The Science of LED Light Therapy

What IS LED LIGHT THERAPY?

Light emitting diode (LED) therapy, also known as photobiomodulation or low-level light therapy (LLLT), is the application of specific wavelengths of light energy to tissue to achieve therapeutic benefits. This non-invasive treatment is effective for addressing various conditions, including acne, aging skin, pain, hair restoration, excess fat, and more. The absorbed light energy enhances cellular performance, promoting self-repair and rejuvenation—just as nature intended.

Phototherapy, particularly LED red light therapy, is well-researched and supported by thousands of peer-reviewed clinical studies from prestigious institutions worldwide. This clinically validated technique is increasingly recognized by dermatologists, cosmetic and general surgeons, and pain management professionals globally, gaining widespread acceptance in mainstream medicine.

Benefits of Light Therapy

Healthy wellness through the power of light. As nature intended.

Natural & Non-invasive

Painless treatment

Fast, effective results

Requires zero recovery time

Safe for all skin types

Woman lying under a Celluma LED device receiving a facial treatment with a combination of blue, red, and near infrared light therapy. Woman lying under a Celluma LED device receiving a facial treatment with a combination of blue, red, and near infrared light therapy. Woman lying under a Celluma LED device receiving a facial treatment with a combination of blue, red, and near infrared light therapy. Woman lying under a Celluma LED device receiving a facial treatment with a combination of blue, red, and near infrared light therapy.

Benefits of Light Therapy

Healthy wellness through the power of light. As nature intended.

Natural & Non-invasive

Painless treatment

Fast, effective results

Requires zero recovery time

Safe for all skin types

Light Therapy In Practice

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Origins

How It Works

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  1. STEP 1

    Light Energy Emitted As Photons

    Light therapy works by emitting particles of light (photons) at specific wavelengths like red and near infrared light.

  2. STEP 2

    Photons are absorbed in the mitochondria

    In our cells, light energy is absorbed by photoacceptors in the mitochondria.

  3. STEP 3

    Increased ATP causes a cascade of metabolic events

    The resulting elevation of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), or cellular energy, is used to power metabolic processes to repair or regenerate cell components and foster mitosis, cell proliferation, and restore homeostasis.

The Mighty Mitochondria
Mitochondria - The Powerhouses of the Cell Mitochondria - The Powerhouses of the Cell

The Mighty Mitochondria

Boosting Cellular Energy With LED Light Therapy

Research indicates that the mitochondria in our cells absorb particles of light (photons) and transform light energy into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the form of energy that cells utilize. The resulting elevation of ATP is then used to power metabolic processes, synthesize DNA & RNA proteins, enzymes, and other products needed to repair or regenerate cell components. It also fosters mitosis, or cell proliferation, and restores homeostasis. Simply put, LED light therapy provides compromised cells with increased energy so cellular performance, repair, and rejuvenation is enhanced naturally.

The Science of Light Energy

Getting Just The Right Dose

We know that effective results from low level LED light therapy starts with the factors that provide a safe, effective dose that up-regulates mitochondrial ATP levels.

Proven Wavelengths

Red light, near infrared light, and blue light are the most clinically studied and proven to produce beneficial effects. Celluma utilizes all three wavelengths synergistically, with doses dependent upon the type of treatment protocol for conditions like aging skin, acne, hair loss, muscle and joint pain, wounds, and excess fat.

Distance & Power

Power and distance from the light source are directly related. In low-level light therapy, like in photography, the inverse square law tells us that with each incremental increase in the distance from the light source, there is an exponential decline in the intensity of light. So ensuring the proper distance from a light source that utilizes a proper power output is an important balancing act in ensuring both safety and efficacy. Too much power at a close distance can be toxic and harmful to the skin. Too little power (or too much distance from the LED source), and treatments will be ineffective.

Celluma devices are designed to be flexible and shaped around the face or body, as close to the skin as possible. Therefore, we are able to make devices that require less power, are safe to have close to or directly on the skin, and most importantly deliver an effective dose within the biphasic dose response curve within 2 - 10 Joules/cm2

TIME

Cells need time to absorb light. You can't speed up nature (or results) if you don't give your body enough time to absorb the light energy that stimulates the up-regulation of mitochondrial ATP levels. There is a lot of misinformation claiming that more powerful devices will deliver the same results in less time. This is not supported by the scientific research, and could also lead to harmful effects. As long as the optimal dose is delivered safely and correctly with the right power output, distance, and proven wavelengths, 30 minutes will get you the optimal results.

Patented Shape-Taking Design

The distance between the light source and treatment area is critical for successful outcomes.


