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Wavelengths of Red Light for Therapy

Date
Updated Mar 12, 2025
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8 Min
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Article by
David Johnson
Red light wavelength ranges from 620 - 720 nm. The use of red light wavelengths today goes beyond skincare and cosmetics.

By combining different wavelengths of red light, we are developing devices that help manage more health conditions.

Here, you will learn what red light wavelength is, its benefits, and how it works. We'll also discuss the difference between red light, near-infrared wavelengths, and blue light.
Wavelengths of Red Light for Therapy

What is the Red Light Wavelength?

The invisible and colored lights on the electromagnetic spectrum all fall in different ranges of wavelengths. Wavelengths of visible lights range between 380nm – 750nm on the spectra. 

White light is a combination of wavelengths of different colors. Hence, the white light wavelength is 400 – 700nm. 

There are invisible lights below the visible colors' shortest wavelength. They are known as ultraviolet lights or UV lights. Despite having short wavelengths, some of these lights can cause ultraviolet radiation. UV lights include X-rays and gamma rays on the end of the spectrum.

Color Wavelength
Violet light 400 – 440 nm
Indigo light 440 – 460 nm
Blue light 460 – 500 nm
Green light 500 – 570 nm
Yellow light 570 – 590 nm
Orange light 590 – 620 nm
Red light 620 – 720 nm

The invisible and colored lights on the electromagnetic spectrum all fall in different ranges of wavelengths. Wavelengths of visible lights range between 380nm – 750nm on the spectra. 

White light is a combination of wavelengths of different colors. Hence, the white light wavelength is 400 – 700nm. 

There are invisible lights below the visible colors' shortest wavelength. They are known as ultraviolet lights or UV lights. Despite having short wavelengths, some of these lights can cause ultraviolet radiation. UV lights include X-rays and gamma rays on the end of the spectrum.

What is the wavelength of red light?

On the electromagnetic spectrum, red light sits in the middle ranges of 630nm and 660nm. 

Infrared light follows red light on the spectrum and has a longer wavelength. Infrared wavelengths range between 810nm and 900nm. 

As the range of infrared light increases, it separates into three types—near-infrared, mid-infrared, and far-infrared lights. Far-infrared light has the longest wavelength in the infrared spectrum.

Beyond infrared, we have microwaves and radiowaves with the longest wavelengths.

Benefits of Red Light Wavelengths

Red light therapy devices use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as their light source. Using red light wavelengths, also known as photobiomodulation, shows many benefits for physical health and as a treatment aid. The benefits of red light wavelengths include:

1. Gentle and painless

Near-infrared RLT devices use light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The procedure is gentle and painless. It does not involve painful chemicals, cuts, or injections. You will get a comfortable alternative therapy to treat your condition.

2. Multiple Applications

Red light wavelengths are versatile in their application. RLT targets the treatment of various ailments. You can use RLT to treat skin, joint pain, inflammation, and soreness, among other conditions.

3. Natural alternative

Red light waves offer a natural therapeutic alternative. The method is cheaper and doesn't pose the risk of addiction due to the use of medication. Individuals can explore the benefits of red light as an alternative to costly surgical procedures and contemporary medication.

4. No need for surgery

The use of red light wavelengths is simple. It doesn't involve costly and painful procedures. Red light therapy is a non-surgical procedure.

5. Simple and effective

Red light therapy therapeutic devices are simple and effective. You can use the device while doing your daily routines. 

6. Self-administered

Using a wavelength of red light allows you to use it at home. RLT devices provide you with accessibility and convenience. You will be capable of doing what you love during red light therapy. 

7. Works with multiple modalities

RLT enables combination while using other therapies. You can combine red light waves with electrical stimulation, chiropractic care, PEMF therapy, massage, and PEMF therapy.

8. Allows multitasking

Unlike other medical procedures, red light wavelengths allow multitasking. You can use RT devices while sitting or lying down. While at it, you can enjoy activities such as working with a laptop, watching a movie, or listening to music.

Medical Uses of Red Light Wavelengths

As we have established, light travels in electromagnetic waves. The wavelengths contain electrons, which may impact the cells of animals and plants. 

For example, light is essential in photosynthesis. In humans, photomodulation plays a role in altering how our body cells behave.

Through NASA, the gov started studying the use of red light in space 20 years ago. Space scientists have noticed its therapeutic effects when using light. Since then, there has been more research and studies on the therapeutic use of wavelengths of red light. 

There are many studies suggesting promising results in the use of red light wavelength therapy. However, there is a need for more comprehensive studies. A complete conclusion about RLT needs more clinical research.

The most beneficial red light wavelength is 660 nm. It is near the upper range of visible light. A wavelength of red light of 660 nm penetrates deeper and brings in the desired medical benefits.

That said, red light wavelengths, according to the past 20 years' studies, have the following medical benefits:

1. Improving skin health and appearance

Red light therapy is the most popular. There is proof that RLT reduces fine lines and wrinkles, promoting a youthful complexion. Red light also shows promising results in the management of other skin conditions:

  • Sun-damaged skin
  • Eczema
  • Age spots
  • Stretch marks
  • Rosacea 

2. Improvement in chronic skin conditions

RLT stimulates collagen production, a protein that keeps the skin firm and elastic. It can also help heal acne and reduce scars. 

3. Hair growth

Red light therapy shows promising results in promoting hair growth. It stimulates hair follicle proliferation, promoting hair growth. The implementation of RLT in androgenetic alopecia shows promising results in inducing hair growth.

