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Heliotherapy Research Institute, 24 Cottage Road, New York, NY (2025)

10/07/2021

Does Red Light Therapy Work for Weight Loss?

If you have had disappointing results from diets, appetite suppressants, or other weight loss methods, red light therapy is worth considering. Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, provides a safe, non-invasive alternative to fighting unwanted weight.

Red light therapy promotes weight loss in several ways. It uses LED lamps to illuminate the body with light waves in the red and near-infrared spectrum. This light is found in the narrow spectrum of visible sunlight, which has a therapeutic effect on the human body at the cellular level.

Increased cellular metabolism

Red light stimulates cellular energy, which results in healthier cells, better functioning, and reduces inflammation. The result is an increased metabolism as well as an improvement in the general functioning of the organs of the body.

Thyroid regulation

It has been proven that hypothyroidism, or a low-functioning thyroid gland, has been associated with excess weight gain. Red light therapy can reduce the autoimmune activity of the thyroid gland, which helps restore its normal functions to regulate metabolism.

Reduction of fat cells

Red light causes small pores to form in fat cells that release fatty acids known as lipids. There have been many studies that have resulted in the reduction of fat cells through the use of red light therapy.

Appetite suppression

Red light can affect hunger levels by controlling appetite-regulating hormones. One study looked at the effect of red light on these hormones in sleep-deprived adults and found a decrease in their levels.

Improved sleep

Lack of sleep is linked to many health problems, including weight gain. One of the causes of insomnia is chronic stress, which increases weight gain and disrupts the regulation of metabolism by the nervous system. The red light will help you sleep better, resulting in more energy and increased metabolism.

For more information on research and results on red light therapy that promotes weight loss, visit our website, the link in the bio.

10/04/2021

Frequently Asked Questions: How to Choose the Right Device for Light Treatment?

Light therapy is being scrutinized for its promising results for wound healing, acne treatment, and anti-aging, to name just a few. These potential benefits have allowed light therapy to gain acceptance in the medical field.

To get the most out of this treatment, you need to choose the right type of light therapy. We have answered the most frequently asked questions about light therapy to help you make the right choice.

Who should use SAD Lights therapy?

Bright light therapy can be helpful if you suffer from one or more of the following conditions:

- The seasonal affective disorder known as winter blues
- Depression
- Sleep disturbances such as insomnia
- Disorder of the daily biorhythm in connection with a long-distance flight or work in the night shifts.

What type of light therapy will help me cure acne?

Blue light therapy is aimed at treating acne and comedones, as it fights one of the most common causes of rashes - the bacterium propionibacterium acne. A combination of blue and red light is also often used for acne. Blue light works against bacteria, while red has an anti-inflammatory effect, which reduces the activity of the sebaceous glands.

Which light therapy is best for wrinkles and skin aging?

To combat aging and wrinkles, light therapy with infrared or red wavelengths is better. These waves promote collagen production, increasing blood circulation and improving the delivery of nutrients to cells. This in turn increases the firmness, elasticity, and integrity of the skin.

Which light therapy is suitable for treating skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema?

One of the most effective treatments for psoriasis and eczema is PUVA therapy. This is a treatment that involves the use of the photoactive substance psoralen in conjunction with exposure of the skin to long-wavelength ultraviolet radiation.

What type of light therapy will help me overcome chronic or muscle pain?

Infrared light therapy, combined with red light, can help relieve chronic pain without any unwanted effects. Also, this type of light therapy is used for skin problems, burns, frostbite, and ulcers.

10/02/2021

Effective Methods How to Grow Hair by the Light Therapy

Red light therapy is a safe, effective, and natural remedy for hair loss that has been gaining popularity over the past decade.

Red light has been found to be particularly effective in treating hair loss; the best result is shown by light with wavelengths from 620 nm to 660 nm. By increasing the blood flow to the scalp, the metabolism of the hair follicles is stimulated, resulting in more hair.

During hair loss, you lose hair, but not the follicles - the tubular formations that attach hair to the skin. Red light penetrates the skin to the base of the hair follicles, stimulating the cells to produce more energy, which leads to more successful functioning.

Red light therapy also:

- Stimulates the production of ATP, a molecule that is responsible for feeding cellular structures. The increase in ATP causes the individual cells in the hair follicle to increase their activity, including the rate at which they function. The restoration of the energy of the cellular structures of the hair follicles leads to hair growth.

- Increases collagen production. Hair is mainly composed of a protein called keratin. Although collagen - another type of protein - is absent in hair, it acts as an antioxidant to fight the damage that builds up in the body during stress, environmental pollutants, poor nutrition, etc.

- Increases the formation of new capillaries, which improves blood flow to the scalp. There are studies that link improved blood flow to the growth of thicker, healthier hair. Hairdressers have long recommended scalp massage to increase blood flow, but increasing blood flow with red light is usually more effective.

