What is Light Therapy? Understanding the Infrared Spectrum

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Our bodies are wired to use light energy. The sun's wavelengths of light trigger reactions, like producing vitamin D or boosting metabolism. These wavelengths influence health by penetrating through the skin at different depths, impacting the cells and tissues they reach. Red light, near, mid, and far infrared, are all contained within the spectrum of the sun's light, and they all provide benefits to the human body. In this post, we'll discuss the different spectrums of light therapy and its benefits.

What is Infrared Light Therapy?

Light Therapy in a cabin

Infrared light is a spectrum of light frequencies that are invisible to the naked eye, but you can feel these frequencies as they heat tissues and cells within your body. These frequencies can be divided into near, mid, and far infrared spectrums. The longer the wavelength, the lower the frequency, and thus the further the light can penetrate tissues, providing a spectrum of health benefits. Through science and technology, we have harnessed the power of the sun's light and energy in the form of infrared saunas. These saunas are usually a pod or a cabin, and through regular exposure to light therapy, they can help you relieve ailments and achieve optimal health benefits, including:

What is Near Infrared?

Near Infrared (NIR) light therapy produces wavelengths between 700 and 1200 nm to deliver energy to cells. This light generates the most heat but does not have deep penetration. Energy from NIR wavelengths is absorbed just below the surface of the skin, promoting skin renewal, cell health, and tissue growth. By triggering cell regeneration, NIR can promote healing and can help with inflammation. NIR has also been shown to help with skin revitalization, helping with acne, and diminishing fine lines and wrinkles. 

Light Therapy in a Pod

What is Mid Infrared?

In the range of 1300 nm to 3000 nm, Mid Infrared (MIR) wavelengths are longer than NIR, allowing for greater penetration into soft tissue. MIR can help with inflammation and pain and can accelerate healing. MIR triggers an expansion of the blood vessels increasing circulation and delivering more oxygen to different parts of the body. This can reduce pain and speed up the healing process, particularly in sore muscles. MIR can also be combined with Far Infrared to optimize healing and cardiovascular benefits.

What is Far Infrared?

Far Infrared (FIR) light has wavelengths between 3000 nm – 0.1 mm. FIR has the deepest penetration, specifically at reaching the deepest layer of fat cells where toxins and waste are stored. In addition to the powerful detox it provides, FIRs deep penetration triggers vasodilation, increasing blood flow throughout the body. This increased blood flow burns calories and improves blood vessel and cardiovascular functions, helping to normalize blood pressure and improve circulation. As the blood flow increases, so does the body’s core temperature. This increase in core temperature engages the immune system and creates an environment less friendly to pathogens and irregular cells. FIR also triggers healing in joints and deep tissues and relieves pain and inflammation.  

How to Choose the Right Therapy for You

Choosing the right light therapy for you will depend largely on your needs. There are overlapping benefits to each therapy, and light therapy always offers cumulative results. We can help you define the perfect therapy and customize the experience to your specific needs. Contact us to schedule your personalized session and start experiencing the benefits of light therapy today.

1201 Liberty Pike,
Ste. 121, Franklin, TN
615.614.3461