Light therapy refers to the use of specific wavelengths of light to improve health, performance, or recovery. While natural sunlight is the original form of light therapy, modern tools like red light panels, saunas, and lasers now make it possible to deliver targeted light benefits at home.
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Red light therapy is one of the most popular forms, using red and near-infrared wavelengths to support cellular energy, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. It’s considered a subcategory of light therapy, alongside others like blue light, ultraviolet light, and infrared saunas.
???? New to red light therapy? First, read our full breakdown.
Each type of light interacts with the body differently — depending on the wavelength, the depth of penetration, and the biological effects triggered. Red and NIR light can reach deeper tissues and stimulate the mitochondria (the “power plants” of your cells), while others like blue and UV remain more surface-level.
Thanks to advancements in LED technology, light therapy is now more accessible than ever — no longer confined to clinics or labs. From small spot treatments to full-body panels, a range of tools exists to match different goals.
???? Wondering which light therapy device is right for you? Keep reading to avoid common mistakes and make a smart, informed choice.
This blog has been updated with - panels/information.
15 Essential Things to Consider Before Buying a Red Light Therapy Panel
This guide is a must-read for buying a red light therapy panel. After testing hundreds of panels over the past six years, I've seen the good, the bad, and the downright unnecessary.
Here, I'll cover 15 critical factors you must consider before purchasing. These go beyond the basics like size and warranty—we're diving deep. Let's get started.
????Affiliate Disclosure: I received a complimentary product to review. However, my receipt of the product did not influence the outcome of this review. I try to be as fair and critical as possible in any review, and this review reflects my genuine and honest opinion of the product.The first and most crucial question is: What do you want to treat? Your choice of panel depends on your treatment area.
Remember that the actual treatment area aligns closely with the LED's dimensions. Beam angles and coverage graphics can be misleading. From my testing, light intensity diminishes significantly outside the direct LED range. If you want head-to-toe coverage, you need a physically large panel to handle that.
While full-body coverage might sound appealing, it may not fit your budget. The good news is that you can future-proof your investment—panels like the PlatinumLED Biomax 900 offer modular setups. You can start with one panel and expand later by wirelessly linking additional panels.
However, don't assume a higher price equals better quality. For example,Joovv panels are notoriously expensive, yet they're not always the best-performing option.
If you're on a tight budget, I've reviewed affordable tabletop panels, which you can find in the video below.
Traditionally, red light therapy panels featured 660nm red light and 850nm near-infrared light. While these are beneficial, other wavelengths, like 810nm, offer unique advantages.
Some panels, like the BioMax, include seven different wavelengths, while others, like Red Light Rising, stick to the basics. My preference leans toward panels incorporating 810nm due to its extensive research-backed benefits.
Some panels are user-friendly, with features like remote controls or touchscreens, while others are more basic. Consider what's important to you:
Red light therapy is booming, and new companies pop up weekly. Stick to brands that have been around for at least a few years. Why? It's easy to start a Red Light Therapy company, but what happens if they receive a bad batch? Can a new startup afford to honor the warranty and fix the panels? When a company goes bankrupt, you lose support for warranties and repairs.
Also, look for a good warranty. A minimum two—to three-year warranty is a good benchmark.
Next, we have safety issues. Most of these panels are safe, and when I say safety, I don't mean you'll get an electric shock—though I guess that could happen if you're using something dodgy.
The main concerns here are the EMF output and flicker.
Some older panels and very cheap panels today use low-cost LEDs that flicker. We can't detect this flicker with our eyes, but it's there. I've done a video on this, and that flicker can cause stress and even headaches. Ideally, you want a panel that puts out clean, pure, therapeutic light without any stresses.
Next is the non-native EMF issue. Again, some older or low-cost panels emit many non-native EMFs. This can be stressful, and if you're spending a thousand dollars on one of these devices to improve your health, you don't want to end up with something that adds extra stress instead.
In my reviews, I test all of these panels for EMF output. If you're worried about a specific panel, check out my reviews to see if it's safe or something to be cautious of.
Most panels have fans to cool the LEDs, but some are louder than others. If you're noise-sensitive, check my reviews for panels with quieter operations. Trust me—a loud whir can make your sessions unbearable.
