If you are experiencing pain, recovering from an injury, have skin conditions, or looking for anti-aging options, red and near-infrared light can help you! Thanks to the scientists of this era who develop new techniques for the well-being of humans, we have access to in home wellness devices. Red light therapy is one of the newest, non-invasive ways to reduce pain and inflammation, repair tissues, and boost collagen production. The concept of red light therapy is emerging for a number of health and aesthetic concerns.
History of Red Light Therapy
Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans were aware of the healing properties of sunlight and used sunlight exposure for various health purposes. They recognized the benefits of natural light for wound healing, treating skin conditions, and promoting overall well-being.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Danish physician Niels Ryberg Finsen conducted extensive research on the therapeutic effects of light. Finsen is considered the pioneer of modern light therapy and received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1903 for his work on light therapy in the treatment of tuberculosis of the skin.
With the invention of electricity, researchers began experimenting with artificial light sources for therapeutic purposes. In the mid-20th century, scientists and physicians started using various types of lamps, including incandescent and fluorescent lights, to deliver specific wavelengths of light for therapeutic applications.
The invention of lasers in the 1960s opened up new possibilities for light-based therapies. Laser technology allowed for precise control of light wavelengths and intensities. Initially, lasers were primarily used for surgical and diagnostic purposes. However, researchers soon discovered the potential therapeutic benefits of low-intensity laser light, leading to the development of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation.
Over the years, extensive research has been conducted to investigate the effects of red and near-infrared light on various biological processes. Scientists have studied the mechanisms of action, explored different wavelengths and dosages, and investigated the potential applications of red light therapy in areas such as dermatology, pain management, wound healing, and sports medicine.