Articles

The Healing Benefits of Red Light Therapy

July 4, 2025

5 min read

Red Light Therapy for skin, recovery and well-being

Welcome to Contro Wellness in Brisbane, where advanced technology meets holistic healthcare. We are proud to specialise in Red Light Therapy (RLT), a cutting-edge treatment that uses specific light wavelengths to promote healing and rejuvenate the skin.

This blog explores the science behind RLT, outlines its numerous health benefits, and provides practical tips for incorporating it into your daily routine.

Key takeaways

  • Red Light Therapy is used to manage common skin concerns, support recovery and promote overall well-being.
  • RLT uses light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to stimulate cell repair and energy production.
  • Strong scientific evidence supports the benefits of RLT in skin health, pain relief, and muscle recovery.
  • It improves aging skin and enhances skin elasticity by increasing collagen production and improving circulation.
  • Contro Wellness offers full-body Red Light Therapy using advanced devices in a calm, supportive setting, making it easy to experience the benefits safely and effectively.

Understanding Light Therapy

Light therapy, also known as phototherapy or LED therapy, involves the use of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to deliver precise wavelengths of light to the skin and underlying tissues. This noninvasive treatment utilises various colours of light to address diverse health concerns, establishing it as a versatile tool for enhancing overall well-being.

How does LED Red Light Therapy work?

LED light therapy helps improve health and well-being at the cellular level by stimulating photobiomodulation. This process begins when skin cells absorb light, triggering a biological cascade that boosts the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the cells' primary energy source. This increase in energy improves cellular metabolism, aiding in cell repair, rejuvenation, and promoting overall healing.

Red Light Therapy benefits

Red light therapy is widely recognised for its ability to support a range of health outcomes, from skin health to pain relief. Backed by growing clinical research, RLT is used to assist with:

Skin rejuvenation

Red light therapy improves skin tone, texture and elasticity. By stimulating collagen production and enhancing circulation, it helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while supporting the treatment of common skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and acne.

Pain management

RLT may help relieve pain by reducing inflammation and encouraging deep tissue healing. It's often used to manage health conditions like arthritis, muscle tension, back pain and other joint or musculoskeletal issues.

Wound healing and recovery

By promoting cellular repair and regeneration, red light therapy can accelerate wound healing and support recovery from physical injuries, reducing downtime and aiding athletic performance.

Mental wellbeing

Regular exposure to red light has been linked to improved mood and reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression. This may be due to its influence on serotonin production and overall nervous system regulation.

Anti-inflammatory effects

Red light therapy can help reduce inflammation throughout the body, making it beneficial for treating swollen joints, tendonitis and other inflammation-related conditions.

Acne treatment

With both anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, RLT can help treat acne, clear the skin and prevent future breakouts. It also supports overall skin clarity and resilience.

Hair growth support

Emerging studies suggest red light therapy may stimulate hair follicles and improve scalp circulation, potentially supporting natural hair growth in some individuals.

What are the different types of Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy is available in various forms, including handheld devices, panels, and wearable masks for facial treatments. Masks are often used to support skin rejuvenation, reduce fine lines and help manage acne. For broader benefits, such as muscle recovery, reduced inflammation, and full-body regeneration, larger red light therapy devices are typically more effective.

At Contro Wellness, we offer full-body sessions using professional-grade red light therapy beds to support whole-body healing and wellbeing.

Best practices for Red Light Therapy use

To maximise the benefits of Red Light Therapy, adhere to the recommended practices during each session.

  • Stay consistent: Aim for two to three sessions a week. Keeping a regular routine, such as using it at the same time each day, can help make it a natural part of your daily schedule.
  • Protect your eyes: Avoid staring at the light. Wear protective goggles when needed.
  • Start with clean skin: Wash off makeup or creams before each session for better results.
  • Be patient: Visible results may take a few weeks of regular use.
  • Stay hydrated: Drinking water can support your body’s response to the treatment.

The science behind Red Light Therapy

RLT's effectiveness stems from its ability to activate photobiomodulation within the cells. This process increases ATP production, improves blood circulation, reduces oxidative stress, and stimulates DNA/RNA synthesis. These effects help repair damaged cells and optimise overall cell growth and function, providing widespread health benefits.

RLT has been utilised for over 40 years in various medical fields, including dermatology, pain management, and sports medicine. The technology has been extensively studied, and scientific research has confirmed its therapeutic benefits.

A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy examined the effects of RLT on facial skin. Researchers found that the treatment significantly improved skin texture, reduced fine lines and wrinkles, and enhanced overall skin tone. Another study published in the International Journal of Sports Medicine showed that RLT improved muscle recovery time, reduced muscle fatigue, and increased overall athletic performance.

Future directions in RLT research

The future of Red Light Therapy is promising, with more research uncovering even more ways it may help. Current studies are investigating the effects of RLT on brain health, particularly in managing conditions such as depression and Alzheimer's disease.

Advancements in technology continue to enhance the efficacy and accessibility of RLT, making it a potentially integral part of routine healthcare in the future. These advancements may lead to new protocols that make treatments more effective and widely accessible.

Integrating red light therapy into your lifestyle

Starting RLT at Contro Wellness is a simple and adaptable process. Initially, clients typically attend two to three sessions per week. Depending on individual health goals, sessions can be tailored to focus on specific concerns or applied as general whole-body treatments. Our experienced staff can always offer guidance and customise treatments to suit your needs and preferences.

RLT is a safe and noninvasive light therapy treatment that can be used alone or in conjunction with other therapies. It is particularly effective when combined with a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and effective stress management techniques.

Supporting your body’s natural healing process

Red Light Therapy is a powerful and effective tool for promoting healing and enhancing well-being. At Contro Wellness, we offer red light therapy treatments that support the body's natural healing processes.

If you're seeking a safe, effective, and noninvasive way to enhance your health, consider exploring the benefits of Red Light Therapy.

Book a Red Light Therapy session

FAQs

How often should I undergo RLT to see results?

While individual needs vary, generally, 2-3 weekly sessions for 1-4 weeks are recommended initially.

Is Red Light Therapy safe?

RLT is widely regarded as safe. However, individual responses can vary, so consultation with a healthcare provider is advisable.

Can RLT help with conditions other than skin issues?

Yes, it's also effective for reducing muscle fatigue, managing chronic pain, and improving athletic recovery.

How do I know if RLT is right for me?

Consulting with a specialist at Contro Wellness can provide personalised advice based on your health goals and conditions.

How much does Red Light Therapy cost?

At Contro Wellness, a single red light therapy session costs $30. You can save with our 5-pack for $140 or 10-pack for $260. Membership options are also available for those seeking regular treatments.

What's the difference between red and blue light therapy?

Red light therapy goes deeper into the skin to help with healing, boost collagen and calm inflammation. Blue light stays closer to the surface and works best for fighting acne and controlling oil. They're great for different skin goals, depending on what you’re after.

Ready to experience the benefits of Red Light Therapy?

Book your session at Contro Wellness today and take the first step towards a healthier, more vibrant you.