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Top 10 Evidence-Based Uses for Red Light Therapy
Red Light Therapy, also known as photobiomodulation (PBM), may be used to support the health of cells and tissues throughout the body. Defined as the use of red and/or near infrared (NIR) light to influence biology, most modern PBM devices emit both types of light, which have similar effects but penetrate the body to different depths. Red light is visible to the human eye, while infrared light is not, although it can be felt as heat. While early research on PBM used primarily lasers, more recent research has found that LED’s can also be used, which also have the advantage of applying light to a larger area of the body as well as an improved safety profile. The use of LED in red/NIR devices has also greatly reduced the cost of treatment, making it something that can be done in the comfort of one’s own home. There are many mechanisms by which PBM affects the body, with the most well-known being increasing the synthesis of ATP (the energy currency of the cell) through effects on the electron transport chain in the mitochondria. The link between PBM and improved mitochondrial function has been well established. This increased supply of energy can be used to do all kinds of cellular work, including healing, growth, maintenance, and repair. There are thousands of published studies showing the efficacy of PBM for a wide range of health applications, ranging from general support for healthy cells to improving brain function in Alzheimer’s Disease patients. Here, we will review the top 10 evidence-based uses for PBM, as supported by scientific research: Reduce inflammation: Red and NIR light have anti-inflammatory effects, and unlike anti-inflammatory medications (such as NSAID’s), do not cause side effects. Studies have found that PBM affects levels of many molecules involved in inflammation, including reactive oxygen species, reactive nitrogen species, and prostaglandins. The ability of PBM to reduce inflammation suggests that it could have therapeutic potential in many chronic diseases that involve inflammation, including arthritis, Alzheimer’s Disease, and depression. Improve skin health: Red/NIR lights are being widely used in spas and dermatology clinics for their effects on skin health, in addition to at-home use. As already mentioned, PBM can improve the appearance and healing of scars, and it is also helpful in the treatment of wrinkles, psoriasis, acne, rosacea, burns, and herpes. As well, PBM has been found to increase hair growth through stimulation of the hair follicle found in the dermis of the skin. Improvements in skin health are associated with increased collagen production in the dermis of the skin. Decrease pain: Pain creates a huge burden of disability, both personal and economic. There is evidence that PBM decreases many types of pain, including knee, neck, low-back, temporomandibular joint, and post-surgical pain. PBM can also reduce pain associated with arthritis and fibromyalgia. There are several mechanisms of pain reduction by PBM, including decreasing inflammation, decreasing oxidative stress, reducing the sensitivity of neurons, and decreasing the transmission of pain related nerve impulses. Improve athletic performance: PBM has been found to improve athletic performance in several ways, including decreasing muscle damage associated with exercise, decreasing muscle fatigue, improving muscle capacity, and speeding post-exercise recovery. PBM increases ATP production, which is needed for exercising muscles. PBM also helps muscles through increasing the synthesis of antioxidants, reducing inflammation, and decreasing synthesis of lactic acid (although not all studies have found this effect). Animal research has also shown that PBM can reduce muscle loss associated with trauma. Reduce depression and anxiety: Depression and anxiety are highly prevalent mental disorders, and currently available pharmaceutical medications have limited efficacy and associated side effects. PBM has been shown to reduce depressive symptoms in both humans and animals, likely due to improvements in mitochondrial function, increased brain blood flow, and decreased neuroinflammation. A 2009 clinical trial found a reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety in as little as a single session of PBM. The effects of PBM on mental health are so compelling that a recent systematic review of PBM concluded that it is “strongly recommended” as a treatment for moderate depressive disorder and is “recommended” for the treatment of anxiety disorder. Studies of PBM and depression often apply PBM directly to the skull, while some use an intranasal approach. Improve cognitive function: PBM has been shown to improve cognitive function in both healthy and diseased patients. Clinical trials in healthy subjects have shown that PBM can improve outcomes including executive function, which consists of cognitive skills used for planning and performing tasks, as well as memory. People with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and stroke have also been shown to benefit from PBM, due to upregulation of brain repair mechanisms including the synthesis of new neurons. A recent systematic review similarly showed that PBM can help people with Alzheimer’s Disease by decreasing oxidative stress in the brain, reducing brain inflammation, and improving cognition. Speed healing from injury: It has already been mentioned that PBM has positive effects on muscle tissue, including speeding recovery from post-exercise damage, as well as on wound healing, such as from burn injuries. PBM can also speed healing from injuries to bone, including fractures and more complex bone injuries that require the use ceramic materials. Tendon injuries also benefit from PBM, with research showing that PBM increases the amount of collagen, which provides structural support during healing. Promote fat loss: A somewhat surprising effect of PBM is to promote fat loss. This is particularly true when combined with exercise. A study of obese women found that PBM combined with exercise resulted in a higher percentage of fat loss than when exercise was combined with a placebo light. Another study found similar results, along with changes in levels of a marker associated with increasing brown adipose tissue, which improves metabolism. When combined with treadmill training, PBM decreases the appearance of cellulite and increases metabolism in the thighs. In addition to effects on metabolism, PBM may also cause fat cells to release their contents into the blood, where they can be metabolized or excreted. Improve immune function: Although an in-depth investigation of how PBM affects the immune system specifically has yet to be done, there is strong evidence that PBM improves immune function, as evidenced by its beneficial effects in many immune-related disorders. For example, in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (an autoimmune disease affecting the thyroid gland), PBM improved levels of thyroid hormones and