How Does Red & Near-Infrared Light 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, so they get more done. NASA research in the 1990s helped spark interest in red and near-infrared light, which has been studied for its interaction with cellular energy and is often metaphorically described as a “charger.” (R)
Feel Recharged from Head to Toe
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 important 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. Support Natural Energy
… processes inside your cells. You just need to support them with the wavelengths from sunlight that are studied for their interaction with cellular respiration. Specifically, 610–760 nm for red light, which mainly helps your skin.
Near-infrared light with 760–1,400 nm can penetrate deeper layers beneath the skin's surface, such as muscles and joints, and support them.
Wavelengths between 630–850 nm are commonly referenced in research as a key optical window for light–tissue interaction. (R)
4. Human Body
… feels better when it has enough energy for its processes. This can include good mood, steady daytime energy, and an overall pleasant feeling in your body.
Red and near-infrared light has been studied for the interactions with energy processes and can be added to your routine to support your readiness, quick return to comfort after activity, or your body's everyday resilience.
5. Life
… feels a little better thanks to it. Getting enough red and near-infrared light supports more than just training, it fits into everyday life too. Most importantly, it supports you. Helping you feel good, steady, comfortable, and ready for the day.
Instead of spending hours in the sun, just a few minutes in front of (or under) a 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 supporting natural energy processes inside cells, our body simply perceives it as heat. This causes molecules to vibrate, raising the temperature, which comes with risks.
It can lead to overheating, which may damage cells. That's why we've excluded it from MITO LIGHT® panels.
Red | Near-infrared (NIR) | Other Infrared (MIR, FIR) |
|
Visible to the Eye | |||
Wavelength | 610–760 nm | 760–1,400 nm | 1,400+ nm |
Effect | Stimulatory | Stimulatory | Thermal |
Encourages | Energy Production | Energy Production | Warming |
Supports | Surface-level | Deeper layers | Warming |
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.
… 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 coverage. Conversely, smaller devices may suit local coverage or frequent travel.
Contact us, and we'll be happy to discuss your individual needs and options. Or try our Selection Guide.
With its broad, light-based support, red and near-infrared light can set the stage for everyday benefits: a steadier energy feel, an everyday resilience and a lasting vitality, a fresher look for skin and hair, a quicker return to comfort after activity, a soothing feel in overworked areas, a sense of lightness and warmth, and overall pleasant feeling in your body.
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The results depend on the outcome you expect. If you use red and near-infrared light daily, it will be the most effective and fastest.
Within a few days: steadier energy feel, and mental well-being
2–4 weeks: physical changes (fresher look for skin and hair, comfort feeling of overworked areas, etc.)