When investing in a red light therapy panel, it's wise to consider how your needs might evolve. A typical scenario is someone buying a single panel, only to later purchase another panel from a different company and perhaps a smaller, more portable one. While this may seem flexible, it can lead to complications.
Here's why: having multiple panels from different brands can quickly become inefficient. They might each require separate power sources, individual controls, and separate stands, creating unnecessary clutter and inconvenience.
Instead, think long-term and choose a panel system that allows for modularity—essentially, panels that can link together, share power supplies, and be controlled from a single interface.
For example, with the BioMax panels, I have two of them connected to a single power plug and controlled by one interface. They even share the same stand, creating a seamless and cohesive setup. This level of integration simplifies use and reduces setup time, making your overall experience far more enjoyable.
If you anticipate expanding your setup, do thorough research before buying your first panel. Seek modular features that link panels together to form a more extensive array. Most modern panels offer this feature, but it's essential to confirm compatibility, even within the same brand.
For instance, MitoRed has itsMito Pro range, but its newer Mito Adapt panels aren't compatible with the older models. If you'd started with the Mito Pro and then added a Mito Adapt, you'd find yourself managing two separate systems that don't integrate. This means more cables, more controls to operate individually, and separate timers to sync. While this isn't a dealbreaker, it's far from ideal, especially when a bit of foresight could have avoided the hassle.
Stands are also part of future-proofing. For example, consider whether the panel comes with—or can be upgraded to include—a stand. Basic floor mounts might work now, but motorized stands or overhead mounts could enhance convenience and comfort as your setup evolves.
Many companies sell stands designed explicitly for their panels, but not all stands are interchangeable between brands or different product ranges within the same brand. If you plan to mount multiple panels or upgrade later, ensure your stand is compatible with your intended setup.
By thinking ahead and future-proofing your red light therapy system, you'll save time, money, and effort in the long run while creating a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
Power output is one of the most hyped-up features in red light therapy panels, but it's also one of the messiest topics. Companies often claim to have the "most powerful panel" on the market, but here's what you need to know:
To address this confusion, I test panels using my spectrometer and a consistent protocol. This allows me to provide comparable power figures across all panels. My reviews and comprehensive red light therapy resources include these results.
The goal is to find a panel that delivers reliable power without excessive or underwhelming. A well-balanced panel saves time, money, and hassle.
Don't overlook accessories—they can make or break your experience. Most panels include basics like power cables and hanging kits, but premium brands might offer extras such as:
Check if these extras are included or need to be purchased separately, as they can significantly add to your overall cost.
Red light therapy panels are a significant investment, but you can save considerable money if you shop strategically. Many companies offer seasonal sales, bundle deals, or first-time buyer discounts.
Signing up for newsletters or following brands on social media can keep you informed about these promotions. Often my affliate links and code can be "stacked" with a sale thus saving you even more money
Additionally, consider looking for packages that include valuable accessories. For instance, a panel bundled with a stand or remote control might save you money compared to purchasing these separately. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, though, as they could indicate a low-quality product.
????I aim to be as affiliated with all light therapy companies as possible to remove bias. If you purchase products through links in the article, I receive a small commission, which helps fund these reviews and helps you make informed decisions.When purchasing a red light therapy panel, shipping and potential import taxes are often overlooked. Many companies offer free shipping within mainland America if you're lucky enough to live in the United States. However, shipping rates will vary depending on your location if the panel you're purchasing is from a company based in Canada, the UK, or Australia.
For example, buying from an American company might seem appealing due to the competitive prices if you live in Australia. However, the final price may be much higher once you factor in shipping costs.
While I provide rough guidelines for shipping costs in my reviews and product database, the most reliable way to determine the shipping fee is to add the product to your cart, apply any discount codes, and input your address to generate an accurate shipping quote.
Another issue to consider is import taxes or duties. Unfortunately, this can be unpredictable and varies widely depending on your country. While I'd love to provide specific recommendations for avoiding these charges, it's often a hit-or-miss situation.
If you want complete clarity on the final price, including product cost, shipping fees, and taxes, I recommend purchasing from a company based in your country.