decreased the need for medication, probably due to a reduction in inflammation. Similarly, in multiple sclerosis (an autoimmune disease affecting the nervous system), PBM increased the regeneration of nerve cells and decreased markers of inflammation. PBM also improves immune function and inflammation in the oral autoimmune disease oral lichen planus. It has even been shown to improve outcomes of COVID-19 infections, likely by reducing inflammation and improving immune function. The process of inflammation is controlled by the immune system, and many disorders (such as autoimmune diseases), involve an impaired immune response. Improve sleep: Light is a primary regulator of the body’s circadian rhythm, so it is not surprising that PBM has effects on sleep. Application of PBM during wakefulness improves sleep quality in people with cognitive decline, Guillain-Barré Syndrome, fibromyalgia and stroke. Interestingly, sleep duration decreased with full body PBM in elite athletes, while other parameters such as exercise recovery improved. When PBM is applied during sleep, there is an increased clearance of waste products from the brain and improved flow of cerebrospinal fluid, which are required for optimal brain health. So, PBM is beneficial when applied when either awake or sleeping, and the benefits relate more to improving sleep quality and physiology, rather than to increasing sleep duration. This list of uses for PBM is not exhaustive. Research exploring the use of PBM is expanding into many areas of health, with exciting results being seen in areas including hypertension, polycystic ovarian syndrome, eye health, and fertility, to name but a few. Truly, the range of applications of PBM for improving health is incredibly vast and can be explained by the cellular and molecular changes induced by light exposure. If you’re interested in buying a home PBM device, you have many options. When choosing a device, first look for a one that emits both red and NIR light. Second, look at the power of the device. While many high powered PBM units are available (usually at a higher price point), research shows that when it comes to light, more is not necessarily better. This is because PBM treatment to many tissues has a “biphasic” effect, where lower levels are beneficial while higher levels are not. But you don’t want to go too low, or you won’t get the treatment effect. Many of the cheaper devices on the market are underpowered and provide very little irradiation. At Fringe, our PBM devices were designed to mimic exposure to the sun, with consideration of the range of light exposure used in scientific research. Lastly, consider the type of device that is most appropriate for your condition. PBM devices come in panels and wearable forms such as wraps, with wearables providing more flexibility in terms of application and panels being better for general irradiation of larger surfaces. For more information about Fringe light products, go to: https://fringeheals.com/shop-all-products/
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Red Light Therapy for Chronic Inflammation
Chronic inflammation has recently been proposed as being the common underlying cause of the “four horsemen of the medical apocalypse”, which are heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and Alzheimer’s Disease. Inflammation has also been suggested as a biological cause of depression. And it is a hallmark of other diseases such as arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Not surprisingly, some of the most widely used drugs are anti-inflammatory medications, both prescription and over the counter. By 2030, the global market for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) is projected to reach over 31 billion USD. However, many of these drugs have serious side effects, such as hypersensitivity reactions and ulcers. Red and near infrared light have anti-inflammatory effects, and unlike medications, do not cause harm. Studies have found that red and near infrared light affect levels of many molecules involved in inflammation, such as prostaglandins. The ability of red and near infrared light to reduce inflammation suggests that it could have therapeutic potential in many chronic diseases that involve inflammation, including arthritis, Alzheimer’s Disease, and depression. Red and near infrared light therapy devices come in panels and wearable forms such as wraps. Wearable wraps provide more flexibility in terms of application while panels are better for general irradiation of larger surfaces. Fringe makes a 12x12 inch red light panel as well as a variety of light therapy wraps that are specific to certain areas (such as the head, knee, shoulder, or elbow) as well as small and large wraps that can be used on most parts of the body. Designed to mimic the intensity of the sun using LED light chips, these products are a great addition to an anti-inflammatory wellness plan. For more information about Fringe light products, go to: https://fringeheals.com/shop-all-products/
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Red Light Therapy for Fat Loss
Although often referred to as red light therapy, most red light devices emit both red and near infrared light. While early research on red light therapy primarily used lasers, recent research has found that LED’s can also be used, which have the advantage of applying light to a larger area of the body as well as an improved safety profile. The use of LED’s has also greatly reduced the cost of treatment, making it something that can be done in the comfort of one’s own home. A somewhat surprising effect of red light therapy is to promote fat loss, particularly when combined with exercise. A study of obese women found that red light therapy combined with exercise resulted in a higher percentage of fat loss than when exercise was combined with a placebo light. Another study found similar results, along with changes in levels of a marker associated with increasing brown adipose tissue, which improves metabolism. When combined with treadmill training, red light therapy decreases the appearance of cellulite and increases metabolism in the thighs. In addition to effects on metabolism, red light therapy may also cause fat cells to release their contents into the blood, where they can be metabolized or excreted. Two devices that can be used to promote fat loss and body shaping are light panels and body wraps. Fringe makes a 12x12 inch red light panel as well as a variety of light therapy wraps, including small and large wraps that can be wrapped around areas such as the thighs and abdomen. Research has found that benefits can be seen in as little as two 30-minute sessions per week over four weeks. And remember - when using red light therapy for fat loss, it is essential to combine it with a healthy diet and exercise regime. For more information about Fringe light products, go to: https://fringeheals.com/shop-all-products/
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How Does Red Light Therapy Affect Reactive Oxygen Species and Oxidative Stress?