4. Reducing training fatigue

Using red light wavelengths before exercise helps improve performance and speedy muscle recovery. RLT, after strenuous workouts, helps control muscle tendinitis or oxidative stress.

5. Reducing inflammation

Soft laser therapy effectively treats mild and moderate psoriasis. It is an autoimmune inflammatory skin condition. Its treatment using RLT requires the use of different wavelengths.

6. Bone healing

Red light stimulates blood vessels, increasing circulation. It also helps in ATP creation; thus, the cells have more energy to rejuvenate. Wavelengths of red light can help mend fractures. 

7. Improving wound healing

Red light promotes wound healing by encouraging new skin and blood vessel growth. RLT stimulates angiogenesis, the formation of blood vessels, and increases circulation and tissue repair.

8. Dental pain treatment

RLT can reduce oral pain, ulcers, and inflammation. Wavelengths of red light can be an effective therapy for oral health in the treatment of:

  • Temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD)
  • Periodontitis
  • Burning mouth syndrome
  • Stomatitis

Red Light, Near-Infrared Wavelengths, and Blue Light

Ultimately, this comes down to one question. Which light waves should you use: red, near-infrared, or blue light? 

Surface tissues and cells readily absorb red light. It is effective in improving skin health and healing by increasing collagen.

Near-infrared light, unlike red light, is invisible to the human eye. NIR light is capable of penetrating deeper. It enhances the recovery of tissues and also reduces inflammation.

Blue light has wavelengths of 450 to 495 nanometers. However, it has a higher frequency than red light. Blue light is much brighter, so it may cause sleep and headache issues when taken from an artificial source.

A combination of red and blue light has shown promising results in subsidizing some cancer treatments' side effects. Therefore, your healthcare provider can recommend using both blue and red lights.  

How Does a Red Light Work?

Different cells in our body have specific functions. Our health depends on healthy cells. In and interference with normal cellular functions, there is a resuhasipple effect throughout.

Cells need enough energy to function fully. The mitochondria in a cell generate the power that drives cells. Mitochondria produces adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a cell's primary energy.

Many studies point toward using red light waves to enhance mitochondria energy production. Mitochondria dysfunction is the inability of the mitochondria to convert raw materials into energy. Cell damage can result from injury, disease, or physical abrasion to the area.

Mitochondria dysfunction significantly contributes to a cell's poor physical function. It can result in a disease or a chronic condition.

So, how does the wavelength of red light work therapeutically? Here is how red light works:

  • During RLT treatment, chromophores within mitochondria absorb red and NIR light photons. The light particles help the mitochondria to produce more ATP. With more energy, the cells can rejuvenate and heal themselves.

An example is when skin cells like fibroblasts produce more collagen and elastin. The process helps to improve skin health and also repair muscles and joints.

  • Like photosynthesis, photonic stimulation or Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) allows cells to absorb energy in the photons. The energy helps cells to utilize more oxygen and generate more ATP.

Optimal Wavelengths for Red Light Therapy

The absorption depth of any light depends on its wavelength. A shorter wavelength has a shallower absorption depth than a long one. Light photons pass through the skin and reach their maximum absorption depths. 

Currently, many manufacturers of RLT devices offer two wavelengths. Red wavelength at 660 nm and near-infrared NIR) at 850 nm, which is effective. But if you limit yourself to the two wavelengths, you may lose the powerful benefits the device with other wavelengths provides.

Both red light and NIR wavelengths work up to depths of 4 mm. After that, the near-infrared wavelengths go slightly deeper before extinguishing.

The two-wavelength combination helps the light photons from losing energy as they pass through your body. If you add longer wavelengths in the mix, it increases the number of light photons absorbed. 

Exposing the skin to wavelengths of red light exceeding the normal 660 nm range amplifies the effects. Some devices in the market produce adjustable multiple wavelengths of red light.

Common Competitor Infrared Wavelength Options

Most RLT devices in the market use red light and near-infrared light. However, some devices limit themselves to a maximum of two wavelengths. Many operate using wavelengths in the mid-600 nm for red light and mid-800 nm for NIR. 

When selecting a device for photo biomodulation, it is wise to look for one that offers multiple wavelengths. The different wavelengths increase absorption levels in the skin and tissue.

At Redlitex, we use innovation to design products with multiple wavelengths. An example is the Redlitex Pro series, which outputs using seven wavelengths. It produces 480nm, 630nm, 660nm, 810nm, 830nm, 850nm, and 1060nm.

Why Choose Redlitex Multi-Wavelength Technology?

At Redlitex, we go beyond the industry standard by integrating advanced multi-wavelength technology into our devices. The Redlitex Pro Series stands out with its seven optimized wavelengths, delivering a superior red light therapy experience. Our devices feature:

  • 480nm (Blue Light): Supports skin health and helps combat bacteria.
  • 630nm (Red Light): Enhances collagen production and promotes skin elasticity.
  • 660nm (Deep Red Light): Reduces inflammation and accelerates wound healing.
  • 810nm (NIR): Boosts circulation and enhances tissue regeneration.
  • 830nm (NIR): Penetrates deeper for muscle and bone recovery.
  • 850nm (NIR): Supports cellular energy production and pain relief.
  • 1060nm (Far NIR): Provides the deepest penetration, targeting fat reduction and advanced healing.
Article by
David Johnson
David Johnson is a co-founder of RedliteX and a healthcare professional with extensive experience in red light therapy. He specializes in the research and application of red light therapy panels for therapeutic and wellness purposes, with a deep understanding of the science behind light-based treatments. Committed to education and evidence-based insights, he focuses on how red light therapy can support healing, pain management, recovery, and overall well-being.

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