What do the different wavelengths do in red light therapy?

Golven van rood licht op een zwarte achtergrond

Red light therapy is used for a variety of purposes – from skin care to sports recovery and even brain function. But what makes it so effective? The answer lies in the science behind wavelengths. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the different wavelengths of red and near-infrared (NIR) light used in MITO LIGHT® Generation 3.0 and 4.0. We’ll explain what each wavelength does, how deeply they penetrate the body, and why these precise combinations are so effective.

What are wavelengths in red light therapy?

Light travels in waves. The distance between two wave crests is called the wavelength, measured in nanometers (nm). Red light has a wavelength between about 610 and 760 nm, while Near-infrared (NIR) light falls between 760 and 1400 nm. The wavelength determines how deeply the light penetrates your body and what biological effect it has. At the wavelengths of red light (610–760 nm), you can clearly see the red light with the naked eye. The near-infrared wavelengths, on the other hand, are invisible to us, because they fall just outside the visible spectrum.

Each wavelength has unique properties:

  • Shorter wavelengths (such as 630 or 660 nm) penetrate less deeply, but have a powerful effect on the skin.

  • Longer wavelengths (such as 810 or 850 nm) penetrate much deeper, reaching muscles, bones, joints and organs.


High quality devices such as the MITO LIGHT® generation 3.0 and 4.0 products combine multiple wavelengths to support the entire body.

The wavelengths of the MITO LIGHT® generation 3.0 and 4.0

Generation
Wavelengths
MITO LIGHT® 3.0 660, 670, 830, 850 nm
MITO LIGHT® 4.0 630, 660, 670, 810, 830, 850 nm


A bar with increasing wavelengths. Red light on the left and near-infrared light on the right

What does each wavelength do?

🔴 630 nm - The skin care

(Only in the MITO LIGHT® 4.0 products)

This wavelength works in the superficial layers of the skin. It stimulates collagen production, accelerates cell renewal and reduces inflammation in the skin. Although it does not penetrate as deeply, it is particularly effective for cosmetic skin treatments.

✅ Ideal for: acne, fine lines, pigment spots.

🔴 660 nm – The energy starter

(In both the MITO LIGHT® 3.0 as 4.0 products)

660nm is one of the most researched and applied wavelengths in red light therapy. This wavelength penetrates the middle layers of the skin and is known for its direct stimulation of the mitochondria – the powerhouses of our cells. This stimulation causes mitochondria to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate) more efficiently, the body’s primary energy source. This results in improved cell activity, faster recovery and an overall increase in vitality.

✅ Ideal for: skin rejuvenation, wound healing, anti-inflammatory

🔴 670 nm - The neurological link

(In both the MITO LIGHT® 3.0 as 4.0 products)

Although the differences with 660nm seem small, there is evidence that 670nm has specific benefits for mitochondrial function, retinal health, and neurological processes. Several studies have shown improved brain function with exposure to this wavelength.

✅ Ideal for: Brain Health, Eye Health, Mitochondrial Stimulation

🔴 810 nm - The brain light

(Only in the MITO LIGHT® 4.0 products)

This wavelength is known for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Research shows that 810nm can improve cognitive function, support brain recovery after trauma, and have a positive effect on conditions such as Alzheimer's and depression. As a result, this wavelength is being studied in neurology clinics worldwide.

✅ Ideal for: concentration, mental clarity, brain recovery

🔴 830 nm - The deep restorer

(In both the MITO LIGHT® 3.0 as 4.0 products)

The 830 nm wavelength penetrates deep into connective tissue, muscles and joints. This NIR wavelength is known for its effectiveness in deeper tissues and offers relief for long-term complaints. Unique to 830 nm is that it produces less heat than, for example, 850 nm, while it still works powerfully on deeper layers of the body.

✅ Ideal for: back pain, joint pain, muscle pain, inflammation problems

🔴 850 nm - The muscle booster

(In both the MITO LIGHT® 3.0 as 4.0 products)

The most well-known NIR wavelength is 850 nm. This wavelength is widely used in physiotherapy, especially for sports injuries and recovery, because of its deep penetration into the tissue. It stimulates blood circulation, helps to reduce pain and promotes the recovery of muscles and tendons.

✅ Ideal for: physiotherapy, strength training, faster recovery


Why combine multiple wavelengths?

The human body consists of different layers – from skin to connective tissue, muscles, joints, nerves, organs and brain. Each wavelength has a different range and its own biological effect. That is why MITO LIGHT® in generation 3.0 and 4.0 has multiple targeted wavelengths, so that the entire body is supported on different levels. By combining these specific wavelengths, a powerful synergy is created. The effects range from superficial skin care to deep tissue regeneration and neurological stimulation – a holistic approach for more energy, faster recovery and better overall health.

An illustration of the depth effect of wavelengths on the body

Conclusion

The power of red light therapy lies in the precision of wavelengths. Each wavelength has its own role in supporting your health, recovery and energy production. The MITO LIGHT® generation 3.0 and 4.0 take full advantage of this by offering a carefully selected combination of wavelengths, tailored to different needs and purposes.

Reading next

Man zit voor een Rood Licht Therapie paneel in zijn woonkamer