Understanding the Different Wavelengths of Light Therapy and Their Uses

Light therapy utilizes different wavelengths of light to achieve various therapeutic effects. Here are some common wavelengths and their corresponding effects in light therapy:

1. Red Light Therapy (620 to 750 nanometers): This range helps boost skin health by increasing collagen production, which can reduce wrinkles and fine lines. It's also used for wound healing and pain relief, as it enhances cell regeneration and calms inflammation. Devices like red light masks are popular for at-home skincare routines.

2.Blue Light Therapy (450 to 490 nanometers): Known for its antibacterial properties, blue light is effective against acne. It works by killing the bacteria that cause breakouts and reducing oil production in the skin. Blue light therapy is also used to treat mood disorders like seasonal affective disorder (SAD) because it can help regulate circadian rhythms.

3. Green Light Therapy (495 to 570 nanometers): The penetration depth is between blue light and red light. Has a certain soothing and anti-inflammatory effect on the skin, and is often used in the treatment of skin diseases such as eczema and dermatitis to relieve itching and inflammation. In some psychological therapies, green light is also used to relieve stress and anxiety.

4. Near-Infrared Light Therapy (700 to 1000 nanometers): Invisible to the naked eye, this therapy penetrates deeper into the body, aiding in muscle recovery, chronic pain management, and even brain health. Near-infrared light promotes healing and reduces pain and inflammation deep within tissues.

5. Ultraviolet (UV) Light Therapy (100 to 400 nanometers): UV light, especially UVB, is employed to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and vitiligo by influencing the skin's immune response. While beneficial, it requires careful monitoring due to the risks associated with UV exposure, such as skin aging and an increased chance of skin cancer.

• UVA (320 - 400 nm)
  • Penetration Depth：Can penetrate deep into the dermis layer of the skin.
  • Therapeutic Effects：Used in the treatment of psoriasis, eczema and other skin diseases. It can slow down cell division and reduce inflammation by affecting the DNA and cell metabolism of skin cells. It is also used in phototherapy for vitiligo, helping to stimulate melanocyte proliferation.
• UVB (280 - 320 nm)
  • Penetration Depth：Mainly acts on the epidermis layer of the skin.
  • Therapeutic Effects：It is an important wavelength for treating skin diseases such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. It can inhibit the proliferation of keratinocytes and has anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. It can also promote the synthesis of vitamin D in the skin, which is beneficial for the prevention and treatment of vitamin D deficiency and related bone diseases.
• UVC (100 - 280 nm)
  • Penetration Depth：Has weak penetration and is mostly absorbed by the ozone layer in the atmosphere. Artificial UVC light sources are mainly used for sterilization and disinfection.
  • Therapeutic Effects：In a medical environment, UVC light is used to sterilize air, surfaces, and medical equipment. It can destroy the DNA and RNA of microorganisms, thereby killing bacteria, viruses and fungi, and reducing the risk of infection.

6. Yellow Light Therapy (570 to 590 nanometers): Gentle on the skin, yellow light targets the top layers to stimulate repair and address conditions like redness, rosacea, and sun damage. It's particularly suited for sensitive skin and helps improve the skin's overall tone and texture.

7. Infrared Light (750 - 1000 nm)

• Near-Infrared (750 - 1100 nm)
  • Penetration Depth：Can penetrate deeper into the body, up to several centimeters.
  • Therapeutic Effects：It can heat tissues, promote blood circulation, relieve muscle spasms and joint pain. It is often used in physical therapy to treat chronic injuries, arthritis and other diseases. In addition, near-infrared light is also used in some neurological diseases to promote nerve regeneration and repair.
• Far-Infrared (1100 - 1000000 nm)
  • Penetration Depth：Mainly acts on the surface of the body and can cause the skin to produce a feeling of warmth.
  • Therapeutic Effects：It can improve microcirculation, enhance the body's metabolism and immune function. Far-infrared light therapy is often used in health care products and some rehabilitation treatments to relieve fatigue and improve the body's resistance.