What are Reactive Oxygen Species? Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are oxygen containing molecules that have at least one unpaired electron. They are also referred to as free radicals. While ROS are generally regarded as “bad”, in fact they play important roles in our bodies, such as killing invading microorganisms. Short-lived ROS act as signals for the cell to carry out critical functions, and they can have a positive net effect on cellular function. All organisms that breathe oxygen produce ROS, which are a normal part of human physiology. However, ROS also have a dark side. Ideally, there is a balance between their production and removal, which is largely mediated by systems of antioxidant enzymes that are found all throughout the body. Dietary antioxidants (such as vitamin E) also help to keep ROS levels in check, and these are found widely in foods such as seeds, fruits, and vegetables. But when production of ROS exceeds their removal, the imbalance can lead to a condition known as oxidative stress. What is Oxidative Stress? Oxidative stress is defined as “an imbalance between production of oxidants and antioxidant defenses that may result in damage to biological systems”. It is a more important indicator of health than levels of ROS. An increase in ROS can paradoxically be associated a decrease in oxidative stress, especially if the activity of antioxidant enzymes is increased at the same time. In fact, an increase in ROS acts as a signal to turn up the activity of these enzymes. If the enzyme activity is greater than the increase in ROS, the net oxidative stress will be reduced. Of course, an increase in ROS can also be harmful, particularly when this increase persists over a long period of time. Oxidative stress is associated with most chronic diseases as well as ageing. How Does Red Light Therapy Affect ROS & Oxidative Stress? An increase in the production of ROS has been well documented as being associated with red light therapy. This occurs as a brief burst, with the amount produced being highly dependent on the characteristics of light exposure. The increase in ROS is due to the effects of red light therapy on cellular mitochondria, which is the main mechanism by which red light therapy exerts its beneficial effects. This begs the question: what do the ROS produced with red light therapy do in the cell? Are they harmful? How do they affect oxidative stress? The answer is complex, and four lines of evidence show that even though red light therapy can increase ROS production, this does not necessarily translate to an increase in oxidative stress. First, rather than increasing oxidative stress, the brief increase in ROS production that accompanies red light therapy is often associated with some of its benefits. For example, stem cell therapy is augmented by red light therapy as a direct result of the production of ROS. Similarly, in a review of 14 studies, red light therapy caused ROS levels to increase which helped bone cells to regenerate. An increase in ROS following red light therapy has also been shown to stimulate mitochondrial activity and to induce the growth of new brain cells. Since ROS are well known to act as signals for cells to carry out important functions, brief exposure to red light therapy can have long lasting effects. In fact, the ROS produced following red light therapy have been described as “good” reactive oxygen species. Second, studies have clearly shown that markers of oxidative stress can be decreased after red light therapy. Exercise provides a good example. In a comprehensive review of 8 studies, markers of oxidative stress as well as muscle damage, inflammation, and delayed onset muscle soreness were reduced in exercising athletes after treatment with red light therapy. These studies show that regardless of ROS levels, overall oxidative stress can be reduced with light therapy and this is associated with several benefits. Third, when it comes to oxidative stress, light intensity matters. When wounds are treated with low/moderate intensity red light therapy, markers of oxidative stress initially increase and then decrease dramatically as healing progresses. However, when wounds are treated with high intensity red light therapy, oxidative stress remains high. Similarly, levels of antioxidant enzyme activity increase with low/moderate intensity red light therapy but not with high intensity light. This suggests that low/moderate intensity red light therapy, but not high intensity reduces oxidative stress. Fourth, light intensity also matters when it comes to ROS production. In a study of stem cells, treatment with light at 5 J/cm2 increased ROS production while treatment with 2.5 or 10 J/cm2 decreased ROS production. The ROS produced at 5 J/cm2 was also associated with increased tissue regeneration. This has to do with the supply of light energy. A range of light energy will stimulate a response (measured by ROS production), but too little or too much energy will not have the same effect. This “biphasic effect” of red light therapy is well known. It is essentially a Goldilocks effect: When the dose of light is too low or too high, it is ineffective, while intermediate doses are beneficial. In fact, high doses of red light therapy may even being harmful. This may be at least partly explained by ROS production - when the light dose is too low, there is no ROS production and no beneficial downstream signaling effects. If the light dose is too high, ROS production is not balanced by their removal, and oxidative stress results. How Can I Safely Use Red Light Therapy? It is clear that treatment with red and near infrared light can produce a brief burst of ROS, and that this increase is directly associated with some of the benefits of red light therapy. However, it is also clear that excessive production of ROS is undesirable and can cause oxidative stress. Given this, how can red light therapy be used in a way that avoids overproduction of ROS? Very simply, it means not overdoing it in