Why red light therapy is the wellness hack you absolutely need

I never thought I’d find myself saying this, but a glowing red light has actually....changed my life?

For the last three weeks, I've been starting my lovely mornings by sitting in front of a red light panel for 10 minutes while meditating. Within days of incorporating this, my energy climbed. My sleep improved. My recovery accelerated — and my Oura scores backed it all up (!!!). 

When I skipped a few days while traveling, I felt it immediately. My mornings dragged, my focus dipped, and I couldn’t wait to get back home to that red glow.

If I am being honest, when I started this little "experiment," I did not think I would notice the benefits this quickly or so obviously. But here I am officially declaring myself a red light girlie...

And I am not just imagining the benefits. The science behind red light therapy (also known as photobiomodulation) goes far deeper than a fleeting wellness trend.

The surprising science behind the red light glow

Curious about what’s actually happening on a cellular level?

“Red light, typically between 600 and 700 nanometers, and near-infrared light between 700 and 900 nanometers, have unique bioactive properties,” said Scott Chaverri, founder and CEO of Mito Red Light, during an interview with me in September. “The light goes in and the 'power plants' in your cells harness it to make energy.”

Chaverri explained that these wavelengths act on the mitochondria — the tiny engines inside almost every cell — helping them produce more ATP, the molecule that fuels everything from muscle repair to cognitive clarity.

“If mitochondria function better, the cells function better,” he said. “So basically, every part of your body has the potential to benefit from being exposed to the light.”

That’s why researchers call this range the near-infrared biological window — a sweet spot of light that can penetrate tissue and trigger measurable cellular changes. Clinical studies have linked it to improved sleep quality, faster muscle recovery, and even better skin health when used consistently.

Related: Massive sleep study reveals surprising cost of going to bed late

The proven benefits of red light therapy

While results may vary, research and anecdotal reports point to consistent benefits — from skin rejuvenation to improved recovery and mood support.

I can personally attest to this...I’ve been reaping the benefits firsthand, so take from that what you will. 

What the science says about red light therapy:

• Boosts cellular energy (ATP) for stronger overall function
• Supports muscle recovery and helps reduce inflammation
• Promotes collagen production, improving skin elasticity and tone
• Helps regulate sleep and circadian rhythms
• May improve blood flow and wound healing
• Non-invasive, UV-free, and safe for daily use

(Obviously, always consult your healthcare provider before starting new therapies.)

Why we need more light

Modern life has made us light-deficient. Ugh. 

“I think infrared deficiency is a much bigger problem...it’s more lifestyle-driven,” said Chaverri. “We’re indoors all the time. If the sun is above the horizon, you’re getting infrared, but if you’re not outdoors, you’re not getting it.”

That constant indoor lifestyle means our bodies miss out on certain wavelengths of natural light that help regulate circadian rhythms and cellular energy production.

Red light therapy helps fill that gap — offering concentrated, targeted wavelengths without UV exposure.

Where to get started with red light therapy

I know what I am about to share with you probably sounds very promotional. But, I truly believe in this company.

Unlike a lot of wellness tech startups chasing hype, Mito Red Light is in the game for the right reasons. Chaverri, who left a career in finance, launched the company after a personal health crisis shifted his perspective on life.

He started small — three products and $8,000 of his own money — and grew to seven figures in revenue within a year. "I just wanted to create something better.” he said. "Everything we sell, I completely believe in." 

That intention shows up in Mito Red Light's approach:

• Third-party testing keeps quality and consistency transparent
• Wide range of products for both personal and commercial uses
• Real people ready to help + hassle-free warranties

It’s a practical model designed for trust, not hype — appealing to everyone from athletes and biohackers to busy parents, professionals, and quite literally anyone trying to feel their best. 

Related: These clean food brands are rightfully challenging the FDA

Wellness with purpose and integrity

Chaverri’s story makes it clear this isn’t just another health gadget.

When his young son was diagnosed with cancer in 2016, Chaverri found himself struggling with extreme caregiver fatigue. In his search to support his own well-being, he discovered red light therapy — a tool that helped him recover his energy and eventually inspired him to build Mito Red Light.

In reference to his son's diagnosis, “If it doesn’t shake you up and cause you to question what you’re doing every day, something’s wrong,” he said. “I wanted to do something more fulfilling every day...I really think we can help people.”

As he said this to me, I got the chills; his passion was electric. This isn’t just business for him; it’s a purpose. 

Why try red light therapy

After three weeks of consistent use, I’m completely convinced.

It’s one of the few wellness hacks that actually delivers both immediate and lasting results you can feel.

Better sleep, faster recovery, more energy, and frankly, an awesome feeling that sets the tone for the whole day (and night!).

And it’s not just me noticing the change...the red light therapy market is rapidly expanding.

According to Verified Market Research, the Red Light Therapy Device Market was valued at $350 million in 2024 and is projected to reach $620 million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 8.8% from 2026 to 2032.

As more and more scientific evidence and real results build, red light therapy is proving it’s not just hype...it’s the future of wellness.

Additional Sources:

• Mito Red Light Website
• Mito Red Light Blog
• Photobiomodulation—Underlying Mechanism and Clinical Applications

Related: Oura launches genius features to take on Apple, Fitbit, and Whoop