From influencers rocking futuristic light masks to wellness experts raving about skin and body rejuvenation, red light therapy has taken the self-care world by storm. But what exactly is red light therapy? And does the idea that simply exposing your skin to certain wavelengths of light can reduce wrinkles, clear acne, and even relieve muscle soreness actually hold up?
Spoiler alert: The science-backed benefits of red light therapy are real. This non-invasive treatment works beneath the surface to support both skin health and full-body wellness. Let’s shed a little light on how this treatment works, what it can do, and how Massage Envy has made red light therapy an option for you.
What does red light therapy actually do?
It’s easy to be skeptical. After all, many of us spend plenty of time under LED lights every day with zero noticeable benefits. But red light therapy treatment is different — because it beams wavelengths of light within an ultra-specific range at your skin.[1]
Back in the late 1980s, NASA began experimenting with newly developed LED technology to study its effect on plant growth. While the research focused on stimulating photosynthesis with certain wavelengths of light, something unexpected happened. Scientists working under the LEDs noticed that cuts and wounds on their hands seemed to heal faster. This accidental discovery sparked a wave of research into how specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light could provide potential health and skin care benefits.
Today, red light therapy is widely used in skin care and wellness. This non-invasive treatment works by delivering low-level wavelengths of red and near-infrared light deep into the skin and tissues. This light is believed to stimulate your mitochondria (the powerhouse of your cells!), helping them produce more energy.[2]
Let’s take a closer look at some of these red light therapy benefits.
Benefits of red light therapy
The benefits of red light therapy are more than surface level. Whether you're recovering from an intense workout, dealing with daily aches, or simply want to look and feel your best, certain red light treatments can support:
- Reducing wrinkles: Helping smooth out wrinkles and restoring skin’s youthful appearance[3]
- Muscle soreness relief: Helping ease everyday muscle strains[4]
- Everyday pain and stiffness relief: Supporting mobility and comfort by helping reduce everyday aches and pains[5]
Red light therapy options at Massage Envy
While the benefits of red light therapy are clear, not all treatments are created equal. DIY or budget-friendly gadgets might set the right ambiance, but we recommend research-backed, advanced construction to get more than just time sitting under a red light bulb.
For real results, explore one of the options below at a Massage Envy franchised location, featuring professional-grade technology:
Nourishing Light Treatment Powered by LightStim®
Massage Envy’s Nourishing Light Treatment combines LightStim’s professional-grade LED light therapy with a professional facial from an
expert esthetician for ultimate skin rejuvenation. Available at select Massage Envy franchised locations, light therapy can also be added as an enhancement to another advanced skin care service. A Nourishing Light Treatment uses multiple wavelengths of Amber, Light Red, Dark Red, and Infrared LEDs that can help:
- Maintain skin’s youthful glow
- Improve the appearance of facial wrinkles
By pairing the soothing warmth of LED light therapy treatment with a facial massage utilizing chilled cooling globes, this treatment leaves you feeling refreshed, radiant, and relaxed.
Full Body LED Light Therapy
For those looking to help ease muscle soreness, joint stiffness, and overall wellness, select Massage Envy franchised locations offer Full Body LED Light Therapy powered by LightStim®. This self-service, non-invasive treatment invites you to relax on a warm, full-body LED light therapy table and let the wavelengths of red and infrared light work their soothing magic. Through a combination of Light Red, Dark Red, Infrared, and Deep Infrared LEDs, this service can help:
- Relax muscles and ease joint stiffness
- Temporarily relieve minor aches and pains
- Temporarily increase local blood circulation
The availability of Full Body LED Light Therapy is currently limited to 30 locations — check to see if it’s near you!
FAQs
Do dermatologists approve of red light therapy?
Yes! The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends red light therapy as a non-invasive way to support skin health and healing.
Is it safe for all skin types?
This treatment is gentle, non-invasive, and safe for most skin tones and types. Make sure to talk with your esthetician about any concerns you have about your skin before your session.
Who should avoid red light therapy?
While generally safe, those with certain medical conditions (such as photosensitivity disorders) or those taking medications that increase light sensitivity should consult with a healthcare provider first.
How often can I use red light therapy?
There is no limit to how often you can experience red light therapy. In fact, consistency is key! Start off gradually to see how your skin responds to therapy, and talk to your esthetician about when to schedule your next appointment and what you can do to help extend the benefits at home.
See the light at a Massage Envy location near you
LED light therapy might seem like something out of a science fiction story, but the research and results indicate that the future has already arrived. Whether you’re supporting your skin or helping soothe sore muscles, Massage Envy makes it easy to experience the benefits of red light therapy. Pair it with a massage or facial for the ultimate self-care session.
Book an appointment at a franchised location near you today and get glowing!