Some spas, rheumatologists and dermatologists offer red light therapy treatments. A doctor may also be able to give a referral to a trained professional. Since there are only a few FDA approved uses for red therapy light, treatment may not be covered by insurance in some cases.
There are also salons and spas that offer red light therapy. These options often range from $50–100 a session.
I’ve found that it is more convenient (and likely much cheaper) to get the benefits of red light therapy at home.
There are plenty of at home devices for sale from a variety of manufacturers. I wanted to find a device that used a combination of wavelengths for maximum benefit. This way, I would get the benefit of the deeper penetration of the higher wavelength and the cellular “charging” of the lower visible spectrum.
After much research, I settled on the Joovv Original Combo light. I have been using it daily for several months now…
My Experience With Red Light Therapy
I’ve been spending 5 minutes once a day in front of my Joovv light. (Use the code WELLNESSMAMA and get $25 off any order if you want to try it out!) We originally purchased a Joovv when my husband had hernia surgery. Much of the research showed faster recovery and wound healing. He used the device twice a day during his recovery and healed faster than expected.
I’ve noticed that my skin is firmer. I seem to have fewer wrinkles and I love that my c-section scarand stretch marks are fading. It also seemed to really help reduce hair loss post baby after I had my daughter.
Most exciting for me, is that it has also been helping my thyroid and I’m working to reduce my thyroid medication dosage over time.
You can also listen to my experience with red light therapy in this podcast episode.
Cautions with Red Light Therapy
As with any device, this isn’t the best fit for everyone. Some light therapy devices pulse or flash the light during treatment, which may be an issue for those with a history of seizures. I see no benefit to the pulsing and would avoid these devices. There are red therapy light devices that don’t pulsate.
Studies indicate that red light therapy is safe during pregnancy. I still recommend checking with a doctor or midwife to ensure that it is safe for you.
While red light is considered safe for the eyes, some people find it too bright. Simple tanning glasses make red light therapy more comfortable.
Red Light Therapy FAQs
A few other questions I had when I started researching red light therapy:
Is it safe?
Yes. Red light therapy is an FDA approved therapy and considered safe. In fact, the original research for modern red light therapy came from NASA. Red light devices were used to limit bone and muscle loss in space. They also discovered that certain spectrums of red light allowed plant growth (for food) in space.
Does it get hot? Can you tan with it?
No and no. It gets pleasantly warm but not hot. Red light is a different wavelength than UV light. It does not produce any tanning effect.
How long do the bulbs last?
I ordered a Joovv Combo light which has a lifespan of 50,000 hours. I doubt I will ever need to change or replace it during my lifetime.
