At Merse Wellness Spa, we’re passionate about therapies that support the body’s natural ability to restore and rebalance. Among our most popular treatments is red light therapy — a gentle, non-invasive technology known for its wide-ranging benefits, from skin health and healing to energy, recovery, and resilience.
If you’ve ever wondered how red light therapy works or whether it’s right for you, this guide will explain the science behind it, outline its key benefits, and show you how it can enhance your wellness routine.
Also known as photobiomodulation, red light therapy uses low-level wavelengths of red and near-infrared (NIR) light to stimulate natural processes within your body’s cells. These light wavelengths — typically in the 600–900 nm range — are non-invasive, non-ionising, and safe. Unlike ultraviolet light, which can damage the skin, red light gently penetrates deeper layers of tissue, where it encourages repair, regeneration, and balance.
Originally studied for wound healing and skin rejuvenation, red light therapy is now widely used in wellness, recovery, and aesthetic settings — including full-body treatments here at Merse.
The effects of red light therapy happen deep at the cellular level. Here’s a simple breakdown of the science behind it.
When you’re exposed to red or near-infrared light, photons penetrate through the skin and are absorbed by mitochondria — the energy-producing “powerhouses” inside your cells. This absorption sets off a chain of biological reactions.
The light stimulates mitochondrial enzymes, boosting the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) — the molecule cells use for energy. With more ATP available, cells can function more efficiently, repairing damage, producing collagen, and reducing inflammation.
Red light exposure can also help:
This combination of effects explains why red light for skin health, muscle recovery, and overall wellbeing has become so popular — it gives your body the energy it needs to heal and thrive naturally.
One of the most well-researched benefits is how red light supports the skin. It encourages fibroblasts to produce more collagen and elastin, which improves firmness and elasticity. Over time, this can help reduce the appearance of fine lines, sun damage, and uneven texture.
It’s also used to support wound healing, scar repair, and to calm redness — making it a powerful natural tool for those seeking healthy, glowing skin without invasive procedures.
For active individuals, red light therapy can accelerate recovery and reduce post-exercise soreness. By improving blood flow and reducing inflammation, it helps muscles heal more quickly after workouts or injury. Some research even suggests it can enhance performance by reducing fatigue and improving endurance when used before exercise.
Red light’s anti-inflammatory effects extend beyond muscles. It has been shown to reduce pain associated with arthritis, joint issues, and soft-tissue injuries by calming overactive inflammatory pathways and supporting the body’s natural healing processes.
Enhanced nitric oxide production during therapy supports vasodilation — widening blood vessels to improve circulation. This means tissues receive more oxygen and nutrients, further promoting repair and rejuvenation from the inside out.
Red light therapy is considered safe and gentle when performed properly. Because it’s non-invasive and doesn’t emit UV light, there’s no risk of skin damage or burns. Most people experience no side effects beyond mild warmth or temporary redness.
However, it’s always wise to:
At Merse, we offer full-body red light therapy sessions designed to restore balance and vitality. Here’s what a typical experience looks like:
Our team is here to guide you through every step, helping you make the most of your treatment and integrate it into your broader wellness plan.
Whether you’re seeking red light for skin health, recovery, pain relief, or simply a deeper sense of wellbeing, this gentle therapy can be a powerful ally on your wellness journey.
The best way to understand its benefits is to experience it first-hand. Learn more about Red Light Therapy and book a session today at Merse Wellness Spa.
