Denver, CO: How to Improve Your Skin With Red Light Therapy

A Powerful, Healing and Cosmetic Treatment as Ancient as The Sun

benefits of red light therapy

Red Light Therapy: It may sound like new technology. However, as evidenced by cave paintings depicting the ancient solar myths, the link between Red Light Therapy and healing, regrowth, and rejuvenation stretches back before human records began. From there, there are volumes of evidence that show early cultures around the world used sunlight to cure a  plenitude of physical ailments. 

Thousands of years later, the list of scientifically proven health advantages of Red Light Therapy has grown exponentially. As a result, the popularity of Red Light Therapy has surged, hence why so many people are seeking out infrared saunas.

How Does Red Light Therapy Work?

Red Light Therapy works by penetrating the skin with various red light wavelengths which often includes wavelengths in both the visible spectrum of light (630–660 nanometers) and the invisible infrared spectrum (810–850 nm). Infrared wavelengths can be further subcategorized into far, medium, and near infrared light (NIR). 

red-light-therapy-in-denver-4

Near infrared light penetrates to the deepest levels and is the only wavelength that reaches the mitochondria, the “powerhouses” of the cells, where it can stimulate ATP production, which is the energy that cells need to function. Production of ATP decreases with age, stress or illness. 

NIR stimulates the mitochondrial production of melatonin, a potent antioxidant, but best known for its function to produce restful sleep.

Additionally, near infrared lights photobiomodulation abilities promote wound healing, cell health/regeneration, skin rejuvenation and inflammation reduction. Additionally, acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles improvement, and collagen synthesis promotion have all been observed in studies.

red-light-therapy-in-denver-2

Red Light Therapy can help in several ways:

What Are The Benefits of Red Light Therapy?

Red Light Therapy is known for a wide range of holistic benefits. However, one of the most common uses of red light therapy is to improve skin appearance. When applied to the skin, Red Light Therapy can increase collagen production, reduce inflammation, and help repair damaged tissue. These effects lead to smoother, softer skin with reduced wrinkles, fine lines, and scars. (1)


The Cosmetic Benefits of Red Light Therapy

red-light-therapy-in-denver-2

Wrinkles & Fine Lines

Red light therapy works by increasing the production of collagen and elastin in the skin. These are two important proteins that help keep the skin looking young and healthy. Red Light Therapy can also help to improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation. (2)

red-light-therapy-in-denver-3

Age Spots and Sun Damage

Red Light Therapy can help to fade age spots and sun damage by increasing the production of new skin cells. A 2014 research paper revealed that red light therapy was both effective and safe in promoting anti-ageing skin rejuvenation and intradermal collagen synthesis when compared to controls. (3)


Overall Improved Skin Health

Red Light Therapy stimulates the production of collagen (a protein that helps to keep the skin looking young and healthy) and elastin (a protein that helps retain skin elasticity).

Acne

Red Light Therapy can help to treat acne by reducing the inflammation and redness associated with this condition. This type of therapy can also help to kill the bacteria that cause acne.


Eczema

Red Light Therapy can help to treat eczema by reducing the inflammation and itchiness associated with this condition. It also helps to improve the production of new skin cells.


Rosacea

Red Light Therapy can help to treat rosacea by reducing the inflammation and redness associated with this condition. It can also help to improve blood circulation.


Psoriasis

Red Light Therapy can help to treat psoriasis by reducing the inflammation and itchiness associated with this condition. This type of therapy can also help to improve the production of new skin cells.


Wound Healing

Red Light Therapy can help to speed up the healing process by increasing the production of collagen and elastin, reducing inflammation, and improving blood circulation.


Hair Growth

Red Light Therapy stimulates stem cells in the hair follicle to encourage active growth.  Additionally, it can also help to improve blood circulation when applied to the scalp.



The Holistic Benefits of Red Light Therapy

Improved Sleep Quality

We live in an era where artificial light is abundant. Consequently, it is increasingly difficult to regulate our biological functions. As a result, our cellular energy systems and circadian rhythms suffer, leading to sleep problems, tiredness, mood-related problems, and even weight gain. Red light Therapy is a simple way to expose your body to more natural light,  aiding in the synchronization of your "circadian clock" and the release of melatonin, which is required for good sleep.(4)


Reduced Depression and Fatigue

Often, depression and fatigue can be boiled down to a single cause: A lack of energy.  Consider that light is a form of energy, and our bodies are just big energy systems. Studies have revealed Red Light Therapy to be naturally energizing and linked with greater moods, increased self-esteem, optimism, enjoyment, laughter, and social awareness.

A Reduction in Post Cancer Treatment Side Effects

Red Light Therapy has been shown in studies by NASA to be effective in decreasing symptoms exhibited by cancer patients, including debilitating side effects produced from radiation or chemotherapy. (5)

Improved Joint Health for sufferers of Arthritis

Red Light Therapy's collagen stimulating properties have been shown to rebuild cartilage, thereby helping to treat arthritis symptoms. According to a 2009 Cochrane review of red light therapy for rheumatoid arthritis, “RLT may be considered for short-term treatment for pain and morning stiffness in RA patients, particularly because it has few side effects.” (6)


Weight Loss

Red Light Therapy can help with weight loss in a few different ways. First, Red Light Therapy can help to increase the metabolism, which can lead to more fat being burned. Additionally, Red Light Therapy can help to reduce appetite and cravings, both of which can lead to weight loss. Finally, Red Light Therapy can also help to increase energy levels, which can help people to be more active and burn more calories.


