Benefits of Near Infrared Light Therapy for the Skin

IN THIS ARTICLE:

• 01 What's the Difference Between Red Light Therapy and Infrared Light Therapy?
• 02 How Does Infrared Light Therapy Work?
• 03 What Are The Benefits of Infrared Light Therapy?
• 04 More Ways to Use Infrared Light Therapy
• 05 Is Infrared Light Therapy Safe?

When it comes to anti-aging treatments, red light therapy stands out as the preferred treatment. But did you know that there is another light that has more powerful anti-aging benefits that operates invisibly: near infrared (NIR) light therapy.

While red light therapy has proven its effectiveness, NIR light therapy adds an extra layer of rejuvenation. The benefits of NIR light extend beyond aesthetics. Continue reading and find out more about NIR light and its variety of benefits for the skin and overall health. 

What's the Difference Between Red Light Therapy and Infrared Light Therapy?

So, what sets NIR light therapy apart from red light therapy? While red light therapy shares similarities with NIR light therapy, both targeting signs of aging such as wrinkles, they differ in their wavelengths and penetration depths, offering unique benefits for skin renewal. 

Wavelengths

NIR (Near Infrared Light) and red light are from different parts of the light spectrum. Red light resides in the visible spectrum, ranging from 630 to 700 nm, while NIR light operates in the invisible spectrum between 700 and 1200 nm.

Penetration depths 

One significant difference lies in how deeply they can penetrate the skin, determined by their wavelengths: the longer the wavelength, the deeper the penetration. NIR light, with its longer wavelength, reaches deep into the hypodermis, which is a deeper layer of the skin. On the other hand, red light predominantly targets the skin's surface, penetrating down to the dermis layer.

How Does Infrared Light Therapy Work?

Near Infrared Light amplifies cell activity. It triggers photoreceptors in our skin cells, activating the mitochondria, also known as the "cell's energy factory." This increases ATP production, the fuel that powers all cellular operations.

This process benefits the aging process by enhancing cell function, leading to improved antioxidant production, better cell protection, and renewal. Increased antioxidant production and reduced inflammation help counteract the effects of aging, such as wrinkles, sagging skin, and age-related diseases. Additionally, by combating free radicals, NIR light therapy contributes to overall skin health and vitality, promoting a more youthful appearance.

What Are The Benefits of Infrared Light Therapy?

Don’t judge NIR light by its place in the light spectrum. This type of light therapy delivers an array of benefits that are beyond skin-deep. Delving into its effects reveals a range of specific advantages, including:

• Enhanced Immunity - strengthens the body's immune response by stimulating the production of white blood cells
• Cell Regeneration - promotes cell renewal and regeneration, aiding in tissue repair and overall cellular health
• Increased Energy - the application of NIR light is known to boost energy levels, providing a natural vitality lift
• Accelerated Wound Healing - NIR light therapy facilitates faster wound healing processes, promoting effective recovery
• Reduced Inflammation - NIR light therapy has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate inflammation throughout the body
• Enhanced Metabolism - by stimulating metabolic functions, NIR light therapy can contribute to a more efficient metabolism and overall wellness

More Ways to Use Infrared Light Therapy

While red and blue light therapies have dominated the LED light therapy scene, NIR light therapy has carved out a unique space in both cosmetic and medical fields. Embraced for its versatility and effectiveness, Near Infrared Light Therapy can also be used in:

1. Pain Relief – By stimulating the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, NIR light therapy offers relief from discomfort
2. Wound Healing - NIR light therapy accelerates wound healing by stimulating cellular activity and promoting the production of collagen, essential for tissue repair.
3. Muscle Recovery - NIR light therapy has shown promise in aiding muscle recovery post-exercise, reducing soreness and promoting faster recovery for peak performance

Is Infrared Light Therapy Safe?

Concerned about the safety of near-infrared light therapy?

NIR light therapy is generally considered safe due to its non-ionizing nature, meaning it doesn't carry the same risks as ionizing radiation like UV rays. Additionally, NIR light therapy operates within specific wavelengths that are known to penetrate the skin without causing harm. As with any treatment, it's essential to adhere to usage guidelines and seek assistance if needed to ensure a safe and effective experience.

The  Lumamask Pro by Project E Beauty stands out as one of the few LED light masks that features NIR light alongside red light, with the added bonus of a blue and red light setting too.

Here are its key features:

Infrared (845~855nm) + Red Light (635~644nm)

The ultimate collagen-boosting power as red light stimulates collagen production and infrared light penetrates deep into the skin, smoothing wrinkles, reducing scars, and promoting tighter, smoother skin.

Blue (430~445nm) + Red Light (635~644nm) Therapy

Combat acne-causing bacteria and regulate oil production with blue light, while benefiting from the healing effects of red light. Together, they heal your skin, soothe irritations, and prevent breakouts.

FDA-Cleared and Clinically Proven

Lumamask Pro is FDA-cleared and utilizes proven wavelengths to enhance skin health by stimulating cellular activity, making it a reliable choice for effective, non-invasive skin treatments.

   written by Charlotte Rycroft