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The Best Full-Body Red Light Therapy Devices to Try at Home
The beloved skincare treatment has benefits from the neck down, too.
You've heard of red light masks and skincare wands, but did you know that this dermatologist-loved treatment is also gaining popularity below the neck? Yes, full-body red light therapy is a thing, and it's said to have beaucoup benefits.
Shop the Best Full Body Red Light Therapy Devices
"Red light uses specific wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin and reach your cells. Think of it as giving your cells a little extra boost, like a power-up for your body’s natural systems," explains Jonathan Leary, chiropractor and founder and CEO at Remedy Place, a renowned wellness club. "When these light waves reach your cells, they stimulate the production of energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate)," he explains. "This increase in energy helps cells function more efficiently, regenerate faster, and heal better." There is a full-body red light bed at Remedy Place, for instance, where "with just a 20-minute session, users can recharge their internal battery, boost energy levels, stimulate collagen production, and enhance their mood," says Leary.
If you can't make it to Remedy Place or want to try the therapy from the comforts of home, find five devices to help you do it—plus everything else you need to know about full-body red light therapy below.
Megelin Red Light PEMF Infrared Heating Therapy Mat
Pros
- Includes a massage gun
- Great gift
Cons
- Over $1,000
This FDA-approved mat is perfect for doing yoga, meditating, or simply taking a rest. No matter what activity you're doing, you have the option of two LED wavelengths to help reduce pain and inflammation. Although it's full-body length, it folds up easily and weighs around 10 pounds, so you can keep it out of sight when not in use.
- Best for: Entire body
- Number of LEDs: 1280
Customer review: "I suffer from chronic pain, and the red light bed has been a game-changer for me. It helps soothe my muscles and provides relief that I haven't found with other treatments. I highly recommend it to anyone dealing with pain." —Amira
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite BodyWare Pro
Pros
- Also has blue light
Cons
- Over $450
This moldable and portable piece can be used all over the body for a targeted treatment. Think: upper or lower back, over the shoulder, or on the legs. For double the benefits, It also features bacteria-fighting blue light if you have any body acne.
- Best for: Entire body
- Number of LEDs: 68
Customer review: "This is unbelievable. Since using this on my knees, lower back and my hubby's tennis elbow and lower back, we have no weakness or pain. It works in just 14 minutes. And in 3 minutes daily, it helps my sun-damaged chest area. I love, love, love this product. It's a definite keeper for self-care."
Pros
- Works in just 10 minutes
Cons
- Large for storing
Our hands are one of the areas we work the hardest, and show the least amount of love. This device, which resembles a gel mani light, gives them its full attention in a short treatment that reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. With consistent use, you'll see results in just four weeks.
- Best for: Hands
- Number of LEDs: 70
Customer review: "I use this hand perfecter every two days, and after two weeks, I feel my hands softer and smoother. It is very convenient to use at home, very light, so you can put it on your legs and watch TV, it will auto turn off after 10 min. But you have to connect it to power while using it." —Emily S
Pros
- Easy to hold
Cons
- Small surface area
Known for its celeb-loved red light tool, Solawave also has a palm-sized device that's designed for face and body use. Whether you're using it for a sore area or skincare purposes, you'll love its convenience for keeping your red light routine going anytime, anywhere.
- Best for: Face and body
- Number of LEDs: 9
Customer review: "After using it for a few weeks, I’ve noticed improved skin texture and a more radiant complexion. The combination of red and infrared light therapy helps reduce fine lines, promote collagen production, and soothe inflammation. Its small size makes it easy to use on both the face and body, and it's travel-friendly. While it takes consistency to see significant results, it’s a great addition for anyone looking to boost their anti-aging skincare efforts." —Tia C
Heat Healer PEMF, Infrared, and Red LED Therapy Body Belt
Pros
- Great for cramps
Cons
- It's heavy
This multi-tasking belt not only has an LED function, but it also offers infrared heat and PEMF, or pulsed electromagnetic field, therapies, which can also help treat pain and inflammation. Use it for anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour to lessen tension and reap the combined benefits.
- Best for: Entire body
- Number of LEDs: 8, plus two PEMF emitters, negative ion beads, and crystals
Customer review: "I'm really enjoying this product because I can Target the areas of my body that need healing. And I can adjust the heat level, which is key. I really like that it has PEMF, minerals and red LEDs. Plus, it just feels so good!" —Caroline
What are the full body benefits of red light therapy?
According to Leary, there are a number of reasons to consider red light therapy. As with above the neck, it can help boost collagen production: "It’s become a beauty trend due to its ability to reduce fine lines and wrinkles," he explains.
The therapy may also boost overall energy. "Red light therapy stimulates the mitochondria, the 'powerhouse' of cells, to increase energy production," he explains. "This can help cells function more efficiently."
In addition, it can enhance microcirculation, meaning it delivers more oxygen to the body. "This boosts recovery, healing, and overall cellular health," he says. That's also why red light therapy is popular for muscle recovery.
It's also an increasingly popular treatment for hair growth: "Red light therapy can stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth, making it a valuable tool for those experiencing hair thinning or loss," says the expert.
How often should I use red light therapy on the body?
"Red light therapy is typically recommended several times a week for optimal results, with sessions lasting about 20 minutes," explains Leary, who says it's "perfectly fine" to use it daily.
Are there any red light therapy risks or side effects?
"FDA-cleared red light therapy devices are safe for most people when used correctly, with only minor potential side effects," says Leary. One potential side effect is a mild skin reaction. "Some users may experience temporary redness, irritation, or discomfort at the treatment site," says Leary, adding that it usually resolves quickly.
The expert also notes that those with certain conditions, such as Lupus or other autoimmune disorders, or those taking medications that increase light sensitivity, should talk to their doctor before starting red light therapy.
Leary also says, "While no known risks have been conclusively linked to red light therapy during pregnancy, it’s also best to consult your doctor before use."
Meet the experts
- Dr. Jonathan Leary is the Founder and CEO of Remedy Place, the world’s first Social Wellness Club™, with locations in New York and Los Angeles.
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