What is the wavelength of near-infrared (NIR) light and how does it work in light therapy?
Light therapy (photobiomodulation) is rapidly becoming an integral part of wellness and biohacking. However, when reading about red light devices, a technical term often comes up – NIR or near infrared light.
What is it, why is a specific wavelength important, and how can this "invisible" light regenerate our body? Let's find out.
What is NIR light?
Infrared radiation covers a wide spectrum, but in light therapy we are interested in near infrared light (NIR). Unlike red light, which we see as a bright red glow, NIR light is practically invisible to the human eye. invisible.
Optimal wavelength
It has been scientifically proven that the most effective NIR range for therapy is between 700 nm and 1100 nm. Most often in quality light therapy devices, which you will also find stokas.lt, the following specific lengths are used:
- 810 nm;
- 830 nm;
- 850 nm (the most popular and best studied).
How does NIR light affect our body?
The fundamental difference between red light and NIR is penetrationWhile red light (about 660 nm) mainly affects the surface of the skin, NIR waves penetrate deeper into the body – reaching muscles, joints and even bones.
1. Activation of mitochondria (energy production)
The mitochondria in our cells contain a light-sensitive enzyme – cytochrome c oxidase. When NIR light hits this enzyme, it stimulates the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Simply put: your cells get a “fuel injection” that allows them to heal faster and function more efficiently. According to According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)., this photobiomodulation is the main mechanism that reduces inflammatory processes.
2. Hormesis and antioxidant effects
NIR light induces mild, positive stress on cells (hormesis), which forces the body to strengthen its internal antioxidant systems. This helps fight chronic inflammation, a major cause of many diseases.
3. Improving blood circulation
When exposed to NIR light, nitric oxide ($NO$) is released in the tissues, which relaxes blood vessels. Improved blood flow means that oxygen and nutrients reach the damaged area more quickly. As stated In a Healthline review of light therapy, this directly contributes to a faster tissue regeneration process.
The main health benefits of NIR light
| Benefit | How does it work? |
| Muscle recovery | Reduces lactic acid accumulation and accelerates the healing of microtraumas after sports. |
| Joint health | NIR penetrates cartilage, reducing inflammation in cases of arthritis or injuries. |
| Brain activity | Studies show that NIR can improve cognitive function and mood. |
| Deep healing | Stimulates collagen production in deeper layers, helping to heal scars and tissues. |
Why choose a combination of NIR and red light?
Most professional devices use both spectrums simultaneously. Why? Because they complement each other:
- Red light (660 nm): Takes care of skin health, fights wrinkles and superficial inflammation;
- NIR light (850 nm): "Repairs" what is deeper - muscles, tendons, and inflammatory processes inside.
Important: Since NIR light is invisible, don't be alarmed when you turn on your device - some of the LEDs will appear to be off or barely glowing. This is a sign that they are emitting powerful near-infrared light.
We recommend
When choosing light therapy equipment, it is recommended to focus on verified, certified and transparent manufacturers – this ensures safety and real results.
If you are considering purchasing an LED panel, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with our selected brands, which are valued in Europe. There you will also find relevant discount offers (5–20 %) – https://stokas.lt/rekomenduojame/
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TOP trademark in Europe MITO LIGHT®
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MVOLO– the leading Dutch light therapy brand
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Conclusions
In summary, it can be stated that near infrared light (NIR) is an invisible part of the electromagnetic spectrum, the wavelength of which in light therapy usually ranges from 700nm to 1100nm (considered the most effective 850 nm range).
Unlike visible light, NIR has the ability to penetrate deep into the body, where it directly activates cell mitochondria, stimulating energy (ATP) production, reducing inflammation and improving blood circulation. It is a powerful tool not only for the surface of the skin, but also for the regeneration of deep tissues, muscles and joints, helping the body to recover in a natural, biological way.