What is the difference between red and infrared light therapy?

The main difference lies in visibility and penetration depth.

Red light, typically in the 630nm to 660nm range, is visible to the human eye. When you use a red light therapy device, this is the glowing light you can see. Its primary作用 is on the surface and near-surface layers of the skin, making it ideal for cosmetic and dermatological applications.

Infrared light—more specifically near-infrared light in the 800nm to 850nm range—is invisible to the human eye. Even though you can’t see it, it penetrates deeper into the body, reaching muscles, joints, and connective tissues.

Functionally, both types of light support cellular energy production and reduce inflammation, but they do so at different depths. That’s why combining them creates a more complete therapy.

Think of it this way: red light works on the “outside,” improving skin and surface-level conditions, while infrared light works on the “inside,” supporting deeper tissues and recovery processes.

Most high-quality devices today are designed to include both types of light, allowing users to benefit from a full-spectrum approach.