More detailed information on the treatment of hair loss with red light, the results of the study, and their effectiveness on our website, the link in the bio.

09/30/2021

Frequently Asked Questions: Can Light Therapy Improve Your Sleep?

Nearly one in three American adults have sleep disturbances, and up to 30 percent of children also struggle with some form of sleep disturbance. The most common sleep disorder is insomnia. Despite these statistics, this problem is often underestimated and not addressed.

Several factors affect our sleep, and one of the most important of them is light. It's not just that we sleep better in the dark. Depending on the type of light, it can be either a stimulant that disrupts sleep or a calming effect that promotes better sleep.

Coming out of this, we looked at the most common questions about whether light can have a positive effect on our sleep.

Why use red light to improve sleep?

Red light has a long wavelength and has a calming effect on the body. Hence, it has beneficial effects on sleep and other physical properties.

Does red light therapy help with sleep?

Red light therapy can help with some sleep disorders. This is possible because of the red light:
- Reduces sleep inertia
- Restores circadian rhythm
- Reduces anxiety and depression
- Reduces the feeling of pain.

Can I sleep with a burning red light?

It is better to sleep in complete darkness. It signals the body that it’s time to rest by stimulating melatonin production. But when you need to move around the house at night, use red lights to stay sleepy.

What kind of light is best not to use for sleep disturbance?

Blue light has a short wavelength. Energy-efficient lighting and many electronic devices, including cell phones, tablets, and laptops, emit blue light. It affects sleep both directly, making it difficult to fall asleep, and indirectly, by affecting the circadian rhythm (the body's internal clock), the production of melatonin (an important hormone that promotes falling asleep), and sleep cycles. For this reason, it is best to refrain from using phones, tablets, and laptops before going to bed.

For more information on the scientific validity of the effectiveness of red light for sleep, we recommend that you go to our website, link in bio.

09/28/2021

A Guide to Using Light Therapy for Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin disorder that occurs when the immune system is imbalanced. Redness, scaly plaques appear on the body, which is difficult to treat.

The most recommended treatment for psoriasis is light therapy (phototherapy).

Phototherapy is a treatment using hardware techniques for irradiating the skin with ultraviolet waves of various wavelengths in combination (PUVA therapy) or without special preparations. Ultraviolet light is anti-inflammatory and suppresses excessive immune responses. In turn, this suppression restores the skin to a more normal state. The effect of various therapies directly depends on the depth of pe*******on of the rays into the layers of the skin.

Narrowband UVB therapy (308 or 311 nm)

It is the most widely used type of light therapy for psoriasis. But it is worth paying attention to the fact that this type of ray penetrates only into the upper layer of the epidermis, while UVA rays reach the dermis. As a result, UVB therapy is considered a phototherapy option for patients with mild to moderate psoriasis. With severe psoriasis, many more therapy sessions may be needed, and remission is 2 times less than with PUVA (4 months versus 8 months).

Psoralen and UVA (PUVA)

Also known as photochemotherapy, it combines the use of psoralen with exposure to an ultraviolet (UV) light source. Compared to NB-UVB, PUVA achieves psoriasis clearance in more patients with fewer treatments and results in longer remissions. But it should be borne in mind that long-term use of PUVA therapy can cause non-melanoma skin cancer.

For more information on the effectiveness of light therapy in the treatment of psoriasis, as well as research results, you can find on the website, link in the bio.

09/25/2021

Benefits and Side Effects of Blue Light Treatment for Acne

Acne is the most common skin problem that causes severe emotional distress in many people. But when looking for a solution to this problem, it is important to choose methods that are not only effective but also safe.

Blue light therapy is a painless, non-invasive procedure that can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions.

Blue light emits short wavelengths (400-510 nanometers) and is close to ultraviolet in the spectrum of waves, which gives it the same antibacterial properties but does not expose the skin to additional risk. It penetrates only into the uppermost layers of the skin (by 1 mm), but this is enough to saturate the skin with oxygen, which leads the bacteria to their death.

A combination of blue and red light is also often used for acne. Blue light works against bacteria, while red has an anti-inflammatory effect, which reduces the activity of the sebaceous glands. Treatment is usually a very quick process and is almost always done on an outpatient basis.

Benefits

Blue light therapy offers significant advantages over alternative acne treatments as it is believed to:
- safe
- painless
- without drugs
- suitable for all areas of the body
- suitable for use with most other acne treatments
- does not cause scarring on the skin

Unlike photodynamic therapy, sun exposure should not be avoided after the procedure.

Side effects

When used correctly, blue light therapy does not produce serious long-term effects. However, some minor side reactions may occur, such as:
- dry skin
- redness
- swelling

You should not get blue light therapy if you have a rare condition called porphyria, a blood disorder that causes sensitivity to light, or if you are allergic to porphyrins. You should also not use this therapy if you have lupus.

