Photobiomodulation: what is it?

The light that helps your cells recover, explained simply.

What is photobiomodulation? (in one image)

You know plants: they capture sunlight to produce energy. Your cells do something a bit similar with certain lights.

Photobiomodulation or PBM involves exposing the skin to soft, painless red and near-infrared light. This light acts a bit like a recharge: it helps your cells produce more energy to function better and recover.

Specifically, how does it work?

You sit in front of the device. The red and near-infrared light penetrates slightly beneath the skin. No strong heat, no pain, no needles. A session lasts a few minutes.

Effects recognized by science

Among the most studied and documented effects of photobiomodulation are its anti-inflammatory properties (it helps soothe inflammation), analgesic properties (it helps reduce pain), and its support for tissue regeneration (it promotes cellular repair and healing). This is one of the reasons why red and near-infrared light is increasingly used in the field of recovery and well-being.

Why can it be trusted?

Photobiomodulation is neither a fad nor an empty promise. It is an approach that has been studied for decades.

  • An ancient discovery. The first effects of light on healing were observed as early as 1967. Since then, research has continued to grow: thousands of scientific studies, including numerous systematic reviews and meta-analyses, have been published on the subject.
  • Popularized by NASA. NASA developed red light LEDs to grow plants in space, before realizing their benefit in helping astronauts heal. This work helped popularize LED light therapy.
  • An understood mechanism. It is now known that red and near-infrared light is absorbed by mitochondria — the "powerhouses" of your cells — which helps them produce more energy.
  • Used by professionals. Photobiomodulation is found in physical therapy, sports medicine, dermatology, and dentistry.
  • Non-invasive and well-tolerated. No needles, no products, no recovery time. Red and near-infrared light is known for its good tolerability profile when used correctly.

What you need to know, in full transparency

Photobiomodulation is not a miracle solution. Its effects depend on several factors: the wavelength used, the light dose received, and the regularity of sessions. Results can vary from person to person. It is a support for well-being, not a medical treatment.

Why do people use it?

To support recovery after exercise, soothe everyday discomforts, take care of their skin, and feel more energetic. Simple, painless, and non-invasive, photobiomodulation is now being studied for many wellness-related uses.

Sources and scientific references

Photobiomodulation is the subject of extensive scientific literature in various fields. Here are some reference publications among those that document its effects and mechanism:

  • Parker S., Cronshaw M., Grootveld M. Photobiomodulation Delivery Parameters in Dentistry: An Evidence-Based Approach. Photobiomodulation, Photomedicine, and Laser Surgery, 2021. doi.org/10.1089/photob.2021.0116 — analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
  • Stevens A.R. et al. Photobiomodulation in Acute Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of Neurotrauma, 2022. doi.org/10.1089/neu.2022.0140 — anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects.
  • Yong J. et al. Photobiomodulation therapy assisted orthodontic tooth movement. Journal of Zhejiang University Science B, 2023. doi.org/10.1631/jzus.B2200706 — pain and inflammation reduction.
  • NASA Spinoff. Lighting the Way for Quicker, Safer Healing. 2005. spinoff.nasa.gov — origin of LED light therapy.

These references are provided for informational purposes. Several concern specific clinical contexts and do not constitute a promise of results for individual use.

This page is for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. The described effects are based on available scientific literature and may vary from person to person. In case of a health problem, consult a health professional.