Infrared Therapy - Health, Beauty and Much More

Infrared radiation (IR) is a powerful electromagnetic spectrum energy ranging from 700 nm to 1 mm. It constitutes 40% of the solar radiation reaching Earth's surface, primarily as heat. This potent energy source holds immense potential in skincare and health treatments.

IR is classified into three categories:

1. Near IR (NIR or IRA, 700–1400 nm)
2. Mid IR (IRB, 1400–3000 nm), and
3. Far IR (IRC, 3000 nm–1000000 nm)

Among these three main categories, near IR, has been found to benefit humans and play a crucial role in protecting the skin and providing several other health benefits. This protective function of near IR is a reassuring aspect of its potential applications in skincare and health treatments, instilling a sense of confidence in its use.

One of the key applications of IR is photoprevention, a process that uses IR to shield the skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation. Research has shown that pre-exposure to near IR (such as pulsed 940 nm IR) can significantly reduce UV-induced damage by boosting the production of protective proteins like procollagen and anti-apoptotic factors. This effect, demonstrated in animal studies, is likely due to the increased gene expression that shields against oxidative stress and damage, offering a potential strategy for mitigating UV-related skin damage.

Photorejuvenation, a process that uses IR to address signs of skin aging, holds significant promise. Studies have demonstrated that IR can stimulate collagen and elastin production, essential proteins that maintain skin firmness and elasticity. For example, after six months of regular far IR treatments, patients showed a 20%-50% improvement in skin texture and tone, along with increased collagen and elastin production. These effects were achieved with minimal side effects, making IR a well-tolerated and hopeful option for non-invasive skin rejuvenation.

It is essential to mention here that Infrared beauty massagers harness the benefits of IR, i.e., near IR is used for such purposes. Other beneficial uses of IR are treating bumpy skin, enhancing blood circulation, and treating fatigue.

Scientific literature has also reported the harmful effects of IR. It is believed that IR enhances Ultraviolet-induced carcinogenesis. Users must be careful while using products. However, it is essential to mention that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several devices with built-in IR for various treatments.

Photobiomodulation (PBM), the therapeutic use of low-level IR, is a safe and effective treatment option. PBM works by activating mitochondrial processes that increase cell proliferation and anti-inflammatory responses. For instance, treatments with 820–950 nm IR at low irradiances have been shown to speed up wound healing by 1.5 times compared to controls. Additionally, PBM has shown promise in treating conditions like alopecia areata, where regular IR exposure led to significant hair regrowth in over 50% of treated areas. The safety and effectiveness of PBM highlight its potential as a confident and effective treatment for various conditions, instilling a sense of trust in its use.

Additional Reading

1. The effects of infrared radiation on the human skin