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What Is the New Research on Red Light Therapy (Photobiomodulation)?

Photobiomodulation Red Light Therapy at Deeply Vital Medical

Medically reviewed by: Dr. Lauren Weber, MSCP, ABOM

Red Light Therapy (RLT), also known as Photobiomodulation (PBM), has become one of the most talked-about non-invasive wellness treatments in recent years. Once seen as a niche option, it is now supported by a growing body of scientific research highlighting its safety and wide-ranging benefits from skin rejuvenation to cognitive support. For patients at Deeply Vital Medical, the ever-increasing body of evidence underscores the growing popularity of Red Light Therapy in New York, NY, as a preferred choice for individuals seeking natural, safe, and effective health support.

How Red Light Therapy Works

Lasers or LED Light Therapy uses specific wavelengths of Red (typically around 600 to 700 nm) and Near-Infrared Light (800-1100 nm) to penetrate the skin and reach the cells. When absorbed, these wavelengths stimulate the mitochondria the “power-warehouse” of the cell helping them produce more energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The result is improved cellular repair and regeneration, which explains why Red Light Therapy is linked to benefits in skin health, wound healing, muscle recovery, and even brain function.

While early studies hinted at these possibilities, the latest research paints an even clearer picture of how effective this treatment can be.

1. Skin Rejuvenation and Anti-Aging Effects

One of the most exciting areas of new research is in Red Light for skin rejuvenation. A 2023 clinical study by Virginie Couturaud followed 20 women over the course of three months as they received regular LED light sessions. The results showed measurable improvements in skin firmness, elasticity, and overall tone. Wrinkle depth was reduced, complexion became more even, and these changes persisted for weeks even after treatment stopped.

This supports earlier findings that anti-aging Red Light Therapy boosts collagen production while reducing inflammation two factors that are crucial for keeping the skin youthful. For individuals seeking smoother, healthier-looking skin without invasive procedures, the science is now backing what many patients already report anecdotally.

At Deeply Vital Medical, many patients explore LED Light Therapy as a non-surgical complement to their skincare regimen, especially those wanting alternatives to more invasive treatments.

2. Mitochondrial Health and Cellular Vitality

One of the most critical areas of current research is how Red Light Therapy supports mitochondrial health. A 2022 review published in Frontiers in Neurology by Cardoso and colleagues highlighted how Red and Near-Infrared Light directly stimulates an enzyme inside the mitochondria called cytochrome c oxidase. When activated, this enzyme helps the cell’s “powerhouses” produce more ATP energy, while also triggering processes that reduce oxidative stress.

The study noted that this combination greater energy output and less oxidative damage creates an environment where cells can repair and regenerate more effectively. These findings explain why Red Light Therapy has been linked to benefits ranging from better tissue recovery to overall improvements in cellular performance.

For individuals interested in natural ways to boost energy and support wellness, this research provides scientific grounding for what many patients already feel after sessions: more vitality, quicker recovery, and healthier-looking skin.

3. Addressing Acne and Skin Concerns

Beyond wrinkle reduction, the new research also shows positive outcomes for acne. A controlled study published by JAMA Dermatology with 216 participants tested the use of at-home Red and Blue LED devices over several weeks. The results showed a 45% reduction in acne lesions, making it one of the most promising non-drug approaches for clearer skin.

The mechanism here is twofold: Red Light reduces inflammation, while Blue Light targets the bacteria that trigger breakouts. When combined, patients see both immediate and long-term improvements in skin clarity. For those struggling with persistent acne or sensitive skin that doesn’t tolerate traditional medications, Red Light Therapy benefits provide a safe and soothing option.

At Deeply Vital Medical, our face panel is equipped with Blue Light, as well as Red and Near-Infrared Light. 

4. Hair Growth and Scalp Health

Another fascinating development is in the area of hair restoration. A 2021 study conducted at Fudan University (Huashan Hospital, Shanghai) examined the effects of 650 nm Red Light on human hair follicles.

