FAQs

electronic devices emit EMF (electromagnetic fields), and the health effects of EMF are still debated. According to the strictest safety standards in Europe, your regular exposure should not exceed 3 milligrams (milligauss). For comparison, note that your phone releases much more every few seconds, and when in use, well over 3mg (more than 50mg, and even closer to 100mg). Home blenders dispense over 100mg. When considering the potential health effects of electromagnetic fields (EMFs), it is essential to consider both the strength of the EMF emitted and the duration of exposure. While it is true that some red and near-infrared light therapy devices may emit a low level of EMFs, the exposure duration is typically much shorter compared to everyday devices like cell phones, laptops, and tablets.

Prolonged and continuous exposure to higher levels of EMFs from electronic devices that we use regularly, such as cell phones and laptops, is a more significant concern for overall health than short-duration exposure to red and near-infrared light therapy devices. As you correctly pointed out, many people have their cell phones on or near their bodies for extended periods throughout the day, which can lead to higher cumulative EMF exposure over time.

It’s essential for individuals to prioritize their EMF exposure by minimizing prolonged contact with electronic devices and keeping them away from their bodies whenever possible. Simple measures like using a speakerphone or headphones for calls, keeping cell phones in bags instead of pockets, and taking regular breaks from using electronic devices can help reduce EMF exposure.

As for the frequency of use, studies on dosing frequency have not reached a consensus, so recommendations are based on the most common findings and the experience of thousands of workers. Generally, I find that more than once a day is too much. For most people, the optimal frequency is 3 to 6 times a week. (Daily or every other day.) For acute issues, such as injury healing, daily treatment may be ideal. (For example, you just sprained your ankle and want it to heal quickly.) We recommend no more than one treatment per day. Consider the biphasic dose response. Doing too much does not have the same positive effect as doing it in the right amount.

While it’s good to be mindful of EMFs and take steps to minimize exposure, it’s also essential to keep things in perspective. The short-duration exposure to red and near-infrared light therapy devices for targeted therapeutic purposes is not a major health concern compared to cumulative exposure from everyday electronic devices. Focusing on the most significant sources of EMF exposure is key to maintaining a balanced approach to health and wellness.

The closer the light, the stronger the dose. So, the “maximum effect” is that the LED light is basically as close to your body as possible. However, because these electronic devices emit EMF (electromagnetic fields), and the health effects of EMF are still debated, a minimum distance of 3 inches from the device is recommended to minimize EMF exposure. As mentioned above, a minimum of 6 inches is ideal. All the treatment intervals recommended are 6″, 12″, 18″, or 24″. For deeper tissues, a 6 or 12-inch treatment is ideal. For skin and anti-aging effects, it has the advantage of being able to move the light farther, to 12 inches, 18 inches, 24 inches, or even 36 inches. So, since the light travels as you move away from the source, it can travel farther, allowing you to treat larger areas of your body at the same time. For more specific instructions on optimal intervals and dosages for various uses,

Or are there certain recommended practices you have for using the light for specific issues? Here are a few things to note: If you’re using light to enhance your cognitive abilities, it’s probably best to use it on your head before a stage where you need to concentrate or perform. (e.g., before starting work in the morning). When using lights to enhance performance during physical activity, shine the LEDs on the most active muscles 5-60 minutes before the activity. If you’re using light to increase fat loss or muscle gain with exercise, it’s ideal to use it before or after your workout (no matter what time of day). (Note: Some studies use it pre-workout, while others use it post-workout. Personally, we prefer to use it post-workout, but there are some studies that show good results even when using the pre-workout effect.) If you’re using it to speed up post-workout recovery, it’s best to use it immediately or a few hours after a workout (any time of day).

For most general uses of red and near-infrared light therapy, such as anti-aging effects, immune system support, and reducing inflammation, the time of day does not seem to play a significant role. There is no research to suggest that specific times of day yield better results for these purposes.

However, if red light therapy is being used for cellulite reduction, there is a suggestion that using the light on the affected area right before exercise may be beneficial. The idea is that the combination of red-light therapy and exercise might have a synergistic effect in reducing cellulite. While this concept is still theoretical and not extensively studied, it might be worth exploring if you are specifically targeting cellulite.

