When it comes to choosing a red light therapy device, not all are created equal. The quality and effectiveness of a device hinge on a few key technical components. Let’s break these down so you can make an informed decision that delivers results.
Wavelengths: The Foundation of Effective Therapy
Wavelengths determine how deeply light penetrates your body and what benefits it provides.
- Red Light (wavelengths 610nm- 750nm): targets the surface of the skin, promoting collagen production, reducing redness, and improving skin tone and texture.
- Near-Infrared Light (wavelengths 800nm - 2500nm): penetrates deeper into muscles, joints, and tissues, making it ideal for recovery, pain relief, and overall cellular rejuvenation.
Why it matters: Devices with multiple wavelengths, like Renew’s, offer versatility and a broader range of benefits. Cheaper devices may lack near-infrared capabilities or use a single wavelength, limiting their effectiveness.
Renew's device Wavelengths are:
The Panels: Red: 610nm, 630nm, 660nm. Near-infrared: 810nm, 830nm, 850nm
The Mask: 415nm (blue), 605nm (orange), 635nm (red), 850nm (near-infrared)
LEDs: Quality Over Quantity
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are the workhorses of any red light therapy device.
- High-Quality LEDs: Emit consistent, therapeutic wavelengths and ensure even light distribution for optimal results.
- Low-Quality LEDs: Can degrade quickly, emit weak or inconsistent wavelengths, and fail to provide effective therapy.
Why it matters: Some less expensive devices use low-cost LEDs to cut corners. These LEDs may not deliver the power or consistency you need, meaning less effective treatments and shorter device lifespans. Renew's Panel LEDs are powerful 5 watt 3535 LEDs with ceramic substrate. Renew's Mask LEDs are 0.2 watt High-Density 4-chip LEDs and provide effective, powerful light output. This is just a fancy way of saying our LEDs deliver greater power than traditional LEDs.
Irradiance: The Power Behind the Light
Irradiance is a measure of how much light energy is delivered to your skin, typically expressed in milliwatts per square centimeter (mW/cm²). If the panel you're purchasing doesn't define or showcase the irradiance, it's likely a low power device.
- Higher Irradiance: Ensures the light is powerful enough to penetrate deeply enough to reach your cells and provide therapeutic benefits.
- Lower Irradiance: Results in weaker energy delivery, which can significantly reduce the effectiveness of your treatments.
Why it matters: Budget-friendly devices often advertise high power but deliver low irradiance, meaning you may not see the results you’re looking for. Renew’s devices are engineered to provide optimal irradiance for effective, time-efficient therapy. Renew's Panel Irradiance:
The Large Panel (measured using a Spectrometer):
- 150mW/cm² at 3 inches
- 126mW/cm² at 6 inches
- 108mW/cm² at 12 inches
The Small Panel (measured using a Spectrometer):
- 125 mW/cm² at 3 inches
- 98 mW/cm² at 6 inches
- 86mW/cm² at 12 inches
While high power output might mean a higher price tag, it’s worth the investment for faster, more effective treatments. Cheaper devices may advertise affordability but come with diminished performance and require longer treatments.