Chances are, you’ve heard about LED light therapy, also sometimes known as low-level laser therapy or photobiomodulation. It’s regularly featured in the news, and everyone from celebrities to professional athletes and Instagram influencers are hopping on the red LED light therapy (also known as RLT) bandwagon and adding it to their skin care routines and treatment options.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website.
Below are some of the healing benefits you might expect from red light therapy treatments for skin (fine lines and wrinkles), pain and hair conditions. The effects of LED light therapy can be greatly beneficial to your daily health care routine as skin issues as well as pain symptoms can be addressed.
Although the healing benefits of LED (light emitting diodes) light therapy might seem like a modern-day miracle, it’s not a new concept to the medical community. In fact, RLT was first discovered more than 100 years ago.
However, as LED light therapy has grown in popularity, so have questions surrounding its efficacy and treatment potential for conditions like acne, sun damage to the skin, fine lines and wrinkles and even inflammation.
In its most basic definition, infrared LED light therapy is the application of specific wavelengths of light energy to the body to upregulate cellular performance and achieve therapeutic benefits, including treatment for acne, anti-aging, pain management, wound healing and even hair restoration. It is also a cost effective and non-invasive treatment option.
The authors of a study titled “Photobiomodulation: lasers vs. light emitting diodes,” said the following about LED light therapy, “Advantages of LEDs include no laser safety considerations, ease of home use, ability to irradiate a large area of tissue at once, possibility of wearable devices, and much lower cost per mW. LED photobiomodulation is here to stay.”
Infrared LED light therapy has been studied and tested in thousands of clinical trials over the past few decades, and it has proven to be a safe and effective treatment option with no negative, harmful, or long-term side effects.
No matter what your body or skin care routine, red light therapy can provide some amazing benefits and reduce those under eye wrinkles and the fine lines as well. Unlike with the use of lasers, there’s no risk of burning the skin, rather RLT is an effective, non-invasive, side-effect free treatment option.
In the same study mentioned above, the authors state that “…the cost per mW of optical power is approximately one hundred times lower for LEDs compared to lasers. In the past, laser light sources were predominantly marketed to clinicians who could cover the high costs of their devices by treating a large number of patients. However, during recent years, patients themselves or even healthy individuals have been able to buy their own LED devices for personal use at home.”
The study goes on to bust some other myths of laser vs. LEDs and concludes, “Following the understanding that the photobiological effects of red and near-infrared light do not apply solely to laser light, some authors have started renaming the ‘LLLT’ from low-level laser therapy to low-level light therapy.”
As the manufacturer of the most medically credentialed light emitting diode device on the market today, we’ve encountered many questions over the past decade about red and infrared light therapy, skin care and pain treatment options.
Questions about red light therapy? We’ve got answers.
Below are answers to the 9 most commonly asked questions about infrared LED light therapy:
Red LED light therapy first gained prominence in , when Danish physicist Niels Ryberg Finsen was awarded the Nobel Prize for his invention of light therapy for skin tuberculosis. However, red LED light therapy has come a long way in the 100+ years since and its treatment benefits are much more widely understood.
NASA scientists first used RLT to stimulate plant growth on international space stations in the s, and then began investigating the potential benefits of light therapy for astronauts on long-term space missions, shortly thereafter.
Astronauts are required to work in very irregular conditions, and they often become susceptible to health risks such as muscle and bone atrophy and delayed wound healing during extended space missions. This observation led scientists to discover that human cells require gravity to stimulate growth, and any fluctuation in gravity will disturb overall cellular function.
Using that logic, NASA tested red light therapy on astronauts, and found that it had the ability to improve cellular function and combat the effects of living in zero gravity environments. According to a NASA-article from , “LEDs stimulate the basic energy processes in the mitochondria (energy compartments) of each cell,” and an LED blanket device was found to be effective in the prevention of bone and muscle atrophy. Based on NASA’s findings, the medical community at large began to research and recommend Red Light Therapy for its therapeutic treatment potential.
