History of Light Therapy

Background:

In ancient times, civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and China, began the practice of natural light therapy. Their cultures believed in looking to the sun as a natural healer. Greeks and Romans began developing “sun-chambers” designed to capture direct rays of sun exposure they referred to as “heliosis”. This was a common, prescribed practice to aid in accelerated healing and mood stabilization. 

This practice has been able to withstand the test of time. As modern science develops so does our understanding of Light Therapy (Phototherapy). During the beginning of modern phototherapy in the late 19th century, Danish Dr. Niels Finsen secured his Nobel Prize for Medicine with his use of ultraviolet (UV) light as a treatment for tuberculosis scarring followed by the use of red light for scarring caused by smallpox. Light therapy, especially UVB, has been consistently used in hospitals by physiotherapists and dermatologists since the 1950s. Jumping further ahead into the 1980s light boxes/beds began to be developed and mass distributed as a treatment for SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), psoriasis, and wound healing. 

Red Light Specifically: 

From Surgeons to spas, Red Light Therapy has been on a rise of popularity, recently hitting an all time high within all groups of all ages.

 Now this must be for a reason so lets look into how exactly RLT works and what the proven benefits may be… 

RLT was originally developed and tested by NASA. They began their experiment testing plant growth in space, then eventually taking it a step further to help heal the wounds of astronauts in unstable conditions. Red Light Therapy is thought to work by activating the mitochondria of the cell - Certain cells absorb light wavelengths which stimulated them to work, the more energy the cells receive the more efficient their work becomes, creating results such as skin repair, new cell growth, and enhanced skin rejuvenation. This can manifest in a few ways including: reduced stretch marks/scarring, stimulated hair growth, reduced signs of psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea, as well as improved mood and quality of sleep. 

As of recent studies RLT is completely safe and has not resulted in any side effects or adverse reactions. As science develops and more is truly understood about Light Therapy, these treatments will continue to become more refined and effective. 

Here at Urban Sweat we offer a 20-Minute RLT session on a medical grade, full body bed,  designed as a safe relaxing environment to help you reach your self-care goals. 

However please remember that RLT is not a cure for any medical conditions and if you have any concerns it is always best to consult a doctor or dermatologist.