A common question about red light therapy is whether it can still be effective when used over clothing. A resposta curta é: red light therapy can partially work through clothes, but effectiveness is reduced.
1. How Red Light Therapy Penetrates the Body
Terapia da luz vermelha usa vermelho (630–660nm) e infravermelho próximo (810–880nm) comprimentos de onda. These wavelengths are known for their ability to penetrate human tissue more effectively than shorter wavelengths like blue light.
Luz infravermelha próxima, em particular, can reach deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue.
2. What Happens When Light Meets Clothing
Clothing acts as a physical barrier that can:
- Reflect part of the light
- Absorb certain wavelengths
- Scatter the remaining light energy
The degree of light loss depends on:
- Fabric thickness
- Cor (dark colors absorb more light)
- Weave density
Afinar, light-colored fabrics allow more light to pass through than thick or dark materials.
3. Luz Vermelha vs.. Near-Infrared Through Clothes
- Luz vermelha (630–660nm): More easily blocked by clothing
- Infravermelho próximo (850 nm): Better penetration through both fabric and tissue
This is why devices that include near-infrared wavelengths tend to perform better when used over clothing.
4. Does Clothing Make Red Light Therapy Useless?
No—but it does reduce efficiency. Less light reaches the skin, meaning:
- Longer sessions may be needed
- The delivered dose is lower
- Results may be less consistent
Para melhores resultados, direct skin exposure is generally recommended.
Conclusão
Red light therapy can work through clothes to some extent, especially when near-infrared light is involved. No entanto, direct skin contact ensures more reliable and effective light delivery.