Red and infrared LED light therapy is the application of specific wavelengths of light energy to human tissue to obtain therapeutic benefits. Red and infrared wavelengths penetrate deep into the skin’s dermal and subcutaneous layer to specifically target cells at the source. The energy absorbed by the cells is then used to naturally improve cellular performance. The visible results include an improvement in the tone and texture of the skin as well as a reduction of inflammation.
Similar to low-level laser therapy, low-level light therapy delivered via light emitting diode (LEDs) devices, has the potential to treat a variety of skin (wrinkles and acne) as well as pain conditions and even hair and scalp conditions.
You might have heard people refer to Red Light Therapy in a number of ways:
No matter what you call it – the science behind red and infrared light therapy is the same.
Like plants absorb sunlight to power photosynthesis and boost tissue growth, human cells can absorb light energy to stimulate cellular function and enhance overall cellular performance. An example of this are fibroblasts upregulating to increase the production of collagen and elastin. Red light therapy also boosts circulation to deliver oxygen and nutrients to living tissues.
In other words, human cells can absorb particles of light (photons) and transform that energy into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the main source of energy that cells need to power metabolic processes. The resulting elevation of ATP is then used to upregulate cellular performance and repair tissue damage. When your body absorbs particular wavelengths of light energy, it converts that energy to produce more ATP, thus boosting the body’s natural ability to regain and maintain vitality. The results may reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well as inflammation in the body.
RLT is constantly being tested to evaluate its efficacy for a number of different conditions, and the FDA currently recognizes light therapy as a proven solution for skin issues related to acne and anti-aging, as well as pain management and hair restoration.
There is evidence to suggest Red Light Therapy can also relieve the following conditions:
The list of red light therapy benefits is impressive, and it has the potential to grow as additional clinical trials are performed on various treatment options and protocols.
Red light therapy is safe and clinically proven for the treatment of a variety of skin and pain management conditions. Red light therapy is also non-toxic, non-invasive, and a cost effective alternative to prescription drugs, invasive surgery and harsh topical skin treatments.
Unlike other types of light therapy treatments, low-level light therapy LED machines do not contain ultraviolet rays (UV rays from the sun), so there is no risk of cancer-causing damage to skin cells and tissue.
In comparison to low-level laser therapy, LEDs generate negligible amounts of heat and are not considered a significant risk to the general population. From skin issues like acne and fine lines, to inflammation and other general pain conditions, red light therapy provides therapeutic benefits that go beyond skin deep.
In general, side effects from Red Light Therapy are rare. If they do occur, they typically involve temporary redness of the skin in the treated area. Side effects are minor and do not last long. Red light therapy treatment is non-invasive, painless, requires no recovery time, and can be used on all skin types and tones.
For the Celluma LED light therapy devices, there are just a few contraindications. First, Celluma recommends light therapy treatments not be used on children. Light therapy is also not recommended for pregnant women to use over their belly or breasts when lactating.
There are also contraindications for cancer patients. It is recommended that light therapy not be used over a known cancer, or metastasized, tumor. If you suffer from cancer or if you are recovering from cancer, be sure to consult with your oncologist prior to using light therapy or before making any changes to your cancer care routine.
Red light therapy cost varies depending on where you live, but one 30-minute session at a dermatologist’s office can range from a cost of $25 - $85 or more.
You know the saying, “you get what you pay for,” so don’t simply go with the least expensive device. While there is a range of red light therapy costs, do your homework. When investing in a quality device, remember that not all devices are created equally. Select an FDA-cleared option to ensure the efficacy, safety and results of professional-grade equipment.
If red light therapy cost is of particular concern for you, it’s important to remember that you are investing in your own health (if using at home) or the health of your clients if you are a professional user investing in your business.
If you’re looking to incorporate infrared light therapy into your weekly self-care body and skin routine, it’s recommended that you purchase a professional-grade device. All factors considered, spending a little extra on high-quality light therapy is well worth the investment. When you really want to tackle the symptoms of pain and aging, a professional device is worth the investment.
There are several Celluma models which can be used for treating facial wrinkles. Take the Celluma SKIN, for example, which simultaneously treats both acne and aging. If you were to use Celluma SKIN 3x per week for a year, the total cost breakdown would equal approximately $10 per treatment. After 2 years? The cost is only $5 per treatment, a bargain by any standard.