terms of light intensity, treatment duration, or session frequency. Here are a few general rules to follow: Use devices powered by LED, rather than laser light. Most at home devices use LEDs, and as a general rule, these are safer and lower intensity than laser light. Give preference to LED devices that are low/moderate intensity. The intensity of the sun is 20-40mW/cm2, which is a great target to aim for. High intensity red light devices should only be used for a few minutes at a time. Low/moderate intensity devices, such as those that mimic the intensity of the sun, can be used for up to 30 minutes. If using a high intensity device, limit session frequency to a few times per week. Low/moderate intensity devices can be used daily over different body parts, limiting each location to once per day. Conclusion Reactive oxygen species are generally understood to be harmful, but it’s clear that this is an oversimplification. When produced in excess, ROS are dangerous, but when production is balanced with removal, they play important roles in cellular functioning. Red light therapy can cause a brief burst of ROS, which usually decreases overall oxidative stress provided the dose of light is not excessive. When it comes to red light therapy, dose matters - and with a few simple considerations, it can be safely used to support health and well-being. For more information about Fringe light products, go to: https://fringeheals.com/shop-all-products/
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Red Light for Arthritis
Arthritis refers to a group of diseases that are characterized by inflammation. Inflammation (also known as swelling) can cause both pain and stiffness. The two main types of arthritis are osteoarthritis – where joint damage causes inflammation – and inflammatory arthritis – where inflammation itself causes joint damage. Most inflammatory arthritis conditions are autoimmune in nature. Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, but is most common in the hips, knees, and spine. For years, anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving pharmaceuticals were used as first-line therapies for arthritis, with natural therapies viewed as being less effective. However, the widespread use of opioids resulted in an epidemic of addiction that necessitated the search for new ways to deal with pain. These medications also have side effects such as GI bleeding. Given these risks, many people are turning to non-invasive therapies to fight arthritis, some of which are highly effective and have far fewer side effects than their pharmaceutical counterparts. One of these is treatment with red and near infrared light (also called red light therapy or photobiomodulation), which uses light waves at specific frequencies to decrease inflammation at a cellular level. As described by Dr. Michael Hamblin, former Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School, “one of the most reproducible effects of is an overall reduction of inflammation”. Studies have found that light therapy affects levels of many molecules involved in inflammation, including reactive oxygen species, reactive nitrogen species, and prostaglandins. This makes red light therapy well suited to treat both osteo- and inflammatory arthritis. In addition to reducing arthritis pain by decreasing inflammation, the anti-inflammatory effects of red light therapy on arthritis also yields other benefits. Inflammation in arthritis is responsible for much of the observed pathology, including cartilage breakdown. Treatment with red light therapy may have a range of positive effects, such as preserving joint function, avoiding joint deformities, and reducing drug side effects and toxicities. Fringe makes many red light products that can be used to treat arthritis, including joint wraps, rectangular wraps, and red light panels. If you are dealing with a single, region-specific concern you may prefer to get a regionally targeted red light therapy device, like the Fringe Knee/Foot/Ankle or Elbow/Wrist Wrap. However, if you are dealing with arthritis in more than one area of the body and want a device that can be used in multiple locations, a non-specific wrap (like the Fringe Red Light Therapy Wrap or Extra Long Wrap) may be preferable. The Fringe Red Light Panel can also be used to address multiple body parts, although it may be difficult to position properly for some locations, such as the feet and ankles. There are very few contraindications to red light therapy, and it can be safely used at home for the treatment of arthritis. Choose a device that suits your needs and preferred treatment conditions, and which delivers both red and near infrared light at an appropriate intensity. Combine red light therapy with an anti-inflammatory diet and supplements, regular exercise, stress management, and good sleep hygiene for best results. For more information about Fringe light products, go to: https://fringeheals.com/shop-all-products/
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Red Light Therapy for Anti Aging
Light therapy (also known as photobiomodulation) is the application of light with specific wavelengths to the body for the purposes of influencing biology. The most common form of light therapy uses red light, which is visible as the color red, and/or near infrared light, which is not visible but can be felt as heat. Blue light is also often used in light therapy for skin conditions. Different colors of light have different depths of skin penetration, with red light and near infrared light penetrating the deepest. Light therapy can support skin health in a variety of different ways. Through its effects on mitochondria, light therapy can increase cellular energy production and modulate oxidative stress. In the skin, this increased energy can be used to support normal processes such as collagen and elastin production. And by modulating ROS production and oxidative stress, there is a shift towards skin rejuvenation rather than skin breakdown. The anti-aging effects