Red light therapy has become increasingly popular lately due to its reliable effects without being an invasive form of treatment. That said, even though it is non-invasive, it must not be a matter of negligence.
When determining the ideal dosage for your red light therapy session, it is best to consult a professional first. Taking into consideration the “Power Density x Time” formula is going to come handy for at home treatments for effective results. However, you may also want to consider the exposure, intensity, and distance from the skin to the aimed light for maximum results.
So, does this sound intriguing to you? Want to know more about red light therapy dosage and its uses? Well, stick till the end to find out.
Things You Need to Consider While Taking Red Light Therapy Dosage
When getting light therapies, you must be aware of a number of different factors that could affect the effectiveness of the therapy. Although it is deemed to be a safe and risk free treatment, the effect of it must not be taken lightly or be handled without proper knowledge.
Down below are mentioned of some other things you need to consider while taking red light therapy dosages –
Considering The Power Density x Time = Dosage Formula
Before getting exposed to any form of red light, you must take into full consideration of the formula that is – Power Density x Time = Dosage Formula. This formula is curated to help you find the sweet spot of light exposure that is both effective and safe to the skin.
The purpose for this formula is to help you identify exactly how long and at what intensity should your skin be exposed to the light. Power density helps you measure how dense or how concentrated the light is at certain points.
Knowing how long to remain exposed to the light helps determine a certain dose that effectively works and offers results. Therefore, being aware of the power density and duration of exposure could help maximize the output of the exposure within safe limits.
Considering The Exposure Site
Different areas of the body have different types of tissues and muscles. Thus, may react differently to exposure that seemed to be perfectly find at other sites.
The wavelength, frequency, and dosage of the light used on your face may react differently when used on your arms or legs.
This is because the skin on your face is much lighter and sensitive than the skin on your arms and legs.
For deeper tissue sites, ideally 850nm should be just enough to be safer and more reliable. However, you may need to increase your duration by a few minutes compared to what you would need for surface skin.
On the contrary, you may also hold the light closer to your skin approximately at 6” for the same duration as on the surface skin in order to reach deep within the skin.
Start Low And Slow
If you are new and inexperienced with light therapies, you must consult with a professional first and start the therapy at a very low exposure for a shorter period of time.
This is to allow your body to accept and allow the light to penetrate through your skin and work its magic. Regardless of where you are aiming the light at, it is recommended to begin at the lowest setting and at a safer distance in order for your body to get used to the light.
Although there is no significant proof of light therapy being harmful, in order for it to be effective, it is important not to rush or try to speed things up.
You can also try getting the therapy maybe twice a week at maximum until your body has adapted to the therapy.
Maintain Consistency
When deciding on the ideal light therapy dosage for you, it is important to remember to stick to the regime.
You can’t just decide to get the therapy done a few times a week and then miss out on the next week, and proceed on to getting the therapy the week after.
This type of inconsistency is not only a waste but also prevents the body from actually healing as intended from the therapy.
If anything, such inconsistent follow up with light therapies are most likely to slow down the healing process of the body and take much longer than expected to show any sign of results.
Having a thorough routine for light therapies and following up with it will allow the intended dosage for the red light therapy to work effectively within a reasonable amount of time.
Maintain Adequate Distance
Red light therapy is generally considered to be a safe, non-invasive, and a reliable form of treatment for a multitude of different reasons.
However, that does not mean being exposed to it for an unspecified amount of time at random dosages is safe. With light therapies, apart from the dosage, you must be aware of the frequency and wavelength the light is being emitted in.
Although red light therapies are deemed to be safe, too much of the bright light exposure may possibly damage the skin tissues, meanwhile, too dim of the light may not be effective at all.
If you are aiming the light on areas such as arms, legs, stomach, or the thighs, it is recommended to position the light about 6” away from the skin. Similarly, when aiming around the face and neck, aiming the light at about 10”-12” away is said to be the safest.
SOME FAQS YOU NEED TO KNOW
What is red light therapy, and how does it work?
Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, is a non-invasive treatment that uses red or near-infrared light to stimulate the cells in the body. It is thought to work by increasing cellular energy production, which can have various beneficial effects on tissues and overall health.
Why is it important to find the right dosage of red light therapy?
Finding the right dosage of red light therapy is crucial because it can affect the effectiveness and safety of the treatment. Too little light may not yield desired results, while too much could potentially have adverse effects.
How do I determine the ideal red light therapy dosage for my specific needs?
The ideal dosage of red light therapy can vary based on factors like the type of device used, the wavelength of light, and the specific condition being treated. It’s best to consult with a healthcare professional or follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer of your red light therapy device.
Are there any potential risks or side effects associated with the dosage of red light therapy?
Red light therapy is generally considered safe when used correctly. However, overuse or improper dosing can lead to side effects like skin irritation or eye discomfort. It’s essential to follow recommended guidelines and use protective eyewear if required.
How long does it take to see results from red light therapy, and how frequently should it be used?
The time it takes to see results from red light therapy can vary depending on the specific condition being treated. Some people may notice improvements within a few sessions, while others may require more extended treatment. The frequency of use also varies but is typically several times a week for a specified duration.
Bottom Line
There have been promising and proven results from red light therapy that has left its users shocked and baffled.
Light therapy is proven to have no side effects, no risk to the health, yet manages to be incredibly effective and healthy for everyone to use. That said, just because it has been harmless doesn’t mean it can be toyed with and used as you please.
Maintaining a consistent red light therapy dosage, frequency, duration, and distance with follow up sessions are proven to be quite effective regardless of what you are getting treated for.
That said, consultation with a professional for light therapies must always be a priority to ensure maximum result with safety.