It’s also important to consider the potential impact of red light therapy on sleep. Although red and near-infrared light has less influence on circadian rhythm compared to blue or green light, high-power LED lights emitting very bright red light can still suppress melatonin release if used too close to bedtime. As a precaution, it is generally recommended to avoid using the therapy for at least an hour before sleep to minimize any potential disruption to sleep patterns. Near-infrared light is thought to have less impact on melatonin release than visible red light in this regard.

In summary, for most applications, the time of day does not appear to be critical in using red and near-infrared light therapy. However, if targeting specific conditions like cellulite, using the therapy before exercise may be beneficial, and it’s best to avoid using the therapy close to bedtime to support healthy sleep. Always follow the recommended guidelines and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any specific concerns or medical conditions.

You can potentially do that, but I generally recommend that people stick with no more than one session per day. I suggest doing one longer treatment rather than multiple shorter treatments.

Like dietary supplements or prescription drugs, you can’t tell if something is working just by feeling it. For example, consider a cholesterol-lowering statin drug. Do you think it will lower your cholesterol levels? No, of course not. But if you draw blood and measure your lipids, you’ll see that it lowers your cholesterol levels. As another example, when used to build muscle or lose fat, studies have shown that red and near-infrared light therapy can often increase fat loss or muscle gain by 30% when exercise is performed alone. (Btw, this is a big effect). In practice, however, this means the difference between a 4″ waist loss (without light) and a 5.2″ waist loss (with light). Unless you’ve measured and compared your results to your identical twin on the same exercise and diet plan as you, we had no way of knowing that the light made you lose 3 cm more fat than you lost without the light. You’re completely unaware of how much light amplifies the results. You just know you’re getting results, but you don’t know how much the light helps because it’s not like applying light and watching the fat melt before your eyes – it’s a slow happening effect that happens over time and it happens, and it’s not something we can see or feel immediately after light processing. So, in many cases, it’s not possible to tell if it works based on random observation (i.e. without strictly controlling things and measuring things with and without light). But here’s the good news: You don’t have to wonder if it works, because actual science has tested this stuff and it’s proven it works! Essentially, trust science! These scientists perform far more rigorous and controlled experiments than you can do from personal experience, so trust their work. This means just doing it and believing that you will have a positive impact. Of course, you will notice the effect in many cases. For example, if you use it for pain relief, you will notice immediate pain relief within 20 minutes. If you get cuts or injuries on a regular basis and watch how long it usually takes to heal, then treat with light, you will find that it heals much faster. If you use it to treat hair loss and take pictures, you may find that your pictures improve within a few weeks or months. If you are using it for arthritis, you may notice that after a few weeks or months of treatment, you have a lot less pain in your joints and move around better, or you don’t have any pain the day after a workout, etc. If you are using it for cellulite reduction, take photos and observe changes over a few months, and you’ll likely see a significant reduction. If you are using it for wrinkle reduction and anti-aging purposes, you will likely notice effects within a few weeks (and may even have people complimenting you on how good you look). Again, the key point is that you don’t have to second guess this or wonder if it is doing anything because the actual controlled research has already shown that it does work. So just do it and know that you are doing something which science has already shown works. Trust science, and just do it!

You are correct that following the recommended dosing guidelines based on research is the most important aspect of replicating the conditions in the studies. By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that you are within the effective dose range and maximize the potential benefits of red and near-infrared light therapy.

Here are some key points to keep in mind during your red and near-infrared light therapy sessions:

