Red light therapy works by emitting wavelengths of light in the red and near-infrared spectrum, typically ranging from 600 to 850 nanometers. This light penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the mitochondria within cells, stimulating the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of cells. Increased ATP production promotes cellular repair, regeneration, and reduces oxidative stress, leading to improved tissue healing and reduced inflammation.
References:
- Karu, T. I. (1999). “Primary and secondary mechanisms of action of visible to near-IR radiation on cells.” *Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology*, 49(1), 1-17.
- Hamblin, M. R., & Demidova, T. N. (2006). “Mechanisms of low level light therapy.” *IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics*, 12(4), 459-466.