The Dangers of Infrared Light (IR) in Red Light Therapy (RLT)
Users of RLT don’t want to develop cataracts in 20 years from IR exposure.
Clinic studies have shown that Red Light Therapy can improve eyesight. The studies I have read use a deep red light with a wavelength of around 670 nm to improve vision. Most RLT units allocate 50% of their LEDs for infrared radiation (IR) around 850 nm. It is my belief because of the high power IR LEDs employed in RLT units and the close proximity to the eye these units may be a cause for concern.
This article will touch upon the benefits of RLT for the eyes but also focus on the concern of the IR radiation potentially damaging the cornea of the eye.
The Good Light— 670-nanometers
By age 70, a person loses about 30% of their photoreceptors. The photoreceptors begin to degrade significantly past the age of 40. Based on animal and insect studies scientists determine that red light at 670 nm may improve retinal sensitivity and color vision. Red light therapy achieves this outcome by improving the photoreceptor's mitochondrial performance.
24 participants between the ages of 28 and 72 in a University College London (UCL) study were provided LED flashlights that emitted 670-nanometer light. The power…