of light therapy are often referred to as “skin rejuvenation”. This includes outcomes like increased collagen synthesis, increased elastin production, extracellular matrix regeneration, regulation of oil production, and regulation of the pigment producing cells of the skin. Clinically, these manifest as reduced wrinkles, improved skin appearance, and improved skin pigmentation. Studies show results such as smoother skin, wrinkle reduction and improved skin elasticity, and normalization of skin pigmentation. The effect of red light therapy on wrinkles can be quite dramatic, with one study showing a 30% decrease in eye wrinkle volume. Most skin rejuvenation studies use both red and near infrared light. Importantly, the use of light therapy to regenerate skin is gentle and “non-ablative”, which means that it doesn’t harm the epidermis of the skin and require downtime for healing. This contrasts with many popular anti-aging treatments such as microneedling, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion, which stimulative collagen synthesis and improve appearance by damaging and resurfacing the outer layer of the skin. At Fringe, we view aging as something to be embraced and supported using natural therapies, which is why we developed the Fringe red light face mask. Our mask is hands free, wireless, and uses 234 hard working LED light chips to deliver red and near infrared light to the entire face. It also has the option to deliver blue light if blemishes are a problem. Use the healing power of light and treat yourself to healthy, radiant looking skin in the comfort of your own home! For more information about Fringe light products, go to: https://fringeheals.com/shop-all-products/
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Red Light Therapy for Depression
Depression is a highly prevalent mood disorder, affecting at least 21 million people in the US in 2021. Depression disproportionately affects young people, with considerably higher rates in people aged 18-25. In the United States, $71 billion is spent treating depression each year by individual patients, government, and insurance programs, and depressive disorders are the sixth most costly health condition overall. Depression tends to be chronic with high rates of recurrence and remission. Depression is widely treated with antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI’s), but some patients are unresponsive, and many do not achieve full remission. They are also associated with many side effects. In a large analysis of 131 randomised, placebo-controlled trials, it was found that while SSRI’s may reduce depressive symptoms, they increase the risk of serious and non-serious adverse events to the extent that the researchers concluded “the potential small beneficial effects seem to be outweighed by harmful effects”. While depression is associated with psychosocial factors such as trauma, there is also often an underlying brain pathology. In particular, depression has been associated with impaired functioning of brain mitochondria, brain inflammation, and oxidative stress, all of which may be improved by treatment with red and near infrared light. Several clinical trials of light therapy in depression have been conducted, all of which used near infrared light applied directly to the head. A 2022 systematic review concluded that near infrared light therapy “can be classified as strongly recommended for moderate grade of major depressive disorder”. Similarly, a 2023 meta-analysis of human studies concluded that there is a “promising role of in the treatment of depressive symptoms”. When using red light to treat depression, light can be applied to the head using a head wrap or helmet. Most commonly, near infrared light is used because it penetrates more deeply into the brain, but red light may also be helpful. The Fringe red light head wrap contains 450 LED chips that deliver two wavelengths of deep penetrating near infrared light along with red light to the forehead, sides, top and back of the head. Wireless, portable, and flexible, it is an ideal way to support brain health in the comfort of your own home. For more information about Fringe light products, go to: https://fringeheals.com/shop-all-products/
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Light Therapy for Acne
Red & Blue Light for Acne Red and near infrared light therapy is the application of artificially generated light in the red and near infrared spectral bands. Other forms of light therapy include light in the blue spectrum, which is often used in light therapy for skin conditions. Blue light has the shortest wavelength, red light is intermediate, and near infrared light wavelengths are the longest. Different colors of light have different depths of skin penetration, with red and near infrared penetrating the deepest. Blue light from light therapy devices mimics the blue light generated from the sun, without any harmful UV rays. In contrast, artificial blue light generated from electronic devices has different spectral properties and can be harmful to the skin. Red, near infrared, and blue light have all been found to effectively treat acne. Acne is a common skin condition, affecting nearly 10% of people worldwide. Prevalence is highest in adolescents, with up to 85% having acne at some time during this period. Acne is not only painful, but it can also have adverse effects on many aspects of life, including social, psychological, and economic. Since acne has been observed to respond positively to sun exposure, a variety of treatment approaches using light therapy have been used. Light therapy for acne is treated in a variety of ways. Molecules in the skin called porphyrins absorb blue light which has antimicrobial effects that kill the bacteria associated with acne. Red and near infrared light also have antimicrobial effects but work via a different mechanism. The longer light wavelengths also reduce the activity of sebaceous glands, which are responsible for oil production. Treatment with blue, red, and near infrared light has been found to effectively treat acne, especially when used in combination. The Fringe Red Light Face Mask delivers both red and near infrared light as well as blue light to support skin health, including the treatment of acne. Made of soft silicone and battery powered, the mask is comfortable to wear and easy to use. The mask has three modes of use, which can deliver blue, red, or red and near/infrared. These can be combined in sequence for exposure to multiple wavelengths. Our recommended treatment protocol of light therapy for acne is to use blue daily and follow this with red/near infrared 3 to 4 times per week. For more information about Fringe light products, go to: https://fringeheals.com/shop-all-products/
