The Power of Red Light
Note: This article was written by Sophia Peckner
Outlining the door frame are lines of red light. As I open the door, a shower of red washes over me, and I see my dad with his palm over the light source. I laugh at the odd scene surrounding me.
Apparently, he is in the middle of a red light therapy session. He begins to boast of all the various benefits that red light offers, but I’m not convinced. I know from visits to San Francisco’s Exploratorium that variations of colored light can affect your mood, but it couldn’t possibly impact body functions, right?
The Beginning ⭐️
In 1993, NASA began testing the theory that LED lights could promote plant growth. When scientists found this theory to be true, they transitioned their attention to possible medical applications.
If LED lights energized plant cells, maybe it could also impact human body cells in such a way that would reduce the bone and muscle mass loss that astronauts experience in space. So began the interest in light’s effect on human biological functions.
How it Works ❓
A big part of how light makes its impact is through its wavelengths. The longer the wavelength, the deeper the penetration into the skin. Of course, depending on the type of light and its wavelength, penetration could be either beneficial or detrimental.
For example, in terms of blue light, shorter wavelengths below 460 nanometers (nm) have been linked to visual strain and retinal damage. On the other hand, blue light above 460 nm has been classified as ‘good’ light because it can make one feel happy and in a more energetic mood.
Red light begins its effect on human body cells when its wavelengths penetrate the skin and the mitochondria absorb the lights’ photons.
The Effects of Red Light Therapy 🔴
After absorbing the red light, the mitochondria begin to convert it into energy. This extra fuel enhances tissue production (ie. collagen for healthier skin!), cellular activity, oxygen flow, and much more. Having a healthy mitochondria leads to a healthier body and appearance.
In a pilot study, scientists also found that red light can slow retina degradation which is especially helpful for elders and other individuals with impaired vision.
Scientists are still conducting more studies to get a more in-depth idea of the benefits of red light. We still need more evidence to be able to back these claims with absolute certainty, but it seems like my dad could have a point!
References 📓
Cotler, Howard B. “A NASA Discovery Has Current Applications in Orthopaedics”, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 31 Dec. 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4272231/.
“LED Lights: Are They a Cure for Your Skin Woes?” Harvard Health, Oct. 2019,
www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/led-lights-are-they-a-cure-for-your-skin-wo es.
Morgan, Gary. “VSP Vision Care: Vision Insurance.” VSP Vision Care, www.vsp.com/eyewear-wellness/eye-health/blue-light-good-and-bad.
Prior, Ryan. “Declining Eyesight Can Be Improved by Looking at Red Light, Pilot Study Says.”
CNN, Cable News Network, 30 June 2020, www.cnn.com/2020/06/30/health/declining-eyesight-red-light-scn-wellness/index.html.