The Difference Between Traditional Infrared Lamps and Modern LED Red Light Therapy Devices

Introduction

You know them, the red lights that your mother or grandmother used to treat neck pain, back pain or stomach pain. Not a crazy idea at all, because these lights also work. The difference is in the LED light technology that we now use. This allows us to use exactly the right wavelengths that are beneficial for our body.

In the world of light therapy, there are several technologies available to help improve health and wellness. Two of the most common types are traditional infrared lamps (full spectrum) and modern LED red light therapy devices. While both methods use light to provide therapeutic benefits, there are significant differences in how they work, how effective, and how expensive they are. In this blog, we will discuss these differences and provide insight into why there are price differences between these two types of devices.

What are Traditional Infrared Lamps (Full Spectrum)?

Traditional infrared lamps, often referred to as full spectrum infrared lamps, generate a wide range of light waves, including visible light and infrared radiation. These lamps are widely used in saunas and as heat lamps for therapeutic purposes. They work by producing heat that penetrates deep into the skin and underlying tissues.

Benefits of Traditional Infrared Lamps:

• Heat Therapy : These lamps are effective in providing heat, which can help relieve muscle pain and stiffness.
• Uses : Due to their ability to generate heat, they are often used in therapies aimed at reducing pain and promoting relaxation.

Disadvantages of Traditional Infrared Lamps:

• No Specific Wavelengths : Because these lights emit a broad spectrum of wavelengths, they lack the targeted therapeutic benefits of specific wavelengths that LED devices provide.
• High heat production : The significant heat production may be uncomfortable for some users and is not always desirable for every therapy.

What are Modern LED Red Light Therapy Devices?

Modern LED red light therapy devices use advanced LED technology to deliver specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light. These devices are designed to provide targeted therapeutic benefits without generating significant heat. They utilize scientifically selected wavelengths, typically around 630nm, 660nm, 810nm, 830nm, and 850nm, which can penetrate deep into the skin and stimulate cell functions.

Benefits of LED Red Light Therapy Devices:

• Specific Wavelengths : These devices emit light in precisely defined wavelengths chosen for their proven therapeutic effects.
• Low Heat Production : LED devices produce little to no heat, which is more comfortable and safer for long-term use.
• Wide Range of Benefits : The specific wavelengths help stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation, improve cell function and promote wound healing.
• Deep Tissue Penetration : Wavelengths such as 850 nm in particular can penetrate deep into the body, making them effective for muscle recovery and joint pain.

Disadvantages of LED Red Light Therapy Devices:

• Higher initial cost : Due to the advanced technology and precise specification of wavelengths, these devices are often more expensive to purchase.

Price Difference Explained

The price difference between traditional infrared lamps and modern LED red light therapy devices is significant, and this is due to several factors:

1. Technology and Design :

   • Infrared lamps : These are generally simpler and cheaper to produce. They use conventional incandescent bulbs that emit a broad spectrum of light.
   • LED Therapy Devices : These use advanced LED technology that emits light in specific, precisely tuned wavelengths. The design and production of these devices requires advanced technology and precision, which increases the cost.

2. Efficiency and Effectiveness :

   • Infrared Lamps : While effective at generating heat, they do not provide the same targeted therapeutic benefits as LED devices. This means they are less efficient at delivering specific health benefits.
   • LED Therapy Devices : These are designed to be highly effective in delivering specific therapeutic benefits through the use of scientifically proven wavelengths. This targeting and efficiency often justifies the higher price.

3. Service Life and Maintenance :

   • Infrared lamps : These often have a shorter lifespan and need to be replaced regularly. They are also less energy efficient compared to LED devices.
   • LED Therapy Devices : LEDs have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance. They are more energy efficient and durable, which can save money in the long run.

LED Red Light Technology: Precision and Efficiency in Wavelengths

The advent of LED red light technology in the world of light therapy marks a significant advancement, particularly due to the precise control over the wavelengths of light emitted. Unlike traditional infrared lamps, LED devices can emit light in a very specific spectrum, typically ranging from about 630 nanometers (nm) to 680 nm for red light, and near-infrared light in the 800 nm to 1000 nm range. These precise wavelengths are critical, as different wavelengths penetrate different depths into the skin and thus trigger different types of cellular responses.

Read more about Red Light Therapy in our blog about it

Explanation Near and Infrared Light

A wavelength range between 0.75 μm and 1000 μm is called the infrared spectrum, and is just below red light. This light, often called thermal radiation, is invisible to the human eye. Everything that is warm, including the sun and even people, emits infrared light. IR is everywhere. The infrared spectrum is usually divided into 3 smaller sections:

• IR-A - Near infrared (0.75-2.5 μm)
• IR-B - Mid infrared (2.5-25μm)
• IR-C - Far infrared (25-300 μm)

Each of these ranges affects matter differently and can have different effects on the human body. Below is an overview of these three IR energy bands.

Near infrared (NIR)

Near-infrared light (0.75-2.5 μm) is the closest to visible light. It was discovered that NIR can accelerate wound healing by improving the function of mitochondria, the energy factories of cells.

Mid infrared (MIR)

Mid-infrared light (2.5-25 μm) provides both heat and illumination. MIR therapy is being investigated in supporting mitochondrial health. However, the focus of IR health research is usually on NIR and FIR.

Far infrared (FIR)

Far infrared light (25-300 μm) is mainly felt as heat. FIR therapy increases body temperature and improves blood circulation, which accelerates wound healing and improves skin health. This is the cheapest variant of infrared light that you find in traditional lamps.

Benefits of LED Red Light Therapy

• Cardiovascular Health:

  Infrared light stimulates nitric oxide, relaxes blood vessels, improves blood circulation and regulates blood pressure.
• Pain and Inflammation: The therapy penetrates deep into tissues, relieves pain and reduces inflammation by promoting regeneration and improved circulation.
• Muscle recovery : It promotes mitochondrial activity, accelerates muscle and tissue recovery, ideal for recovery after injuries.
• Detoxification: Infrared therapy through saunas increases body temperature, which stimulates detoxification and immune strengthening at the cellular level.
• Boosting Immunity and Supporting Cancer Treatment: Strengthens the immune system and can attack cancer cells by activating nanoparticles.
• Skin Improvement: Increases collagen and elastin, reduces wrinkles, heals scars and UV damage, and helps with psoriasis.
• Wound Healing: Accelerates wound healing through increased ATP production, fibroblasts and blood supply.
• Cognitive Performance : Improved brain function, better memory and attention span, especially helpful for the elderly.
• Low Risk : Safe and painless, suitable for most people, but not recommended for pregnant women or those with heart disease without medical advice.
• Accessibility and Affordability: Thanks to modern technology, infrared therapy devices are now pricey yet affordable and easy to use at home.

Conclusion

While both traditional infrared lamps and modern LED red light therapy devices have their place in therapeutic applications, LED technology offers distinct advantages in targeted treatments and efficiency. While the initial cost of LED devices may be higher, they offer a wider range of benefits and a longer lifespan, making them a worthwhile investment for those seeking specific health benefits. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed choice when selecting the right light therapy for your needs.

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