By Dr. Allison Feldt, PT, DPT
4 min read
Red light therapy (RLT) has quickly gained attention in both wellness and medical spaces. Once considered a niche biohacking tool, it’s now supported by an expanding body of research showing its ability to support healing, skin health, recovery, and more. But what does the science really say? Let’s explore the proven benefits of red light therapy and how it can support your health.
1. Boosts Cellular Energy and Healing
At the core of RLT is its ability to stimulate the mitochondria—the “powerhouses” of your cells. This increases ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production, which fuels repair, regeneration, and overall cellular health. Studies show that this mitochondrial support can reduce oxidative stress and activate healing pathways, leading to improved recovery and reduced inflammation.
2. Speeds Up Wound Healing
One of the most studied benefits of RLT is its impact on wound healing. A 2024 meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that red light therapy significantly accelerated wound closure and reduced pain compared with standard care.² This effect has been observed in diabetic ulcers, pressure sores, and other chronic skin injuries.
3. Reduces Pain and Inflammation
RLT has demonstrated powerful anti-inflammatory effects. Research shows that it can reduce chronic pain including low back pain by decreasing inflammatory markers and enhancing circulation. Endorphin release during treatments may also contribute to improved pain tolerance.
4. Improves Skin Health and Anti-Aging
Perhaps one of the most popular uses of RLT is in dermatology. Red light stimulates collagen production, helping smooth wrinkles, improve elasticity, and reduce fine lines. A 2021 clinical trial of nearly 600 participants showed:
In addition, RLT has been studied for acne, scar reduction, rosacea, and even psoriasis, showing promising improvements in skin clarity and inflammation.
5. Enhances Muscle Recovery and Performance
Athletes and active individuals are increasingly turning to red light therapy for recovery. A review of 13 clinical trials found that RLT applied before workouts improved endurance, strength, and time to exhaustion.² It may also reduce post-exercise soreness and speed up recovery when applied after training.
6. Supports Hair Growth
RLT has also been studied as a treatment for androgenic alopecia (pattern hair loss). Multiple trials show improvements in hair thickness and density in both men and women. While more studies are needed, the majority of research points toward a positive effect on hair regrowth.
7. Cognitive and Mood Support
Emerging research suggests RLT may benefit the brain. Early studies indicate improvements in memory, cognitive performance, and mood when light is applied to the scalp, possibly due to improved mitochondrial function and circulation in brain tissue.⁴ It is also being explored as a tool for better sleep and circadian rhythm regulation.
8. Safe and Non-Invasive
Unlike UV light, which can damage skin, red and near-infrared light is non-ionizing and considered safe for regular use. Large-scale reviews involving over 2,000 participants have found minimal side effects, with occasional mild redness or warmth being the most common.³˒⁶ Eye protection is recommended during treatment to prevent sensitivity.
Final Thoughts
Red light therapy is more than a wellness trend it’s a research-backed therapy with a wide range of applications, from skin health to recovery, mood, and pain relief. While more long-term studies are needed, the current evidence strongly supports its use as a safe and effective complement to modern health practices.
References
About the author
Allison is a pelvic floor physical therapist and the founder of Body Motion PT in Edmonds. A mom who knows the aftermath of pregnancy and birth firsthand, she's on a mission to help women restore their core and pelvic floor at every stage of life.
Keep reading
Let us talk about something that gets whispered about far more than it gets addressed. The changes that happen to vaginal and pelvic tissue over the course of a life.…
Read article → Vaginal Rejuvenation, Without the Gimmicks: A Regenerative ApproachIf you have chronic low back pain, you have probably done the rounds. Stretching. Heat. Maybe massage, chiropractic, or a round of general physical therapy. Some of it helped for…
Read article → The Surprising Connection Between Back Pain and Your Pelvic FloorWomen’s healthcare is evolving. For years, many women struggling with conditions like endometriosis, painful periods, C-section scar restrictions, pelvic pain, incontinence, prolapse, and postpartum core dysfunction were often told their…
Read article → How Shockwave Therapy Is Changing Women’s Pelvic Health CareReady when you are
Let's talk it through.
Book a free discovery visit and get real answers from our pelvic health team. Every conversation stays private, respectful, and centered on you.
