How Often Should You Do Red Light Therapy?

12 Minute Read

Red light therapy has become increasingly popular in recent years as a treatment for a variety of health concerns. Whether you’re considering it for skin rejuvenation, muscle recovery, pain relief, or improving your overall well-being, one of the most common questions people have is, “How often should you do red light therapy”

This article will answer that question. As you read on, you will also discover that red light therapy is, the factors that influence how often you should use it, and some general guidelines to help you get the most out of your sessions.

Article highlights:

-Definition of red light therapy

-How red light therapy is often used

-How often you should do red light therapy

-How to experience red light therapy in a Jacuzzi® Infrared Sauna or Jacuzzi® Hot Tub with Infrared and Red Light therapy

What is red light therapy?

Red light therapy is also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation (PBM). This therapy involves the use low-wavelength red or near-infrared light to stimulate various biological processes in the body. Through this therapy, light penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the cells. This process promoting healing and regeneration at the cellular level.

Though more popular in at-home devices and wellness products, this therapy has been used for decades in clinical settings to treat conditions like chronic pain, wound healing, and inflammation. Today, red light therapy has become very popular in the wellness and beauty industries for its potential to improve skin health, reduce wrinkles, and increase collagen production.

Research suggests that red light therapy can offer the following benefits:

Skin Health—Including reducing wrinkles, fine lines, and acne.
Pain Management—Specifically, easing chronic pain and muscle soreness.
Muscle Recovery—Enhancing recovery after exercise.
Hair Growth—Stimulating hair follicles for people who are experiencing hair loss.
Wound Healing—Speeding up tissue repair.

How does red light therapy work?

These benefits sound miraculous. But you may also wonder how it works, if it is safe, and how often you should use it.

Before determining how often you should use red light therapy, it’s helpful to understand how it works. According to the Cleveland Clinic, Red light therapy relies on light absorption by the cells, specifically the mitochondria, often called “the powerhouse of the cell.”

Furthermore, the Universal Neurological Care website, explains that when red or near-infrared light is absorbed, it can help increase the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the energy currency of the cell. The increase in ATP from red light therapy can promote cellular repair, reduces inflammation, and encourages healing.

Red light therapy can also stimulate collagen production, improve blood circulation, and reduce oxidative stress. All of these factors can contribute to improved skin appearance and general wellness.

How often should you do red light therapy?

The answer to this question will vary based on the specific type of red light therapy you are using, as well as some additional factors, such as the condition you’re treating, your personal goals, and the specific device or wellness product you are using. Before using red light therapy, you may want to consider the following factors:

What are your treatment goals?

Determining how often you should do red light therapy will depend on what you are hoping to achieve through this treatment. For example, if you want to use red light therapy for skin rejuvenation or anti-aging, such as improving skin tone, reducing wrinkles, or boost collagen, you may want to start with frequent sessions, then gradually reduce usage as you see results. In generally, beginners may benefit from three to five sessions per week. They could then decrease usage to two to three times per week for maintenance. It’s also a good idea to seek the professional advice of a trusted dermatologist.

On the other hand, if you want to use red light therapy for muscle recovery or pain relief, such as to ease muscle soreness, joint pain, or chronic pain conditions, you might also see benefits by using red light therapy three to five times per week. However, for some specific acute injuries, daily sessions may be recommended during the initial healing phase. It is important to ask your doctor or physical therapist for their guidance regarding usage.

Those that are using red light therapy to promote hair growth typically need to commit to ongoing treatments for several months. Studies suggest using red light therapy three to four times a week to stimulate hair follicles. Using red light therapy specifically to treat wound healing may need to be applied more frequently, such as daily at first. Once the healing process is underway, frequency can be reduced.

What is the device power and quality?

There are many red light therapy products on the market and services available. Different red light therapy devices offer varying wavelengths, power outputs, and treatment area sizes. Some handheld devices are more focused on specific areas, while larger panel systems cover broader surfaces.

A smaller panel handheld device may be lower power and require longer, more frequent sessions to see any noticeable results. On the other hand, professional-grade high-powered devices with full-body panels that are designed for larger treatment areas often deliver more intense light. In this case, you might need fewer, shorter sessions to get the effect you desire.

In general, more powerful devices may reduce the frequency needed for treatment. However, this will depend on your personal needs and the specific condition you’re addressing. It’s important to ensure the best quality device or product. The American Academy of Dermatology Association suggests purchasing red light devices labeled “FDA-cleared.”

It’s important to note that this is specific to the fact that the FDA considers the device to pose a low risk and is considered safe. This does not refer to how effective the device may or may not be.

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How long is your red light therapy session?

How often you should do red light therapy will also depend on the length of each session or usage. In generally, sessions should last between five and 20 minutes, depending on the area being treated and the strength of your device or treatment.

For example, if your red light therapy device allows only for brief sessions, you may need to use it more frequently to achieve the results you’re seeking. When using more powerful devices or products, you may need fewer, lengthier sessions. It’s very important to always follow the instructions for usage that come with any red light therapy device or product. And, for safety, it’s a good idea to check with your physician before starting red light therapy treatment. This is particularly important if you have any health concerns.

Everybody is different and your response to red light therapy might be different from a family member’s or friend’s. In addition to checking with your physician before starting red light therapy or treatment, start slow and pay attention to how you feel after use. Some people might see or feel results right away, while it might take longer or more frequent use for others. Some factors, such as age, overall health, or the severity of the condition, will also impact how your body will respond to red light therapy and how often you should do it.

After red light therapy, allow your body to rest and recover between sessions. Don’t overdo it, or use it more than any recommendation from your physician or the product’s instructions. It’s also important to listen to your body, and follow your instincts.

Red light therapy in Jacuzzi® Infrared Saunas and Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs

If you’re interested in experiencing red light therapy in conjunction with your sauna or hot tub session, a Jacuzzi® Infrared Sauna or a Jacuzzi® Hot Tub with Infrared and Red Light therapy might be right for you.

Jacuzzi® Infrared Saunas feature soothing infrared heat combined with high-intensity red light therapy for maximum relaxation and restoration. The combination promotes overall health and wellness by encouraging relaxation, releasing muscle tension after physical activity, and enhancing mood and well-being.

Exclusive Infrared and Red Light therapy is available in some of Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs most luxurious models, including the J-LX® Collection and the J-400™ Collection. It will soon be available in models in the J-300™ Collection as well. The amazing effects of Infrared and Red Light therapy are delivered via the FX-IR therapy seat, which allows the rejuvenating effects of Infrared and Red Light therapy to work together deep beneath your skin’s surface to ease pain and help you reach a state of tranquil, mindful bliss. You’ll end your session feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and reenergized.

Red light therapy is continually being explored and researched for its many effects and benefits. While there is no hard-and-fast answer to how often you should do red light therapy, it’s crucial to always follow usage directions in the product’s owner’s manual, or check with a trusted physician. With patience and proper usage, red light therapy can be a soothing addition to your wellness routine, especially when used in your Jacuzzi® Sauna or Jacuzzi® Hot Tub.

To find the perfect Jacuzzi® model for your needs, visit a nearby showroom. Here, you can learn everything you need to know about Jacuzzi® Saunas, Hot Tubs, and Swim Spas, in which you can enjoy red light therapy as you relax and restore yourself, body, mind, and spirit.

Medical disclaimer: This information is not intended to prescribe a particular diagnosis or course of action. We are not medical professionals. Please contact your GP or other medical professional for advice if you have any concerns about your current health or well-being.

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