Everyone’s skin is unique but most people suffer from more than one skin condition and red light therapy devices can help you combat multiple issues. Celluma devices can help keep your acne in check, as well as inflammation while eliminating those fine lines and wrinkles. It’s whole body treatment — in a single device!
RLT is more effective if you keep up with treatments on a regular basis. For anti-aging, for example, most professionals recommend 2-3 treatments per week. How often you use light therapy is often dependent on your time and monetary budget.
Keep in mind that light therapy is cumulative so more is usually better, but be sure to consult with your physician or skin therapist for treatment guidance.
There are a number of red and infrared light therapy devices on the market – you can even find products on Amazon. However, much like other “too-good-to-be-true” deals, you should be cautious before you buy.
If you want to invest in red or infrared, or combination light therapy device, it’s worth the money to buy an FDA-cleared device; that way, you can rest assured that the machine has been reviewed for safety and for effectiveness.
Inexpensive, non-regulated devices are often ineffective, or stop working completely. These unregulated machines are often responsible for negative reviews on light therapy devices, an otherwise scientifically proven and highly effective modality.
If you are located in the UK or European Union then look for devices that are medically CE-Marked like the Celluma SERIES
Bottom line? Do your research and trust the professionals. Purchase a reputable device that has a proven track record of success – one that professional dermatologists and estheticians use with their patients every day. The positive effects of LED red light therapy speak for themselves.
Although Red Light Therapy has been around since , it has more recently become a mainstream method that people use to treat a wide variety of skin and health concerns. Celluma manufactures FDA-cleared and medically CE-Marked, professional-grade light therapy devices that can be used in-office or for treatment at home and on-the-go.
Our portable, lightweight designs are ideal for storage and travel, and our patented shape-taking memory technology ensures you can conform the LED light close to your body for maximum energy absorption, optimal efficacy, and effective treatment.
Our red and infrared light therapy devices improve health at the cellular level by accelerating the repair and replenishment of compromised tissue cells.
While similar devices claim to do the same, they often require you to buy multiple panels and accessories in order to treat specific conditions or accommodate different body parts.
Alternatively, Celluma offers a convenient solution in a versatile, all-in-one system you can trust. If you’re ready to try red and infrared light therapy for yourself, Celluma is the #1 choice globally.
Celluma devices are inspired by light and proven by science to improve cellular health and reduce the signs of aging, relieve pain, speed healing, and so much more.
There is some substantial research available regarding LED red light therapy and the effects of the sun on skin health. Daniel Barolet, in his study “LED Photoprevention: Reduced MED Response Following Multiple LED Exposures,” looked at the impact of sun light on skin health and how LED light therapy might help reduce UV skin damage.
Here’s what the study had to say: “The solar radiation that reaches human skin ranges from 290 to 4,000 nm and includes ultraviolet (UV) radiation: UV-B (290–320 nm), UV-A (320–400 nm) — which can be further subdivided into UV-A I, or far UV-A (340–400 nm) and UV-A II or near UV-A (320–340 nm), visible light (400– 700 nm) and infrared radiation (IR; 700–4,000 nm) [1]. Small amounts of UV irradiation are essential for the production of vitamin D, yet when the skin is subjected to excessive radiation, deleterious effects may occur.
It is commonly accepted that the UV range (
It has recently been suggested that protective mechanisms against skin UV-induced damage may be activated by IR exposure in a number of in vitro studies using primary culture human fibroblasts. In a study by Menezes et al. [3], it was demonstrated that a narrow electromagnetic spectrum window IR wavelengths (700–2,000 nm) generated a strong cellular defense against solar UV cytotoxicity in the absence of rising skin temperature. In a follow-up to this study by Frank et al. [4], it was proposed that IR irradiation prepares cells to resist UV-B-induced damage by affecting the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway.”
