Phototherapy is the use of light as a therapeutic tool. It works through the direct interaction of light with biological tissues.

Certain molecules in the body, called chromophores, are able to absorb photons (particles of light).

Each photon carries a specific energy given by the equation E = h·f, where E is the photon’s energy, h is Planck’s constant, and f is the frequency of the light. Since frequency and wavelength (λ) are related by the speed of light (c = f·λ), photon energy can also be expressed as E = h·c/λ, showing that shorter wavelengths correspond to higher energy photons, while longer wavelengths carry less energy.

In atoms and molecules, electrons occupy quantized energy levels. To move from a lower energy level E₁ to a higher level E₂, an electron must absorb energy exactly equal to ΔE = E₂ − E₁.

When electrons absorb photons of the correct energy, they are temporarily excited to a higher level. Within nanoseconds or microseconds, the electron returns to its ground state, releasing energy as heat or lower-energy photons. This temporary excitation is the fundamental mechanism of phototherapy.

Red Light Therapy (RLT), also called photobiomodulation or low-level laser therapy, exposes the body to specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light, which are absorbed by mitochondria. These wavelengths target cytochrome C oxidase, a key enzyme in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, boosting ATP production, reducing inflammation, and enhancing cellular repair and function.

Red light’s longer wavelengths and lower energy allow it to penetrate skin and tissues safely, providing a natural signal for rejuvenation, energy production, and supporting melatonin regulation for better sleep and circadian rhythm.

Additionally, RLT charge-separates water inside our cells, forming Exclusion Zone (EZ) water and effectively creating a natural cellular “battery” that stores energy and optimizes biochemical processes, explaining many of its health and recovery benefits.