1. Dosing Guidelines: Stick to the recommended dosing ranges for your specific condition or goal. These guidelines are typically provided by the manufacturer of your light therapy device or based on research studies. Using the therapy within these ranges will ensure you are delivering an effective dose.
2. Treatment Time: Pay attention to the treatment time. Most sessions will last anywhere from a few minutes to around 20 minutes, depending on the specific protocol or condition being treated. Avoid excessive exposure beyond the recommended time, as it may lead to counterproductive results.
3. Distance and Angle: Maintain the recommended distance between the light device and your body. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the optimal distance to achieve the desired therapeutic effects. Proper angle and positioning of the light source can also impact the treatment outcome.
4. Skin Contact: For the best results, apply the light directly to bare skin rather than over clothing. Light penetration may be reduced when shining through clothing, potentially reducing the effectiveness of the treatment.
5. Consistency: Consistency is key. Red and near-infrared light therapy works best when used regularly. Create a consistent treatment schedule and stick to it to experience the full benefits.
6. Precautions: Be cautious with eye exposure. Avoid shining the light directly into your eyes or staring at the light source. You may consider closing your eyes or using a fabric blindfold during the session to protect your eyes from any potential side effects.
7. Individual Sensitivity: Pay attention to how your body responds to the therapy. Some individuals may be more sensitive to light or experience different reactions. If you notice any adverse effects, adjust the dose or consult with a healthcare professional.
8. Environmental Factors: Consider potential factors that may influence the effectiveness of the therapy, such as ambient lighting, temperature, and humidity. Aim to create a comfortable environment for your treatment.
By following these key points and staying within the recommended dosing ranges, you can replicate the conditions studied and optimize the benefits of red and near-infrared light therapy. As always, if you have any specific health concerns or medical conditions, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.

As mentioned earlier, red, and near-infrared radiation work through the same mechanism. The main difference is the depth of penetration. However, see the previous section on red and near-infrared for a more detailed explanation of the differences. Since both red and near-infrared light works through the same mechanism, there really aren’t one-size-fits-all pros and cons – it just depends on how you want to use it. If you want to use it to treat deeper tissues like glands, muscles, or the brain, choose pure NIR or a 50:50 blend. If you want to target more superficial tissue for anti-aging or therapeutic effects, red light may help. Note, however, that red and near-infrared light is suitable for both purposes. When we talk about these differences, we’re talking about levels of effectiveness, not one working for a specific purpose and the other not working at all. Both serve almost all these purposes, so don’t think too much about it, and don’t see for yourself that the red light won’t work for treating muscles, glands, etc. The one exception might be the brain, where it has been shown that near infrared penetrates much better through the skull than visible red light does. So, if you want to use it to enhance brain health, near-infrared is a better choice.

In general, studies have shown that red and near-infrared light are extremely beneficial for eye health. While there’s no formal consensus among researchers, you probably don’t need the special goggles you do with many other types of light, such as sunlight. B. UV rays, this happens. However, there is some research that suggests long-term exposure to the eyes may not be a good idea, and you may want to keep the eye dose very low (i.e., the eyes may not tolerate higher doses as well as others). One researcher commented: “Eye safety: In a study by Merry et al. (2016) 50–80 mW/cm2 of visible red light appeared to improve vision, although subjects in this study were watching Warp10 Keep your eyes closed when treating the device (670 nm). Another scientific article on eye safety states that 10 mW/cm2 would be a safe upper limit for long-term NIR exposure.” If you have a specific medical condition or eye health concern (e.g. ,
After cataract surgery, it is essential to consult with your doctor before any light exposure. It is crucial to differentiate between lasers and LEDs, as lasers should never be directed into the eyes due to their potential harm. On the other hand, LEDs are relatively safer for light exposure in the eyes, though the safety of large doses is yet to be definitively established. If you have any pre-existing eye health issues and prefer to be cautious, consider the following measures:

1. Limit your light exposure to low doses, as this is generally considered a safe estimate. Avoid excessive exposure to protect other parts of your body as well.
2. During light exposure, you may choose to close your eyes or use fabric (e.g., a towel, shirt, or blindfold) to cover your eyes. Until more conclusive data is available, erring on the side of caution is advisable. However, always consult your doctor for personalized guidance and if you encounter any specific issues. It is essential to note that these statements do not constitute medical advice or claims to treat or cure any specific eye condition.

Additionally, eye sensitivity is a factor to consider. Some individuals might find the brightness of a powerful red LED light uncomfortable for their eyes, like any intense light source. In such cases, feel free to close your eyes or use fabric or a blindfold to shield them. It is worth mentioning that near-infrared light is not visible to the human eye, so you won’t experience bright light sensitivity with near-infrared exposure.
Remember, your eye health is paramount, and professional medical advice should always be sought for any concerns or conditions you may have.

(Standard Disclaimer: As always, for any specific medical condition, please consult your doctor before using red or near-infrared light. Nothing I say here should be construed as medical advice or as a claim to treat or cure any condition.)

In general, red and near-infrared light have a stimulating effect on the tissues they are applied to. While there is limited data on shining these lights directly on cancerous tumors, it is reasonable to speculate that doing so may not be advisable. Research by Michael Hamblin suggests that using red and near-infrared light on other parts of the body, away from the tumor site, may lead to improved outcomes in cancer treatment.

Regarding benign cysts or polycystic ovaries, there is currently a lack of research in this area. As a precautionary measure, it is suggested not to shine red or near-infrared light on any tissues that you do not want to potentially stimulate. It is prudent to be excessively cautious until further research provides more conclusive data and evidence-based recommendations.

Remember, your health is of utmost importance, and any decisions related to medical conditions should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.

When it comes to cellulite reduction, red and near-infrared (NIR) light primarily work by enhancing the structural integrity of collagen networks in the skin. Additionally, they may help stimulate fat loss. However, it’s important to note that red/NIR light alone, without incorporating proper nutrition and lifestyle interventions, is unlikely to have a significant impact on fat loss.
For effective fat loss, red/NIR light should be used in conjunction with a well-rounded nutrition and lifestyle routine that promotes overall fat loss. In such cases, the light can amplify the effects of other strategies, enabling you to lose more fat. However, it is crucial to understand that red/NIR light is not a magic solution for fat loss by itself. It serves as a valuable lifestyle strategy that complements and enhances the benefits of other healthy lifestyle practices.
In summary, while red/NIR light can aid in cellulite reduction and fat loss, it is most effective when combined with proper nutrition and lifestyle changes. There are no quick fixes or magic pills, but rather a combination of strategies that work together to achieve desired outcomes. As always, consulting with a healthcare professional or nutritionist can help you create a personalized plan that addresses your specific needs and goals.
Choosing a device with sufficient power and the ability to cover the appropriate area of the body is crucial. While some cheaper devices may seem attractive due to their lower cost, they may not provide the desired results. In contrast, investing in a more expensive, higher-quality LED device can make a significant difference in the outcomes you experience.
It’s important to heed advice from reliable sources when selecting LED devices for specific therapeutic purposes. Spending a little more is often more cost-effective in the long run than purchasing cheaper, as alternatives may not deliver the desired results.
By following recommendations from trustworthy sources and investing in a quality LED device, you can achieve meaningful results at a much lower cost compared to alternatives such as laser treatments or professional clinic sessions. For example, Red Light Pad 660NM and 850NM NIR, Whole Body Use Shoulder, Buttocks, Cervical Spine, Thigh, Waist, Belly, Knee, Elbow, and more. for best results, Apply the light directly to bare skin rather than over clothing. (As said above, Light penetration may be reduced when shining through clothing, potentially reducing the effectiveness of the treatment).

Wave Reaching Melting Fat, Preventing Sore Muscles and Improving Blood Circulation

In essence, the terms used to describe the therapeutic use of red and near-infrared light have evolved over time and can be somewhat interchangeable. There have been various terms such as “photo biomodulation,” “low-level laser therapy” (LLLT), and “low-level light therapy” have been used to refer to this type of therapy.

Originally, “low-level laser therapy” (LLLT) was used to describe the therapeutic effects of coherent light beams produced by lasers. It was believed that lasers had unique effects that differed from regular sources of light like lamps or LEDs. As a result, most of the early research in this field was conducted using lasers, and the term “LLLT” was primarily associated with laser therapy.

However, over time, research has shown that it’s not just lasers that produce these therapeutic effects, but also light at specific wavelengths in the right intensity, including light emitted by LEDs. As a result, the term “low-level light therapy” has become more widely used to encompass both laser and LED-based treatments.
In addition, “LED therapy” or “LEDT” is sometimes used specifically when referring to treatments that use LED panels (not lasers).

Another term that has gained popularity is “photo biomodulation,” which literally means changing biology with light. This term is often used as a broader and more encompassing description of the therapeutic effects of red and near-infrared light.

While there are multiple terms in use, it’s essential to recognize that for the purposes of understanding red and near-infrared light therapy, all of these terms are essentially interchangeable. They all refer to the therapeutic use of light at specific wavelengths to produce beneficial effects in the body.

