What is light therapy?
Light therapy, or phototherapy (light therapy) is a method in which the body is exposed to light waves of a certain spectrum in order to produce a therapeutic or health-promoting effect. This can be natural sunlight or specially designed light devices. It is a scientifically based treatment method in which light of a certain wavelength is used to regulate the functions of the human body and improve health. Simply put, it is a controlled exposure to light on the skin or eyes, which can have a positive effect on mood, skin condition, sleep and even immunity.
This therapy is not new – it has long been used in medicine: neonatology (neonatal jaundice), dermatology (psoriasis, vitiligo, eczema) and psychiatry (mood disorders, especially seasonal depression). Today it is also gaining popularity in aesthetic and regenerative medicine (Elmets et al., 2019; Cleveland Clinic). Light therapy is becoming increasingly relevant In Lithuania, where the long dark season, lack of sunlight, and the increasing prevalence of skin and psychological disorders encourage the search for non-invasive, safe, and effective solutions.
In this article, we will clearly explain, What is light therapy, how does it work and what are its basic principles?.
What is light therapy (phototherapy)?
Short answer:
Light therapy (phototherapy) is a treatment method that uses artificial or natural light to affect biological processes in the body.
Key facts:
- Specific wavelengths of light are used (blue, red, infrared);
- The therapy works through the skin or eyes;
- The method is recognized in medicine and supported by clinical research.
More: During phototherapy, light energy is converted into a biological signal that stimulates cell activity, hormone release, or the reduction of inflammatory processes. This principle is widely used in dermatology (treatment of psoriasis, acne), correction of sleep disorders, and mental health (National Institutes of Health (NIH)).
How does light therapy work?
Different light waves can affect our bodies in very different ways.
- Mitochondrial activation – red and infrared light stimulates mitochondria, increasing ATP production, which accelerates healing and tissue regeneration (Hamblin, 2016).
- Regulation of circadian rhythms – bright white or blue light helps normalize the sleep-wake cycle (American Psychiatric Association, 2021).
- Correction of skin processes – ultraviolet light (UVB) is used to treat psoriasis, vitiligo or dermatitis (Elmets et al., 2019).
Main types of light therapy
|
Type of therapy |
Waves used |
Main purpose |
Scientific justification |
|---|---|---|---|
|
UVB phototherapy |
UVB ~311 nm |
Dermatology: psoriasis, vitiligo, eczema |
Efficacy proven in clinical guidelines (Elmets et al., 2019) |
|
Blue light therapy |
400–500 nm |
Acne treatment, antibacterial effect |
Reduces C. acnes bacterial activity (Javed, Huh, 2024) |
|
Red and infrared light therapy (photobiomodulation) |
600–900 nm |
Reducing inflammation, promoting healing, slowing skin aging, controlling pain |
Mitochondrial activation, collagen synthesis (Hamblin, 2016; Wunsch, Matuschka, 2014) |
|
White bright light |
Broad spectrum (especially blue) |
Treatment of seasonal depression and sleep disorders |
Regulates the production of melatonin and serotonin (Cleveland Clinic; American Psychiatric Association, 2021) |
Benefits for the body
- For skin diseases – reduces symptoms of psoriasis, vitiligo, acne (Elmets et al., 2019; Javed, Huh, 2024).
- For pain and inflammation – photobiomodulation reduces inflammation, helps recover after injuries or intense training (Hamblin, 2016).
- For sleep and mood – bright light helps treat seasonal depression and insomnia (Cleveland Clinic).
- For aesthetic medicine – red light therapy can reduce wrinkles and improve skin elasticity (Wunsch, Matuschka, 2014).
Why is light therapy relevant in Lithuania?
Short answer:
In Lithuania, light therapy is particularly relevant due to lack of sunlight and seasonal health problems.
Local market insights:
- Long dark period (October–March);
- Increasing prevalence of depression and sleep disorders;
- Growing interest in non-invasive health technologies;
- Light therapy is increasingly being used at home.
In Lithuania, light therapy devices, including LED devices, can be purchased online, for example, stokas.lt, which offers solutions for home use that meet European standards.
What are the risks and precautions?
- Excess UV rays can increase the risk of skin cancer, so therapy should only be applied under the supervision of a specialist (Elmets et al., 2019).
- Improper use may cause skin redness, eye irritation or headaches (Cleveland Clinic).
- It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions, as too high a dose may reduce the benefits of therapy or even cause harm (Hamblin, 2016).
Conclusions
Light therapy is a versatile, scientifically based technology that can be applied in many areas. It can improve skin conditions, reduce symptoms of depression, promote healing, or help regulate sleep. However, before starting to use it, it is worth consulting with a doctor and choosing the right type of light therapy for your needs.
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