Take a look about how light therapy can impact mental clarity
The brain is one of the body's most energy-intensive organs. Because brain cells depend heavily on efficient mitochondrial function, researchers are investigating whether specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light can influence cellular activity within the nervous system.
Photobiomodulation (PBM) is being studied as a non-invasive approach to influencing neurological and biological processes using red and near-infrared light. Research has explored potential applications involving mood, depression, anxiety, cognition, sleep, and neurological health.
The science is promising—but it is still developing, and PBM should be viewed as a potential complementary wellness technology, not a replacement for established mental-health care.
How Might Light Influence the Brain?
One of the leading theories behind PBM involves the interaction of light with cellular components associated with mitochondrial function. Researchers believe that certain wavelengths of near-infrared light may influence cellular energy metabolism, nitric oxide signaling, oxidative balance, and other pathways involved in brain function.
Because neurons require substantial amounts of energy to function properly, researchers have proposed that improving aspects of cellular energy metabolism could influence neuronal activity and resilience. PBM may also affect inflammatory and oxidative pathways that have been associated with neurological and psychiatric conditions.
This field is sometimes referred to as transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) when light is specifically directed toward the head with the intention of influencing brain tissue.
Mood & Depression
Depression is one of the most extensively studied mental-health applications of PBM.
A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis examined 11 randomized trials involving 407 participants and found an overall reduction in depressive symptoms among people receiving PBM compared with controls. However, the researchers also noted that the number of studies was relatively small and that the certainty of evidence ranged from moderate to very low.
More recent research continues to find a potentially beneficial effect. A 2026 systematic review and meta-analysis of 18 PBM intervention trials reported a moderate overall reduction in depressive symptoms, while also finding substantial differences between treatment approaches. The authors concluded that larger trials and standardized treatment protocols are still needed.
Importantly, earlier research has produced more mixed results. A meta-analysis focused specifically on transcranial PBM found promising improvements in some studies but did not find a statistically significant advantage over sham treatment in the small number of double-blind, sham-controlled trials available.
That makes the most responsible conclusion a measured one: PBM is a promising area of research for mood and depression, but it has not yet been established as a stand-alone treatment.
Anxiety, Cognition & Brain Health
Researchers are also investigating PBM in relation to anxiety, cognitive function, neurological disorders, and other aspects of brain health.
An integrative review published in 2025 identified clinical research involving depression, anxiety, and seasonal affective disorder, with several studies reporting potentially beneficial changes in mood or brain activity. At the same time, the review highlighted substantial differences between studies in wavelength, treatment location, duration, and dosing—making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions.
This is an important feature of PBM research: light therapy is not a single standardized treatment. The biological response can depend on the wavelength, dose, irradiance, exposure time, treatment location, and frequency.
Light, Sleep & Circadian Biology
Light also plays a fundamental role in regulating the body's circadian system—the biological timing system that influences sleep and wakefulness.
It is important to distinguish bright-light therapy from photobiomodulation. Bright-light therapy generally uses visible light to influence circadian rhythms and is an established approach for certain conditions, particularly seasonal affective disorder. PBM uses specific red and near-infrared wavelengths and is being investigated through different biological mechanisms.
Current PBM research has not established a consistent improvement in sleep outcomes. For example, the 2024 PBM meta-analysis found that improvements in depressive symptoms were significant, while the pooled sleep outcome was not statistically significant.
A Promising Field—Not a Cure
The relationship between light and the brain is fascinating, but the science is still evolving.
Current research suggests that PBM may influence cellular energy metabolism, oxidative balance, inflammatory signaling, and other biological pathways relevant to brain function. Clinical studies have reported encouraging findings for depressive symptoms, while evidence for anxiety, cognition, sleep, and other mental-health applications remains less established.
For consumers, the key distinction is between supporting overall wellness and treating a diagnosed mental-health condition. Red and near-infrared light therapy should not be presented as a replacement for psychotherapy, prescribed medication, or professional mental-health care.
The Takeaway
The brain is highly dependent on cellular energy—and researchers are exploring whether carefully delivered red and near-infrared light can influence the biological processes that support healthy brain function.
Early clinical research, particularly around depressive symptoms, is encouraging. But larger, well-controlled studies are needed to determine exactly which wavelengths, doses, treatment locations, and protocols are most effective.
The science is still unfolding. But one idea is becoming increasingly interesting: light may be more than something we see—it may also be a signal that cells can respond to.
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Frequently asked questions
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How often should I use red light therapy?
For most devices, we recommend following the manufacturer's instructions. Many people incorporate red light therapy into their wellness routine 3–7 times per week, with sessions typically lasting 10–20 minutes, depending on the device and treatment area. Consistency is generally more important than longer sessions.
How long until I see results?
Everyone's experience is different. Some people notice changes within a few weeks, while others may require several months of consistent use. Results depend on factors such as your wellness goals, the device used, and how regularly you follow the recommended treatment schedule.
Does it hurt?
No. Red light therapy is a non-invasive and painless treatment. Most users describe the experience as relaxing, with a gentle warming sensation depending on the device. There are no needles, medications, or recovery time required.
Is it safe?
Red light therapy has been widely studied and is considered safe for most people when used as directed. Our products are designed to use non-ionizing red and near-infrared light, which is different from UV light and does not tan or burn the skin when used according to the manufacturer's instructions. If you have a medical condition, are pregnant, have light sensitivity, or are taking medications that increase sensitivity to light, we recommend consulting your healthcare provider before use.
Can I overuse it?
More isn't always better. Using your device more frequently or for longer than recommended is unlikely to provide additional benefits and may increase the chance of temporary skin irritation or discomfort. Following the manufacturer's recommended treatment schedule is the best way to achieve consistent results.
Which device is right for me?
The best device depends on your goals.
Face Masks – Ideal for skincare and facial rejuvenation.
Hair Growth Caps – Designed to support healthy hair growth.
Panels – Great for larger treatment areas, muscle recovery, joints, and full-body wellness.
Belts & Wraps – Perfect for targeting specific areas such as the back, knees, shoulders, or elbows.