So, whether you come across “photo biomodulation,” “low-level light therapy” (LLLT), “LED therapy” (LEDT), or any other related term, they all pertain to the same concept of “red and near-infrared light therapy.”

No, they do not. UV light is another part of the light spectrum entirely separate from red and near-infrared. The light devices I recommend do not emit any UV light.

No, red light therapy does not provide Vitamin D. Our body synthesizes Vitamin D from exposure to UVB light, which is not present in red light therapy devices. To get Vitamin D, you need to be exposed to sunlight or use a specialized UV lamp like the Sperati UVB lamp.

No, red light therapy does not tan or burn the skin. Tanning and sunburns result from exposure to UV rays, which are not emitted by red light therapy devices. These devices only emit red and near-infrared light, which have different effects on the skin.

Yes and no. While sunlight does offer some benefits, most people do not get enough sun exposure to fully experience the benefits of red and near-infrared light. Red/NIR light therapy devices are designed to compensate for the lack of natural sunlight exposure in our modern lifestyles.

The sun provides unique advantages, such as UV light for vitamin D synthesis and aiding in setting circadian rhythms. However, not everyone has the opportunity to spend extended periods outdoors in the sun, especially during specific times of the day when sun exposure is optimal.

Red/NIR light therapy devices offer convenience and accessibility. They can be used regardless of weather conditions and provide targeted treatments for specific issues. For example, you can focus the light on a specific area of the body, like the thyroid gland or a wound site, with precise light intensity and dosage for optimal effects.

Additionally, red/NIR light therapy devices allow for specific treatments without exposing the skin to potentially damaging UV rays. For anti-aging treatments on the face, for instance, you can receive the benefits of red and near-infrared light without the risk of excess UV exposure.

To clarify, red/NIR light therapy devices are not meant to replace sunlight entirely. Sun exposure remains crucial for overall health. However, these devices can complement our sun exposure and provide targeted benefits that we may not achieve solely from natural sunlight.

No. SAD lights are used by people who live in places that have poor sunlight in the winter months to avoid/treat Seasonal Affective Disorder. They are meant to keep the circadian rhythm strong during periods when there is little sun. Red and near-infrared lights do not work for this purpose because it is specifically blue light (light in the blue wavelengths) that affects the circadian “clock” in our brain. Thus, you need specifically blue light of ample intensity to affect SAD. Note that many of the SAD lights use “white light” which is a mixture of blue and many other colors (such that it appears “white”). One other thing to note here is that blue light in isolation may be harmful to the eyes—even while it benefits SAD or circadian rhythm. Some researchers believe that the red/NIR parts of the spectrum emitted by the sun help to counterbalance some of the potential harms of blue light. Yet with SAD lights, we get high-power blue light separate from the red/NIR light that we’d normally get from the sun. So, personally think it’s wise to also include some red/NIR light—using the red/NIR lights, It is recommended at 3-5ft away—while using the SAD light

Blue light and red/near-infrared (NIR) light have distinct physiological effects, and it is important to understand their differences. Blue light plays a crucial role in regulating our circadian rhythm and overall health when it enters our eyes. It helps regulate hormones and neurotransmitters, ensuring vital functions are properly timed. Blue light is necessary for maintaining a healthy sleep-wake cycle.

However, when it comes to direct skin exposure or treatment on wound/injury sites, muscle tissue, or areas where red/NIR light therapy is typically applied, blue light does not provide the same benefits. In fact, blue light can have opposing effects to red/NIR light and may even be detrimental to certain treatments.

Blue light is not recommended for anti-aging treatments on the skin, as it can potentially damage skin cells. While blue light has other uses, such as teeth whitening and acne treatment, it is not suitable for the same applications as red/NIR light.

Most of us already experience substantial exposure to blue light from indoor lighting, electronic devices (phones, computers, etc.), and other sources. In contrast, we are often deficient in red and near-infrared light exposure, which can provide distinct physiological benefits.

The short answer is no, red/NIR light therapy does not work effectively through most types of clothing. If the fabric is very thin and allows light to penetrate well, there may be some minimal effect. To determine if red light can penetrate the fabric, you can hold it up next to the light source and observe how much light passes through. If the clothing is blocking at least 50% (and often more than 80%) of the light, it significantly reduces the light dose.

