While we strongly believe in the quality of our devices and the science of red light therapy, we cannot ignore the power of the sun.
The sun is what gives life to this planet and without it, we wouldn't be here.
In this post you will learn about the differences between red light therapy and sunlight, and whether or not you can replace one with the other.
What makes the sun different to red light therapy?
With red light therapy, you are getting the exact type of light that your cells use to make energy, specifically red and infrared light.
This is the same type of light that makes up a portion of sunlight, especially during sunrise and sunset.
The sun, however, also delivers other types of light which can be beneficial (in the right amounts). One example is ultraviolet (UV) light, which you will get from mid-day sunlight.
UV light is essential for making vitamin D, a critical hormone for optimal immune function, metabolism, and energy levels.
Despite this critical role, UV light is often blamed for causing sun burns and skin cancer, but,
...did you know that the red and infrared light you get from the sunrise actually helps you to absorb UV light better?
This is Nature's way of protecting your skin from sun burn.
Unfortunately, this is why some red light therapy companies will market their devices as 'better than sunlight', because you can't get burnt with red light therapy.
In reality, the notion that “the sun is bad for us and our skin” is based on the fact that most people don't get outside in the early hours of the day.
This means they skip out on red and infrared light, leading to a higher risk of getting burnt.
Do this repeatedly and, of course, the cellular damage could lead to skin cancer.
So, why would you need red light therapy then?
While the sun is definitely your best source of healthy light, the problem comes in that most of us aren't fortunate enough to spend our days outside.
With a high powered red light therapy device, you can get an effective dose of red and infrared light in as little as 5 minutes per day.
Firstly, this means that you can tap into the numerous benefits of red and infrared light; such as decreased inflammation, faster muscle recovery, and improved sleep quality.
Secondly, this also means that you have a reduced risk for sunburn when you do go outside, because you have prepared your skin to absorb UV light more efficiently.
So, if you are like most humans, and have commitments that prevent you from being outside all day, you will want to supplement your light environment with a red light therapy device.
This means that everyday you will know you are getting a healthy dose of red and infrared light, while living in a modern world.
Written by: Gemma Trehearn