Taking all of these factors into account, the study concluded that, “although additional in vivo and in vitro studies with larger patient cohorts are required, these findings represent another step forward as part of the expanding field of LED Photoprohylaxis applications in dermatology. This promising approach has the advantage of being easy and practical to perform and appears extremely safe for the skin and eyes, and not affected by water or perspiration or any physical or environmental factors as are traditional sunscreens. If these results are corroborated, this innovative method could provide an effective and practical photoprotective modality with a sun protection/prevention factor of SPF-15 against upcoming—acute and/or chronic—skin damage caused by UV radiation. This photobiochemical therapy could be very useful in dermatology as a preventative therapeutic modality against upcoming photodamage like first degree sunburn, for patients having drug phototoxic reactions or those with photosensitivity disorders such as PLE or SLE, and possibly in the prevention of pigmentary disorders.”
You can shop our wide range of award-winning red light therapy devices here:
Shop All Celluma Devices
If you have any questions about which device is right for you, feel free to call our team of experts at (714) 978-.
Light therapy refers to the use of specific wavelengths of light to improve health, performance, or recovery. While natural sunlight is the original form of light therapy, modern tools like red light panels, saunas, and lasers now make it possible to deliver targeted light benefits at home.
Red light therapy is one of the most popular forms, using red and near-infrared wavelengths to support cellular energy, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. It’s considered a subcategory of light therapy, alongside others like blue light, ultraviolet light, and infrared saunas.
???? New to red light therapy? First, read our full breakdown.
Goto SUNRECIPE to know more.
Each type of light interacts with the body differently — depending on the wavelength, the depth of penetration, and the biological effects triggered. Red and NIR light can reach deeper tissues and stimulate the mitochondria (the “power plants” of your cells), while others like blue and UV remain more surface-level.
Thanks to advancements in LED technology, light therapy is now more accessible than ever — no longer confined to clinics or labs. From small spot treatments to full-body panels, a range of tools exists to match different goals.
???? Wondering which light therapy device is right for you? Keep reading to avoid common mistakes and make a smart, informed choice.
This blog has been updated with - panels/information.
15 Essential Things to Consider Before Buying a Red Light Therapy Panel
This guide is a must-read for buying a red light therapy panel. After testing hundreds of panels over the past six years, I've seen the good, the bad, and the downright unnecessary.
Here, I'll cover 15 critical factors you must consider before purchasing. These go beyond the basics like size and warranty—we're diving deep. Let's get started.
????Affiliate Disclosure: I received a complimentary product to review. However, my receipt of the product did not influence the outcome of this review. I try to be as fair and critical as possible in any review, and this review reflects my genuine and honest opinion of the product.The first and most crucial question is: What do you want to treat? Your choice of panel depends on your treatment area.
Remember that the actual treatment area aligns closely with the LED's dimensions. Beam angles and coverage graphics can be misleading. From my testing, light intensity diminishes significantly outside the direct LED range. If you want head-to-toe coverage, you need a physically large panel to handle that.
While full-body coverage might sound appealing, it may not fit your budget. The good news is that you can future-proof your investment—panels like the PlatinumLED Biomax 900 offer modular setups. You can start with one panel and expand later by wirelessly linking additional panels.
However, don't assume a higher price equals better quality. For example,Joovv panels are notoriously expensive, yet they're not always the best-performing option.
If you're on a tight budget, I've reviewed affordable tabletop panels, which you can find in the video below.
Traditionally, red light therapy panels featured 660nm red light and 850nm near-infrared light. While these are beneficial, other wavelengths, like 810nm, offer unique advantages.
Some panels, like the BioMax, include seven different wavelengths, while others, like Red Light Rising, stick to the basics. My preference leans toward panels incorporating 810nm due to its extensive research-backed benefits.
Some panels are user-friendly, with features like remote controls or touchscreens, while others are more basic. Consider what's important to you:
Red light therapy is booming, and new companies pop up weekly. Stick to brands that have been around for at least a few years. Why? It's easy to start a Red Light Therapy company, but what happens if they receive a bad batch? Can a new startup afford to honor the warranty and fix the panels? When a company goes bankrupt, you lose support for warranties and repairs.
Also, look for a good warranty. A minimum two—to three-year warranty is a good benchmark.
Next, we have safety issues. Most of these panels are safe, and when I say safety, I don't mean you'll get an electric shock—though I guess that could happen if you're using something dodgy.