Human bodies are not flat. Thus, maintaining a consistent proximity between the body and the light source is crucial in delivering the optimal dose of light energy to our cells. Which is why we designed and patented our award-winning, flexible, shape-taking technology that allows anyone to contour Celluma LED panels as close as possible to the skin for getting just the right dose of uniform light energy for safe, effective results.

Learn about the Celluma Difference

See The Difference

Not all LED light therapy devices are created equal. Celluma is the innovation leader in FDA-cleared, professional-grade, medical-grade LED light therapy solutions. We are trusted every day by tens of thousands of loyal customers, doctors and clinicians in 100+ countries. Read more about why there's only one Celluma.

See The Difference

The Science of LED Light Therapy and the Skin

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Backed by Clinical Research

Thousands of studies over the last 50 years demonstrate clinical proof of an ever-growing number of biological effects and therapeutic benefits from the application of low-level LED light therapy and red light therapy to the human body.

  • Low-Level Light Therapy

    3 studies

    The Nuts and Bolts of Low-level Laser (Light) Therapy, 2012

    Photodynamic and photobiological effects of light-emitting diode (LED) therapy, 2018

    Photobiomodulation: The Clinical Applications of Low-Level Light Therapy, 2021

  • Aging Skin

    3 studies

    Unlocking the Power of Light on the Skin: A Comprehensive Review on Photobiomodulation, NIH PubMed 2024

    Low Level Laser (Light) Therapy (LLLT) for Cosmetic Medicine and Dermatology, Photobiology.info 2014

    The efficacy of combination LED light therapy (red & infrared light) in facial skin rejuvenation, 2005

  • Body Contouring

    3 studies

    Body Contouring Using Low Level Light Therapy, 2013

    Efficacy of low-level laser therapy for body contouring and spot fat reduction, 2011

    Photobiomodulation therapy with light-emitting diode in stimulating adipose tissue mitochondria, 2023

  • Hair Growth

    3 studies

    Role of Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) in Androgenetic Alopecia, 2021

    Low-Level Laser (Light) Therapy (LLLT) for Treatment of Hair Loss, 2014

    Low-level laser therapy for the treatment of androgenic alopecia: a review, 2021

  • Pain Management

    3 studies

    The Use of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) For Musculoskeletal Pain, 2015

    Short-term therapeutic effects of 890 nm light therapy for chronic low back pain, 2014

    Keys to Effective Low Level Light Therapy (LLLT), 2016

  • Acne

    3 studies

    Self-diagnosis of Mild-to-Moderate Acne for Self Treatment with Blue Light Therapy, 2009

    Clinical Efficacy of Self-applied Blue Light Therapy for Mild-to-Moderate Facial Acne, 2009

    Blue and red light combination LED phototherapy for acne vulgaris in patients with skin phototype IV, 2007

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WE'RE HERE TO HELP

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Low-level-light therapy or photobiomodulation is based on Light Emitting Diode (LED) technology and is the application of specific wavelengths of light energy to the body for therapeutic benefits. It promotes a natural photobiochemical reaction similar to the process of plant photosynthesis. Just like plants, humans absorb red and infrared (IR) light energy into the mitochondria within our cells, transforming into energy (ATP) and producing a cascade of metabolic effects and proven health benefits.

    Think of it as giving your skin, body, and hair a natural energy boost. By penetrating deep into the tissues, this light therapy helps to improve blood circulation and enhance the activity of your cells, encouraging them to repair, regenerate, and function more effectively. This process can lead to healthier skin, reduced inflammation, relief from muscle and joint pain, and for your hair, it means stronger roots, less shedding, and even new growth.

  • There are several distinct advantages only found with Celluma.  Here's a few...

    Revolutionary Flexibility and Shape-ability

    Celluma stands out with its patented flexible, shape-taking design, designed to contour around the body, ensuring optimal delivery of light energy to the body. It also eliminates the need for stands, cradles, and other supports.

    Multiple FDA-Cleared Treatment Modes

    If you find a single Light Therapy device FDA cleared with two, three or even four different treatment modes, you are probably holding a Celluma.  This makes them so useful to everyone in your house, because you can select a combination of therapies from treating hair loss, wrinkles and aches and pains, to acne and even body contouring. 

    Highly effective yet light-weight and portable

    Most of our Celluma devices now featured a battery-powered option, freeing you from the constraints of power outlets, enhancing mobility and ease of use. We have the only battery-powered devices in an LED panel configuration. They are made from medical grade components that are designed to be durable, yet lightweight and travel-ready.  Even our largest device, the full-body Celluma DELUX is an amazing advancement over weight and heft of LED treatment beds because it stores so easily, hanging on a closet door out of the way when you are not using it.

