Near-Infrared Light Therapy is quickly becoming a standout in advanced skincare routines, thanks to its ability to visibly rejuvenate skin and support a luminous, refreshed-looking complexion. As more people seek out non-invasive ways to upgrade their at-home skincare, Near-Infrared Light Therapy has gained attention for its science-backed approach to supporting healthier-looking skin.

Drawing from both established research and innovative technology, this form of Light Therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to promote a look of radiance and help counter visible signs of skin aging. So, let's talk about how Near-Infrared Light works and why it belongs in your skin routine!

What Is Near-Infrared Light?

Near-Infrared Light (NIR) is a form of light energy that exists just beyond the visible spectrum, with wavelengths typically ranging from about 700 to 120 nanometers (we use 830 nm in our Light Therapy skincare devices). Unlike visible light, which you can see, Near-Infrared Light is invisible to the naked eye but can be experienced as a gentle, soothing warmth on your skin.

Near-Infrared Light Therapy is recognized for its ability to rejuvenate the appearance of skin and support a look of overall radiance.

You encounter Near-Infrared Light in your daily life more often than you might think. Sunlight is a natural source of NIR, and many everyday technologies, such as remote controls, night vision equipment, and certain heating devices, emit Near-Infrared Light.

How Does Near-Infrared Light Therapy Work?

Near-Infrared Light Therapy works by delivering specific wavelengths of light that penetrate deeper into the skin compared to visible light. While visible light is mostly absorbed at the surface, Near-Infrared Light reaches into the deeper layers, where it can have a more pronounced effect on the appearance of your skin.

When Near-Infrared Light is absorbed by the skin, it interacts with cells in a way that supports healthy collagen production and promotes a visibly radiant complexion. Collagen is a key protein that helps maintain the skin’s firmness and elasticity, and supporting its natural production can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This deeper penetration also helps to visibly rejuvenate skin, giving it a refreshed, luminous look.

Scientific research, including studies published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), has explored the effects of Near-Infrared Light on skin appearance. These studies suggest that NIR can help improve the look of skin texture, support a brighter-looking complexion, and reduce the visible signs of skin aging. By harnessing these wavelengths, Near-Infrared Light Therapy offers a non-invasive way to upgrade your skincare routine and achieve healthier-looking, glowy skin.

Near-Infrared Light Therapy vs. Other Light Therapies

Near-Infrared Light Therapy is just one part of a broader spectrum of Light Therapy options. While Near-Infrared Light penetrates deeper into the skin to support overall radiance and visibly rejuvenate your complexion, other types of Light Therapy can also target specific concerns and be used alongside NIR for a more comprehensive approach.

Red Light Therapy at 630 nanometers is recognized for its ability to support healthy collagen production, which contributes to visible suppleness, firmness, and smoothness.

Deep Red Light Therapy, using wavelengths around 660 nanometers, is designed to address visible signs of skin aging and promote skin rejuvenation. This form of Light Therapy helps smooth the look of fine lines and supports a healthier-looking complexion.

Blue Light Therapy, operating at shorter wavelengths around 415 nanometers, is especially effective for those dealing with pimples. It destroys acne-causing bacteria and helps deter future breakouts by reducing sebum production, making it a valuable tool for clearer-looking skin.

Amber Light Therapy, at 605 nanometers, is ideal for improving the look of uneven skin tone and reducing the appearance of puffiness. It helps skin look fresh and luminous, making it a great complement to other Light Therapy options.

The unique advantage of Near-Infrared Light Therapy lies in its ability to reach deeper layers of the skin — you'll notice that it penetrates the deepest and stands alone at wavelengths of 830 nm, compared to the other types of Red Light that hover around the 600s.

If you’re looking to upgrade your skincare routine with visible rejuvenation and a look of radiance, Near-Infrared Light Therapy is an excellent choice, especially when combined with other Light Therapy types to address multiple skin concerns at once.

How To Use Near-Infrared Light Therapy for Skincare

Incorporating Near-Infrared Light Therapy into your skincare routine is simple with the right devices. Whether you’re targeting your face, neck, chest, or the delicate eye area, our specialized masks and tools make it easy to enjoy the visible benefits of this advanced technology at home! Here’s how you can use our Near-Infrared Light Therapy devices as part of your everyday skin routine:

The Wrinkle Retreat Light Therapy Face Mask is designed to deliver targeted Red Light and Near-Infrared Light Therapy directly to your entire face, promoting visible rejuvenation. This mask helps reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles, brighten the appearance of dark circles, and promote a glowy, refreshed look. Simply place the mask comfortably on your face, adjust the fit, and let the device do its thing for the automatically-timed 10-minute treatment session, hands-free!

The Neck and Chest Red LED Mask LightBoost Kit extends the benefits of Near-Infrared Light Therapy beyond your face, targeting areas that are often exposed to environmental stressors and prone to visible signs of skin aging. This device is contoured to fit the neck and chest, delivering gentle, effective Red and Near-Infrared Light to support a visibly smoother, more radiant-looking appearance in these delicate areas. This mask actively helps to reduce the look of fine lines and promote a more even skin tone on your neck and décolletage at just 10 minutes per session.

For the sensitive skin around your eyes, look no further than the Eye Recovery Pro Mask. This mask uses our most powerful combination of Light, combining Near-Infrared, Red, Amber, and Deep Red Light to visibly brighten dark circles, reduce the appearance of puffiness, visibly smooth fine lines and wrinkles, and rejuvenate the look of tired eyes. The lightweight, comfortable design allows for easy daily use, so you can enjoy three-minute sessions that help you maintain a luminous, healthier-looking eye area as part of your overall skincare regimen.

Wrapping Up

Near-Infrared Light Therapy offers a powerful way to upgrade and professionalize your at-home skincare routine, helping you achieve a visibly rejuvenated complexion.

We incorporate Near-Infrared Light Therapy into the three devices we talked about above, but if you're still wanting to explore other options, we recommend taking our Skin Quiz here for tailored recommendations based on your skin concerns, skin type, age, and more!

Sources:

1. Reflected Near-Infrared Waves - NASA Science 

2. Near-Infrared Light and Skin: Why Intensity Matters - PubMed 

3. Collagen - The Nutrition Source 

4. Effects of Infrared Radiation on Skin Photo-Aging and Pigmentation - PMC