How Red Light Therapy Works: Deep Dive into Cellular Healing

Have you ever wondered what makes red light therapy so effective for healing and pain relief?

By targeting your body’s cells with specific wavelengths of light, this therapy unlocks a powerful process that promotes healing from the inside out. 

In this blog, Universal Neurological Care explains what is going on beneath the surface of our skin and discusses how red light therapy works at a cellular level. 

Key Takeaways

• Red light therapy uses wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to boost healing.
• It stimulates the energy centres of cells to produce more ATP (cellular energy).
• The more ATP your cells have, the faster the natural healing and repair processes.
• Red light therapy also improves cellular communication and increases blood flow to the area, speeding up the repair process.

How Red Light Therapy Works

So, how does red light therapy work beneath the surface? This specialized treatment is all about giving your cells the boosts they need to heal and function better.

According to the National Library of Medicine, here’s how it happens:

1. Light Penetrates Deep into Your Cells

Red and near-infrared light (typically between 620 and 1440 nanometers) is shone on the skin during a red light therapy session.

Your skin absorbs these wavelengths of light, which travel deep into the tissue, reaching cells, muscles, and even bones. 

Unlike UV light, which can damage cells, red light is gentle and healing, not harmful.

2. Mitochondria Get a Boost

Inside almost every cell in your body is the mitochondria, often called the “powerhouses” or “batteries” of your cells.

The mitochondria's main role is to produce a molecule called ATP, which acts as an energy source and powers nearly every function in the human body. 

Red light therapy works by stimulating the mitochondria to produce more ATP. This extra energy provides more power to your cells, allowing cellular processes to function more effectively.

With more energy, the normal healing process for wounds, muscle injuries, and nerve damage can run faster. 

3. Nitric Oxide Release 

Alongside ATP, the mitochondria in our cells produce nitric oxide (NO). When stimulated by red or near-infrared light, the mitochondria produce more NO and release it into the bloodstream. 

Nitric oxide plays a central role in wound healing by both reducing inflammation and causing blood vessels in your body to dilate, increasing blood flow.

This allows oxygen and other nutrients to be delivered more quickly to tissues that need repair, speeding up healing. 

4. Calcium Regulation for Cell Signaling

Red light therapy also influences calcium levels within cells. Calcium is a crucial signaling molecule that helps cells recognise, receive, and respond to information.  

When red light hits cells, it causes calcium ions to rush inside the cell. The increased intracellular calcium levels improve cell communication, helping cells coordinate repair and regeneration.

This faster cellular repair accelerates whole tissue repair. 

FAQs: How Red Light Therapy Works

What does red light therapy actually do?

Red light therapy speeds up healing and reduces pain. It is a type of laser therapy known as photobiomodulation, during which red and near-infrared light is directed at specific treatment areas. 

Is red light therapy safe?

Yes, red light therapy is safe! It is non-invasive, painless, and doesn’t damage skin or tissues like UV light. Most people find it soothing and relaxing.

How quickly does red light therapy work?

Red light therapy starts to work at a cellular level from your first session. However, you will usually need several sessions before you start feeling or seeing the benefits. 

Experience the Benefits of Red Light Therapy

When you understand how red light therapy works, it’s easy to see why it’s such a powerful tool for healing.

Whether you want to reduce pain, speed up recovery, or improve overall wellness, red light therapy offers a safe, effective solution.

Ready to give your cells a boost? Schedule a consultation today and discover how Universal Neurological Care can help you heal and recover!