Each week, Samantha Lewis shares her insights on various topics, from exploring new health trends to re-imagining personal growth.
The benefits of red light therapy — harnessing the sun and what to know before you buy
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In a world of biohacking gadgets, shiny wellness trends and endless ‘quick fixes’, sometimes we forget that some of the most potent healing tools are free — and have been around for as long as we have.
Enter red light therapy.
Maybe you’ve heard of it.
Maybe you’ve seen those glowing red panels on Instagram or watched your favourite wellness expert lie under a red light like they’re marinating themselves in health.
But here’s the thing: red light therapy isn’t new.
It’s not just a flashy trend.
It’s based on how our bodies naturally respond to certain wavelengths of light — something our ancestors soaked up daily — from the sun.
What is red light therapy?
Red light therapy (sometimes called low-level laser therapy or photobiomodulation) involves exposing your body to specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light.
These wavelengths, measured between roughly 600 to 900 nanometres, have been shown to penetrate the skin and stimulate cellular energy — specifically the mitochondria, those little ‘powerhouses’ inside our cells.
When your mitochondria are functioning well, your body can regenerate, repair and thrive.
That’s where the magic happens — in everyday energy levels, skin health, muscle recovery, inflammation reduction and even mood.
The sun: Your original red light source
Here’s where it gets beautifully simple.
You don’t necessarily need fancy devices or expensive treatments to start experiencing the benefits.
The sun — especially during sunrise and sunset — is nature’s perfect source of red and near-infrared light.
Think about how incredible you feel after watching the sun rise or set.
That glow isn’t just poetic; it’s physiological.
During those golden hours, the angle of the sun bathes us in higher concentrations of red and near-infrared wavelengths, without the harsh UV exposure that comes with midday sun.
The benefits of soaking in natural red light include:
- Supporting your circadian rhythm (hello, better sleep)
- Boosting mood and reducing symptoms of anxiety or low energy
- Enhancing skin health and reducing signs of ageing
- Improving joint comfort and reducing inflammation
- Supporting metabolic health
And the best part?
It’s free.
Stepping outside barefoot on the grass, watching the sunrise, soaking in the early morning rays — this is the most natural, grounding way to gift your body red light.
When to consider purchasing a red light device
Of course, life gets busy.
Maybe you’re stuck indoors during winter.
Maybe you work long hours, or you’re craving more targeted benefits for things such as muscle recovery, skin rejuvenation or chronic pain.
That’s where red light therapy devices come in handy.
But not all are created equal.
Here’s what to look for if you’re investing:
1. Wavelength matters:
Look for devices offering both red light (around 630 to 660 nm) and near-infrared light (around 810 to 850 nm).
These ranges target different depths in the body, with red light focusing more on skin health and near-infrared penetrating deeper for muscle, joint and cellular support.
2. Irradiance (light power):
More isn’t always better, but you want a device with sufficient power to deliver benefits within a reasonable time.
Check the irradiance output — ideally around 100 mW/cm² at the recommended distance.
3. Flicker-free & low EMF:
Some cheaper models emit flickering light or high electromagnetic fields, which can be counterproductive.
Look for devices that advertise low or no flicker and minimal EMF output.
4. Size and treatment area:
Full-body panels are incredible if you’re serious about consistent, overall benefits.
Smaller handheld devices work well for targeted treatment — think joint pain or skin concerns.
5. Trusted brands:
Do your homework.
Look for transparent companies that share technical specs and clinical backing, and have good reviews from real users.
Start simple — stay consistent
Like most wellness tools, red light therapy works best with consistency.
But don’t underestimate the power of starting with what nature already provides.
Morning sunlight on your face, evening walks during sunset — these daily rituals stack up to create noticeable shifts in your energy, sleep and vitality.
Especially during winter, when we’re naturally low in vitamin D, prioritise catching this light as often as possible.
Life Regenerated is all about reconnecting with intuition, nature and what your body already knows — how to heal, how to thrive, how to regenerate.
Whether you choose to harness the sun or invest in a device, the most important thing is tuning in to what feels good for your body.
Because sometimes, the simplest solutions — a sunrise, a barefoot moment, a deep breath — are the most powerful.
Samantha