treatment, as it is generally very safe and instantly effective. The general rule is that makeup must be removed before phototherapy treatment. This is because makeup quite often contains ingredients which aim to reflect light back from the face, in order to create an effect of “radiance” and light on the skin. However, if they have a treatment during lunchtime, many women find it a hassle to remove...