SUNRECIPE contains other products and information you need, so please check it out.
My product database features the locations of various red light therapy companies. You can filter by region, such as Australia, to find nearby brands. This allows you to know your total costs upfront, minimizing the chances of unexpected fees.
While a basic red light therapy panel that emits sufficient red and near-infrared light is often enough to meet most needs, advanced features can enhance your experience. Some of these features include:
If these features are important to you, doing your homework is essential. My reviews and content include detailed breakdowns of which panels offer these options so you can ensure the product you purchase meets your specific needs.
Marketing claims can make every panel seem like the "best on the market." To cut through the noise, rely on independent reviews from trusted sources.
These reviews often include details about panel performance, build quality, and additional features—information you won't find in company brochures.
Look for reviews that provide quantifiable data, such as:
A review that also compares multiple panels using consistent testing protocols can help you see how one product compares to its competitors.
I include this data in my reviews to ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Your lifestyle and available space play a significant role in choosing the right panel. Consider where and how you plan to use your red light therapy device. Do you need a setup that allows you to treat your back while lying down? Or are you looking for a door-mounted panel to save space?
For example:
If you enjoy multitasking, like doing yoga or meditating during sessions, you'll want a panel that accommodates those activities. Ensure the panel is adjustable to the correct angle and height for your routine.
Navigating the overwhelming number of options on the market can feel daunting. That's why using resources is essential to simplify the decision-making process.
I've created a comprehensive database where you can filter panels based on key criteria like size, price, power output, etc. This allows you to compare options side-by-side and find panels tailored to your specific needs.
Whether you're new to red light therapy or upgrading your setup, having access to unbiased information and detailed comparisons is invaluable. It ensures your investment aligns with your goals and avoids common pitfalls like overpaying for unnecessary features.
If you're still unsure which panel is right, here are some additional resources.
✅ Buy a PlatinumLED BioMax panel or accessories, and use the following link for a discount: https://aferg.co/redled
✅ For a Mito Red Mito Red panel, such as the MitoPRO or MitoADAPT use this link and code ALEX5: https://aferg.co/7d221
✅ To get a Lightpath LED product use code ALEX and get 5% off with the following link: https://aferg.co/lightpathled
✅ You can get an Infraredi Flex Mini or Max - use code ALEX for a 5% discount and the following link: https://aferg.co/infraredi - other Infraredi panels can also be bought through that link
✅ Interested in getting a Joovv? Click here: https://aferg.co/joovvbca0 - no discount available
✅ For a Red Light Rising Advantage in the UK, use discount code ALEX and the following link: https://aferg.co/redlightrising
⭐ Targeted Red Light Treatment = Full-Body Benefits?
⭐ Best Red Light Therapy Panel ? EPIC Comparison
⭐ Best Red Light Therapy Body Panels : HUGE Comparison!
⭐ How To Use Red Light Therapy 101: Know THIS For Starters
⭐ The Power Of Red Light Therapy On Mitochondria
⭐ Red Light Therapy: What’s The Ideal Distance from Skin?
⭐ Red Light Therapy Dosing Chart: The Raw Data From Hundreds Of Studies
⭐ Is Red Light Therapy Science-Based? An Introduction
Not quite ready to buy, but keen to dive deeper into this amazing world of light therapy? Then here are a few articles and videos that we thought you may enjoy:
Lumaflex is a company that manufactures portable, flexible, FDA-cleared red light therapy devices. We offer ultralight, flexible wraps that can be used at home, work, or while traveling, making red light therapy more accessible than traditional bulky equipment.
Red Light Therapy (RLT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular healing. The therapy works by penetrating the skin to increase blood flow, boost energy production (ATP) in cells, and trigger natural healing processes. This helps reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and accelerate tissue repair.
We offer FDA-cleared portable red light therapy devices based on NASA-inspired technology. Our main products include the Lumaflex Body Pro (our core model) and the more affordable Lumaflex Essential (priced at $399), which is designed for speedy 10-minute treatments.
