Red Light Therapy Benefits for Aiding Memory Recovery and Preventing Cognitive Decline

The brain is responsible for virtually all aspects of life, shaping the very means through which we engage and exist in the world. Maintaining this is nothing but equivalent to conserving optimal quality of life for many. 

The scientific community is constantly on the hunt for new innovations to elevate brain health and safeguard it against the natural effects of ageing and other conditions. Though just shy of widespread clinical acclaim as a threshold for guaranteed, non-negotiable endorsement of treatment, it’s undeniable that red light therapy benefits hold a substantial body of evidence in adopting its practice in one’s day to day life. 

Traditionally known for its ability to improve skin health, improve cellular energy, and reduce pain, red light therapy - according to latent research - has excellent potential as a solution for brain health and function. Let’s learn more about how this treatment can affect the brain, with our team at ROJO Light Therapy AUS below.

Understanding How Can Red Light Therapy Affect the Brain

Red light therapy, or photobiomodulation, uses a narrow spectrum of red and near-infrared light wavelengths to stimulate the body’s cells. This stimulating effect leads to the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary source of energy of cells. The more you have of this, the more readily your cells are able to repair and heal damaged cells. 

Can Your Brain Really Absorb Light?

The short answer is yes. 

In one study, researchers found that visible red light from 610 nm to 670 nm can reach a depth of 4-5 mm. This is around the subcutaneous layer of tissue below the dermis.

Meanwhile, near-infrared light (810 nm, 830 nm, 850 nm) can reach a maximum depth somewhat greater than 5 mm or a little over 2 inches. This is the depth at which the light can penetrate through the skull and cerebrospinal fluid before hitting brain tissue. 

It’s important to note, however, instead of direct treatment onto the head, recent findings show that it’s more beneficial to engage full-body red light therapy to reap cognitive benefits. 

Red Light Therapy Benefits for Brain Health

Memory Recovery

Researchers have placed more effort into studying red light therapy benefits on Alzheimer’s and dementia patients, given the positive results of preliminary laboratory studies. This gives the treatment greater potential to help treat various kinds of memory-related conditions, such as those attained from stroke, traumatic brain injury, or ageing. This could be attributed to the following mechanisms:

• Neurogenesis: Red light therapy has the unique ability to induce the production of a specific protein that encourages neurogenesis, or the growth of new neurons. These new neurons can integrate into existing neural networks and can help repair damage caused by illness or trauma. 
• Enhanced Synaptic Plasticity: Consistent use of red light therapy helps increase the brain’s synaptic plasticity, or its ability to form and reorganise connections between neurons. This mechanism is essential in forming new memories, learning, and recovering from certain brain injuries.

Slowed Cognitive Decline

As we age, we become more vulnerable to cognitive decline - red light therapy, however, offers a proactive measure that slows down the progression of this condition. These are the mechanisms that contribute to its function:

• Increased production of neurotrophic factors: Red light therapy encourages highers level production of these proteins, which support the survival and growth of neurons. This increased production is associated with better cognitive function and a lesser risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases.
• Long-term cognitive maintenance: While traditional treatments often only address symptoms, red light therapy is designed to hit the root causes of cognitive decline such as mitochondrial dysfunction, poor blood flow, and inflammation. Altogether, these factors maintain optimal bran function and delays the onset of memory-related conditions.

Key Takeaway

The brain is ever complicated, and it's understandable that the scientific community requires a vast amount of research and studies into viable treatments before a fundamental approval on any kind of treatment. The good news is that the evidence we do have regarding red light therapy benefits for the brain is heading in the right direction in proving its immense potential.

To learn more about the benefits of the treatment or to start on your own red light therapy journey, visit us at ROJO Light Therapy. We offer tested and certified red light therapy panels designed for overall wellness.

Contact us for more questions or inquiries.