Red Light Therapy (RLT) is a form of low-wavelength red light which shows promise in the treatment of various skin conditions. Reputable medical and scientific sources have published small-scale studies with some encouraging results on the use of RLT, yet insurance companies—and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS)—agree that more study is necessary in order for RLT to be widely accepted by the medical community and covered under consumers’ health plans.
RLT and how it works
RLT (sometimes referred to as low-level laser light therapy) utilizes a form of low-wavelength red light to provide stimulation to mitochondria (human cells’ resident energy factories). These microscopic powerhouses produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the source of energy for every cell in the body. More efficient and productive mitochondria can lead to improved function on multiple levels, including the repair and healing of cellular damage.
While laser therapy causes “controlled damage” to the outer layer of the skin (epidermis) to stimulate healing, RLT is shown to travel approximately 5mm below the epidermis, thus avoiding the risk of burns and similar side-effects associated with lasers.