What red light therapy is
Red light therapy uses low levels of visible red light and invisible near infrared light. There is no UV involved, so it does not tan you. Researchers often call it photobiomodulation, and the idea is that cells, especially their mitochondria, absorb certain wavelengths of light.
The wavelengths, decoded
- Red light: roughly 630 to 660 nm. Visible and glowy.
- Near infrared: roughly 810 to 850 nm. Invisible to you, and it travels deeper into tissue.
Cleveland Clinic notes that the wavelength affects how deep light goes, which is why different devices use different mixes.
What the research suggests
Studies suggest red light may help with the look of fine lines and skin texture, and a 2013 review in dermatology described possible benefits for skin rejuvenation and recovery. Many people also just find it relaxing.
Here is the honest part: Cleveland Clinic says many studies so far are small, and more high quality research is needed. So think of red light as a wellness ritual you might love, not a fix for any condition.
Our red light lineup
- POLY red light: skin focused, about 1,820 LEDs at 633 nm. Gentle enough for your off days. Chillicothe even has its own pastel POLY room; check your salon page for what is on site.
- SST-28: a SmartSun Therapy full body bed with about 28,000 LEDs, using red (about 630 to 635 nm) and near infrared (850 nm) light At Portsmouth, Wheelersburg and Chillicothe.
- RedWave Plus: a full body red and near infrared bed at Jackson, using about 630 and 660 nm red plus 850 nm near infrared.
SST-28 and RedWave Plus sessions are every other day only. A fun combo: alternate full body red light with POLY on your off days.
Prices
- POLY: $12 single, $50 for a 30-Day Pass.
- SST-28 or RedWave Plus: $25 single, $120 for a 30-Day Pass on its own, or $90 as an add on with an active tanning 30-Day Pass ($70 with a paid club membership).
- Wellness 30-Day Pass: $120 for all the wellness gear at your salon.
Want to pair it with skincare? Ask about Collagenetics, a cream made to go with red light sessions. See all prices on the pricing page.
Getting the most from a session
- Start with clean skin, no heavy makeup or lotion unless it is made for red light.
- Protect your eyes as directed.
- Be consistent. Cleveland Clinic notes results, if any, usually come from repeated sessions over weeks.
Friendly reminder: this is general info, not medical advice. If you have a skin or health condition, are pregnant, or take meds that can make you sensitive to light (some antibiotics, acne meds and more), check with your doctor or pharmacist first.
FAQ
Does red light therapy tan you?
No. Red and near infrared light are not UV, so they do not tan your skin.
What wavelengths do your devices use?
POLY uses 633 nm red. SST-28 uses about 630 to 635 nm red plus 850 nm near infrared. RedWave Plus uses about 630 and 660 nm red plus 850 nm near infrared.
How often can I use full body red light?
SST-28 and RedWave Plus are every other day only. POLY is gentle enough for off days.
Is red light therapy proven?
Studies suggest it may help with the look of skin, but many are small and more research is needed. It is a wellness service, not a medical treatment.