You will find more information on light therapy treatment on our website, link in bio.

09/24/2021

How To Decrease Fatigue With Light Therapy

Everyone has moments of fatigue. For most, this is only a matter of a few days; for others, this fatigue lasts for months due to past illnesses (traumatic brain injury, the effects of cancer). This symptom is also often associated with sleep disturbance and there is a consequence of circadian rhythm disturbances and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Depending on the cause of fatigue, the appropriate therapy is selected, which may include:

- Red light therapy (RLT) - treatment of sleep disorders that cause insomnia, which leads to body fatigue

- High-intensity blue light therapy - suppression of fatigue associated with traumatic brain injury, the effects of cancer, daytime sleepiness not associated with past trauma

- Bright light therapy (BLT) - treatment of fatigue associated with circadian rhythm disturbances, depressive disorders, SAD.

Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation (PBM), is a non-invasive treatment that uses red and near-infrared light. This light therapy can regulate fatigue by targeting certain brain chemicals associated with your sleep and mood.

During treatment with blue light, a decrease in fatigue can be noted, which is a consequence of past diseases associated with the main brain, as well as cancer. This type of therapy has a beneficial effect on daytime sleepiness and frequent loss of attention.

Bright light therapy (SAD Lights) is used in the treatment of seasonal affective disorder. This term is called seasonal depression, or, in other words, winter melancholy, from which people with normal mental health suffer when there is not enough sunlight. Since people with general depression often have low serotonin levels, which can lead to drowsiness, using light therapy lamps may also be helpful.

For more information on suppressing and treating fatigue associated with various factors, see our website, link in the bio.

09/15/2021

Secret To Younger-Looking Skin by the Light Therapy

Wrinkles have long been considered an inevitable part of aging.

Have you ever noticed that some people just don't age? Their skin retains youthful plumpness and elasticity, while their faces remain smooth and wrinkle-free. Some are genetically gifted with perfect skin, but for many, facial wrinkles cause more than calendar years — they are chronic stress.

Stress can be physical (like too much sun), environmental (toxins and cigarette smoke), dietary or emotional, all of which affect organs and accelerate aging.

We all know many treatments that have anti-aging effects, but if you are looking for the best, red light therapy is for you. You will be amazed before and after applying red light therapy for wrinkles.

Red light has a specific wavelength that penetrates into the deeper layers of the dermis (to a depth of 4–5 mm), promoting collagen production, increasing blood circulation, and improving the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to cells.

Collagen and elastin are responsible for the firmness, elasticity, and integrity of the skin. As collagen production slows down over time, the skin can become saggy and thin. RLT smoothes fine lines and wrinkles, reduces pore size, and improves skin texture. In one study, subjects significantly improved their skin color and collagen density.

Also, red light stimulates the production of energy in skin cells. Energy cells function well and are more resistant to many stressors that affect our skin.

According to the results of studies on the effect of red light on the skin, the patients' complexion significantly improved, the feeling of skin roughness disappeared, the condition of wrinkles, and the collagen intensity index improved. Research proves that the use of RLT is gentle, safe, and provides pleasant skin rejuvenation.

More information about red light therapy, its benefits, and features on our website, link in bio.

09/11/2021

UV light: the Risks and Benefits of a Healthy Glow

Ultraviolet is radiation invisible to our eyes, which at the same time can be both useful for the body, and even save someone's life, and cause irreparable harm.

Unlike biologics, which target specific molecules to treat specific conditions, phototherapy is a broadly effective, non-targeted treatment for many skin conditions.

Benefits

Ultraviolet of spectrum A has a mild effect on the human body, healing and strengthening the immune system. Vitamin D is produced, which is so lacking in the autumn-winter period, microelements are better absorbed and the hormone of happiness — serotonin — is synthesized. Possessing bactericidal and mutagenic properties, ultraviolet light is successfully used in medicine. With its use it is carried out:

- prevention of vitamin deficiency;
- reduction of depressive conditions;
- a positive therapeutic effect in the treatment of skin diseases;
- elimination of cosmetic skin defects.

Risks

Phototherapy has contraindications — people who are sick or have had cancer in the past are not recommended light therapy, as this provokes cell growth, which can lead to a second disease or worsening of the condition. For people who have increased photosensitivity, vision problems, or diabetes — phototherapy is also contraindicated.

Also, there are side effects, but they are often short-lived.

The most common side effect of phototherapy is sensitivity to sunlight. These reactions can occur on skin that has been exposed to light rays. They are usually associated with redness, tingling, or burning. For some time after treatment, the patient must be careful not to expose the treated areas of the face and scalp to light. Eye strain and temporary headaches caused by light can also be side effects.

