赤色光療法 (RLT), としても知られています low-level light therapy (LLLT) または 光生体調節, uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light (usually 630–660 nm for red and 810–850 nm for near-infrared) to stimulate cellular processes, accelerate healing, and improve overall tissue function.
It is backed by decades of research in dermatology, sports medicine, and regenerative medicine.
レッドライトセラピーの仕組み
RLT works at the cellular level, primarily affecting the ミトコンドリア — the “powerhouse” of cells.
- Photon absorption:
- Red and near-infrared photons penetrate skin and tissues.
- Cells absorb these photons through cytochrome c oxidase, an enzyme in the mitochondrial respiratory chain.
- ATP生産の増加:
- Photon absorption stimulates mitochondria to produce more ATP (アデノシン三リン酸) — the energy molecule of cells.
- More ATP means cells have more energy to repair, regenerate, and function efficiently.
- Cellular signaling & gene expression:
- RLT modulates reactive oxygen species (ロス) and nitric oxide (いいえ) 細胞内.
- This reduces inflammation, 循環を改善します, and activates repair genes.
Biological Effects of Red Light Therapy
| 効果 | それがどのように機能するか | 利点 |
|---|---|---|
| Collagen & elastin stimulation | Activates fibroblasts | Firmer, tighter, younger-looking skin |
| 創傷治癒 & tissue repair | Increases ATP & 血流 | Faster recovery from injuries, 傷跡, and burns |
| 炎症の減少 | Modulates ROS & inflammatory cytokines | Eases arthritis, 筋肉痛, and inflammatory skin conditions |
| 痛みの軽減 | Improves circulation and nerve function | Helps chronic pain, joint discomfort, and post-exercise soreness |
| Enhanced circulation | Increases nitric oxide and microvascular flow | Improves oxygen & nutrient delivery, supports tissue repair |
| Hair growth stimulation | Activates follicle cells | Helps androgenic alopecia or hair thinning |
Depth & Wavelength Matters
- 赤信号 (630–660 nm): Penetrates superficial layers (~5–10 mm) — ideal for skin, collagen, and pigmentation.
- 近赤外線 (810–850 nm): Penetrates deeper tissues (~30–50 mm) — effective for joints, 筋肉, 腱, and nerve repair.
Most clinically effective devices combine both red and near-infrared wavelengths to target surface and deep tissues simultaneously.
Supporting Scientific Evidence
- 肌の若返り: Multiple studies show reduced wrinkles, improved skin elasticity, and faster healing of scars.
- Pain & 炎症: Randomized trials demonstrate reduced joint pain and stiffness in arthritis and tendonitis.
- 創傷治癒: Studies in burns and surgical wounds show faster tissue repair.
- Hair regrowth: Clinical trials show increased hair density in androgenic alopecia.
References:
- Hamblin, M.R., Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 2017
- Avci P. et al., 皮膚医学と手術のセミナー, 2013
- Chung H. et al., Annals of Biomedical Engineering, 2012
How to Maximize Effectiveness
- 波長: Use 630–660 nm red + 810–850 nm near-infrared for most benefits.
- セッション期間: 10–20分あたりエリア.
- 頻度: 3–5回毎週.
- Device quality: Choose devices with high irradiance / power output for meaningful therapy.
Overexposure is generally safe but unnecessary — stick to recommended times and distance for best results.
Bottom Line
Red light therapy works by energizing cells, 炎症を軽減する, and enhancing repair mechanisms through photobiomodulation.
It has wide-ranging benefits for 肌, 筋肉, 関節, and overall cellular health, backed by scientific research and clinical trials.
Professional devices like MERICAN 赤色光療法システム combine 660 nmレッド + 850 nm near-infrared LEDs, ensuring both surface skin and deep tissue benefits in one therapy session.
