Research has shown that red light therapy can positively affect the brain, leading to improvements in both mood and cognition in many individuals. A comprehensive meta-analysis based on six scientific studies examined the cognitive functions of the brain in young and healthy subjects treated with red light therapy, and the results were promising.

Transcranial photobiomodulation – light through the skull bone

The method used is called transcranial photobiomodulation, which means irradiating the brain through the skull bone. Exactly how the brain is affected is not yet fully understood, but it is assumed that the mitochondria in the brain's cells are charged in the same way as in other tissues, which provides more energy for the brain's various processes.

Cognitive improvements in healthy individuals

The meta-analysis showed a significant positive effect on cognition in young healthy individuals. This includes areas such as attention, memory and learning. More high-quality studies are needed to further confirm these findings, but the results are already very interesting.

Effects in people with mild cognitive impairment

Even people with mild cognitive impairment have experienced positive effects from red light therapy. In one study, participants received 40 treatments over eight weeks, which led to significant improvements in memory and cognitive function. This study used red light directed at the neck and throat, as red light cannot penetrate the skull bone. Another study used near-infrared light, which penetrates deeper into the tissues, and directly irradiated the skull. This too proved effective in improving cognition in healthy older people.

Faster reaction time with NIR light

Research has also shown that transcranial treatment with near-infrared light can improve responsiveness in people with normal cognition. On average, those treated had 23.8 milliseconds shorter reaction time than those receiving placebo. Although these are small time gains, they can be decisive in sports where the margins are very small, such as table tennis, badminton, martial arts or ice hockey. A soccer goalkeeper, for example, may have a greater chance of becoming the hero of the match after such treatment.

Light therapy for brain health

There are many studies that show that red light therapy can have a positive effect on the brain. If you want to give your central nervous system a boost, this type of treatment may be worth trying.

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