How red light therapy compares with other treatments

How Red Light Therapy Compares to Other Methods

Red Light Therapy vs. Laser Therapy: What's the difference?

Laser therapy and red light therapy both fall under the broader category of light-based methods, but they differ in how they work, where they are used, and how they are handled.

  • Mechanism:

    • Red Light Therapy (RLT) uses low-wavelength red or near-infrared light (600–1000 nm) to reach tissue and interact with cellular activity. The light interacts with mitochondria in cells and with the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) – the mechanism at the centre of photobiomodulation research. It is a low-intensity application.
    • Laser Therapy (often referred to as "Class IV Laser" therapy) uses high-powered focused light aimed at specific tissues or areas. It is typically far more intense and more narrowly targeted, delivering higher energy into deeper tissue.

  • Intensity and Handling:

    • RLT works at low intensity, which is why it is available as a consumer device for use at home – handheld units, light panels, and face masks.
    • Laser Therapy is administered by trained professionals because of its higher power. Improper use can cause damage to the skin, eyes, and underlying tissue.

  • Where they are used:

    • RLT is used in wellness settings and at home – in skincare routines (collagen, skin appearance) and as part of a recovery routine after training.
    • Laser Therapy is used in professional environments for narrowly targeted work on deeper tissue, and in dermatology for procedures such as skin resurfacing.

  • Cost:

    • RLT devices are often more affordable and accessible for at-home use.
    • Laser Therapy tends to be more expensive, particularly when carried out on site by a provider.


Red Light Therapy vs. Cryotherapy: How do they differ?

Cryotherapy (cold application) has long been part of recovery routines, especially among athletes. It is typically used in the form of whole-body cryotherapy chambers or localised ice packs. So how does RLT compare?

  • Mechanism:

    • Cryotherapy works with extreme cold, which constricts the blood vessels. The application is short and intense.
    • RLT works with light energy that interacts with cell function, circulation and the production of ATP. The session is longer and calmer.

  • The experience:

    • Cryotherapy involves exposure to freezing temperatures, which can be uncomfortable, especially in whole-body cryo-chambers.
    • RLT is a relaxing, non-invasive application that is generally experienced as comfortable, and you can even run an at-home device during daily activities like watching TV or reading.

  • In a weekly routine:

    • Cryotherapy is usually a single short session, often directly after intensive training.
    • Red light is typically used more regularly, in several calm sessions per week. Many people combine the two rather than choosing between them.

Note: redtreat products are LED wellness devices, not medical devices. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Any studies referenced relate to general photobiomodulation research and say nothing about the effect of a specific redtreat product. If you have health-related questions, please consult a doctor.