Red light therapy basics
How to start, how long and how often, wavelengths, pulsing, and who should not use red light therapy.
I'm new to red light therapy. How should I start?
Start low and build up slowly. Everyone absorbs light differently, so your best routine comes from small changes over time, not a fixed recipe. A simple journal of your settings and how you feel makes it easy to fine-tune, and to get help from us if
How long and how often should I use red light therapy?
There's no one-size-fits-all dose. Someone who's often outdoors and in good health may need less than someone who rarely sees the sun. Find your own sweet spot by making small changes, because using too much can cancel out good results just as using
What do the different wavelengths do?
Red light (around 630 to 670 nm) is visible and works closest to the surface of the skin. Near-infrared (around 810 to 1060 nm) is almost invisible and travels deeper into tissue. All of them are thought to work the same way: light is absorbed inside
What is pulsing, and should I use it?
Pulsing delivers light in rapid bursts instead of a steady beam. It's optional, and every Rouge preset runs with it off. We haven't found strong evidence that pulsing helps or doesn't. It's there for practitioners who work with specific frequencies,
Who should not use red light therapy?
Rouge devices are general wellness devices, not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Red light therapy contains no UV light and has a very good safety profile, but check with your doctor before you start, especially if you:. Wait
Do I need to wear eye protection?
Yes, every session. Wear the goggles or eye covers that came with your device; closing your eyes isn't enough. Don't look directly into the LEDs, and never look at a device while pulsing is on.
Why do some lights look like they're not working?
They almost certainly are working. Near-infrared light is nearly invisible to the human eye, so in near-infrared modes those LEDs can look off. In red modes you'll see bright red light.
How does red light therapy work?
Red and near-infrared light from the LEDs passes through the outer layers of your skin and is absorbed by your cells, mainly by the mitochondria, the parts of the cell that make energy. Researchers believe this light helps cells produce energy more e
Is red light therapy safe?
Red light therapy is generally well tolerated, and side effects are uncommon. A few precautions:. See Who should not use red light therapy? for the full list.