As red light therapy gains popularity in the beauty and wellness industries, many people are curious about its potential benefits and are interested in trying it out for themselves. However, as with any new health trend, it's important to consider the potential risks and safety precautions before jumping in…
Even though red light therapy has been used safely for decades, there are still concerns about its potential risks and safety precautions. One major talking point is whether red light therapy can damage your eyes, and if so, how you can prevent it.
In this article, we will explore the safety of red light therapy for your eyes, and provide you with some important tips for using red light therapy at home.
From understanding the potential risks to deciding whether eye protection is necessary, we'll cover everything you need to know to stay safe and get the most out of your red light therapy experience!
So, whether you're considering red light therapy for its potential health benefits or are simply curious about this innovative technology, we're here to help you make informed decisions and stay safe along the way.
So, let's dive in!
Is Red Light Therapy Bad For Your Eyes?
As one of the most sensitive parts of our bodies, it's only natural that we want to protect our eyes from damage when dealing with red light therapy.
However, the good news is that red light therapy is generally considered safe for the eyes when used properly!
In fact, not only is it safe, but there are a number of studies that show that treatment with red light therapy can actually improve eye health!
In a 2020 study, researchers discovered that a brief daily treatment with a 670 nm red light therapy device over the course of two weeks enhanced color and contrast vision by 20% on average and by as much as 47% in younger participants! [1]
But that’s not all, because another study from 2020 examined if letter recognition improved following red light therapy in patients with dry age-related macular degeneration.
And according to the research team, 50% of participants improved their visual activity chart scores by between 5 and 8 lines, compared to fewer than 14% in the control groups. [2]
Having said that, it's important to use caution when using red light therapy around the eyes.
While the red light is unlikely to cause direct damage to the eyes themselves, it can still cause discomfort or irritation if it is too bright or too close to the eyes.
In conclusion, while red light therapy is generally considered safe for the eyes, it's important to take precautions to minimize any potential risks.
By following proper safety guidelines and using common sense, you can enjoy the potential benefits of red light therapy without putting your eyes at risk!
Do I Need Eye Protection When Doing Red Light Therapy?
As we’ve just discussed, while red light therapy is generally considered safe for your eyes, it's still a good idea to take some precautions to ensure maximum safety and comfort…
One such precaution is using eye protection during your red light therapy sessions.
Eye protection can come in the form of goggles, glasses, or even simple eye masks. These can help shield your eyes from the bright light emitted by red light therapy devices and prevent any discomfort or irritation that might result from exposure to the light.
That being said, whether or not you'll need eye protection largely depends on the type of red light therapy device you're using and the proximity of the light to your eyes.
For example, if you're using a targeted device that focuses on a specific area of the body, you may not need eye protection if the light isn't directed towards your face.
However, if you're using a full-body device or a facial panel, eye protection could be a wise choice, especially if you’re someone that suffers from light sensitivity, epilepsy, or migraines.
The best thing to do is follow the manufacturer's instructions and always speak to a healthcare practitioner if you want to use red light therapy around the eye area.
Because the strength and safety of at-home red light therapy devices vary massively, it's important to get the right advice first… After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Is Doing Red Light Therapy At Home Safe For Your Eyes?
Absolutely! Red light therapy at home can be safe for your eyes, provided that you follow the appropriate safety guidelines and take the necessary precautions, which we discussed in the previous sections.
When using red light therapy devices at home, it's important to:
Choose a high-quality device.Make sure to invest in a reputable red light therapy device that meets safety standards and guidelines. A good device will provide the right wavelength and intensity of light, ensuring both effectiveness and safety.
Read and follow the instructions.
Before using your red light therapy device, read the user manual carefully and follow the recommended usage guidelines. This includes proper treatment duration, distance from the device, and any specific safety recommendations for eye protection.
Use eye protection.
As mentioned earlier, wearing eye protection can help minimize the risk of discomfort or irritation. Choose the right type of protection based on your device and personal comfort.
Start slow.
When beginning red light therapy at home, start with shorter treatment sessions and gradually increase the duration as your body gets used to the therapy. This is especially important for full-body panels that treat the whole body, rather than a more targeted device.
Following these easy yet essential steps allows you to reap the benefits of red light therapy at home without compromising your eyes' comfort or safety.
As long as you take precautions and use your device responsibly, red light therapy can be a great addition to your health and wellness routine!
Should You Keep Your Eyes Closed When Doing Red Light Therapy?
When it comes to protecting your eyes during red light therapy sessions, you may wonder whether keeping your eyes closed is enough or if additional precautions are necessary.
As with many aspects of red light therapy, the answer depends on your individual preferences, comfort levels, and the specific device being used.
Closing your eyes can be a simple and effective way to reduce the intensity of the light and minimize any potential discomfort, particularly if you're sensitive to bright light or don't have eye protection readily available.
By keeping your eyes closed during the treatment, you're creating a natural barrier that helps shield your eyes from direct exposure to the red light.
However, some people might find it challenging to keep their eyes closed throughout the entire treatment session, especially if the session lasts for an extended period of time…
Additionally, some individuals may feel more relaxed and comfortable when they can see their surroundings during the therapy. If that’s the case, using eye protection, such as goggles or glasses designed for red light therapy, may be a more practical solution.
It's also worth noting that some red light therapy devices are specifically made for use around the eye area.
These devices emit a lower intensity of light and have built-in safety features to protect your eyes. You may not need to close your eyes or wear eye protection if you use one of these devices, but you should still follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure your safety.
Ultimately, the decision to keep your eyes closed or use eye protection during red light therapy is a personal one. The best course of action depends on your comfort, preferences, and the specific device you're using.
As long as you take the proper precautions and consider your own needs, you can enjoy a safe and effective red light therapy experience that improves your health and well-being!
And if you're looking for a red light therapy device that combines safety, effectiveness, and convenience, look no further than our Move+ Pro device!
The Move+ Pro combines the power of LEDs and medical-grade lasers to create a portable, targeted red light therapy device that delivers exceptional results…
And because it's designed to be used on individual parts of the body, you can use it without worrying about potential eye damage!
So why not take the next step in your health and wellness journey?
Give your body the care it deserves and experience the transformative power of red light therapy with the Move+ Pro!
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For more tips and guides on using red light therapy at home, read:
- Red Light Therapy At Home For Pain
- How Often Can You Do Red Light Therapy?
- Red Light Therapy Benefits for Pain Relief
Sources:
1 - https://academic.oup.com/biomedgerontology/article/75/9/e49/5863431?login=true
