What is the Difference Between Red Light and Infrared?

The main differences between red light and infrared light therapy are their visibility, wavelengths, and penetration depth in the human body. Here are the key distinctions:

1. Visibility: Red light is visible to the human eye, while infrared light is invisible.
2. Wavelengths: Red light has wavelengths between 630nm and 700nm, while infrared light sits next to red light on the electromagnetic spectrum with wavelengths between 800nm and 1000nm.
3. Penetration Depth: Infrared light has a longer wavelength than red light, which allows it to penetrate more deeply into the body, reaching depths of about 1.5 to 2 inches. Red light, on the other hand, is most effective for use on the surface of the skin.

Despite these differences, both red light and infrared therapies are natural, drug-free, non-invasive, safe, and have reported no adverse short or long-term side effects. The choice between red light and infrared therapy depends on the desired outcome. If you want to treat skin conditions on the surface, red light LED sessions are focused and effective. For deeper penetration and different benefits, infrared light therapy may be more suitable.

Comparative Table: Red Light vs Infrared

The main differences between red light and infrared light (also known as near-infrared light) are their wavelengths, visibility, and penetration depth within the body. Here is a table summarizing these differences:

Red light is a visible light that falls within the light spectrum between 630-700 nm. It is used primarily for treating skin issues such as sunburns, acne, hair loss, wound healing, and yeast infections. Infrared light, on the other hand, is not visible to the human eye and is effective for both the surface of the skin and deeper tissues. Infrared penetrates about three times deeper into tissues than red light and provides similar benefits for the skin while also extending to joints, muscles, and bones that require remedial benefits.