Medically Reviewed by Dr. Lauren Weber, MSCP, ABOM
Red Light Therapy (RLT) has emerged as an advanced treatment in skincare and medical aesthetics, known for its remarkable ability to enhance collagen production. This non-invasive and painless therapy is popular among skincare enthusiasts and highly recommended by medical professionals for its effectiveness in improving skin health. In this comprehensive blog, we will explore the science behind Red Light Therapy and how it boosts fibroblasts (cells that make collagen and elastin), providing valuable insights into why it is a preferred treatment at Deeply Vital Medical under the guidance of Dr. Lauren Weber.
What is Red Light Therapy?
Red Light Therapy, also known as Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses Red and Near-Infrared Light to stimulate cellular function. This therapy is widely used for medical and cosmetic purposes, including skin rejuvenation, pain relief, and hair growth. Specifically, optimized wavelengths of Light penetrate the skin and are absorbed by the cells, resulting in positive therapeutic effects.
The Role of Collagen in Health
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, making up around 30% of total body protein. It plays a crucial role in building skin, muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, organs, blood vessels, and the intestinal lining. Comprised of amino acids like proline, glycine, and hydroxyproline, collagen forms a unique triple helix structure. In the skin, it provides both structure and elasticity, constituting 75-80% of its dry weight. However, collagen production naturally decreases as we age, especially with declining estrogen levels, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin. Factors such as UV exposure, pollution, smoking, and poor diet can speed up this process. Maintaining collagen levels through a healthy lifestyle and proper nutrition is vital for overall health, not just skin appearance.
How Red Light Therapy Boosts Collagen Production
Cellular Mechanisms
- Mitochondrial Stimulation: Red Light Therapy penetrates deeply into the skin, reaching the mitochondria and increasing ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production. Enhanced ATP production provides the energy necessary for various cellular activities, including fibroblast synthesis.
- Increased Blood Flow: Red Light Therapy stimulates blood circulation in the treated area. At Deeply Vital Medical, we offer whole-body panels to enhance total body circulation. Improved blood flow ensures that essential nutrients and oxygen are delivered to the skin cells more efficiently, supporting collagen synthesis and overall skin health. The enhanced blood flow also aids in the detoxification process.
- Reduced Oxidative Stress: Red Light Therapy helps to cleanse the inside of the cell and the extracellular matrix, allowing the cell to function more efficiently.
- Gene Expression: Studies have shown that Red Light Therapy can impact gene expression related to collagen production. The therapy activates specific genes responsible for producing the stem cells (fibroblasts) that produce collagen and other extracellular matrix proteins, thus improving skin structure and elasticity.
Benefits of Red Light Therapy Beyond Collagen Production
While the primary focus of this blog is on Red Light Therapy and collagen production, it’s important to note that RLT offers a myriad of other benefits:
- Reduction of Inflammation: Red Light Therapy has anti-inflammatory benefits, effectively reducing redness and swelling associated with conditions like acne, rosacea, tendonitis, bursitis, and blepharitis. RLT is anti-inflammatory for conditions like arthritis, muscle spasms, and infections.
- Accelerated Wound and Bone Healing: This therapy speeds up wound and bone healing, reduces scarring, and enhances tissue repair by stimulating the production of collagen and osteoblasts (cells that build bone).
- Improved Skin Tone and Texture: Regular RLT sessions may lead to a more even skin tone and smoother texture as increased stem cells and circulation help repair damaged skin cells.
- Pain Relief: Red Light Therapy can safely help reduce pain by treating inflammation at the cellular level. It is effective for both acute and chronic pain. Whole-body panels increase endorphins, which can help relieve pain and improve mood.
- Improved Immune Function: Whole-body RLT panels enhance the immune system.
- Deeper Sleep: Whole-body RLT panels enhance sleep quality and increase endorphin levels. Sleep is crucial for the body’s healing process.
Physician Directed Whole-Body Red Light Therapy at Deeply Vital Medical
At Deeply Vital Medical, we understand that each individual is unique and requires personalized treatment plans. Dr. Lauren Weber, founder of Deeply Vital Medical, ensures that every client and patient receives physician-directed whole-body Red Light Therapy sessions tailored to their needs. Under her guidance, with regular sessions, patients experience the full benefits of Red Light Therapy, including enhanced collagen production and improved overall skin health and well-being.
What to Expect During a Red Light Therapy Session
A typical Red Light Therapy session at Deeply Vital Medical is a relaxing and painless experience. Here’s what you can expect:
- Consultation: Before using our Red Light Therapy, we recommend a separate Health and Wellness Consultation with Dr. Lauren Weber. During this consultation, Dr. Weber will thoroughly assess your concerns and work with you to develop the most appropriate treatment plan.
- Preparation: Before the therapy, it’s important to ensure that your skin is clean and dry as Red Light and Near-Infrared Light cannot penetrate sunscreen, makeup, or clothing. You will have privacy during the therapy session, and we provide makeup remover for your use. Protective eyewear will be provided to shield your eyes from bright light. It’s worth noting that goggles are unnecessary, as Red Light Therapy is safe and beneficial for the eyes, eyelids, and surrounding area.
- Treatment: At Deeply Vital Medical, our Red Light Therapy panels will be positioned over your entire body at an optimal height based on the reasons for using the Lights. Sessions typically last between 20 to 60 minutes.
- Post-Treatment: Following your Red Light Therapy treatment, you can resume your normal activities immediately. It’s essential to stay hydrated and avoid alcohol on the day of your session, as well as steer clear of saturated fats around the time of your therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions about Red Light Therapy and Collagen Production
Is Red Light Therapy Safe?
Red Light Therapy is a safe and non-invasive treatment with no known severe side effects. It is suitable for all skin types and can be used on all body parts.
How Many Sessions Are Required to See Results?
While some individuals may notice improvements after one session, regular treatments typically achieve optimal results over several weeks. Dr. Lauren Weber will recommend a treatment schedule tailored to your needs.
Are There Any Contraindications?
Red Light Therapy is generally safe for most individuals. However, it is essential to consult with Dr. Lauren Weber or another healthcare provider if you have any underlying health conditions, such as active cancer, or if you are pregnant.
Conclusion
Red Light Therapy is a revolutionary treatment that uses Light to stimulate collagen production, improve skin health, and enhance overall wellness. The science behind Red Light Therapy is well-supported by numerous studies, demonstrating its effectiveness in boosting collagen synthesis, reducing inflammation, and promoting skin and cellular rejuvenation. At Deeply Vital Medical, Dr. Lauren Weber provides physician-directed whole-body Red Light Therapy treatments that produce beneficial results.
If you want to enhance collagen production, achieve healthier, more youthful-looking skin, feel better, experience less pain, heal faster, and have more energy, consider whole-body Red Light Therapy at Deeply Vital Medical. Maintaining a healthy diet and taking the proper supplements may also boost collagen. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Lauren Weber today and start your journey to radiant skin and optimized well-being.
For more information or to book an appointment, please visit our website or contact us directly. At Deeply Vital Medical, you can experience the transformative benefits of Red Light Therapy and whole-body collagen production.
