How Does Red Light Therapy Work?
Each of us recharges our batteries differently. And when they're depleted, we don't function—or at least not effectively. The cells in our body work similarly. The more energy they have, the more active they can be. That means they accomplish more. And as NASA confirmed in 1996, red and near-infrared light acts as their charger.
Energy for Every Cell in Your Body
1. Mitochondria
… can be found in almost every cell in your body. Not just one but hundreds to thousands. These tiny power plants produce all the energy (ATP, or adenosine triphosphate) that cells need to live.
They function, exist, and keep multiplying. And that's essential—since our body is built from them.
2. Red Light
… and near-infrared (NIR) are among the fundamental energy sources. However, most of us get extremely little of it.
Up to 90% of our time is spent indoors—in cars, at work, or relaxing at home. As a result, mitochondria produce less ATP and, therefore, less energy. This takes a toll on your body.
3. Boosting Energy
… in your cells is something you can help with. You just need to provide them with the wavelengths they use as an energy source from sunlight. These wavelengths aid in cellular respiration. Specifically, 610–760 nm for red light, which mainly benefits your skin.
Near-infrared light with 760–1,400 nm penetrates much deeper—reaching muscles, bones, joints, and organs.
Wavelengths between 630–850 nm fall within the therapeutic window. They are highly effective and have no side effects.
4. Human Body
… benefits from increased cellular energy. This impacts regeneration, overall energy levels, and reduces inflammatory processes in the body.
Red and near-infrared light directly influence how much your body can handle and how quickly it recovers—whether it's muscles, skin, joints, or even your immune system.
5. Life
… becomes a little better thanks to it. Because having enough red light affects not just sports performance but also daily life. Most importantly, it affects you. You'll feel better because your body will function.
Instead of spending hours in the sun, just a few minutes in front of (or under) an MITO LIGHT® panel will suffice. And all this without the feared UV radiation.
What About Other Infrared Radiation?
It operates on a different mechanism. Instead of being an energy charger, our body perceives it as heat. This causes molecules to vibrate, raising the temperature. And this comes with risks.
It can lead to overheating, which may cause cell damage or destruction. That's why we've excluded it from MITO LIGHT® panels. Conversely, with wavelengths of red and near-infrared light, your cells get the maximum benefit. And so do you.
Red | Near-infrared (NIR) | Other Infrared (MIR, FIR) |
|
Visible to the Eye | |||
Wavelength | 610–760 nm | 760–1,400 nm | 1,400+ nm |
Effect on the Body | Biostimulatory | Biostimulatory | Thermal |
Body Response | More Cellular Energy | More Cellular Energy | Warming |
Benefits | Surface-level (skin, scars, reduced swelling, hair) | Deeper (muscles, bones, joints, and organs) | Warming (pain relief) |
Did You Know…
… the effects of red light therapy were discovered by accident?
NASA studied how red light diodes affect plants in space. They discovered that plants grew significantly faster. Additionally, the scientists involved in the experiment experienced faster healing of injuries and skin lesions. Over time, it was found to help protect astronauts' muscles and bones.
… mitochondria contain a matrix?
This cytoplasm contains less than 50% water and is packed with proteins, coenzymes, mitochondrial DNA, and RNA. It can also act as a calcium reservoir.
… cells can suffocate?
This is caused by nitric oxide (NO), which binds to Cytochrome c oxidase. NO prevents cellular respiration, which produces energy. Red light separates them, allowing Cytochrome c oxidase to continue its work.
… not all cells contain mitochondria?
There are two basic cell types. Smaller prokaryotic cells with a simpler structure, like bacteria, lack mitochondria. Larger and more complex eukaryotic cells, such as animal, plant, and algae cells, have them.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on the results you want to achieve. Generally speaking, larger models are more cost-effective—both financially and time-wise. They illuminate a larger part of the body at once, so you won't need multiple sessions for extensive therapy. Conversely, smaller devices may suit local therapy or frequent travel.
Contact us, and we'll be happy to discuss your individual needs and options. Or try our Selection Guide.
Thanks to its comprehensive effects, red light therapy can bring about numerous changes: increased energy, healthier skin and hair, faster muscle recovery, reduced inflammation and pain, improved circulation, or higher collagen production.
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The results depend on the outcome you expect. If you use the therapy daily, it will be the most effective and fastest.
Within a few days: increased energy, mental well-being, and improved mood
2–4 weeks: physical changes (improved skin quality, joint recovery, pain relief, etc.)