    World-Class Medical Credentials

    The entire Celluma SERIES holds the distinction of being the most medically credentialed LED device globally, as well as the most award-winning. This recognition underscores its exceptional quality and effectiveness. You know you can trust the Celluma name because our products have been selected as the preferred light therapy devices by medical professionals, certified aestheticians and high-end Spa operators throughout the USA and in over 100+ countries worldwide.

    Leading the Market

    The Celluma PRO and multi-panel Celluma CONTOUR are renowned as the most popular and versatile devices available, trusted by professionals and users alike for their superior performance and adaptability. Every other Celluma device is made of the same quality materials, with different sizes and treatment options to fit any budget.

    Experience the Celluma difference – a fusion of innovation, flexibility, and proven results.

  • LED Light Therapy is a highly safe and non-invasive treatment, making it suitable for all skin types and ages. Unlike other light-based treatments, it doesn't use UV rays, so there's no risk of burning or skin damage. The light emitted by the LEDs penetrates the skin gently, promoting healing and rejuvenation without any discomfort or downtime.

    This therapy has been extensively studied and used in clinical settings for decades, with a strong track record of safety. Celluma follows the science of safety and efficacy very closely and that is why it has been FDA-cleared for various applications, including skin care, hair restoration, and pain management. The vast majority people experience no side effects, and the treatment is so gentle that it can be used regularly to maintain skin and hair health.

    However, there are some important contraindications to consider:

    • All photo-sensitive drugs are a contraindication for low-level light therapy.
    • Allow 3-5 days before administering light therapy and consult your doctor if you have recently been taking photo-sensitive prescriptions.
    • Do not use if you are on steroidal medication – injections only.
    • Do not use it over a pregnant belly (but you can use it over the face).
    • Do not use if you have a history of epilepsy or seizures.
    • Do not use over any cancer or any known metastasis before getting clearance from your doctor(s).

    In all of the above, or with children under 12, always consult your primary care physician before using Celluma or any light therapy product.

  • We have an array of options for everyone's needs and budget.

    All of our devices use the same premium, medical-grade LED technology, and deliver the same light energy output and effectiveness per square centimeter of treatment area.

    Our devices differ in 2 ways: size and what treatment modes they are programmed with.

    LED Size Options

    We have five options from smallest to largest:

    • Mini Handheld device
    • Small Single LED panels
    • Large Single LED panels
    • Multi-panel LED devices
    • Full-Body LED blankets

    The Large Single LED panels (like the #1 best-selling Celluma PRO) have more LED's and cover a 30% larger surface area than the Small Single LED Panels. More coverage = faster results.

    For facial treatments, the Large panels cover from the hairline to the chin. The Small panels (like the Celluma RESTORE) cover from eyebrow to chin.

    The CONTOUR is our flagship multi-panel option, and supports up to 3 large panels for 3x the coverage of the Celluma PRO.

    The DELUX & DELUX XL are our full-body LED options in two sizes.

    Treatment Programs

    Choosing the right program is all about your needs and what conditions you are trying to treat.

    Celluma devices come with 1-5 FDA-cleared programs. They are:

    • Acne
    • Wrinkles
    • Contour
    • Hair Growth
    • Aches & Pains

    Each program is a different proprietary algorithm that runs on a microprocessor to control a number of variables such as light wavelength, energy dose, pulsed light, and light wave modulation in order to provide optimized results that are based on clinical outcomes.

    Recommendations

    For faster results, we recommend investing in at least a Large Single LED panel, like the PRO. This is the preferred size for facial treatments and pain relief.

    For the most treatment options and coverage, we recommend the 3-panel, 4-mode Celluma CONTOUR.

    For maximum portability and treating smaller areas of the body, the Small Single LED panels like the HOME, FACE, RESTORE, and LITE are great options. The Mini POD is great for spot-treatments.

    For Hair growth, the only FDA-cleared device for growing and regrowing hair is the RESTORE.

    And for the ultimate experience in full-body LED light therapy, the DELUX Series are the way to go.

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TESTIMONIAL

"I used Celluma during my recovery from a total shoulder replacement. After one year, I have recovered a greater than expected range of motion, AND, the surgery scar has virtually disappeared where the Celluma was directly applied."

--Jeff R., Huntington Beach, CA

"Since incorporating Celluma into my cosmetic surgery practice, my patients have enjoyed significant reduction in inflammation and bruising as a result of using the Celluma post operatively."

--Dr. Jesse Mitchell, Board Certified Dermatologist

"Seriously, between teenage acne, adults aging, aches and pains--everyone can use the Celluma panel. The panel is also larger area so I can treat my face and décolleté at one time!"

--Tamsen J.

Learn More About Celluma