Red light therapy (RLT), also known as photobiomodulation (PBM), is an emerging therapeutic approach that utilizes low-level wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to promote healing and stimulate various cellular processes. While RLT is often associated with skin rejuvenation and pain management, its potential applications in liver health are now being investigated. This article delves into the possible benefits and mechanisms of red light therapy for liver health, drawing upon current research and clinical studies.
Understanding Red Light Therapy
Instead of generating heat, red light therapy works by delivering low-level red and near-infrared light wavelengths to the skin and cells. This light is absorbed by mitochondria, which are the energy-producing centers within cells. This absorption process is believed to enhance mitochondrial function, leading to increased energy production (ATP) and promoting cell repair and regeneration. The science behind photobiomodulation reveals that mitochondria are particularly receptive to red and near-infrared photons, making them key players in the effectiveness of RLT.

Red Light Therapy and the Human Body
Red light therapy has shown promise in a variety of applications for the human body, with organizations like Gundersen Health System exploring the benefits of red light therapy for their patients. Some of the key benefits include:
- Skin health
- Pain relief
- Anti-aging effects
- Improved circulation
According to sources like Healthline and the Cleveland Clinic, red light therapy offers a range of uses, benefits, and potential risks that users should be aware of. Places like SMART Health & Wellness also offer this therapy, showcasing its growing popularity.
Mechanisms of Photobiomodulation
Photobiomodulation involves the absorption of non-ionizing optical radiation in the visible and near-infrared spectral range by endogenous chromophores, which are light-absorbing molecules within cells. As described in a study on Medical Lasers, this absorption process triggers photo-physical and photo-chemical events at various biological scales, leading to a cascade of beneficial effects.
Think of your cells as miniature cities, and mitochondria as the power plants that keep those cities running. When these power plants are functioning optimally, the cells have the energy they need to thrive and perform their tasks effectively. Red light therapy acts like a boost for these power plants, increasing their energy output and improving the overall function of the cells.
A key player in this process is cytochrome oxidase c, a mitochondrial enzyme that plays a vital role in cellular energy production. This enzyme can sometimes function below par, but when exposed to red and near-infrared light, it absorbs photonic energy, leading to an increase in ATP synthesis and the generation of more cellular energy, as explained by Vielight Inc.
In addition to boosting energy production, photobiomodulation also influences other cellular processes. Photon absorption by ion channels results in the release of Ca2+, which in turn activates transcription factors and gene expression. This can lead to changes in cell behavior and function, contributing to the therapeutic effects of red light therapy.
Furthermore, an article on MDPI discusses how photobiomodulation may also involve the non-visual phototransduction pathway. This pathway involves mechanotransduction, which is the conversion of mechanical stimuli into cellular signals, and modulation of cytoskeletal structures, which are the internal scaffolding of cells. It also plays a role in biophotonic signaling, which involves the communication between cells using light, and micro-oscillatory cellular interactions, which are subtle vibrations within cells.

Red Light Therapy and Liver Health
While research on the use of RLT for liver health is still in its early stages, several studies suggest potential benefits:
- Improved Liver Function: A study involving older adults with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), published in PMC, found that Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), in conjunction with a Mediterranean diet, led to significant reductions in liver enzyme levels and improved lipid profiles compared to the diet alone. It has been established that LLLT, along with nutritional education and exercise, can not only reduce anthropometric parameters (body measurements like body mass index and waist circumference), but also reverse dyslipidemia (abnormal blood lipid levels) and improve hepatic dysfunction (impaired liver function).
- Reduced Hepatic Lipogenesis: Research in PubMed and ResearchGate indicates that PBM can reduce hepatic lipogenesis, which is the process of fat production in the liver. This effect is linked to the activation of the CaMKKβ/AMPK signaling pathway, a crucial pathway involved in regulating cellular energy and metabolism. Notably, PBM not only reduces hepatic lipogenesis but also enhances insulin sensitivity through this same pathway, highlighting the interconnectedness of these benefits and the potential of RLT to address multiple aspects of metabolic health.
- Enhanced Insulin Sensitivity and Glycemic Control: PBM has been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity, which is essential for regulating blood sugar levels and preventing insulin resistance, a key factor in metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes. The World Mitochondria Society highlights non-invasive photobiomodulation therapies for diabetes management, and a study in Frontiers has also shown that PBM can positively affect metabolic parameters, including glucose tolerance and insulin resistance.
- Reduced Oxidative Stress: PubMed published a study on diabetic rats, where 670 nm photobiomodulation was found to enhance the antioxidant defense system in the liver, potentially reducing oxidative stress, which can contribute to liver damage.
- Improved Steatosis Status: A study on photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) for NAFLD, found in the International Journal of Development Research, demonstrated improvement in steatosis status (fat accumulation in the liver) in 93.8% of patients receiving PBMT, compared to 37.5% in the placebo group. The PBMT group also showed reductions in triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and GGT levels.
- Impact of Light on Liver Health: A study in RSC Publishing investigating the effects of blue LED light exposure on mice found a link between blue light and the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). While this study focused on blue light, it highlights the impact of light exposure on liver health and suggests the need for further research on the specific effects of red light on the liver.
It’s important to acknowledge that current research on RLT for liver health has some limitations. For example, studies may have small sample sizes or lack long-term follow-up data. Further research is needed to fully understand the efficacy of RLT for liver conditions and to establish optimal treatment protocols.

Ongoing Research and Clinical Trials
Several research efforts are underway to further explore the potential of red light therapy for liver health:
- A study published in the Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis, as reported by News-Medical, found that exposure to long-wavelength red light reduced blood clot formation in mice. This finding could have implications for preventing blood clots in the liver and other organs.
- Researchers at Michigan Medicine are investigating the use of leptin therapy to reverse fat deposition in the liver and improve NASH in patients with familial partial lipodystrophy.
- Ongoing research, such as that discussed in Frontiers, focuses on developing high-performance biosensors for the early diagnosis of liver disease, potentially aiding in the timely detection and management of liver conditions.
- A study in PMC explored the use of remote exercise therapy for patients with NAFLD, finding that it improved their physical condition and motivation for treatment. This highlights the importance of lifestyle interventions in managing liver health.
- Researchers at Mount Sinai have made progress in treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a type of liver cancer, with a combination therapy involving lenvatinib, pembrolizumab, and transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). This breakthrough offers hope for improved treatment outcomes for patients with HCC.
- UC San Diego Health is also doing research in this area.
Devices and Protocols
Red light therapy devices for at-home use are available, such as those found on Amazon and Amazon, although they may be less powerful than those used in clinical settings. Clinical trials often utilize specific protocols, such as applying LLLT two times per week for 12 weeks, as used in the study of older adults with NAFLD.
Conclusion
Red light therapy shows promising potential for improving liver health through various mechanisms. It may reduce hepatic lipogenesis, enhance insulin sensitivity, improve liver function, and reduce oxidative stress. These benefits, combined with its anti-inflammatory effects and ability to enhance blood circulation, could make RLT a valuable complementary therapy for individuals with liver conditions.
While more research is needed to fully understand its efficacy and establish optimal protocols, current findings suggest that RLT could be a beneficial addition to a comprehensive liver health management plan.
It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new therapy, including red light therapy, to determine if it’s appropriate for your specific needs and health status.