Red light therapy series 1: What conditions or ailments respond best to red-light therapy? 

By Reine DuBois, Integrative Naturopath and Clinical Director, The Byron Bathhouse

Red-light therapy (RLT), also known as photobiomodulation (PBM) or low-level laser therapy (LLLT), has emerged as one of the most evidence-backed non-invasive therapies for supporting healing, reducing inflammation, and improving cellular function.

At its core, RLT works by delivering specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light that penetrate the skin to stimulate mitochondrial energy production (ATP) and cellular repair. This has a ripple effect across multiple systems of the body, making it useful for a diverse range of conditions, from skin rejuvenation to chronic pain and neurological recovery.

1. Skin and Cosmetic Conditions

RLT is most widely known for its profound effects on skin health and regeneration. By boosting collagen and fibroblast activity, enhancing circulation, and reducing inflammation, RLT can improve both the appearance and function of the skin.

Clinical studies show measurable improvements in:

• Wrinkle reduction and skin firmness: RLT decreases the depth of crow’s feet, tightens sagging skin, and increases elasticity and dermal density.
• Acne and inflammatory skin conditions: By balancing oil production and reducing porphyrins, RLT can calm acne, rosacea, and eczema.
• Wound and scar healing: RLT accelerates wound closure, improves tissue regeneration, and has shown benefits for chronic ulcers and stretch marks.
• Hair growth: Particularly effective for androgenic alopecia and alopecia areata, RLT stimulates hair follicles and increases density.

2. Pain and Musculoskeletal Recovery

One of the strongest evidence bases for red-light therapy lies in pain reduction and muscle recovery. Its anti-inflammatory and pro-repair effects are now well recognized in sports medicine and rehabilitation.

Research supports its use for:

• Muscle recovery and performance: RLT helps prevent delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and improves muscle repair after training or injury.
• Joint pain and inflammation: Conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, Achilles tendinopathy, and carpal tunnel syndrome show consistent improvement in pain scores and range of motion after RLT.
• Neuropathic and inflammatory pain: RLT’s ability to modulate inflammatory cytokines and nerve repair has made it a valuable adjunct for nerve pain and chronic inflammatory syndromes.

3. Inflammatory and Systemic Conditions

Because inflammation sits at the root of many chronic diseases, RLT’s anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties extend beyond the skin and joints.

Emerging research shows benefits for:

• Autoimmune conditions: RLT may support regulation in autoimmune thyroiditis and experimental models of multiple sclerosis.
• Lung inflammation and asthma: Studies show reduced acute lung injury (ALI) and improved airway inflammation.
• Metabolic health: In animal studies, RLT has reduced inflammation in adipose tissue and improved insulin sensitivity in obesity and type 2 diabetes.
• Cancer treatment side effects: Widely used to prevent and heal oral mucositis (painful mouth ulcers) from chemotherapy and radiation.

4. Neurological and Brain Health

Perhaps one of the most exciting frontiers for red-light therapy is in neuroregeneration and mental health.
Transcranial PBM (applying red and near-infrared light to the head) has been shown to reduce neuroinflammation, improve cerebral blood flow, and modulate mood and cognition.

Promising findings include:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and stroke recovery: Enhanced neuronal repair and improved cognitive function.
• Mood and sleep: RLT can help regulate the circadian rhythm and promote deeper, more restorative sleep.
• Depression: Thermal and light-based interventions have been shown to rapidly improve depressive symptoms in some clinical trials.

In Summary

Red-light therapy offers a versatile, low-risk approach to improving cellular energy, reducing inflammation, and supporting tissue healing.
The strongest clinical evidence currently exists for:

• Skin rejuvenation and wound healing
• Joint and muscle pain relief
• Hair regrowth
• Chronic inflammatory and neurodegenerative support

As always, RLT works best when used as part of a holistic treatment plan that addresses underlying causes—such as nutrient deficiencies, hormonal imbalance, and environmental stressors, to truly restore cellular balance and vitality.

References:

1. Avci P et al. Photomed Laser Surg. 2013;31(8):355–361.
2. De Marchi T et al. Lasers Med Sci. 2017;32(8):1989–1996.
3. Barolet D et al. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2016;18(5):282–289.
4. Hamblin MR. BBA Clin. 2016;6:113–124.
5. Salehpour F et al. J Neuroinflammation. 2018;15(1):1–24.