The main concerns here are the EMF output and flicker.
Some older panels and very cheap panels today use low-cost LEDs that flicker. We can't detect this flicker with our eyes, but it's there. I've done a video on this, and that flicker can cause stress and even headaches. Ideally, you want a panel that puts out clean, pure, therapeutic light without any stresses.
Next is the non-native EMF issue. Again, some older or low-cost panels emit many non-native EMFs. This can be stressful, and if you're spending a thousand dollars on one of these devices to improve your health, you don't want to end up with something that adds extra stress instead.
In my reviews, I test all of these panels for EMF output. If you're worried about a specific panel, check out my reviews to see if it's safe or something to be cautious of.
Most panels have fans to cool the LEDs, but some are louder than others. If you're noise-sensitive, check my reviews for panels with quieter operations. Trust me—a loud whir can make your sessions unbearable.
When investing in a red light therapy panel, it's wise to consider how your needs might evolve. A typical scenario is someone buying a single panel, only to later purchase another panel from a different company and perhaps a smaller, more portable one. While this may seem flexible, it can lead to complications.
Here's why: having multiple panels from different brands can quickly become inefficient. They might each require separate power sources, individual controls, and separate stands, creating unnecessary clutter and inconvenience.
Instead, think long-term and choose a panel system that allows for modularity—essentially, panels that can link together, share power supplies, and be controlled from a single interface.
For example, with the BioMax panels, I have two of them connected to a single power plug and controlled by one interface. They even share the same stand, creating a seamless and cohesive setup. This level of integration simplifies use and reduces setup time, making your overall experience far more enjoyable.
If you anticipate expanding your setup, do thorough research before buying your first panel. Seek modular features that link panels together to form a more extensive array. Most modern panels offer this feature, but it's essential to confirm compatibility, even within the same brand.
For instance, MitoRed has itsMito Pro range, but its newer Mito Adapt panels aren't compatible with the older models. If you'd started with the Mito Pro and then added a Mito Adapt, you'd find yourself managing two separate systems that don't integrate. This means more cables, more controls to operate individually, and separate timers to sync. While this isn't a dealbreaker, it's far from ideal, especially when a bit of foresight could have avoided the hassle.
Stands are also part of future-proofing. For example, consider whether the panel comes with—or can be upgraded to include—a stand. Basic floor mounts might work now, but motorized stands or overhead mounts could enhance convenience and comfort as your setup evolves.
Many companies sell stands designed explicitly for their panels, but not all stands are interchangeable between brands or different product ranges within the same brand. If you plan to mount multiple panels or upgrade later, ensure your stand is compatible with your intended setup.
By thinking ahead and future-proofing your red light therapy system, you'll save time, money, and effort in the long run while creating a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
Power output is one of the most hyped-up features in red light therapy panels, but it's also one of the messiest topics. Companies often claim to have the "most powerful panel" on the market, but here's what you need to know:
To address this confusion, I test panels using my spectrometer and a consistent protocol. This allows me to provide comparable power figures across all panels. My reviews and comprehensive red light therapy resources include these results.
The goal is to find a panel that delivers reliable power without excessive or underwhelming. A well-balanced panel saves time, money, and hassle.
Don't overlook accessories—they can make or break your experience. Most panels include basics like power cables and hanging kits, but premium brands might offer extras such as:
Check if these extras are included or need to be purchased separately, as they can significantly add to your overall cost.
Red light therapy panels are a significant investment, but you can save considerable money if you shop strategically. Many companies offer seasonal sales, bundle deals, or first-time buyer discounts.
Signing up for newsletters or following brands on social media can keep you informed about these promotions. Often my affliate links and code can be "stacked" with a sale thus saving you even more money
Additionally, consider looking for packages that include valuable accessories. For instance, a panel bundled with a stand or remote control might save you money compared to purchasing these separately. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, though, as they could indicate a low-quality product.
????I aim to be as affiliated with all light therapy companies as possible to remove bias. If you purchase products through links in the article, I receive a small commission, which helps fund these reviews and helps you make informed decisions.When purchasing a red light therapy panel, shipping and potential import taxes are often overlooked. Many companies offer free shipping within mainland America if you're lucky enough to live in the United States. However, shipping rates will vary depending on your location if the panel you're purchasing is from a company based in Canada, the UK, or Australia.
