The Science

The Science

The Science Behind Red Light Therapy

Red and near-infrared light therapy (also known as photobiomodulation) is a non-invasive wellness technology backed by decades of scientific research. Using specific wavelengths of light, it works at a cellular level to support your body's natural repair, recovery and energy production.

Unlike UV light, red and near-infrared light do not damage the skin. Instead, they penetrate the body's tissues where they are absorbed by specialised structures inside your cells called mitochondria.

This process helps support healthy cellular function, allowing your body to perform at its best.

How it Works

Every cell in your body requires energy to function. That energy comes from tiny structures called mitochondria, often referred to as the "powerhouses" of the cell.

When clinically studied red (660nm) and near-infrared (850nm) wavelengths are absorbed by the mitochondria, they help stimulate the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) — the primary source of cellular energy.

With more available energy, your cells can perform essential functions more efficiently, including repair, regeneration and maintaining healthy tissue.

This is why red light therapy has become increasingly popular for supporting recovery, skin health, muscle performance and overall wellbeing.

Red and NIR light penetrates the skin

Absorbed by mitochondria

More ATP (energy) is produced

Cells function better, supporting overall health

Why 660nm and 850nm?

Not all wavelengths of light produce the same biological response.

Extensive scientific research has identified 660 nanometres (red light) and 850 nanometres (near-infrared light) as two of the most widely studied wavelengths for supporting human health and wellness.

Illuminate devices combine both wavelengths to deliver comprehensive therapy across the skin, muscles and deeper tissues.

660nm Red Light

Red light is primarily absorbed by the upper layers of the skin where it supports collagen production, healthy skin function and overall skin appearance.

Potential benefits include:

Supports collagen production
Helps improve skin tone and texture
Encourages natural skin renewal
Promotes healthy circulation

850nm Near-infrared Light

Near-infrared light penetrates deeper beneath the skin to reach muscles, joints and connective tissues.

Potential benefits include:

Supports muscle recovery
Helps reduce exercise-related soreness
Supports joint comfort
Promotes healthy circulation

The Research

Backed by decades of scientific research

Photobiomodulation has been studied for more than 50 years and continues to be an active area of scientific research.

Today, thousands of peer-reviewed studies have investigated the effects of red and near-infrared light across a wide range of health and wellness applications.

Research has explored areas including:

Skin rejuvenation
Muscle recovery
Exercise performance
Joint health
Sleep quality
Circulation
Inflammation
Cellular energy production
Healthy ageing

While research continues to evolve, the growing body of evidence has made red light therapy one of the most widely researched light-based wellness technologies available.

The Research

What does the research suggest?

Current scientific literature suggests red and near-infrared light therapy may help support:

✓ Increased cellular energy (ATP production)

✓ Healthy collagen synthesis

✓ Skin appearance and texture

✓ Muscle recovery following exercise

✓ Joint comfort and mobility

✓ Healthy circulation

✓ Sleep quality

✓ Overall wellbeing

Results vary between individuals and depend on factors such as consistency, lifestyle and treatment protocols.

Safety

Is Red Light Therapy Safe?

Red and near-infrared light therapy is considered a non-invasive and drug-free wellness technology.

Unlike ultraviolet (UV) light, red light therapy does not tan the skin or cause UV-related skin damage.

When used as directed, it is considered very safe with no known long-term side effects.

All Illuminate devices feature clinically studied wavelengths and are designed with safety, quality and ease of use in mind.

Illuminate Devices are:

Low EMF
Flicker-free
Clinically studied wavelengths (660nm & 850nm)
Manufactured to the highest quality and safety standards

Always follow the user manual and safety guidelines provided.

What to Expect

Results happen through consistency

Like exercise or healthy nutrition, red light therapy delivers the greatest benefits when used consistently over time.

Many users incorporate red light therapy into their daily wellness routine to support long-term health and recovery.

Although every individual is different, many people begin noticing improvements within several weeks of regular use.

For best results we recommend:

Use consistently 3–7 times per week
Sessions between 10–20 minutes
Follow the recommended treatment distance
Be patient and consistent

Science References

The information presented on this page is based on published research into photobiomodulation and red light therapy. We encourage customers to explore the growing body of scientific literature available through peer-reviewed journals.

Some key areas of research include:

• Hamblin, M.R. — Photobiomodulation and cellular energy

• Avci et al. — Red light therapy and skin rejuvenation

• Chung et al. — Mechanisms of photobiomodulation

• Leal-Junior et al. — Exercise recovery and performance

• Salehpour et al. — Neurological applications of photobiomodulation