How to choose the right red light therapy device?
What should I look for when choosing a red light therapy device?
You may have heard of light therapy, but with all the different types of light (red, blue, infrared, etc), selecting the best light therapy device can be confusing to most.
Red light therapy - also referred to as RLT, low level laser light therapy, cold laser therapy, or phototherapy - sends visible red and near-infrared light energy to your body’s cells. This infusion of energy stimulates cell repair and tissue growth.
There is no doubt that RLT is quickly becoming one of the most popular treatments available.
Key factors to consider when choosing a red light therapy device:
1. Irradiance
Irradiance is the amount of energy a specific part of your body receives over a set period while using the device. Think of it as the rate of energy delivered. This is perhaps the most defining factor when considering red light therapy at home since higher irradiance can result in better results in less time.
The most used format to measure irradiance is mW/cm2 or milliwatts per square centimetre, e.g. 80 mW/cm2. However, just stating the irradiance measurement means nothing if the distance is not provided. Some red light therapy devices have a high mW/cm2 reading on the surface of the device and not on the object exposed to it.
2. Wavelength
The range of frequency used in typical red light therapy devices is from 633 nm (a deep red that penetrates the skin and acts on mitochondria) to 850 nm (a near-infrared light penetrating deeper into tissue). This range is standard in many red light therapy devices because most of the most-desired benefits (like anti-aging) revolve around it.
Generally speaking, red light wavelengths penetrate the skin and promote collagen production and wound healing. On the other hand, near-infrared light can go deeper, which enables it to target deeper wounds and joint or muscle pain.
3.Treatment Coverage
Available products for home RLT units range from handheld to full-body pods.
Many people will opt for the smaller device to treat wrinkles and stretch marks, but others who want to get the most out of red light therapy for muscle recovery, hair loss, hormone balance, and even joint pain may opt for the larger device.
Red light therapy devices with greater coverage emit more light energy and better performance, allowing for full-body red light therapy.Larger, full-body red light therapy devices are more effective for vast problem areas, such as the torso or extremities. They are typically heavy and stationary.
Smaller red light therapy devices are generally designed to be portable, so you can take them to work, travel, or exercise. . .
Smaller red light therapy device is an ideal option if you have a single issue to address in one section of your skin. Smaller devices, like handheld wands or face masks, are highly portable and lightweight.
4. Product quality
When it comes to tools, supplements and equipment designed for the human body, quality cannot be ignored.
Always look for standards or certificates that certify the authenticity and safety of the equipment to prevent buying counterfeit or unsafe red light therapy equipment.
