By Bonnie Zhu

Did you know that red light has the power to heal? No, it’s not a myth—and yes, it really works!

Red Light Therapy (RLT) is an innovative, non-invasive treatment that uses low-wavelength red light to help reduce pain, inflammation, signs of aging, and various skin conditions. Curious about how it works and how it can benefit you? Let’s dive in!

Discovering the Science

The healing properties of red light have been studied for over a century, with a major breakthrough occurring in 1967. Hungarian professor Endre Mester discovered that low-level red laser light accelerated hair growth and improved wound healing in rats. This discovery sparked decades of research into the therapeutic effects of red light.

In the 1980s, NASA funded a project that used red and blue LED lights to grow plants in space. While the focus was on improving photosynthesis, scientists noticed an unexpected benefit—cuts and abrasions on their hands were healing faster under the red light. This observation led to further studies on how red light therapy could help with muscle atrophy, slow wound healing, and bone density loss in astronauts.

How Does Red Light Therapy Work?

While the exact mechanisms are still being explored, researchers believe that red light penetrates the skin about 1–2 millimeters deep and stimulates the mitochondria in cells. This boost in mitochondrial activity leads to increased production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy source for cellular function. More ATP means enhanced collagen production, improved blood circulation, and reduced inflammation—all of which contribute to better skin, faster healing, and reduced pain.

Benefits of Red Light Therapy

Red Light Therapy has been shown to:

  • Accelerate wound healing and aid in muscle and tissue repair
  • Reduce stretch marks
  • Minimize signs of aging, including wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots
  • Improve skin conditions like acne, acne scars, psoriasis, rosacea, and eczema
  • Soothe sun-damaged skin, reducing redness and inflammation
  • Stimulate hair growth in individuals with androgenic alopecia
  • Relieve pain and reduce inflammation

Is Red Light Therapy Safe?

Absolutely! Because Red Light Therapy is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment that simply exposes the skin to LED light, it is considered extremely safe, with little to no side effects for most people.

Professional vs. At-Home Red Light Therapy

While at-home Red Light Therapy devices are available, they often lack the power and precise wavelengths needed to achieve optimal results. Professional-grade equipment, like the devices used at Aura spa, delivers the right intensity and consistency to help you see noticeable improvements faster. Multiple sessions may be needed for the best results.

Exclusive Red Light Therapy Offer at Aura spa

For a limited time, Aura spa is offering unlimited Red Light Therapy for just $99 through the end of February 2025 at our City Vista and Reston locations.

Your sessions take place in a private room, and a Registered Nurse is on duty to answer any questions or concerns. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the incredible benefits of Red Light Therapy for yourself!

Book your session today—we can’t wait to see you glow!

 

The Healing Power of Red Light Therapy Written by: VIDA Fitness