Is Red Light Therapy Just a Trend — or a Game-Changer for Your Health?

Is red light therapy suddenly popping up in your conversations and social media feeds?

You might be wondering if this trending topic is actually worth your time and attention. While it may feel new in the mainstream wellness world, red light therapy (RLT) has roots going back to the 1990s—specifically, to NASA.

During long space missions, astronauts experienced slowed wound healing and reduced cell regeneration due to microgravity. To combat this, NASA researchers used specially designed red and near-infrared LED lights and discovered that specific wavelengths could stimulate cell growth and repair. The results were impressive—red light therapy accelerated wound healing by 40%, reduced pain in Navy SEALs, helped prevent bone and muscle loss in astronauts, and boosted overall cellular function and energy production.

But what exactly is red light therapy, how does it work, and can it really help you?

Red light therapy works by emitting red and near-infrared light that penetrates the skin and is absorbed by your cells. This stimulates the mitochondria—the "powerhouses" of cells—boosting energy production (ATP). As a result, cellular repair improves, collagen production increases, and circulation is enhanced. This can lead to benefits such as reduced inflammation, pain relief, faster healing, and improved skin health.

Why collagen matters:

Red light therapy is particularly known for supporting collagen production. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and a key structural component for skin, joints, bones, and connective tissue. It keeps skin firm, elastic, hydrated, and smooth, and plays a vital role in wound healing. However, collagen production naturally declines with age—and is further affected by sun exposure, stress, and diet. That’s where red light therapy can help.

Here’s how RLT supports collagen and overall skin health:

• Boosts cellular energy (ATP): Helps cells function more efficiently.
  
  

• Stimulates fibroblast activity: Fibroblasts are the cells that produce collagen and elastin.
  
  

• Reduces inflammation: Less inflammation means better tissue repair and less collagen breakdown.
  
  

• Improves circulation: More nutrients and oxygen reach the skin, aiding healing and collagen synthesis.
  
  

The best part?

Red light therapy is non-invasive, drug-free, and easy to incorporate into your wellness routine. With as little as 15 minutes, two or more times per week, you can start seeing results.

At Whole Health Center, we offer two top-of-the-line red light therapy options:

• A stand-up Hooga ULTRA 4500 full-body panel available in our serene Jade Room. Come in to use just the Jade Room, or add it pre/post any other service.
  
  

• A horizontal Hooga ULTRA 1500 panel, perfect to add on during an acupuncture session.
  
  

Our panels use the clinically proven wavelengths of 630 nm, 660 nm, 810 nm, and 850 nm—the same wavelengths studied by NASA.

Our team of experienced practitioners is here to guide you through a red light therapy plan tailored to your unique health goals. Come visit us and discover how red light therapy can support your body from the inside out.