More information on the risks, benefits, and efficacy of phototherapy on our website, link in the bio.

09/06/2021

Frequently Asked Questions: Does Light Therapy Really Improve Skin?

The popularity of light therapy is increasing every year and more and more people are interested in the question "Is it effective?"

Below you will find frequently asked questions about light therapy to improve your skin.

What light therapy is best for acne?

Light therapy combining red and blue waves is aimed at treating acne. Blue waves contain antibacterial properties, while red waves fight skin redness and inflammation. When combined, this type of light therapy has beneficial results for people suffering from acne.

What light therapy is best for wrinkles/skin aging?

To combat aging and wrinkles, light therapy with infrared or red wavelengths is better. These waves promote collagen production, increasing blood circulation and improving the delivery of nutrients to cells. This in turn increases the firmness, elasticity, and integrity of the skin.

Are there any contraindications for using light therapy?

If you are taking photosensitive medications or have a medical condition in which your skin becomes particularly sensitive to light, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, you should refrain from light therapy. Also, if you have a retinal disease, diabetes, or have malignant growths - before starting light therapy, be sure to consult your doctor.

What are the side effects of light therapy?

In general, light radiation is safe for the body, but short-term side effects are not excluded. The most common side effect of phototherapy is sensitivity to sunlight. It is usually associated with redness, tingling, or burning. Eye strain and temporary headaches caused by light can also be side effects.

How quickly will I see results from light therapy treatment?

It all depends on the severity of each individual condition. For example, when using light therapy to treat acne, you should be able to see the first results within 4 weeks. It is important to remember that everyone is different and the suggested time frames are approximate based on clinical trials and patient feedback.

If you have not found the answer to your question, you can contact our team of specialists, link to the site in the bio.

09/03/2021

HRI Research Guide: How to Fight Seasonal Depression by the Phototherapy

Seasonal depression is a variant of depressive disorder that occurs at the same time every year, usually in winter. The condition affects our mood, sleep, appetite, and energy levels, thereby affecting every aspect of our life.

A lack of sunlight is often the cause of seasonal depression. The reason light is so important is that it sets the circadian rhythm, or biological clock, in our body. Therefore, in the winter season, when there is critically little light, a violation of the circadian rhythm is a frequent phenomenon, which is associated with seasonal depression.

Bright light (2,500 to 10,000 lux) is by far the most widely used form of light therapy for all mood disorders.

Light therapy involves sitting next to a special lightbox that does not have UV radiation for 30-60 minutes a day. We recommend using the box within the first hour after waking up. The eyes should be open, but not looking into the light. Positive changes with bright light therapy are seen after a few days. But therapy is best carried out stably for at least two weeks, and preferably up to four weeks. If no changes are observed, we recommend that you consult a doctor who will correct your light therapy sessions.

Side effects

Bright light therapy (BLT) has several side effects — mainly headache, fatigue, irritability, and eye strain. They usually go away with decreasing dose, that is, with shorter sessions or increasing distance from the light source. Anyone with light-sensitive skin or retinal diseases such as macular degeneration or a diabetes-related problem is a poor candidate for light therapy.

For more information on light therapy for seasonal depression, benefits, and efficacy based on medical research, the link in bio.

08/31/2021

Frequently Asked Questions: What Are Risks of Phototherapy?

It has long been known that the sun has a beneficial effect on the course of various diseases. This is due to the effect on the skin of different light waves, which are part of the solar radiation spectrum. Despite the positive effects of phototherapy, there is a risk of side effects.

Below we have posted frequently asked questions about the possible risks of light therapy.

What side effects can phototherapy cause?

If the light used for therapy is too intense for your body, it can have short-term effects. Such as the:

- Irritability
- Headaches
- Eyestrain
- Mild visual side effects

Can phototherapy cause sunburn?

There is an increased risk of sunburn after light therapy. This is especially true for PUVA therapy when psoralen is taken before the procedure, which causes increased photosensitivity. It is important to protect your skin from sun damage for the next 24 hours.

Can phototherapy cause blindness?

There have been studies that mentioned that light increases sensitivity to color contrast and people with any kind of retinal disease or diabetes are at risk of eye damage.

Therefore, during treatment, personal protective equipment for phototherapy should be used, which should include safety glasses.

Does phototherapy cause cancer?

For individuals, if all precautions are taken (frequency and duration of procedures, the power of the device), such therapy is safe. People who have had cancer in the past are advised to take phototherapy with caution and consult a doctor before use.

How can I minimize risks and side effects?

- Protect your eyes and healthy skin
- Wear safety glasses during treatment
- After the procedure, the skin should always be covered with clothing or sunscreen with a high sun protection factor.

If you have not found the answer to your question, or want to learn more about light therapy, risks, and their minimization, we recommend that you contact our team of specialists, link to the website in the bio.

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