What Exactly is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy (RLT), also known as photobiomodulation (PBM), is a non-invasive treatment using specific wavelengths of red or near-infrared light (typically 600–850 nm) to stimulate biological processes. With a surge in at-home devices and bold wellness claims, it’s no surprise many women are asking: Can red light therapy really help with menopause symptoms like hair loss, dry skin, mood swings, and sleep struggles?
Let’s break it down by area of health—what the science says, what’s still uncertain, and where to proceed with caution.
1. Sleep Quality: Fab but early
Several studies support red light therapy’s (RLT) benefits for sleep, particularly in older adults. One randomized controlled trial showed that RLT improved sleep quality based on EEG data and sleep diaries in adults with insomnia. Additional research has shown that red or near-infrared light can help regulate melatonin rhythms, improve circadian function, and reduce sleep disturbances, particularly in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. It is important to note most research is done with white light therapy. More research examining red light therapy and sleep will lend itself to understanding the impact and mechanism of action.
2. Mood & Cognition: Promising but early
There’s growing interest in using RLT for brain health. Photobiomodulation may improve cognition and mood by increasing blood flow, enhancing mitochondrial activity, and reducing inflammation in brain cells. While early studies show promise in Alzheimer’s patients, there’s no direct evidence for cognitive benefits in menopause. However, given the overlap in symptoms like brain fog and depression, this area is worth watching.
3. Hair Loss: Potentially Fab-But not menopause specific
Red light therapy has been shown to stimulate hair growth in cases of androgenetic alopecia and post-chemotherapy hair loss. Mechanisms include improved blood flow and follicular cell activity. While there’s no menopause-specific data, the results are promising for general thinning or shedding, which often worsens in perimenopause.
4. Skin & Collagen: Fab for glow, texture, and wrinkles
One of the most studied and visible benefits of RLT is skin rejuvenation. Clinical trials show improvements in skin texture, fine lines, and collagen density (Wunsch et al., 2014; Mota et al., 2023). RLT stimulates collagen production, reduces inflammation, and promotes cell repair, making it popular for anti-aging and wound healing.
5. Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause: Emerging fab potential
At-home transvaginal RLT devices such as Joylux, are being explored for improving symptoms of GSM, such as dryness, burning, and urinary incontinence. A 2020 study found that women using red light post-laser treatment maintained symptom improvements for up to two years, although some needed retreatment. While early results show positive impacts for many GSM symptoms, more large-scale longitudinal studies will lend to our knowledge in the field.
6. Inflammation, Pain, Muscle Repair: Fab with caveats
RLT’s ability to reduce inflammation and promote muscle recovery is well documented in sports medicine and rehabilitation contexts. It works by enhancing cellular energy production (ATP), reducing oxidative stress, and increasing circulation. These benefits may help manage joint pain, post-exercise soreness, or chronic inflammatory symptoms common in menopause.
Bottom Line: Red Light Therapy—Mostly Fab (With a Side of Caution)
For sleep, skin, GSM, muscle inflammation and pain, red light therapy shows solid promise. For mood, cognition, and hair loss, the evidence is emerging—but encouraging. As with any wellness trend, effectiveness depends on consistent use, device quality, and understanding what outcomes are realistic.
Pro Tips Before You Buy:
Look for FDA-cleared devices with clinical-grade wavelengths (around 650–850 nm)
Stick to recommended protocols (usually 10–20 min, several times per week)
Avoid direct eye exposure, and always follow safety guidelines
Consult your healthcare provider, especially for cognitive, hormonal, or urogenital issues
Make sure you will actually use it and it won't become another dust collector. Red light therapy masks range in price from over $200 to $600
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