Kivo Light Therapy

What is red light therapy?

What is Red Light Therapy?

What is Red Light Therapy?

Kivo’s Red Light Therapy supercharges the ability of your cells to heal itself using a combination of super focused LED power and the correct wavelengths to stimulate the mitochondria – all to help your body naturally produce collagen which is the building blocks of skin, bone, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Who discovered Red Light Therapy?

Endre Mester Red Light Therapy who discovered and invented RLT treatments

Endre Mester 1960

Red light therapy (RLT) was first discovered in the 1960s by Endre Mester, a Hungarian physician. While testing whether lasers could cause cancer in mice, he accidentally found that low-level laser light (now known as low-level laser therapy or LLLT) actually stimulated hair regrowth and wound healing instead of causing harm.

This discovery led to further research into how red and near-infrared (NIR) light could promote cellular function, tissue repair, and healing. Over time, RLT evolved into a widely used therapy in medicine, skincare, and wellness for its ability to enhance ATP production in cells, reduce inflammation, and improve overall cellular health.

NASA also helped develop Red Light Therapy

NASA played a key role in advancing red light therapy (RLT) in the 1990s while researching ways to support astronaut health during long space missions. Scientists at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center studied light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as a way to promote plant growth in space.

Plant Growth Research

NASA used red and near-infrared (NIR) LEDs to grow plants in space, discovering that these wavelengths stimulated plant cell growth and repair.

Astronaut Health Research

Since astronauts in microgravity experience slower wound healing and muscle atrophy, NASA explored whether red and NIR light could enhance cellular function in human tissues.

Studies showed that red light helped stimulate mitochondrial activity, leading to faster wound healing, pain relief, and tissue regeneration.

Clinical Trials and Expansion

NASA-funded research helped validate photobiomodulation (PBM), the process by which red and near-infrared light stimulates cellular energy production (ATP).

This led to the commercialization of LED-based red light therapy devices for medical, skincare, and wellness applications.

NASA’s work laid the foundation for modern red light therapy used in skin rejuvenation, pain relief, muscle recovery, and more.

NASA Red Light Therapy

How does Red Light Therapy work with Injuries & Skin Health?

Very simple, red light therapy uses extremely focused and specific wavelengths of light to kick-start mitochondria to naturally create collagen, helping you heal.

Mitochondria and red light therapy

The Cell Powerhouse – Mitochondria

Red Light Therapy works primarily through the absorption of light by cytochrome c oxidase a key enzyme in mitochondria. Mitochondria are tiny structures inside cells that generate energy. They’re like power plants, converting nutrients into a form cells can use for various functions

Adenosine Triphosphate

Adenosine Triphosphate or ATP is the cells energy carrier, that is produced by the Mitochondria. Red light stimulates enzymes that produce ATP, boosting cell energy levels.

Cell Function

With increased ATP, cells have more energy available and are stimulated to repair and replicate. ATP is involved in collagen production by providing the energy necessary for the biochemical reactions that assemble and modify collagen molecules within cells.

Waves of Healing

Cells can produce more Collagen, a protein that provides structure and strength to tissues like skin, bones, tendons, and cartilage. It helps to maintain skin elasticity, supports joint health, and promotes tissue repair – helping your body repair itself, naturally.

How does Red Light therapy work for reducing anxiety & depression?

Near-infrared (NIR) light interacts with the brain helping improve mood disorders like anxiety and depression by enhancing cellular energy production, reducing inflammation, and promoting neuro-protection.

Boosts Mitochondrial Energy Production

NIR light penetrates the skull and is absorbed by cytochrome c oxidase, a key enzyme in mitochondria. This stimulates ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production, providing more energy for brain cells to function optimally. Increased ATP improves neuronal activity and cognitive function, which can help with brain fog and low energy levels associated with depression.

Increases Blood Flow & Oxygenation

NIR light therapy enhances cerebral blood flow, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to brain tissue. Better circulation supports mood regulation and cognitive clarity, helping alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Reduces Neuroinflammation

Chronic inflammation in the brain is linked to mood disorders, stress, and cognitive decline. NIR light helps by reducing inflammatory markers, protecting neurons from oxidative stress, and preventing cell damage.

Promotes Neurogenesis & Brain Repair

Studies suggest that NIR light stimulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports the growth of new neurons and synaptic connections. This process is crucial for emotional resilience and reducing symptoms of depression.

Regulates Neurotransmitters

NIR light has been shown to help balance neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, all of which play a role in mood and relaxation. This can lead to reduced stress, anxiety, and improved emotional stability.

Clinical Evidence & Applications

Research on transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) has shown promising results for treating major depressive disorder (MDD), anxiety, PTSD, and even cognitive decline. Some clinical trials suggest that regular NIR light therapy sessions may work similarly to antidepressants, but without the side effects.
Kivo Vital 300

What are the wavelengths of light therapy?

There are several wavelengths that have been discovered to aid in different applications of health and wellbeing

630nm & 660nm
RED LIGHT

Red Light is readily absorbed into the surface layers of the skin, boosting collagen production and stimulating surface layer cells to heal.

Available on All Kivo Panels, Masks, & Devices

810nm 830nm 850nm Near InfraRed Light

810nm 830nm 850nm
NEAR INFRARED

Near-infrared (NIR) light is nearly invisible to the naked eye but can be detected using a device like a phone camera. It penetrates deeper into the skin than red light, helping to relieve joint pain, promote deep wound healing, and support nerve pain recovery.

Available on All Kivo Panels, Masks, & Devices

Blue Light Therapy

460nm
BLUE LIGHT

Blue light therapy kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) that damage microbial cells. Wavelengths between 405–470 nm penetrate microbial structures and interact with porphyrins and flavins, natural molecules inside pathogens. This interaction produces ROS, which breaks down cell walls, damages DNA, and disrupts metabolic functions, leading to cell death. Unlike UV light, blue light is non-toxic to human cells while effectively killing antibiotic-resistant bacteria (like MRSA) and fungal infections.

Available on All Kivo Masks & Pro Series Panels

Yellow Light Therapy

590nm
YELLOW LIGHT

Yellow light therapy (570–590 nm) helps reduce melasma and even skin tone by inhibiting excess melanin production, improving blood circulation, and reducing inflammation. It stimulates collagen and elastin, aiding in skin repair and rejuvenation. Its gentle wavelengths calm redness and hyperpigmentation, making it ideal for sensitive skin and post-inflammatory discoloration without causing irritation or downtime.

Available on All Kivo Masks

Learn more about Light Therapy

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