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Light Therapy for the Lymphatic System
What is the lymphatic system? Of all the systems of the body, the lymphatic system is probably the most underappreciated and misunderstood. Many people have never even heard of it, and of those who have, most don’t really know what it does. Even medical doctors report that their understanding of the lymphatic system is “suboptimal”, and that the teaching of this system and its associated diseases in medical school was insufficient. Anatomically, the lymphatic system can be thought of as a network of vessels and organs that carry a clear fluid called lymph. The system largely travels alongside the system of blood vessels in the body. The lymphatic system includes hundreds of lymph nodes, which can sometimes be felt superficially in regions like the neck, armpit and groin. The tonsils are considered lymph nodes, but due to their size are sometimes referred to as lymphoid organs. Other lymphoid organs include the bone marrow, spleen and thymus. Lymphoid organs produce cells called lymphocytes, which are immune cells. The lymphocytes are carried in the lymphatic fluid throughout the body. The lymphatic fluid (or lymph) is mostly produced by liver and intestines. In addition to lymphocytes, lymph also carries fat, proteins, and pathogens. It can also carry cancer cells, making the lymphatic system a potential route for cancer metastasis. This is why it is standard practice to biopsy lymph nodes near a tumor to determine if the cancer has spread. Lymph flows in one direction, upwards towards the neck, which requires the vessels to have one-way valves that prevent backflow and a pumping system that involves both extrinsic and intrinsic forces. Extrinsic forces include skeletal muscle contractions, while intrinsic forces involve contractions of lymphatic muscle cells. When pumping is impaired, lymph fluid will accumulate (usually in the extremities) and cause swelling, also referred to as edema. The lymph composition reflects the functions of the lymphatic system. These include: (1) carrying out many activities of the immune system (such defending against invading pathogens), (2) transporting and absorbing fats and fat-soluble vitamins, (3) maintaining fluid balance, and (4) removing cellular waste, which is recycled by the liver. These functions are essential to maintaining health, and impairment of lymphatic system function can cause a wide range of problems including (but not limited to) lymphedema (tissue swelling), autoimmune diseases, and cancer. The lymphatic system can ultimately be viewed as inseparable from the immune system, although it also has additional roles that make it distinct. It can also be thought of as a “subsystem” of the circulatory system, because it absorbs plasma that escapes from the blood and that contains important nutrients which are returned to the bloodstream through lymphatic vessels. Lymphatic vessels dump directly into the circulatory system through the venous system. This happens in the neck, where the lymph dumps into vessels such as the subclavian vein. Between 8 and 12 litres of fluid per day is returned to the blood through the lymphatic system. Although it was previously thought that the lymphatic system was not found in the brain, a network of brain lymphatic vessels was recently identified. These vessels are found in the meninges, which make up the outer three layers of the brain and spinal cord. Meningeal lymphatics drain cerebrospinal fluid (which surrounds the brain) into lymph nodes in the neck and help to clear waste out of the brain. It is also a “pipeline” for immune cells. The lymphatic system in the brain has been termed the “glymphatic system” and is especially active during sleep. This system has been linked to brain diseases such as dementia, including Alzheimer’s. There are many ways to support lymphatic system health, such as with exercise and massage, which support the flow of lymph. Lymphatic system health is also supported by minimizing the intake of toxins through food, water, and the environment. Another supportive tool is red light therapy, which has recently been identified as an effective way to optimize the health of the lymphatic system and can be done at home using devices including panels and wraps. What is red light therapy? The term “red light therapy” usually describes the use of both red and near infrared light, although only the red light produced by the device is visible to the naked eye. Infrared light can still be perceived by the body as heat when it contacts skin. Red and near infrared light therapy is the application of artificially generated light in the red and near infrared spectral bands. Red and near infrared light are naturally produced by the sun, which gives off solar radiation. The term radiation describes energy that is transmitted in the form of waves or particles. The spectrum of light in our environment consists of both light we can see (visible light) and light that our eyes can’t perceive (invisible light). This is called the electromagnetic spectrum. The visible light spectrum is quite narrow, consisting of wavelengths that range from 400 to 700nm and span from violet to red in color. Red light is part of this