How Different Light Wavelengths Support Healing in Light Therapy

Light therapy is a science-backed, non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to support the body’s natural healing process.¹

Each wavelength of light interacts with the body differently, making some more effective for pain relief while others work better for skin treatments. In this blog, we’ll discuss the most important types of light used in therapy.

What Are Light Waves in Therapy?

Light waves are a form of energy that travels in waves of varying lengths, known as wavelengths, which are part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Some types of light, like red, blue, and green, are visible to the human eye. Others, like near-infrared light, are invisible but can penetrate deeper into the body, reaching muscles and tissues beneath the skin.

Because light interacts with the body in different ways, it can also be used as a therapeutic tool. Light therapy, or phototherapy, uses specific wavelengths to stimulate the body’s natural healing process. Light energy stimulates cellular activity when absorbed by the body, making phototherapy a reliable solution for improving recovery, skin health, and pain management.

Breaking Down the Light Spectrum

Light wavelengths are measured in nanometers (nm), which measures the distance between light waves. The wavelength determines how light interacts with the body: shorter wavelengths, like blue light, stay near the surface, while longer wavelengths, like near-infrared light, reach deeper tissues.

Below is a breakdown of the main types of light used in therapy and their benefits:

• Blue Light (450-495 nm): Blue light works on the skin’s surface and is commonly used for acne treatment.² It helps by:
• Killing acne-causing bacteria and reducing oil production
• Clearing blemishes and improving skin tone
• Helping with skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis
• Yellow and Green Light (495-590 nm): These wavelengths are sometimes used in therapy settings, but research on their effectiveness is limited.³
• Far-Infrared Light (Above 1,100 nm): Far-infrared light is mainly used in saunas⁴ and wellness devices. It helps with:
• Detoxification by increasing sweat production
• Blood circulation, improving oxygen and nutrient flow
• Muscle relaxation and stress reduction
• Red and Near-Infrared Light (620-1,100 nm): Red and near-infrared light are widely used in phototherapy:
• Red light (620-700 nm) improves skin health, boosting collagen, enhancing elasticity, and promoting wound healing.
• Near-infrared light (700-1,100 nm) reaches deeper tissues, reducing pain and inflammation while aiding recovery.
• Together, these wavelengths support skin rejuvenation, pain relief, and muscle recovery.⁵

Why Infrared Light Stands Out

Infrared light is popular in medical and wellness treatments because of its ability to reach areas that other treatments cannot. It has been integrated into sports recovery, physical therapy, and pain management, with benefits including:

• Deeper Penetration: Infrared light can reach deep into muscles, joints, and tissues⁶. Because it works below the skin’s surface, it addresses pain at its source rather than just masking symptoms.
• Cellular Activation: Infrared light stimulates the mitochondria in cells, helping them produce more ATP (energy)⁷. ATP powers cell function, and increased ATP production helps cells repair damage, reduce inflammation, and speed up recovery.
• Safe and Non-Invasive: Infrared therapy is FDA-cleared, painless, and safe for all skin types⁸. As a non-invasive option, it supports healing naturally, without medications or surgery. It also does not use heat or harmful UV rays, making it a comfortable and effective treatment for people of all ages.

At Light Lounge, we use professional-grade infrared light devices. Our science-backed approach ensures each session helps you recover faster, feel better, and support your long-term health.

See the Benefits of Light Therapy for Yourself

Light therapy works with your body to reduce pain, ease inflammation, and support recovery without requiring invasive procedures or long recovery periods. Infrared light, in particular, reaches deep into muscles and joints, offering lasting relief.

At Light Lounge, we focus on science-driven, results-oriented treatments designed to improve movement, comfort, and overall well-being. Our professional-grade infrared technology offers a proven way to support healing and performance.

Experience the benefits for yourself. Book your first session free today!