Our devices are unique because they're wearable, flexible, and durable. They're built with 45 dual-chip LEDs ensuring exceptional luminous efficiency and powerful light output. Our red light therapy devices feature built-in timers and are sweatproof, making them perfect for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
All our devices use both red light (630nm) and near-infrared light (850nm) wavelengths to simultaneously treat surface concerns like wrinkles and deeper issues like chronic pain and stiffness.
Price
The Lumaflex Essential is more affordable at $399, while the Body Pro is priced at $689.
Design & Features
Both devices are flexible, wearable, and FDA-cleared, but they have different specifications. The Essential is the world's First FDA-cleared portable and flexible red light therapy wrap with a lightweight design focused on daily, on-the-go use.
The Body Pro is waterproof, has an extra spare replaceable battery and comes with a Bluetooth connected app for specific customized setting control (like higher light frequency) that offers comprehensive treatment like relieving headache and is intended for more intensive use.
Treatment Time
The Lumaflex Essential is specifically designed for speedy 10-minute treatments, making it ideal for quick sessions. The Body Pro may be intended for longer, more intensive therapy sessions.
Target Users
The Essential is ideal for those wanting targeted therapy without having to hold the device, perfect for everyday users with specific pain points. The Body Pro is more suited for serious athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and those requiring more comprehensive recovery solutions.
Both models use red and near-infrared light technology to accelerate recovery and optimize health, but the Body Pro are positioned as the premium option with enhanced features for those who need more extensive therapy.
You can see the full specifications right here: Product Comparison
Yes, Lumaflex devices are specifically designed to help relieve pain through red light therapy.
Both the Lumaflex Essential and Body Pro models are FDA-cleared for pain relief. The devices are designed to reduce inflammation, ease muscle and joint pain, and accelerate recovery through red and near-infrared light therapy.
Clinical studies show that Lumaflex's red light therapy technology can help with various types of pain including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic pain, inflammation, tendinitis, carpal tunnel, fibromyalgia, and more.
The technology works by stimulating blood flow and energy production (ATP) in the cells of the targeted area. This reduces pain and inflammation while triggering the body's natural healing processes to help damaged tissues repair themselves.
Our products provide "instant pain relief" with "proven results within 6 weeks time" when used regularly. They're particularly effective for back and joint discomfort, muscle soreness, and recovery from injuries.
Red light therapy can be used at any time of the day, offering flexibility to fit your schedule and needs. Lumaflex devices are designed to integrate seamlessly into your daily routine.
For optimal results, we recommend using your Lumaflex device consistently, ideally 10-20 times per week for 10-20 minutes each day. Short daily treatments are more effective than longer sessions done less frequently.
Many users find Lumaflex particularly beneficial after workouts to reduce muscle soreness and accelerate recovery. The devices can also be used before workouts as a pre-workout warm-up tool to prepare muscles and enhance performance.
Yes, Lumaflex devices are HSA/FSA eligible! We prominently advertise this on our website, noting "You can use the HSA/FSA fund to buy" our products. Our product listings also feature the "HSA/FSA Eligible" badge.
We've partnered with Truemed to make the HSA/FSA purchasing process seamless. Through this partnership, you can save an average of 30% by using your pre-tax dollars. Your HSA/FSA eligibility for our products is valid for 12 months once approved.
Red light therapy devices are generally considered eligible HSA or FSA expenses when used for treating specific conditions like skin problems, pain relief, arthritis, and inflammation - all conditions that Lumaflex devices are designed to address.
To use your HSA/FSA funds for a Lumaflex purchase, you'll take a quick health survey, have it reviewed by a licensed provider to determine eligibility, and then you can pay with your HSA/FSA card directly.
We offer a two-year limited warranty on all Lumaflex devices. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and issues, providing you with repair or replacement services as needed during this period.
Additionally, we offer a 30-day risk-free trial. If you're not completely satisfied with the results after 30 days of continuous treatment (using the Lumaflex 10-20 times per week for 10-20 minutes per day over 4 weeks), we will provide you with a refund.
Our warranty information is clearly stated in our product listings on every big e-commerce platform like ShopLC, which confirm the "2-Year Warranty" coverage of Lumaflex devices.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website Red Light Therapy Panel Manufacturer.