Red and Infrared light: Is it dangerous, and are there any side effects?
The lamp is ready on the cabinet, but first you want to know what it does to your skin. With normal use, red light and Infrared light are safe. No UV radiation is involved, so there are no UV burns and no DNA damage. Side effects mainly occur with improper use: skin irritation, or a burn if you use a heat-emitting infrared lamp too close to the skin or for too long. Protect your eyes during treatments around the face, and consult your doctor first if you have a medical condition or take medication. Below, you can read what can happen with each type of light and how to prevent it.
Infrared and red light therapy are becoming increasingly popular, and not without reason. Scientific studies show that these light therapies can offer various health benefits.
But is it dangerous, and are there any side effects? These are questions we often hear from our customers. In this article, we provide a clear answer. Read on and discover all the facts!
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Please note: this information is based on scientific sources, customer experiences and our own knowledge of light therapy. It is not medical advice. If you take medication, have a medical condition or are unsure, talk to your doctor or a specialist first.
Is red light therapy dangerous?
Red light therapy (RLT) is known for its safety and effectiveness. The lamps use non-ionizing red light that penetrates deep into the skin to stimulate cell repair and collagen production.
The biggest advantage? It is not harmful like UV radiation and does not cause burns or DNA damage. However, some side effects may occur if you do not use the therapy according to the instructions.
Reading tip: Red light lamps: Everything you need to know!
Possible side effects of red light
- Skin irritation: Excessive use or the use of low-quality devices can cause mild skin irritation, such as redness or itching.
- Eye damage: Direct exposure to intense red light without eye protection can cause discomfort or irritation. Always wear protective glasses during treatment.
- Long-term effects unknown: Although light therapy has been well studied, the effects of many years of use are not yet fully understood.
Red light lamps during pregnancy
Little research has been conducted on red light therapy during pregnancy. One study involving 380 pregnant women showed that it was safe for both mother and fetus. Nevertheless, pregnant women are advised to consult a doctor before starting light therapy.
How can you prevent these effects?
- Use the equipment according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Limit the treatment duration to the recommended amount, usually no longer than 20 minutes per session.
- Consult a dermatologist if you have sensitive skin or a skin condition.
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Scientific evidence
According to various scientific studies, red light therapy is well tolerated and has hardly any side effects, as long as it is used in a controlled and correct manner.
Is infrared light therapy dangerous?
Infrared light therapy (ILT) mainly targets deep tissues and muscles, making it ideal for pain relief and improving blood circulation. The light warms the skin and deeper layers without containing harmful UV radiation. Here too, the risks are minimal when used correctly.
Reading tip:Infrared therapy: Everything you need to know!
Possible side effects of infrared
- Skin burns: Excessive exposure to the heat of a heat-emitting infrared lamp can lead to burns.
- Dehydration: The heat can draw moisture from the skin and body, which can cause dehydration.
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Contraindications: People with heart problems, pregnant women, and people with skin conditions such as rosacea should exercise extra caution or avoid infrared therapy.
How can you prevent these effects?
Make sure you maintain the recommended distance from the device: for a heat-emitting infrared lamp, this is 50-100 cm, and for a red light panel, 30-50 cm.
Do not use the therapy for longer than the recommended 15-20 minutes per session.
Drink enough water to prevent dehydration.
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Scientific evidence
According to various studies, infrared light therapy is well tolerated and has few or no side effects, as long as it is used in a controlled and correct manner.
Conclusion
Red and infrared light therapy offer many benefits, such as improved skin health, pain relief, and relaxation. When used correctly, the risks are minimal and the therapies are safe for most people.
Nevertheless, it is crucial to follow the guidelines and take possible side effects such as skin irritation or burns into account. Do you have any medical conditions? Consult a doctor before starting the therapy.
Would you like to learn more about using light panels safely? Feel free to contact us or read one of our blogs about the duration, distance, and frequency.
Want to try it yourself? Explore Liroma's red light panels. You have 60 days to test at home whether it suits you.
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