Red light therapy works by delivering specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to the body, which stimulates your cells particularly the mitochondria, known as the energy factories of your cells. One key enzyme in the mitochondria, called cytochrome c oxidase, absorbs this light and becomes more active. This leads to a boost in the production of ATP, the main energy currency of the body, giving your cells more fuel to heal, repair, and perform their functions better.
Another important effect is the release of nitric oxide, a gas that can build up and block cellular energy production. Red light therapy helps displace this nitric oxide, allowing mitochondria to work more efficiently while also improving blood flow and oxygen delivery throughout the body.
Red light therapy also helps balance calcium levels through light-sensitive ion channels and activates signaling molecules like reactive oxygen species (ROS), cAMP, and nitric oxide. These signals trigger important biological responses such as reducing inflammation, fighting oxidative stress, boosting antioxidant production, and activating genes involved in healing and regeneration.
Stem cells and other regenerative cells respond especially well to this light, which helps explain why red light therapy can support everything from faster injury recovery and muscle repair to skin rejuvenation and even improved brain function. Unlike UV light, it doesn’t damage DNA or burn the skin, making it a safe, non-invasive tool to help the body heal, repair, and thrive from the inside out.