visible light spectrum, while near infrared light is not. While early research on light therapy used primarily lasers, more recent research has found that LED’s can also be used, which also have the advantage of applying light to a larger area of the body as well as an improved safety profile. The use of LED in red/near infrared light therapy devices has also greatly reduced the cost of treatment, making it something that can be done in the comfort of one’s own home. What is the evidence that that red light therapy affects the lymphatic system? Before we dive into looking at some of the general mechanisms by which red light therapy affects the lymphatic system, let’s look at some of the research evidence that specifically demonstrates the utility of red light in treating disease via lymphatic system modulation. While this is a very new area of research, many compelling studies have shown red light therapy to be helpful in improving the function of this important system. Glymphatic System – The glymphatic system of the brain is a key player in diseases of the brain, including dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease. The ability to clear waste from the brain is described as the glymphatic system’s “most central” function – which means that waste buildup will result when the system is impaired. Glymphatic system function declines with age and because of disease and trauma, such as stroke and traumatic brain injury. It is critical to brain health to support glymphatic function. Red light therapy was recently described as “a non-invasive neuroprotective strategy for maintaining and optimizing effective brain waste clearance” via the glymphatic system. As evidence, near infrared light has been shown to activate the glymphatic system in the brains of diabetic mice. Similarly, in animal models of Alzheimer’s Disease, application of both red and near infrared light increases glymphatic system activity and results in clearance of amyloid, which is a toxic protein. Red light therapy has been shown to be improve symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia in humans, and although these studies have not specifically looked at glymphatic function, it is likely that it is affected. Red light therapy has also been shown to improve glymphatic system function in brain injuries. In rats with experimentally induced intraventricular hemorrhage (which mimics stroke), application of near infrared light increases lymphatic drainage and speeds the rate of recovery. And in ex-football players suffering from chronic traumatic encephalitis, application of near infrared light caused lymphatic vessels in the brain to dilate, which would be expected to increase flow and clearance of waste from the brain. Since this system is particularly active during sleep, using red light therapy during sleep or in the evenings might be most helpful. Lyphedema – Lymphedema is swelling that occurs because of lymph buildup. This usually happens in the legs or arms, but it can occur in other areas as well. Primary lymphedema is a result of a problem present from birth, while secondary lymphedema is acquired, usually from an infection, cancer, or as a consequence of cancer treatment. The underlying cause of lymphedema is disruption of the lymphatic system, which prevents the proper flow and drainage of lymph. Lymphedema is usually chronic and progressive, and symptoms can greatly affect quality of life. Most research on red light therapy and lymphedema has focused on breast cancer patients. Breast cancer treatment often involves removal of lymph nodes from around the breast, and/or radiation, which can disrupt the flow of lymph out of the arm. In a review of nine studies using red light therapy to treat breast cancer related lymphedema, overall, both a reduction in size of the affected arm and pain was achieved. Eight studies used near infrared light while one used red light, and all but one study specified directing the light therapy to the armpit region. Three studies also targeted other areas on the arm. The observed reduction in arm size was expected to be clinically meaningful. Red light therapy may also reduce lymphedema of the head and neck. Lymphedema in this area is usually caused by radiation in patients with head and neck cancers. Lymphedema here can be very problematic, causing problems with eating and swallowing. Red light therapy may help to reduce edema in the area, as well as to improve the condition of the skin. Inflammation – Inflammation is a hallmark of many diseases currently ravaging modern society, such as arthritis, ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease, and depression. Inflammation is also associated with acute diseases involving the heart, pancreas, liver, and other organs, as well as trauma and infection. Treatment of inflammation associated diseases makes up the majority of health care spending in the US, costing billions of dollars annually. The lymphatic system plays a key role in regulating inflammation, and increased activity of the lymphatic system has been associated with reduced inflammation since it helps to remove excess fluid. Red light therapy’s ability to decrease inflammation has been well-established. As described by Dr. Michael Hamblin, former Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School, “one of the most reproducible effects of is an overall reduction of inflammation”. Studies have found that light therapy affects levels of many molecules involved in inflammation, including reactive oxygen species, reactive nitrogen species, and prostaglandins. Light therapy has even been found to reduce inflammation in the brain, known as neuroinflammation. Although the role of the lymphatic system in inflammation is well established, most studies using red light therapy to decrease inflammation have not specifically assessed its effect on the lymphatic system. However, when this relationship was investigated, it was found that application of near infrared light to lymph nodes caused a decrease