Surprising Reasons to Try Red Light Therapy This Summer
What comes to mind when you think about red light therapy? You might picture its red light and warmth. This could make you assume it’s better suited for colder months rather than summer, when the sun is already intense, the days are bright, and temperatures are high. However, red light therapy isn’t just for winter, it can actually be highly beneficial during the summer months as well.
If you’ve only used red light therapy in colder seasons, here are some surprising reasons to incorporate it into your summer wellness routine. From boosting your mood and protecting your skin to repairing sun damage, red light therapy can be an essential part of staying healthy and glowing all summer long.
Reason 1: seasonal mood enhancement
Summer is often associated with high energy and outdoor fun, but seasonal affective disorder (SAD) isn’t just a winter phenomenon. Some people experience “summer SAD,” which can bring irritability, restlessness, and loss of appetite. These symptoms may stem from disrupted sleep patterns, heat-related fatigue, and changes in daily routines.
You might wonder, how can SAD occur even with bright sunlight and long daylight hours. For some, the seasonal shift can trigger unexpected mood fluctuations. Excessive daylight and scorching temperatures can interfere with sleep, increase irritability, and even heighten anxiety.
Red light therapy offers a promising solution by directly influencing the brain’s neurotransmitters. Specific wavelengths of red light can boost serotonin, the body’s natural mood stabilizer, while also helping to regulate dopamine, which is linked to pleasure and motivation. By balancing these key neurochemicals, red light therapy can help stabilize emotions and promote a greater sense of well-being.
Reason 2: skin preparation for sun exposure
With summer approaching, many of us are eager to enjoy the sunshine. But too much exposure to UV rays can be tough on our skin if we’re not careful. While sunscreen is always your number one defense (and nothing can replace it), red light therapy may help strengthen your skin before you head out into the sun.
According to research published in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, moderate exposure to infrared-A (IR-A) might actually help the skin build some resistance to UV radiation. IR-A, which falls within the 760–1400 nm range, is a type of infrared light found in sunlight. It affects the skin differently depending on intensity. While high levels of IR-A can be harmful, studies suggest that exposure to natural, moderate amounts (similar to what you'd get from sunlight early in the morning) could help the skin prepare for UV rays, offering an extra layer of protection. [Cite: PMC4745411]
Reason 3: repair sun damage
Too much exposure to sunlight in summer can leave lasting effects on your skin. Sun damage, whether it’s fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, or dryness, can take a toll over time.
Research has shown that red light therapy is effective in reducing acne and improving signs of sun-damaged skin. The key lies in how red light interacts with your cells. When your skin is exposed to red and near-infrared light, it stimulates the mitochondria, the powerhouse of the cell, to produce more ATP. ATP is the energy that cells need to function and repair themselves.
For sun-damaged skin, this ATP boost speeds up the healing process. It activates fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin. This helps to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles while restoring skin’s elasticity and firmness, things that UV rays tend to break down over time.
Red light therapy also enhances circulation and reduces inflammation, making it great for calming redness and evening out skin tone. Plus, it can also fade hyperpigmentation by breaking down excess melanin and regulating its production, leading to a brighter, more even complexion.
FAQ: can I go in the sun after red light therapy
Yes, you can go out in the sun after red light therapy, but always with sunscreen or other protection!
Unlike treatments like retinol or chemical peels, red light therapy doesn’t make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. In fact, as mentioned earlier, it may even have a “preconditioning” effect, potentially helping your skin better tolerate sun exposure. However, this doesn’t mean you can skip sunscreen.
No matter what, always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with sufficient SPF before heading outside. Sun protection is essential for keeping your skin healthy and preventing damage, whether you use red light therapy or not!
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of any disease, illness, or health problem.
