Red light therapy and infrared therapy are often mentioned together in the world of wellness, skincare, and pain relief — and for good reason. They both use light energy to stimulate healing and regeneration in the body. But are they the same thing?
Let’s break it down.
O que é terapia com luz vermelha?
Terapia com luz vermelha (Rlt) uses visible red light wavelengths, normalmente entre 620nm and 660nm. These wavelengths penetrate the skin to a shallow depth — around 8 para 10 millimeters — and are known to:
- Stimulate produção de colágeno
- Improve skin tone and texture
- Promote cicatrização de feridas
- Reduce inflammation on the skin’s surface
- Aid in Crescimento do cabelo
Because red light is visible to the human eye, RLT often gives off a soft, warm red glow.
What Is Infrared Therapy?
Infrared therapy uses invisible light, specifically infravermelho próximo (Nir) comprimentos de onda, normalmente entre 700nm and 1100nm. These wavelengths penetrate much deeper into the body — up to 5 centimeters (about 2 polegadas) — reaching músculos, articulações, and even bones.
Infrared therapy is commonly used to:
- Relieve joint and muscle pain
- Enhance circulation and oxygenation
- Reduce deep inflammation
- Apoiar nerve regeneration and repair
- Improve recovery after workouts or injury
Since NIR light is invisible, these devices won’t appear to glow as brightly as red light therapy panels, though they may still emit some warmth.
Key Differences Between Red and Infrared Therapy
| Feature | Terapia com luz vermelha | Infrared Therapy |
|---|---|---|
| Comprimento de onda | 620–660nm | 700–1100nm |
| Visibilidade | Visível (red glow) | Invisible |
| Penetration Depth | ~10 mm (skin level) | Até 50 mm (músculo, joint, bone) |
| Primary Uses | Skin health, anti-aging, Crescimento do cabelo | Alívio da dor, Recuperação muscular, deep tissue healing |
| Sensation | Warm, glowing | Often no visible light, deeper warmth |
Can They Be Used Together?
Yes — and they often are.
Many modern red light therapy devices combine red and near-infrared wavelengths for maximum therapeutic benefit. This dual-wavelength approach allows the treatment of both surface-level e deep tissue issues in one session.
Por exemplo:
- 660nm luz vermelha can boost collagen for skin rejuvenation
- 850nm near-infrared light can reduce joint pain and inflammation deeper in the body
This combination is especially popular in full-body therapy beds and panels.
Pensamentos finais
Red light therapy and infrared therapy are not exactly the same — but they’re closely related and often work best together. Red light targets surface skin concerns, while infrared goes deeper to relieve pain and support recovery. Whether you’re aiming for younger-looking skin or relief from sore muscles, understanding the difference helps you choose the right device — or combination — for your wellness goals.