in inflammation and related swelling. How does red light therapy affect the lymphatic system? Clearly, red light therapy has many positive effects on the lymphatic system of the body and the glymphatic system of the brain. Research on precisely how red and near infrared light mediate these benefits is not extensive, but there are several general mechanisms that have been identified. Relaxing Lymphatic Vessels – Red light therapy can induce the relaxation of lymphatic vessels. This happens through a process called vasodilation. When lymphatic vessels are more relaxed, the flow of lymph is increased. This has been observed experimentally to occur in the glymphatic system of the brain. In the brain, increased vasodilation may allow larger molecules (such as the amyloid protein) to pass into the lymph, improving the clearance of waste. Vasodilation may be due to increased production of nitric oxide, which could act on smooth muscle cells that are the “motor unit” of lymphatic drainage. New Lymphatic Vessel Synthesis - Lymphangiogenesis is the process of formation of new lymphatic vessels. In a mouse model of lymphedema, application of red light therapy induced lymphangiogenesis, suggesting that in conditions where lymph flow is impaired due to lymphatic system damage, red light therapy may restore function by supporting the production of new lymphatic vessels. Activating Mitochondria – Mitochondria are found in cells throughout the lymphatic system. Mitochondria are right in molecules called chromophores, which absorb light. Specifically, red and near infrared light stimulate cytochrome c oxidase, a mitochondrial enzyme that produces ATP, the energy currency of the cell. This increases ATP synthesis which provides more energy to cells throughout the lymphatic system. Rd light therapy has been shown to modulate oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species production, which might improve the function of lymphatic system cells. Stimulating Lymphoid Organs – Lymphoid organs are affected by aging, which leads to impaired functioning of the immune system and increases susceptibility to illness. This primarily affects the thymus gland, which is found in the upper chest behind the sternum. Application of red light therapy to the thymus through the chest wall may support thymus health and decrease age associated changes and could perhaps support thymus function throughout the lifespan. Application of red light therapy to other areas, such as lymph nodes, may also support lymphatic system function through tissue stimulation. How do I choose a red light device to affect the lymphatic system? For at home use of red light therapy, the majority of products (especially the affordable ones) will use LED lights, rather than laser. While early light therapy research was done using lasers, LED lights have become much more popular over the last decade. In 2018, Dr. Michael Hamblin – the world’s leading light therapy expert – concluded that LED lights using comparable parameters to lasers performed “equally well”, which is very important because LED powered light therapy devices can be made at a fraction of the cost of laser devices. Laser powered devices are still a favorite in medical offices, which makes sense given their high cost and higher risk of adverse effects such as skin irritation. Red light products on the market vary quite a bit in terms of their intensity (or power) and the specific wavelengths of light that they deliver. Studies vary in both parameters, and it appears that a range of wavelengths and intensity are beneficial. For maximum versatility, it is recommended to choose a multiwavelength device that provides both red and near infrared light, since each has some unique cellular effects. In terms of intensity, it may be ideal to mimic the intensity of the sun, which is around 24 mW/cm2 at the skin. This is described as the “sweet spot” between higher intensities, which can have harmful effects, and lower intensities, which will have no effect at all. When using red light therapy to support the lymphatic system, choose a sun-mimicking product and don’t overdo it when it comes to treatment frequency and duration. Red light therapy devices come in several forms, many of which can be used to support the lymphatic system. Red light LED panels can be used to treat most body parts, including the face, chest and back. Panels provide broad coverage but do require you to stay stationary and seated during the treatment. Panels are a good choice for directing light at the lymphatics in the neck and upper chest, around the thymus gland. If you would prefer to lie down while doing a treatment, you would do better with a portable LED wrap rather than an LED panel. Portable devices are also the best choice if you would like to have the option of moving around during your treatment. Portable red light wraps can comfortably be used on most body parts except the head and neck. Red light wraps that are specifically designed for the head are the best option for targeting the glymphatic system in the brain, although this system can also be supported with an LED panel. Every person’s needs are unique, but there are many different device options to choose from. Conclusion Red light therapy can be used at home to support the health of the lymphatic system. Research has demonstrated that it is a safe and effective treatment for a range of disorders, such as dementia, lymphedema, and inflammation. By improving the structure and function of lymphatic vessels, red light therapy increases the flow of lymph. This may be especially important in the brain, where waste buildup can cause serious illness such as Alzheimer’s disease. Choosing the right product is easy: Select a red light panel or wrap that delivers red and near infrared light, mimics the intensity of the sun, and fits into your lifestyle. For more information about Fringe light products, go to: https://fringeheals.com/shop-all-products/
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