What do IR-A, IR-B, and IR-C mean?
Infrared light is part of the electromagnetic spectrum and has longer wavelengths than visible light. It can play an important role in potential health benefits, such as relieving muscle pain or boosting energy.
There are three types of IR light: IR-A, IR-B, and IR-C. But what do IR-A, IR-B, and IR-C mean? And which Infrared lamp should you choose? Read on to find out!
Please note! This information is based on available scientific literature and general knowledge about light therapy and is not medical advice.
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What does IR-A mean?
Infrared radiation has short, medium, and long wavelengths. Another name for short-wave infrared radiation is IR-A. IR-A penetrates the skin more deeply than IR-B and IR-C. An IR-A Infrared lamp is therefore also considered therapeutic light.
IR-A ranges from 700 to 1400 nm (nanometers). Short-wave infrared light is closest to visible light. As a result, it has a highly effective therapeutic effect. It stimulates the mitochondria, leading to increased ATP production and an accelerated recovery process.
Applications of IR-A
IR-A can help reduce muscle and joint pain and support wound healing. It supports cell renewal and can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. It also stimulates collagen production, blood circulation, and skin recovery, which is why it is often used for scars and wrinkles.
The closer the radiation is to visible light, the shorter the wavelengths and the more powerful the radiation.
What does IR-B mean?
IR-B is medium-wave infrared light. It is farther from visible light, meaning that it has a less deep effect than IR-A. With wavelengths ranging from 1400 to 3000 nm, medium-wave radiation penetrates to the upper layer of the dermis.
Applications of IR-B
IR-B is beneficial for blood circulation, perspiration, and detoxifying the body, for example in connection with viruses.
What does IR-C mean?
IR-C is long-wave infrared light. With wavelengths ranging from 3,000 nm to 1 mm, it has the longest wavelengths of the three types. It is almost completely absorbed by the upper layers of the skin: according to the ICNIRP, IR-C does not penetrate beyond the stratum corneum, while IR-A penetrates several millimeters into the tissue. It is therefore primarily a source of heat, not therapeutic light.
Applications of IR-C
IR-C has a positive effect on relaxation, blood circulation, and general stress relief. For a cosmetic treatment or effective skin cleansing, an Infrared lamp with IR-C is often sufficient. The heat penetrates the upper layers of the skin, which is enough to open the pores.
This makes it easier to remove dirt trapped in your pores. This radiation is beneficial for the skin, helps improve blood circulation, and increases perspiration. It is primarily used for relaxation and warmth. This is also the spectrum used by an infrared sauna.
Why is making the right choice important?
It is important to know which type of infrared light best suits your needs. This allows you to make the most of its benefits. An Infrared lamp with IR-A is primarily known for its therapeutic effect. IR-B and IR-C mainly provide warmth and comfort.
Are you unsure whether to choose heat or light? Then infrared sauna or red light therapy can help you decide.
