Does red and near infrared light therapy reduce pain, improve skin or cognition, or have other benefits? Is it safe?

Answer:

Red and near infrared (NIR) light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, involves exposing skin to low level wavelengths of red light (usually 600 to 680 nm) or NIR light (typically 800 to 850 nm) using light emitting diodes (LEDs) or lasers.

Although red and NIR light therapy devices have been evaluated in clinical research for numerous conditions, with some positive results, in general there is not enough available information to recommend these devices for any specific condition.

Nevertheless, the FDA has "cleared" some of these devices for specific uses — but be aware that the review process for FDA clearance is not the same for FDA approval, which requires more rigorous evaluation of safety and effectiveness. Also be aware that some devices sold for at-home use may not be as powerful as those used in the clinical studies discussed in this article.

Sign in as a member for more details about evidence for and against red and NIR light therapy for conditions including acne, actinic keratosis (rough, scaly patches on the skin caused by long-term sun exposure), reducing skin aging, vitiligo, cold sores (herpes simplex infection), hair loss, knee osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, jaw pain, plantar fasciitis (a common cause of pain in the heel and bottom of the foot), nerve pain (neuropathy), cognition among healthy adults and those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), Alzheimer's disease or dementia, Parkinson's disease, and eye conditions including age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and myopia (nearsightedness). Also learn about specific products on the market (including BIOMAX 900, FibroLux, MOVE+ Pro, Omnilux Contour Face Mask, PainAway, TenDlite, and Valeda) and possible safety issues, including eye damage and appropriate eye protection.

(Note: ConsumerLab has not tested red or NIR light therapy devices to confirm the accuracy of label claims of these devices.)