A Red Light Therapy Tour

Everything You Need to Know

Red light therapy is a safe, non-invasive treatment that uses low-level wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to support healing, reduce pain, and boost cellular energy. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll break down how it works, its proven benefits, and how to choose the right device for your needs.

Orginally Developed by NASA

Red light therapy (RLT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-level wavelengths of red and near-infrared (NIR) light to promote healing, reduce inflammation, and improve cellular function.

Originally developed by NASA to help plants grow in space, red light therapy has since gained mainstream traction in the health, wellness, and performance communities for its wide range of benefits.

How Does Red Light Work?

Red light and NIR light penetrate the skin and are absorbed by the mitochondria in your cells—the energy producers. This boosts ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production, which helps cells perform better, repair faster, and reduce inflammation.

Injury or intense fitness training can cause chronic inflammation that damages mitochondria, reducing energy production. This leads to a buildup of waste, slowing healing and extending pain.


Scientists have discovered that at low-level wavelengths, red light stimulates mitochondrial activity. Once activated, mitochondria produce more energy—supporting cellular healing, reducing pain, and decreasing inflammation, according to studies.

Red to Near-Infrared Light

These penetrate deeper into muscle and joint tissue, supporting:

  • Pain Relief in joints and muscles
  • improved circulation and reduced inflammation
  • Faster recovery post-exercise or injury
  • Support for nerve regeneration and chronic pain conditions


Red light (typically 620–660nm) targets the skin’s surface to support collagen production and wound healing, while near-infrared light (typically 800–850nm) penetrates deeper into muscles and joints to reduce pain and accelerate recovery.

Learn More from Featured Wearable Brand Lumaflex

The first FDA-cleared wearable that’s flexible, sweatproof, and waterproof—delivering innovative Red Light and Near-Infrared (NIR) therapy you can use anytime, anywhere.

Types of Red Light Devices & Wavelength Benefits

  • Handhelds

    Handheld red light therapy devices are ideal for targeting specific areas like the hands, wrists, knees, and shoulders. They generally use 650nm wavelengths for skin rejuvenation, but many also include up to 850nm for deeper muscle penetration—making them effective for pain relief and recovery. While highly versatile, they can be harder to use on hard-to-reach areas like the back without assistance.

  • Wearables

    Wearable red light therapy devices and flexible panels are designed to contour around the body, making them ideal for hands-free treatment of areas like the lower back, knees, shoulders, and joints. Often secured with hook-and-loop straps (as seen with Lumaflex), these devices deliver both 650nm for skin benefits and up to 850nm for deep tissue recovery—offering targeted relief with maximum convenience and mobility.

  • Panels

    Bestqool full and half-body red light panels offer powerful, low-irradiance therapy ideal for full-body recovery, pain relief, and skin rejuvenation. Featuring dual-chip LEDs, 650–850nm wavelengths, and up to 500W of power, these panels ensure optimal penetration across large treatment areas—making them a top choice for those seeking efficient, at-home whole-body therapy.

  • Multi-Spectrum Light Therapy

    7-Color Photon therapy device emits red, near-infrared, blue, yellow, orange, green and purple light. It is designed for anti-aging and reducing acne, fine lines & wrinkles, blemishes, dark spots and skin sensitivity, while lifting & firming, enhancing skin tone and increasing blood circulation.

Why Red Light from iReliev.com?

At iReliev, we offer a highly curated selection of FDA-cleared red light and NIR therapy devices—from trusted brands like iReliev, Lumaflex, Bestqool, and more. Whether you're shopping for wearables, handhelds, or full-body panels, we provide side-by-side comparisons, expert support, and technical guidance to help you choose the right solution for your needs. As a Google Exceptional Store based in Fort Worth, Texas, we back every order with top-rated customer service and fast, reliable shipping.

Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and was independently written by the author. The views expressed are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated brands or organizations. Individual results may vary based on personal health factors and usage.

Scientifically Proven

Supported By More Than 3,000 Clinical Studies

Thousands of clinical studies demonstrate that red light therapy improves recovery times, enhances muscle repair, reduces inflammation, and increases mobility - benefits now available through NovaLab devices.

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Frequently asked questions about Red Light & Infrared?

What is the difference between Red Light and Near Infrared?

While red light and near-infrared (NIR) light are both used in light therapy—and often delivered together—they differ in wavelength, depth of penetration, and targeted benefits.

Red Light (Visible Light)

  • Typically 620–660 nanometers
  • About 5–10 mm into the skin

Near-Infrared Light (NIR)

  • Typically 800–850+ nanometers
  • Up to 30–50 mm or more (deeper into muscles and joints)

Summary:

  • Is great for surface-level skin and tissue benefits.
  • Penetrates deeper for muscle, joint, and nerve-related recovery.
  • Is often used to target both skin and deeper tissues in one session.

Is red light therapy safe?

Yes, it’s non-invasive, drug-free, and generally considered safe for daily use with few to no side effects when used properly.

How long should I use red light therapy per session?

Most sessions range from 10–20 minutes per area, depending on the device’s power and the goal of use.

How often do I use it?

For best results, 3–5 times per week is typical, with consistent use over several weeks.

Can red light therapy help with chronic pain or arthritis?

Yes, NIR in particular may reduce inflammation and improve joint function, making it useful for chronic conditions like arthritis.

Does red light therapy help with weight loss or fat reduction?

There is some early evidence it may support fat cell metabolism, but it should be paired with lifestyle changes and not seen as a standalone weight-loss solution.

Can I use red light therapy at home?

Absolutely. Many FDA-cleared at-home devices are available—from handheld units and wearables to full-body panels

Can I use it on my face or over tattoos?

Yes, red light therapy is safe for facial use. Tattoos may slightly block or absorb some light, but won’t cause harm.

How long does it take to see results?

Many users report feeling improvements in pain or inflammation within a few sessions, while skin and recovery benefits may take 2–4 weeks of consistent use.