Improved Metabolism

Red Light Therapy can help to increase metabolism by stimulating the production of mitochondria. Mitochondria are responsible for producing energy in the cells. When stimulated, they can produce more energy, leading to more fat being burned for fuel.


Detoxification

Red Light Therapy can promote detoxification by increasing circulation, improving the function of the lymphatic system, and stimulating the production of enzymes that help to break down toxins. Additionally, Red Light Therapy can also help to reduce inflammation, which can further help with detoxification.



What Happens During a Red Light Therapy Session?


During a Red Light Therapy session, you will sit or lie down in a comfortable position and relax while the light emits its therapeutic red and infrared wavelengths. Each session lasts between 10-30 minutes in the treatment room and is generally integrated into your main treatment session. Sauna sessions range between 30-60 minutes and are scheduled before or after your treatment.


What Are The Side Effects of Red Light Therapy?

Red Light Therapy is safe, and rarely are there any side effects. Occasionally, Red Light Therapy may cause mild skin irritation or a sensation of warmth or tingling throughout the treatment or after it has ended, which is due to increased circulation.


How Often Should I Use Red Light Therapy?

The number of sessions needed will vary depending on the condition being treated. Generally, results can be seen after 3-5 sessions, but some conditions may require more. Because of the many great benefits of Red Light Therapy, it can be used regularly as an integral part of your health regime.


Red Light Therapy in Denver: Is it Safe for All Skin Types?

Yes, Red Light Therapy is safe for all skin types.


Can I Buy a Red Light Therapy Kit and Do it at Home?

You can, if you wish. However, don't be surprised when the results disappoint you if you buy just any a low-quality sauna or light. With a high-quality sauna, you will get the benefits discussed above, but be prepared to make the investment. Our preferred sauna is Sunlighten.  

Nowadays, the internet is awash with a whole range of red light therapy products for sale. While these treatments are generally safe to use, they utilize a far lower wavelength frequency. 

Essentially, the penetrative power of such products is far weaker than the high quality equipment used by professionals. A full spectrum infrared sauna, such as the one used by Denver sports and Holistic Medicine, will deliver the results you seek in a comfortable, controlled environment.


What Red Light Therapy Systems Does Denver Sports and Holistic Medicine Use?

Active patients are given access to the full spectrum Sunlighten® sauna - widely regarded as the gold standard in Infrared Light Therapy treatment systems.

For our in treatment light therapy, we use a PlatinumLED BIOMAX light which features a groundbreaking approach that delivers not just one red and/or one NIR wavelength, but five of the most clinically proven therapeutic wavelengths – 630nm, 660nm, 810nm, 830nm, and 850nm – at the same time.


Red Light Therapy in Denver: What Treatments Does Denver Sports and Holistic Medicine Offer?

We offer a variety of Red Light Therapy options. Generally, Red Light Therapy is provided:

  1.  On its own, with full infrared sauna access for active patients in our clinic (by appointment before or after a treatment)

  2. As an red light therapy device during a treatment to complement other healing modalities, such as microneedling, nano-needling, and acupuncture.

You want to receive the infrared waves that are most beneficial to your health. Our patented 3 in 1® Infrared Heater offers the optimum wavelength for each infrared wave, similar to tuning into a specific radio station. To deliver optimal results, we use full spectrum red light which combines visible and invisable near, medium and far infrared wavelengths.


Infrared sauna is a powerful, full-spectrum of healing, therapeutic energy. Our sauna at Denver Sports And Holistic medicine is the Sunlighten® brand, which provides the full spectrum infrared that many low cost brands do not offer. 


What Infrared Lights Do Denver Sports and Holistic Medicine Use?

We use PlatinumLED® Therapy lights. PlatinumLED® Therapy lights generate the highest amount of energy possible - much higher than any other device, and far beyond home treatment Red Light Therapy systems, ensuring that you receive a high-quality Red Light Therapy treatment. This ultra-powerful system can deliver deeper red light and near-infrared radiation penetration than any other treatment lamp can achieve.

For a full body experience, we have a Sunlighten® Sauna full-spectrum infrared sauna.

PlatinumLED's multi-spectrum light spectrum is comprised of five independent and highly researched bands of light that offer improved output strength, as well as a highly sophisticated, patented R+|NIR+ multi-wave spectrum that includes five distinct and well-studied bands.

What are you getting out of all this? RESULTS, which only Sunlighten® and PlatinumLED® can provide.

Red Light Therapy: Is It For Me?

Yes! Whether you have specific goals or are looking to promote anti-aging in general, Red Light Therapy is a great addition for anyone's health and well-being.  

If you're looking for a safe and effective way to improve your appearance, health, and wellbeing, schedule a free consultation with Denver Sports and Holistic Medicine today.



REFERENCES

1.WebMD

2.WebMD

3. NCBI 

4. NCBI 

5. NASA l

6. NCBI     




sports medicine, Functional medicineMartina SturmDenver Sports and Holistic Medicine