The Science Behind Red-Light Therapy

Figure 1: A person undergoing red light therapy treatment  [1]

Written by Valerie Xu ‘28

Edited by Matthew Lam ‘27

NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) originally began experimenting with red light therapy on plant growth in space and then to help heal wounds in astronauts. Red light therapy (RLT) is already widely medically accepted in its use in photodynamic therapy. In RLT, a low-power red laser light is used to activate a photosensitizer drug that kills specific cells it is toxic to. The interaction creates a chemical reaction that destroys cells. It’s used to treat some skin conditions, including skin cancer and psoriasis, acne and warts, and other types of cancer [2]. In fact, red light therapy home tools have exploded in popularity recently, with devices from red light therapy masks to red light therapy panels [3]. 

Now, RLT is being used to treat a wide array of health conditions. RLT is thought to work by acting on the “power plant” in your body’s cells called mitochondria. This red light exposure may produce a positive biochemical effect in your cells that strengthens the mitochondria, which is where the cell’s energy is created. RLT does this by increasing the transportation of electrons, oxygen consumption, and your levels of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) [4].

By increasing the amount of ATP produced by your mitochondria, cells can do their work more efficiently, doing things like repairing skin, boosting new cell growth and enhancing skin rejuvenation. More specifically, certain cells absorb light wavelengths and are stimulated to work.

RLT has shown to have several positive properties and has been widely applied in the medical field including dermatology and sports medicine. RLT stimulates collagen production, which gives skin its structure, strength, and elasticity. In addition, it increases fibroblast production, which makes collagen, a component of connective tissue that builds skin. Other benefits include increased blood circulation to the tissue, as well as reduced inflammation in cells [5]. This can be applied to pain relief and muscle recovery. RLT can help to reduce chronic pain like arthritis because of its previously mentioned ability to lower inflammation. This is why many athletes use RLT to reduce muscle soreness after workouts and speed up recovery times [6]. The Brown Women’s Crew team is one example of a team who invests in RLT at Brown itself.

Further beneficial applications of RLT have been on cognitive function and mental health. The Burick Center for Health & Wellness reveals that extensive studies have shown the RLT can enhance cognitive function, improve memory, and boost attention and focus. These effects are believed to occur through increased blood flow to the brain and enhanced neurogenesis, the formation of new brain cells. Beyond promoting mental clarity, RLT has also been explored in its use in alleviating symptoms of depression, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. While further research is necessary, these early findings are an encouraging sign of the all-encompassing benefit of RLT [7].

It is important to note that all guidelines must be followed as outlined in the procedure when using RLT. Prolonged or high-intensity exposure outside of treatment guidelines may damage one’s skin. In addition, products for use at home may lead to misuse, causing burns, blisters or damage to one’s unprotected eyes.

However, if done right, RLT might be just the boost you need - physically and mentally. Sign me up!

References

1. The Power of Red Light Therapy for Healthier Skin  - Conejo Dermatology [Internet]. Conejo Dermatology. 2025. Available from: https://conejodermatology.com/2025/03/06/the-power-of-red-light-therapy-for-healthier-skin/

2. Cleveland Clinic. Red Light Therapy: Benefits, Side Effects & Uses [Internet]. Cleveland Clinic. 2021. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22114-red-light-therapy

3. Earley B, Wohlner L. The 8 Best Red Light Therapy Tools Of 2025, Tested By Beauty Experts [Internet]. Women’s Health. 2022. Available from: https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/g42005167/best-red-light-therapy-tools/

4. Cafasso J. Red Light Therapy: Uses, Benefits, and Risks [Internet]. Healthline. 2018. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/red-light-therapy#how-it-works

5. Rush T. What Is Red Light Therapy (RLT) and How Does It Work? [Internet]. Medicalnewstoday.com. Medical News Today; 2019 [cited 2025 Apr 28]. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325884#anti-inflammatory

6. Exploring the benefits of red light therapy [Internet]. Gundersen Health System. 2024. Available from: https://www.gundersenhealth.org/health-wellness/aging-well/exploring-the-benefits-of-red-light-therapy

7. Snow S. Photobiomodulation and Mental Clarity: Unveiling the Power of Red Light Therapy - Burick Center for Health and Wellness [Internet]. Burick Center for Health and Wellness. 2023. Available from: https://burickcenter.com/photobiomodulation-and-mental-clarity-unveiling-the-power-of-red-light-therapy/