The Rise of Infrared & Red Light Therapy

In recent years, infrared and red light therapy have quickly moved from niche wellness trends to mainstream health practices—and for good reason. Backed by a growing body of research, this therapy is being embraced by physiotherapists, skincare specialists, and everyday wellness enthusiasts. They offer a simple, non‑invasive way to support our health at a cellular level, by providing the healing benefits of the sun, without the damaging ultra-violet light.

My curiosity has definitely been piqued and so, I recently interviewed a RED Light Expert from California, Dr Carl Rothschild, on Alimentary! to learn more, and you can listen to the episode on Apple or Spotify. His passion for how helpful Red Light Therapy can be, was palpable and made me even more interested…

So, what Exactly Is Red and Infrared Light Therapy?

Red light therapy typically uses wavelengths between 620–700 nm, while infrared light uses 800–1000+ nm. Though invisible to the eye, infrared light penetrates deeper into the body than red light, reaching muscles, joints, and even bone. Both forms of light stimulate cellular energy production by boosting mitochondrial function, helping cells to repair and regenerate more efficiently. Our mitochondria are like little batteries in each of our cells, and so it makes sense that ensuring they can produce energy is vital for our health and healing.

What benefits have been studied from Red Light Therapy?

Enhanced Skin Health:
Red light therapy is widely used to reduce fine lines, improve skin tone, and promote collagen production. Many users notice smoother, brighter skin after consistent sessions.

Faster Muscle Recovery:
Athletes and active individuals often turn to infrared light for faster recovery. The deeper penetration of the rays helps to reduce inflammation, ease muscle stiffness, and support our blood flow. This makes it ideal after workouts or any sort of physical strain.

Pain Relief & Joint Support:
Infrared therapy has been shown to be helpful for managing chronic pain. It can help to relax muscles, soothe joints, and support long‑term mobility.

Better Sleep & Stress Reduction:
Regular use may support circadian rhythm regulation and help to calm our nervous system, contributing to deeper, more restorative sleep.

Why is Red Light Therapy Gaining Momentum?

As more people look for non‑invasive, drug‑free wellness solutions, light therapy stands out for me. It is safe for most people, can be used at home, and is compatible with nearly any wellness routine. However, if you are undergoing any medical treatment, or are on medication long-term, always consult with your doctor when making decisions about complementary therapies.

What was my experience of Red Light Therapy?

I wanted to try it myself and, as of writing this newsletter, have completed 8 sessions in a physiotherapy clinic which is about 90 minutes away from where I live. Thankfully, I am not experiencing any pain currently, which could have been used as a measurement of effectiveness. So, I needed to have a benchmark that I could use to see an improvement for myself. So, I had a bad burn on my leg from a spilled cup of hot tea, and was left with what looked like discoloration or a bad bruise. While it had healed a certain amount, it had stopped improving, and so I thought that I would be left with quite a pronounced mark. I can report that it has already improved dramatically since my first session of Red Light Therapy.

Summary

From handheld devices to full‑body infrared panels, the technology has become more accessible than ever. It is my belief that the number of clinics offering this therapy will increase over the next couple of years, so that hopefully, if you are interested, you will find a clinic near to you. If you are considering investing in any red light products, it is wise to look for a recommendation from a therapist you trust, as there may be sub-par products on the market. I include some links below for your reference anyway, together with some links to scientific studies. Whether your goal is to rejuvenate your skin, ease discomfort, or optimize your overall well‑being, in my opinion, infrared and red light therapy offers a powerful, science‑supported way to boost your health when used regularly.