Benefits of Red Light Therapy Beds: A Complete Guide

What is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that exposes the body to low wavelength red light. It is also known as photobiomodulation or low level light therapy (LLLT). The light used in red light therapy beds and devices is within the near-infrared spectrum, typically 600-950 nanometers.

Red light wavelengths stimulate cellular functions and enhance energy production in the cells. This helps boost the body's natural healing and regenerative processes. Red light therapy has a wide range of therapeutic benefits and is used by dermatologists, physicians, chiropractors and other health practitioners.

Benefits of Red Light Therapy Beds

Some of the benefits of using red light therapy beds include:

• Reducing inflammation and easing joint and muscle pain
• Speeding up recovery from injuries and wounds
• Improving skin complexion and reducing signs of aging
• Boosting circulation and oxygenation in the body
• Stimulating hair growth and preventing hair loss
• Increasing testosterone levels and sexual function
• Enhancing energy levels and mood
• Strengthening the immune system

How Do Red Light Therapy Beds Work?

Red light therapy beds use LEDs or lasers to deliver therapeutic wavelengths of light across broad surface areas of the body. The light penetrates the skin and is absorbed by cells containing mitochondria. This stimulates increased ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production and provides more fuel for cellular activities.

Specific wavelengths of red light, primarily in the range of 600-680nm, have been found to be most effective. They help improve mitochondrial function and increase reactive oxygen species that signal biological regeneration and healing.

When cells absorb these red and near-infrared wavelengths, it activates several physiological mechanisms:

• Increased blood flow to boost circulation and oxygen delivery
• Release of nitric oxide to relax blood vessels
• Reduced oxidative stress and inflammation
• Increased fibroblasts to stimulate tissue repair
• Enhanced immune cell proliferation and melatonin

This combination of cellular effects improves tissue and joint recovery, speeds up wound healing, reduces pain and inflammation, enhances skin health, and triggers other regenerative mechanisms.

Types of Red Light Therapy Beds

There are a few different forms of red light therapy beds and systems:

• Infrared Saunas - Saunas that use infrared heating to penetrate skin along with targeted red light pads or panels.
• LED Beds - Beds lined with red and/or near-infrared LED light panels or strips to deliver light across the body.
• Laser Beds - Beds with laser diodes that emit coherent red light for deeper tissue penetration.
• Hybrid Beds - Systems combining LEDs and lasers for red light treatment.

Red light therapy beds allow larger surface areas to be treated at one time rather than small spots treated by handheld devices. Most beds provide full-body exposure or focus light on a specific treatment zone depending on the health goals.

What to Expect During Red Light Therapy

Using most red light therapy beds is a passive treatment with no discomfort. Beds with infrared heating will gently warm your body temperature. The session involves simply lying down and relaxing while therapeutic light panels emit wavelengths that penetrate your skin.

Eye protection is provided, usually in the form of tinted glasses, to block light from entering your eyes. Exposure times can range from 10-30 minutes depending on the device and condition being treated. The light that touches your skin will feel warm but is gentle enough for all skin types.

Most people report a soothing, rejuvenating experience. Many even fall asleep during treatment sessions. Infrared saunas will make you sweat from the radiant heat. Drink plenty of water after your sauna session to avoid dehydration.

How Often Should Treatments Be Done?

Most manufacturers recommend using red light therapy beds 2-3 times per week to start. Maintenance treatments of 1-3 times per week are usually advised after the initial treatment period. The frequency depends on your specific health goals.

Ongoing use helps prolong the benefits. Your clinician will work with you to determine the optimal treatment plan based on your concerns and how your body responds.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Red light therapy is well-tolerated with little risk of side effects. Infrared saunas may cause overheating, but this can be mitigated by proper hydration and limiting exposure time if needed. Some other potential side effects include:

• Mild headache
• Light sensitivity for a short time after
• Skin flushing in saunas
• Fatigue after first few sessions as the body adjusts

These effects are usually temporary. Red light therapy does not expose the body to ultraviolet radiation, so there is no risk of skin damage or increased cancer risk.

Choosing a Red Light Therapy Bed

If you're considering red light therapy at home, there are a few factors to keep in mind when choosing a bed or system:

Light Source

LEDs, lasers or a combination are used to emit therapeutic red and near-infrared wavelengths. Lasers can penetrate deeper, while LEDs offer more coverage area. LEDs are typically used for skin rejuvenation, while lasers are better for joint and muscle treatment.

Wavelengths

Look for red light in the 600-680nm range and near-infrared light from 800-950nm. Different wavelengths have different cellular effects, so choose a bed that delivers a spectrum ideal for your specific needs.

Treatment Area Size

Beds allow larger areas like your full body to be treated at once. Make sure the bed accommodates your size and is large enough to treat all areas you intend to target in your sessions.

Device Power

Higher power density or irradiance delivers better results. Power density is measured in milliwatts per square centimeter (mW/cm2). Choose more powerful beds with irradiance levels of at least 30 mW/cm2 or more.

User Interface and Settings

Opt for beds with adjustable settings like treatment times and wavelengths to customize sessions. Ease of use is also important for controlling the device.

Safety Certifications

Check that the device has been tested for electrical, thermal, photobiological and mechanical safety. Reputable brands will have certifications like CE markings.

Budget

Home red light therapy beds range from around $500 to $5,000 or more depending on features. Calculate long-term costs and look for devices backed by warranties when investing.

The Future of Red Light Therapy

Red light therapy is an emerging treatment option with many promising applications. Research continues to unveil the extent of its therapeutic benefits. Here are some future trends we may see:

• Expanded use for treating and preventing Alzheimer's disease, thyroid issues, depression and side effects of cancer treatment
• Greater focus on using red light to improve athletic performance, boost muscle gain and accelerate workout recovery
• Development of ways to optimize light energy delivery for deeper tissue penetration
• Advancements in wearable light therapy devices for convenient use
• Combining red light with other modalities like electrical stimulation or cryotherapy
• Increased combination of red light with existing treatments like massage, physical therapy and skin rejuvenation procedures

As more extensive research elucidates the mechanisms and possibilities of red and near-infrared light, there will likely be many more therapeutic uses for red light therapy beds and systems.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.