Red light versus near-infrared light

Red Light versus Near-Infrared Light

Red Light and Near-Infrared (NIR) Light are both used in light therapy, but they differ in wavelengths, depth of penetration, and typical areas of use. Here's a comparison:

1. Wavelengths

  • Red Light: Has wavelengths typically ranging from 620 nm to 700 nm. This light is visible to the human eye and falls within the red portion of the light spectrum.
  • Near-Infrared Light: Has longer wavelengths, typically between 700 nm and 1200 nm. This light is invisible to the human eye and is used in the same way in wellness applications.

2. Depth of Penetration

  • Red Light: Penetrates skin-deep, reaching tissues like the epidermis and dermis (outer layers of the skin). It is therefore mostly used for surface-level applications such as skincare routines and the appearance of the skin.
  • Near-Infrared Light: Penetrates deeper into the body, reaching muscles, joints, and even bone. It is therefore mostly chosen when the focus lies on deeper body areas, for example as part of a recovery routine after training.

3. Typical Areas of Use

  • Red Light: Mostly used for:
    • Skincare routines (skin appearance, collagen, complexion)
    • The appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
    • Circulation near the skin's surface
  • Near-Infrared Light: Mostly chosen for:
    • Deeper body areas (muscles and joints after activity, recovery routines)
    • Topics researched at cellular level in muscles, bones, and deeper tissues
    • Circulation and regeneration as part of a training routine

4. Use in Combination

  • Combined Wavelengths: Many devices combine both Red Light and Near-Infrared Light. Red Light stays near the surface and is mostly used for skin and cosmetic purposes, while Near-Infrared reaches deeper body areas – which makes a combined device versatile for different routines.

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.