What are far infrared and near infrared?

The image above shows a spectrum diagram, showing a portion of the light spectrum. On the left is the visible spectrum, including violet, indigo, blue, green, yellow, orange, and red. On the right is the near-infrared and infrared spectra, arranged from shortest to longest wavelengths.

Visible Spectrum - Mid-red light: 620 to 750 nanometers wavelength

Invisible Spectrum - Near infrared light: more than 750 nanometers wavelength

Suitable for therapeutic spectrum: Longer wavelength and lower energy, such as far and near infrared light

Not suitable for the treatment: Higher energy can penetrate deeper into tissues, but can cause DNA mutations and cell damage, such as ultraviolet light (UV)

Far Infrared Rays (FIR)

Benefits of 750-810 nm red light wavelengths include:

Has a superficial soothing effect

The energy ranges between ultraviolet (UV) and near infrared (NIR), which is related to its spectrum length (nm). It is suitable for superficial soothing or body parts that cannot tolerate long-term exposure.

Near infrared (NIR)

Benefits of 810-850 nm red light wavelength include:

Promote metabolism

Low-energy yet long-lasting, it penetrates deeply into the body, promoting blood circulation and activating the mitochondria, the body's energy generators. This produces more ATP, returning the body to a high metabolic rate. This also allows sufficient nutrients to flow through the bloodstream to vital organs and other parts of the body.

Improve sleep

Stimulating melatonin production in the body helps regulate the body's circadian rhythm, which is affected by chronic fatigue syndrome. This helps normalize hormone function. Near-infrared light therapy can improve sleep and boost immunity.

Enhance muscle recovery

Years ago, the most common symptom of long COVID-19 was often fatigue, which many people experienced without any inflammatory symptoms. This made it easy to mistake someone for chronic fatigue syndrome when, in reality, it was long COVID-19 with persistent fatigue.

It can passively prevent muscle atrophy through a series of cellular processes. As shown in the figure, exposure to near-infrared (NIR) light activates substances including NO, ROS, ATP, and PKD, leading to a series of reactions that promote protein formation.

Skin becomes more radiant, plumper, and more youthful

The wavelength characteristics of near-infrared light are precisely what the complex skin structure requires. Conversely, shorter wavelengths with higher energy (e.g., within 750 nanometers) can cause a burning sensation in the underlying skin before the benefits are fully realized, and collagen within the skin takes time to activate. However, the overall benefits remain. Because of its low energy and long exposure time, it allows for natural perspiration, and our skin gradually develops a healthy, rosy hue. Confidence is also a crucial psychological barrier to coping with symptoms.

“However, maintaining a strong body is the key to further improving your immunity.”