To achieve the best results with red/NIR light therapy, it is recommended to apply the light directly on bare skin. Clothing acts as a barrier and diminishes the effectiveness of the therapy. Therefore, for optimal outcomes, it’s best to ensure that the light reaches the skin directly without any obstruction from clothing.

The maximum dosage, such as 20 minutes, refers to the total treatment time for all areas combined. This means you can either apply the treatment for the full 20 minutes to one specific area of the body or divide that 20 minute among multiple areas. It does not imply 20 minutes for each individual area.

It’s crucial to understand that the maximum dosage might not always be the best option for everyone. Most people might experience better results with lower doses within the recommended dosing range. If you opt for a longer treatment time, it is advisable to distribute the duration across multiple areas rather than applying the full time to just one area.

As a suggestion, the total treatment dose for all areas of the body should generally correspond to roughly 15-20 minutes of light exposure when the light source is 6″ or 12″ away from the body.

The study discusses the potential eye safety concerns related to near-infrared radiation exposure from biometric devices. It points out that laser light (coherent light) can indeed be harmful to eye health, and caution should always be exercised when dealing with lasers to protect the eyes. As for bright LEDs, the study speculates that they could potentially pose a risk to eye health, but more research is needed to understand the full extent of their effects.

It is essential to consider that there is a difference between the bright, high-power LEDs used in certain applications and the low-power LEDs typically used in red/NIR light therapy devices. Low-power LEDs used in red/NIR light therapy have been shown in many studies to provide beneficial effects without causing harm to the eyes.

For safety, it is always wise to use eye protection when working with any light-emitting devices that have the potential to be harmful to the eyes. If you have any eye health problems or concerns, it may be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or eye specialist before using red/NIR light therapy devices.

It is normal to see spots or experience temporary visual effects after being exposed to any bright light, including red or near-infrared LEDs. However, if you notice any intense or profound changes in your vision or any visual effects that concern you, it is best to lower the dose of light exposure.

As a precaution, you can cover your eyes or simply close them while using the light to reduce direct exposure. If you continue to experience unusual or uncomfortable visual effects, it is essential to consult with an eye specialist to ensure the safety of your eyes

Red/NIR light therapy devices are specifically designed to emit red and/or near-infrared light at therapeutic wavelengths and power output. They target specific physiological effects beneficial to humans and animals.

In contrast, plant growth lights and lights on coral reef aquariums have a broader spectrum that includes various colors like blue, green, red, orange, etc., depending on the specific purpose of the light. They are intended for stimulating plant growth or supporting coral life in aquariums and do not provide the same therapeutic effects as red/NIR light therapy devices.

So, plant growth lights or aquarium lights should not be used as substitutes for red/NIR light therapy devices, as they are fundamentally different in their intended applications and effects.

The appropriate treatment time for red/NIR light therapy on a specific area of the body may vary between individuals. If you are in poor health or feel fatigued easily, it is recommended to start with smaller doses and gradually work up to higher treatment times over the course of a couple of weeks.

A general suggestion is to start with lower doses and then adjust based on how your body responds. If you feel fatigued or notice any adverse effects, it means you might have overdone the dose, and you should reduce the treatment time on your next session. On the other hand, if you have no adverse reactions and feel good, you can gradually increase the treatment time.

For total treatment time, it is generally recommended to stay within the recommended dosing range, which is around 15-20 minutes of light exposure when the light source is 6″ or 12″ away from the body.

Red/NIR light therapy is indeed used for animals, and there are specific devices manufactured for this purpose. Many veterinary clinics and racehorse trainers incorporate red/NIR light therapy into their treatments for various conditions. It can provide similar therapeutic benefits to animals as it does to humans. However, when using red/NIR light therapy with animals, it is essential to follow proper guidelines and consult with a veterinarian experienced in this type of treatment.

The exact mechanisms by which red light therapy provides its therapeutic effects are not fully understood, but research suggests several potential mechanisms. Red and near-infrared light at specific wavelengths can penetrate the skin and affect cells in various ways.

Red/NIR light may have differential effects on different types of cells and tissues. It may influence cells infected with viruses or activate the immune system cells to combat viral issues. In the case of plantar warts, red/NIR light therapy may have helped in combating the viral infection that caused them to disappear.

