Red Light Therapy vs. Infrared Therapy – What’s the Difference?

If you’ve been exploring light therapy options, you’ve probably seen both red light therapy and infrared therapy mentioned. While the two are often grouped together, they aren’t identical. Understanding their differences can help you choose the right option for your goals, whether that’s glowing skin, pain relief, or improved recovery.

What Is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy (RLT) uses visible red wavelengths (around 630–660nm). These penetrate just beneath the surface of your skin. They’re particularly effective for:

• Stimulating collagen production
  
  

• Improving skin tone and reducing fine lines
  
  

• Healing surface-level wounds and scars
  
  

What Is Infrared Therapy?

Infrared therapy uses near-infrared (NIR) light (typically around 850nm and higher). Unlike visible red light, infrared is invisible to the human eye but penetrates deeper into muscles and joints. It’s best for:

• Reducing inflammation
  
  

• Enhancing muscle recovery
  
  

• Supporting joint and bone health
  
  

Do They Work Together?

The magic often happens when red and near-infrared light are combined in one device — like many products at TheRedLightTherapy.ie. This dual approach means you’re addressing both surface-level skin health and deeper tissue recovery in one session.

Which Should You Choose?

• For skin health & beauty: Red light (visible wavelengths) is your go-to.
  
  

• For pain relief & recovery: Near-infrared light penetrates deeper to support healing.
  
  

• For overall wellness: A combination device gives you the best of both worlds.
  
  

Conclusion

Both therapies are safe, effective, and backed by science — they simply target different depths in the body. By understanding how they differ, you can make an informed choice and get the most from your sessions.

👉 Explore combined red + near-infrared devices at TheRedLightTherapy.ie to experience the full spectrum of benefits.