When it comes to red light therapy, you might assume that as long as you're in the same room as the device, you're getting the benefits. However, the distance between your skin and the light source is arguably one of the most critical factors determining the effectiveness of your sessions.
So, how close should you really be? The answer is: as close as possible.
The Rapid Dissipation of Light Energy
The science behind it is simple physics. Red light energy, like all forms of light, dissipates incredibly fast as it travels from its source. As our expert explains in the video, this means that even a few inches of distance can dramatically reduce the amount of therapeutic light reaching your body [00:05]. The further away you are, the less effective the treatment becomes, potentially turning a powerful modality into a minimal one.
The Importance of Accurate Measurement
This rapid dissipation is also why accurate measurement of light output is so vital. Many companies might quote very high readings, but it's important to understand how those readings are taken.
As highlighted in the video, some competitors measure directly on top of a bare diode [00:22]. This will naturally give a very high number. However, what truly matters for therapeutic efficacy is the measurement on top of the clear plastic between the body and the diodes [00:17]—the actual output where the light meets the skin. Our approach, measuring output at the point of application, ensures that the reported power is what actually reaches your clients, a method even validated by FDA inspectors [00:31].
Don't Let Distance Sabotage Your Results
For your clients to receive optimal results, the light source needs to be within one to two inches of their skin. This proximity ensures maximum absorption of the therapeutic wavelengths, allowing the body to truly harness the power of red light.
Curious to see exactly why distance matters so much and how it impacts the effectiveness of red light therapy?
Watch This Short Video to See Exactly How It Works
By prioritizing devices that ensure optimal proximity, you're not just offering red light therapy; you're delivering truly effective red light therapy.