By Coach Patrick Marques
Part 1: What is RLT / Part 2: How to use RLT / Part 3: Far Infrared and Buying Guide
In the evolving health and wellness landscape, infrared and heat-related therapies have become increasingly popular for their wide range of benefits. From enhancing cellular activity to stimulating the production of ATP and heat shock proteins, the physiological effects of these therapies can significantly impact overall health. This article will guide you through the different types of infrared therapies—near, far, and visible—and help you decide which device or sauna might best suit your needs.
The Spectrum of Choices: Near, Far, and Visible Infrared
Near-Infrared Light Therapy (NIR)
Near-infrared light ranges from 700 to 1400nm and is invisible to the naked eye. It penetrates deeper into the tissues than visible red light, reaching muscles, nerves, and bones. NIR is highly effective in promoting cellular repair and regeneration, increasing mitochondrial activity, which boosts ATP production—the energy cells need to function optimally.
Physiological Effects:
Enhances mitochondrial function and ATP production (Hamblin, 2016).
Supports muscle recovery and reduces inflammation.
Stimulates healing processes, particularly in deeper tissues.
Red Light Therapy (Visible Infrared)
Red light therapy typically involves wavelengths from 620nm to 700nm. This spectrum is absorbed by skin layers, making it ideal for treating surface issues like skin health, wound healing, and improving skin complexion.
Physiological Effects:
Skin look and health: Collagen production(Wunsch, 2014)
Skin vitality and repair.
Far-Infrared Therapy
Far-infrared wavelengths are much bigger and primarily generate heat. Far-infrared saunas are popular for their ability to produce a deep, penetrating heat that encourages profuse sweating at lower temperatures than traditional saunas. This therapy is excellent for detoxification, relaxation, and stimulating the production of heat shock proteins, which are crucial for cellular repair and protection against stress.
Physiological Effects:
Tissue repair and protection against oxidative stress (Brodmerkel, 2016)
Improves circulation, enhancing oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues.
Choosing the Right Device or Sauna
Consider Your Health Goals
Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery: If you want to alleviate pain or enhance muscle recovery, infrared/near-infrared therapy devices are ideal due to their deep tissue penetration.
Skin Health and Anti-aging: Devices that emit red light therapy are preferable for skin-related goals such as improving complexion, reducing wrinkles, or healing wounds.
Detoxification and Relaxation: A far-infrared sauna might be the best choice for detoxification and relaxation.
Features to Look For
• Wavelength: Ensure the device or sauna specifies the wavelength range and matches your health needs.
• FDA Approval: Look for FDA-cleared devices to ensure safety and efficacy.
• Intensity and Coverage: Consider the device's power output and coverage area. Larger panels or full-size saunas may be more effective for treating larger body parts or the whole body.
• Build Quality and Warranty: Choose reputable brands that offer solid warranties and customer support.
Top Picks for Infrared Devices and Saunas
1. Joovv: Offers a range of FDA-approved red and near-infrared light therapy devices suitable for various therapeutic needs.
2. Sunlighten Saunas: Known for high-quality far-infrared saunas, ideal for deep tissue relaxation and detoxification.
3. DNA Vibe: Provides powerful red and near-infrared light therapy, microvibration for instant pain relief, and magnetic therapy to enhance tissue healing in a convenient and portable wrap for specific areas.
Conclusion
Whether you're seeking to boost cellular activity, enhance skin health, or relax and detoxify, there is an infrared or heat-related therapy out there for you. By understanding the different types of therapies and their physiological effects, you can make an informed decision about which device or sauna to purchase to meet your health and wellness goals. Always ensure that any device or treatment approach is backed by credible research and aligns with your specific needs for the best results.
Redlight Products to consider:
JOOVV: https://lddy.no/54gn
DNA Vibe (combo RLT, vibration, and magnetic therapy): http://dnavibe.com/neuroathlete
Resources:
Hamblin M. R. (2017). Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation. AIMS biophysics, 4(3), 337–361. https://doi.org/10.3934/biophy.2017.3.337
Wunsch, A., & Matuschka, K. (2014). A controlled trial to determine the efficacy of red and near-infrared light treatment in patient satisfaction, reduced fine lines, wrinkles, skin roughness, and increased intradermal collagen density. Photomedicine and laser surgery, 32(2), 93–100. https://doi.org/10.1089/pho.2013.3616
Brodmerkel, D. W., & Taylor, J. A. (2016). Passive heat therapy: a ready route to vascular health?. The Journal of physiology, 594(18), 5039–5040. https://doi.org/10.1113/JP272933
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