The Near Infrared Light Therapy stimulates dormant hair follicles and increases hair density in both men and women. Some research suggests that light-based devices perform on par with conventional treatments like minoxidil or finasteride, but without the side effects or the mess! 

By reducing scalp inflammation and supporting follicle energy production, Red Light Therapy provides an avenue for healthier, fuller hair. While not a miracle cure for all types of hair loss, these findings expand the potential uses of light-based therapy in dermatology.

5. Neurological and Cognitive Benefits

The most surprising findings come from studies on brain health. Researchers exploring transcranial photobiomodulation the use of Red Light Therapy applied directly to the head have reported improvements in memory, attention, and even mood.

One trial by Saltmarche et al., conducted in 2017 with patients experiencing mild dementia, found that combining intranasal and cranial Red Light applications led to measurable cognitive improvements. It is important to note that this is an exciting but still early-stage field of research. These results are significant, pointing toward potential supportive care for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, traumatic brain injury, or even menopausal or post-COVID brain fog.

For patients in New York seeking holistic approaches to brain health, Deeply Vital Medical offers whole-body Red Light Therapy, to explore under physician guidance.

6. Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery

Beyond aesthetics and cognition, Red Light Therapy for pain is gaining renewed scientific attention. A 2025 review published in Applied Sciences has confirmed its ability to ease some conditions. By stimulating blood flow and reducing inflammation, light therapy helps decrease pain signals while accelerating the body’s natural repair process.

Athletes are also turning to LED light therapy as a recovery tool. In athletic settings, RLT is often applied before a workout (pre-conditioning) to enhance performance and resistance to fatigue, and afterward to promote muscle regeneration and reduce soreness. This supports performance without reliance on medication.

Patients at Deeply Vital Medical often report not only visible changes in their skin but also deeper systemic improvements, including less stiffness, faster healing, better sleep, and increased energy in daily activities.

A Versatile, Non-Invasive Option

What makes the recent findings particularly exciting is the breadth of Red Light Therapy benefits. Unlike many treatments that focus on one condition, Red Light Therapy works at the cellular level, making it adaptable across many health concerns.

Whether the goal is:

  • Smoother skin and fewer wrinkles
  • Clearer complexion, free of acne
  • Support for hair density
  • Pain reduction and better mobility
  • Faster recovery after workouts
  • Potential cognitive support

Whole-body Red Light Therapy offers non-invasive support with no downtime.

Why Choose Deeply Vital Medical

At Deeply Vital Medical, we integrate the latest research into how we deliver care. Our commitment is to provide treatments that are safe, science-backed, and designed to enhance overall vitality. The promising data behind optimal aging Red Light Therapy and its applications for skin, pain, and cognitive support make it an excellent addition to our range of wellness services.

Patients in New York, NY, who want to explore this treatment can schedule a free phone consultation with  Dr. Lauren Weber to discuss whether Red Light Therapy is the right choice for their needs.

Ready to Experience the Benefits?

The newest research confirms what many patients have already experienced firsthand: Red Light Therapy is more than a wellness trend it’s a scientifically supported approach with wide-reaching benefits. From optimal-aging and skin rejuvenation to pain relief and even cognitive health, the evidence continues to grow.

For those seeking a safe, non-invasive, and effective way to support their health and appearance, whole-body Red Light Therapy in New York, NY, is a treatment worth considering. At Deeply Vital Medical, we are proud to bring these benefits directly to our patients, helping them feel and look their best with care rooted in science. 

Sources (Fuller Citations)

  • Virginie Couturaud (Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023)
  • Frontiers in Neurology by Cardoso and colleagues (2022)
  • JAMA Dermatology
  • Fudan University (Huashan Hospital, Shanghai) (2021)
  • Saltmarche et al (Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 2017)
  • Applied Sciences (2025)
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