Far Infrared Light Therapy vs. Red Light Therapy: What’s the Difference and Which One Works Best?

In the booming world of wellness tech, two light-based therapies have gained enormous attention: Far Infrared Light Therapy and Red Light Therapy. Both are celebrated for their wide range of health benefits—from pain relief and skin health to detoxification and inflammation reduction—but they are often misunderstood or lumped together under the same umbrella.

This comprehensive guide will break down the differences between red light therapy and far infrared therapy, explore how each one works, and help you decide which is better for your needs. Whether you're looking for natural pain relief, muscle recovery, or a non-invasive skin rejuvenation solution, understanding these light therapies can empower you to make the right choice.

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What Is Light Therapy?

Light therapy (also known as photobiomodulation) is the use of specific light wavelengths to stimulate biological processes in the body. Different wavelengths penetrate the skin and tissues at varying depths, triggering unique responses.

The most common types include:

• Red Light Therapy (RLT) – Uses red and near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths

• Far Infrared Therapy (FIR) – Uses longer, invisible wavelengths of infrared light

While both therapies are non-invasive, drug-free, and generally safe, they offer distinct benefits due to their different wavelengths and mechanisms of action.

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What Is Red Light Therapy?

Red Light Therapy Explained

Red light therapy uses light wavelengths in the 620 nm to 850 nm range, encompassing both visible red light and near-infrared light.

This therapy is absorbed by the mitochondria—the powerhouse of your cells—boosting the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of cells. This cellular energy fuels regeneration and repair.

How Red Light Therapy Works

Red light and near-infrared light stimulate a biological process known as photobiomodulation:

• Light penetrates up to 1.5–2 inches into the body

• It interacts with cytochrome c oxidase in mitochondria

• This boosts ATP production, reduces oxidative stress, and promotes cellular repair

Red Light Therapy Benefits

• Anti-aging & skin rejuvenation (reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots)

• Hair regrowth stimulation

• Improved wound healing

• Mood enhancement (sometimes used for Seasonal Affective Disorder)

• Sleep support (by regulating circadian rhythms)

Common Red Light Therapy Devices

• LED light therapy panels

• Red light therapy face masks

• Handheld LED therapy devices

• Near-infrared light therapy belts and wraps

These are often used in clinical settings, gyms, and increasingly at home for convenience.

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What Is Far Infrared Light Therapy?

Far Infrared Therapy Explained

Far infrared light therapy uses wavelengths between 3,000 nm and 100,000 nm, which fall outside the visible light spectrum. Unlike red light therapy, which is based on light absorption in the cells, far infrared therapy works through radiant heat.

How Far Infrared Therapy Works

FIR therapy heats the body from the inside out using deep-penetrating thermal radiation. These wavelengths:

• Are absorbed by water molecules in the body

• Increase molecular vibration

• Generate gentle heat

• Promote circulation, pain relief, and relaxation

It’s essentially a high-tech version of heat therapy, delivering warmth more deeply and evenly than traditional methods.

Far Infrared Therapy Benefits

• Pain relief for muscles and joints

• Improved blood circulation

• Reduced inflammation and stiffness

• Help with occasional sleeplessness

• Stress relief 

• Muscle relaxation

Common FIR Devices

• Infrared saunas

• FIR heating pads and blankets

• Infrared therapy mats (e.g., Amethyst or Jade mats, the Richway Biomat)

• FIR dome devices

Most users enjoy FIR therapy for its comforting warmth and spa-like relaxation benefits.

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Red Light Therapy vs. Far Infrared Therapy: Key Differences

To make the decision easier, here’s a clear side-by-side comparison: