Wellness supplements part 3: Infrared light

I LOVE watching daily routine videos on tiktok-not sure why but I find them interesting sometimes even soothing. In these I often see the creator going through their facewash/skin routine where they're using a red light mask on their face at some point. I often have been interested in getting one for myself but up until now I haven't looked into the benefits, risks, and overall science behind the red light. 

Let's dive into it shall we. 

1. Light and the electromagnetic spectrum have an affect on us at a cellular level. Don't believe me? Think about how UV rays can have a negative effect on our skin cells by damaging DNA leading to cells replicating incorrectly and causing cancer. Infrared and red light is in a different place on the electromagnetic spectrum and at this level through research has been associated with positive benefits on our cells. Below is a diagram of the electromagnetic spectrum and how the wavelengths look different for different kinds of light rays. Take note that UV is on the opposite side of visible light than infrared. 

I've listed here multiple studies you can read and investigate further if you choose on the benefits and risk of infrared and red light therapies: 

Biological effects and medical applications of infrared radiation

A Controlled Trial to Determine the Efficacy of Red and Near-Infrared Light Treatment in Patient Satisfaction, Reduction of Fine Lines, Wrinkles, Skin Roughness, and Intradermal Collagen Density Increase

Laser Light Therapy in Inflammatory, Musculoskeletal, and Autoimmune Disease

To summarize what I found and read. Red light therapy and infrared laser in research demonstrates a promising association to lower cellular inflammation and stimulating tissue growth and repair. Some other associations to it's uses and efficacy include: 

• promoting collagen production and associated fibroblasts

• increasing blood circulation

• improve healing

• reduce skin changes such as stretch marks, wrinkles, age spots, scarring

• improves symptoms associated with psoriasis, rosacea, and eczema, acne

• improve hair growth

• prevent cold sores

• relieve inflammation and pain associated with conditions such as tendonitis, arthritis, and carpal tunnel

Risks and considerations with red light therapy: 

It's safety has been proven with short term use however long term is unknown. There is a risk of skin damage and potentially burns with use of anything on the light spectrum. It's recommended whatever red light or infrared light device you're using to follow strictly with application and use guidelines.