Infrared Therapy vs Red Light Therapy – What Treatment is Right for You?

Light therapy has been used for treating a variety of different ailments for hundreds of years. In fact, people who suffer from SAD or seasonal affective disorder say that their symptoms improve during the spring and summer months when sunlight is most prevalent.

Today, light therapy is used to improve mood and regulate sleep as well as hormones. But both red light therapy and infrared light therapy are used to treat very different problems. So how do you know which one is right for you? 

Red Light Therapy

Red LED light therapy is part of the visible spectrum, specifically the 630 to the 700-nanometer range. It is generally used to treat conditions like acne or skin ulcers, but it can also be used to promote wound healing, treat skin infections and relieve pain.  

Because of the wavelength of red light on the electromagnetic scale, it is best at penetrating skin cells. It stimulates the production of collagen, which rejuvenates the skin and improves the look of wrinkles and fine lines like crow's feet around the eyes.

But this stimulation of collagen production may also be able to help those who suffer from arthritis. Red light can also help in repairing the damage done to the skin by the sun. Some experts suggest it can also help alleviate the darkness of scars on the skin as well as stretch marks. Click here to find out more about our red light LED anti-aging photofacial, plus get a special offer for a limited time.

Infrared Light Therapy

Unlike red light, infrared light is invisible and has a wavelength of 700 to 1200 nanometers on the electromagnetic scale. Instead of seeing infrared light, we feel it as heat, and the human body naturally gives off infrared energy, making it a safe treatment that is also effective.  

Because of its long wavelength, infrared light can penetrate through the skin to the deeper tissues of the body, giving it the potential to help patients who suffer from ailments caused by inflammation such as chronic pain and those with poor circulation. 

Because infrared light is felt as heat, it makes the body sweat. This makes infrared light helpful for those who want to release impurities. This heat can also stimulate the metabolism and help those trying to lose weight. Click here to learn more about our infrared sauna and our special trial offer.

Interested in red light therapy? Seattle Sun Tan offers an anti-aging photofacial therapy at all of our locations in Washington. 

Want to try infrared light therapy? We offer infrared light therapy via our infrared wellness pod or dry sauna. We also have a variety of skincare products that will help you moisturize your skin and get that healthy glow. Contact us today for more information on our various services.