Skin Contact in Red Light Therapy

The Science Behind Skin Contact in Red Light Therapy

In a recent interview, Dr. Hamblin (world photobiomodulation expert) addressed the crucial question: how close should you be to your red light therapy panels?

His answer might surprise you. Dr Hamblin advocates for direct skin contact with the LED panels, rather than standing at a distance. He explains that when the LEDs touch your skin, more of the light penetrates rather than being diffusely reflected.

Dr. Hamlin's approach might seem unconventional, but he insists that direct skin contact is significantly more effective. Again he recommends placing the panel directly on your skin for better results. This is probably not great news if you’re already healthy and well and thought that a red light panel was the answer when most of the research has been focused on skin contact - not ambient light (panels). Don’t be too hard on yourself if like me you jumped on the trend and bought a big panel.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7DVoEvMvTM

Why Skin Contact Matters

To delve deeper into this topic, let’s explore the science behind the skin contact method for red light therapy. Dr. Ena’s research provides a clear definition: treatment can be administered either in direct contact with the skin or at a distance. The contact mode is preferred because it minimizes energy loss. Nearly every photon emitted by the applicator enters the skin or tissue, whereas in non-contact mode, some photons are reflected or refracted away.

The World Association for Photobiomodulation Therapy (WALT) highlights the importance of application procedures in their standards for randomized control trials. They list three main modes: skin contact, distance from the device, and scanning. The application mode is critical as it determines the penetration depth and treatment efficacy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bb_za87ZQiQ&t=0s

Clinical Evidence Supporting Skin Contact

Multiple studies and reviews underscore the superiority of the skin contact method. For example, the Handbook of Low-Level Laser Therapy by Dr. Hamlin and colleagues explains that skin contact with slight pressure enhances light penetration by reducing reflection and compressing superficial blood vessels. This results in deeper absorption of photons - important for cesarean incision recovery as we are supporting deeper tissue healing. (A cesarean includes 7 different incisions. The first 3 incisions are transverse (horizontal) and include skin, adipose tissue (fat), and fascia (connective tissue). The next 4 include abdominal muscles, peritoneum (more connective tissue), the uterus, and finally the amniotic sac.

Some studies have found that contact mode allowed for 78% penetration, while non-contact mode at 1 cm distance only achieved 25% penetration. At 5 cm away, there was no detectable intensity, proving the significant advantage of direct contact for deeper tissue penetration.

Practical Applications and Recommendations

For deeper muscle tissues or joints, a device that can be used with pressure is preferred to enhance light penetration. That slight pressure displaces superficial blood from the area allowing for an increase in penetration depth but without needing to increase the intensity (power).

The evidence overwhelmingly supports the use of the skin contact method in red light therapy. By ensuring direct contact and applying slight pressure, you can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your treatments. As Dr. Hamblin and other experts suggest, this approach maximizes light absorption, reduces reflection losses, and achieves deeper tissue penetration.

Direct skin contact isn't just a suggestion—it's scientifically grounded for the best results.

Download your free RED LIGHT GUIDES here and learn even more!

Tracy