The Benefits of Red Light Therapy

At CGI Holistic Fitness & Spa in Closter, NJ, our red light therapy room is designed to support recovery, relaxation, and long-term wellbeing. If you’re unsure about how red light therapy can benefit your health, here is a comprehensive guide to understanding its positive effects.

What Is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy, also known as Photobiomodulation (PBM), uses low-level red and near-infrared light to stimulate your cells’ natural healing and energy-producing functions gently. First studied by NASA and medical researchers in the 1960s, red light therapy is now widely used in wellness and dermatology settings to:

• Support skin health and clarity

• Promote wound healing and reduce inflammation

• Diminish scars, fine lines, and uneven tone

• Calm skin conditions such as acne, eczema, or psoriasis

• Relieve mild soreness or muscle fatigue

• Encourage an overall sense of relaxation and well-being

Unlike tanning or UV exposure, red light contains no ultraviolet rays. It’s completely non-invasive and non-heating —your body simply absorbs beneficial wavelengths that help your cells perform better.

How Does Red Light Therapy Work?

Red and near-infrared light penetrate just below the skin, reaching your cells’ mitochondria, the “energy centers” responsible for producing cellular energy (ATP). This light helps them work more efficiently, increasing circulation and reducing oxidative stress. Consistent use of red light therapy can lead to:

• Smoother, more radiant skin

• Faster recovery and reduced inflammation

• Improved mood and balance through gentle nervous-system regulation

While red light has shown promising effects for mood support, the lounge at CGI Holistic Fitness & Spa is offered as a wellness amenity, not a medical treatment.

Is Red Light Therapy Safe?

As with any wellness practice, there are some general safety tips when using red light therapy, but overall, the therapy is safe to use consistently. First and foremost, avoid looking directly into the light. Additionally, the light should feel warm but never hot. Discontinue use if you feel discomfort, dizziness, eye strain, or headache.

  Please consult your healthcare provider before using red light therapy if you:

• Are pregnant

• Have a history of seizures or photosensitivity

• Have active skin cancer or unexplained skin lesions

• Have lupus, melasma, or light-sensitive conditions

• Are using photosensitizing medications or products (e.g., certain antibiotics, isotretinoin, retinoids, strong exfoliants)

Avoid use of red light therapy over open wounds, recent surgical sites, or untreated infections, as well as immediately after laser treatments or cosmetic procedures (unless cleared by a provider).

How Do I Use Red Light Therapy?

Follow these steps in order to ensure the most effective treatment of red light therapy.

1. Prepare (2–3 minutes):

Gently cleanse your skin, removing any makeup or sunscreen. Position yourself comfortably so the target area is exposed to the light.

2. Time & Duration:

Each lamp delivers energy in joules per square centimeter (J/cm²), the dose your skin receives. For general skin wellness, aim for 5–10 J/cm², which typically equals 5–10 minutes per area, depending on your distance.

Typical full-body session: 10 minutes front + 10 minutes back (maximum 20 minutes total). “More” is not always better, as red light therapy works best at moderate, consistent doses. One session per visit is recommended.

3. Relax & Breathe:

Simply close your eyes, breathe naturally, and allow the light to wash over you. You may feel warmth or calm tingling—that’s energy flowing through your cells.

4. Aftercare:

No downtime is needed after using red light therapy. You may apply moisturizer afterward and return to your day. If you use strong active skincare (retinoids, exfoliants), wait a few hours before reapplying.

How Often Should I Use Red Light Therapy?

Consistency is the key to visible results. For skin rejuvenation and improved tone, use red light therapy 3–5 times per week for 4–8 weeks, then continue 1–3 times per week for maintenance. For acne or blemish care, use red light therapy 3–5 times per week until improvement is seen, then continue with gentle maintenance as needed. For minor soreness or inflammation, use red light therapy 3–4 times per week, or as needed, for 5–10 minutes per affected area.

Results appear gradually as your cells renew and your skin’s microcirculation improves. Most people notice a smoother tone and healthier glow within a few weeks of regular sessions.

Therapy Rooms at CGI Holistic Fitness & Spa

At CGI Holistic Fitness & Spa, fitness and wellness meet. Our intimate, small setting creates a non-intimidating atmosphere, allowing you to focus on adding wellness to your overall fitness regimen. With our therapy room offering saunas, oxygen therapy, hot & cold plunges, and more, we have everything you need to achieve your wellness goals comfortably and effectively.

Schedule a consultation today to learn more about our therapy room services, our facility, and how CGI can help you become the best version of you!