While the precise mechanisms are still being explored, red/NIR light therapy’s beneficial effects have been observed in numerous studies, making it an intriguing and promising therapeutic approach for various conditions.

For brain-specific treatments, near-infrared light (NIR) is generally more effective as it can penetrate through the skull more efficiently than red light. Red light can also be used on areas around the brain, such as the forehead, back of the neck, and ear areas.

Neither red nor near-infrared light penetrates effectively through hair, so it is not recommended to shine the light directly on hairy parts of the head. However, placing the light near the scalp where the hair is thinner or using devices specifically designed to target the brain, like the Vie Light Neuro, can be effective for brain-related treatments.

Vie Light Neuro is a high-power device with multiple light points around the skull, allowing light to reach the skin without being blocked by hair. This device appears to be a promising option for brain-specific treatments, though more research is needed to compare its effectiveness to other LED devices.

While there is no specific data on using red/NIR light therapy differently during different seasons, a speculative approach could be to use the therapy more in the winter months when there is less natural sunlight exposure. Red/NIR light therapy could be a useful way to compensate for the reduced sunlight during the winter. However, more research would be needed to determine any potential seasonal variations in red/NIR light therapy usage.

In general, red/NIR light therapy is considered safe with little risk of negative side effects. However, it’s crucial to follow the recommended dosing guidelines to avoid overdoing it. Overexposure to red/NIR light can lead to counterproductive results, such as fatigue and headaches. It’s important to understand that red/NIR light therapy has a biphasic dose response, meaning that low doses may have little effect, the right dose can produce positive effects, but excessive doses can diminish the benefits.

Individual sensitivity to red/NIR light therapy may vary, especially for those with severe health problems or chronic fatigue. Such individuals may be more sensitive to the effects of light therapy and may experience fatigue or other adverse reactions even at lower doses. To determine the ideal dose, it is advisable to start with smaller doses and gradually increase them to find the maximum dose that works for dose-response each individual without causing negative effects.

Feeling fatigued after the first treatment with red/NIR light therapy is not uncommon, especially if the dose was too high. Fatigue could be a sign of overexposure. If you experience this, it’s essential to lower the dose on your next session. Start with a much lower dose, even below the recommended dose range, and gradually work your way up to find the optimal dose for you without causing fatigue.

For individuals with severe health problems or chronic fatigue, it may take time to find the right dose that works for them. Be patient and conservative with dosing to avoid adverse reactions.

The main difference between near-infrared and far-infrared is the wavelength of the emitted light and the associated heat. Far-infrared saunas use higher wavelengths, which are felt as heat and are responsible for raising the sauna’s temperature to induce sweating and promote circulation. Far-infrared saunas provide benefits through the heat-hormesis effect.

On the other hand, near-infrared light therapy does not emit heat and works directly on cellular and mitochondrial levels. Near-infrared light is not felt as heat and is not used to raise the sauna’s temperature in the way that far-infrared saunas do. Near-infrared light therapy provides benefits by stimulating cellular function and promoting various biological processes.

The term “near-infrared sauna” is often a misnomer. A true “near-infrared sauna” would not be a sauna at all because it wouldn’t produce heat and sweating. Instead, It could simply be an enclosure with an invisible light source emitting near-infrared light at room temperature.

However, some companies advertise saunas as “near-infrared saunas” when they combine near-infrared and far-infrared light sources to provide both the benefits of near-infrared therapy and the heat-hormesis effect of far-infrared saunas. These saunas generally offer both near-infrared and far-infrared benefits simultaneously.

If you are interested in experiencing both types of therapy, there are saunas available that combine near-infrared and far-infrared light sources. However, it’s important to note that they are generally more expensive than standalone red/NIR light therapy devices.

There is currently no data specifically on red/NIR light therapy’s safety during pregnancy. Humans naturally receive red/NIR light exposure from the sun, which occurs when a pregnant woman is outdoors. However, as red/NIR devices might differ in some ways from natural sunlight, and potential effects on pregnancy are unknown, it is best to err on the side of caution.

While some research suggests that using red/NIR light therapy on other parts of the body away from the belly may be safe during pregnancy, it is essential to consult with a doctor before considering any form of light therapy during pregnancy. Always prioritize safety and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.