Is red light therapy safe?

Red light therapy (RLT) is gaining widespread attention for its potential to improve skin health, accelerate muscle recovery, reduce inflammation, and even support mental wellness. But as more people explore its benefits, one common and important question continues to arise: Is red light therapy safe?

At BioNovu, we believe that education is as important as innovation. So, let’s take a closer, evidence-based look at the safety of red light therapy, how it works, and what the science says.

Understanding How Red Light Therapy Works

Red light therapy, also known as low-level light therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation (PBM), uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared (NIR) light (typically 600–900 nanometers) to stimulate cellular function. These wavelengths penetrate the skin and are absorbed by mitochondria, the energy-producing structures in cells.

This absorption boosts adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, which enhances cell repair, reduces inflammation, and promotes regeneration across tissues.

What Does the Research Say?

If you're asking, "is red light therapy safe?", you’ll be reassured to know that hundreds of peer-reviewed clinical studies support the safety and efficacy of red light therapy when used appropriately.

Key Studies and Clinical Evidence:

• A 2017 review in the journal Lasers in Medical Science concluded that “PBM therapy has no reported adverse side effects when used within recommended parameters.”

• A 2018 meta-analysis in Dermatologic Surgery noted that red light therapy is non-invasive, painless, and well-tolerated for treating skin conditions such as acne, wrinkles, and photoaging.

• A 2021 study in Frontiers in Neuroscience explored the use of near-infrared light for cognitive function and reported no safety concerns when used under controlled conditions.

These studies consistently affirm that red light therapy is safe for skin, muscles, joints, and even the brain when used within established clinical guidelines.

Are There Any Risks or Side Effects?

Like any therapeutic intervention, red light therapy can carry minor risks—most of which are preventable with proper use. Commonly reported, though rare, side effects include:

• Mild eye strain or sensitivity if used without protective eyewear during facial sessions.

• Temporary skin tightness or redness, usually from overuse or improper distance from the light source.

• Overheating or discomfort if used for excessive durations.

  
  

However, these reactions are generally mild, short-lived, and easily avoidable with correct dosage, wavelength, and exposure time.

Important: Individuals with certain medical conditions (e.g., photosensitivity, epilepsy) or those taking light-sensitive medications should consult a healthcare professional before beginning treatment.

Is Red Light Therapy Safe for Daily Use?

Yes, red light therapy is safe for regular use when following device guidelines. Most experts recommend 3–5 sessions per week for optimal results, with each session lasting between 10–20 minutes depending on the treatment area and power output.

High-quality systems like BioNovu’s red light therapy beds are designed with built-in safety protocols and clinically optimised wavelengths, ensuring both comfort and safety for users at home or in professional settings.

Regulatory and Safety Standards

Another reason to trust that red light therapy is safe lies in how it's regulated. While the FDA classifies most red light therapy devices as Class II medical devices, meaning they require safety testing and registration, reputable manufacturers like BioNovu go a step further by adhering to:

• IEC 62471 Photobiological Safety standards

• CE certifications (in applicable regions)

• Rigorous internal quality control and power calibration

  
  

Conclusion: Is Red Light Therapy Safe?

In summary, the answer is yes—red light therapy is safe for most people when used correctly and consistently. Supported by decades of clinical research, modern devices like those offered by BioNovu are engineered for both effectiveness and safety.

As with any health technology, informed use and professional-grade equipment are key to getting the best—and safest—results. Whether you’re a wellness enthusiast, clinic owner, or athlete, BioNovu’s red light therapy beds offer a trusted path to better health, naturally.

Explore our full range of red light therapy solutions here or contact us to learn how you can safely incorporate red light therapy into your wellness journey.