For example, buying from an American company might seem appealing due to the competitive prices if you live in Australia. However, the final price may be much higher once you factor in shipping costs.
While I provide rough guidelines for shipping costs in my reviews and product database, the most reliable way to determine the shipping fee is to add the product to your cart, apply any discount codes, and input your address to generate an accurate shipping quote.
Another issue to consider is import taxes or duties. Unfortunately, this can be unpredictable and varies widely depending on your country. While I'd love to provide specific recommendations for avoiding these charges, it's often a hit-or-miss situation.
If you want complete clarity on the final price, including product cost, shipping fees, and taxes, I recommend purchasing from a company based in your country.
My product database features the locations of various red light therapy companies. You can filter by region, such as Australia, to find nearby brands. This allows you to know your total costs upfront, minimizing the chances of unexpected fees.
While a basic red light therapy panel that emits sufficient red and near-infrared light is often enough to meet most needs, advanced features can enhance your experience. Some of these features include:
If these features are important to you, doing your homework is essential. My reviews and content include detailed breakdowns of which panels offer these options so you can ensure the product you purchase meets your specific needs.
Marketing claims can make every panel seem like the "best on the market." To cut through the noise, rely on independent reviews from trusted sources.
These reviews often include details about panel performance, build quality, and additional features—information you won't find in company brochures.
Look for reviews that provide quantifiable data, such as:
A review that also compares multiple panels using consistent testing protocols can help you see how one product compares to its competitors.
I include this data in my reviews to ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Your lifestyle and available space play a significant role in choosing the right panel. Consider where and how you plan to use your red light therapy device. Do you need a setup that allows you to treat your back while lying down? Or are you looking for a door-mounted panel to save space?
For example:
If you enjoy multitasking, like doing yoga or meditating during sessions, you'll want a panel that accommodates those activities. Ensure the panel is adjustable to the correct angle and height for your routine.
Navigating the overwhelming number of options on the market can feel daunting. That's why using resources is essential to simplify the decision-making process.
I've created a comprehensive database where you can filter panels based on key criteria like size, price, power output, etc. This allows you to compare options side-by-side and find panels tailored to your specific needs.
Whether you're new to red light therapy or upgrading your setup, having access to unbiased information and detailed comparisons is invaluable. It ensures your investment aligns with your goals and avoids common pitfalls like overpaying for unnecessary features.
If you're still unsure which panel is right, here are some additional resources.
✅ Buy a PlatinumLED BioMax panel or accessories, and use the following link for a discount: https://aferg.co/redled
✅ For a Mito Red Mito Red panel, such as the MitoPRO or MitoADAPT use this link and code ALEX5: https://aferg.co/7d221
✅ To get a Lightpath LED product use code ALEX and get 5% off with the following link: https://aferg.co/lightpathled
✅ You can get an Infraredi Flex Mini or Max - use code ALEX for a 5% discount and the following link: https://aferg.co/infraredi - other Infraredi panels can also be bought through that link
✅ Interested in getting a Joovv? Click here: https://aferg.co/joovvbca0 - no discount available
✅ For a Red Light Rising Advantage in the UK, use discount code ALEX and the following link: https://aferg.co/redlightrising
⭐ Targeted Red Light Treatment = Full-Body Benefits?
⭐ Best Red Light Therapy Panel ? EPIC Comparison
⭐ Best Red Light Therapy Body Panels : HUGE Comparison!
⭐ How To Use Red Light Therapy 101: Know THIS For Starters
⭐ The Power Of Red Light Therapy On Mitochondria
⭐ Red Light Therapy: What’s The Ideal Distance from Skin?
⭐ Red Light Therapy Dosing Chart: The Raw Data From Hundreds Of Studies
⭐ Is Red Light Therapy Science-Based? An Introduction
Not quite ready to buy, but keen to dive deeper into this amazing world of light therapy? Then here are a few articles and videos that we thought you may enjoy:
The company is the world’s best Red Light Therapy Panel Manufacturer supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.