What is photobiomodulation (light therapy), and how does it work?

LED light therapy, also known as Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) or Photobiomodulation (PBM), is a painless, non-invasive approach to healing the skin and body that uses specific wavelengths of light on target areas to promote recovery.  This form of healing was initially developed by NASA to speed up wound healing, and is now commonly used in dermatology, muscle relaxation, and tissue recovery. Learn more

How does LED light therapy work? 

The wavelengths used for healing are considered “bioactive” — meaning that they literally influence the functionality of our cells.  When these lights penetrate the body, they stimulate the mitochondria in your cells to produce more ATP (energy). In turn, more ATP can lead to faster production of collagen, vascular structures, DNA, RNA, and other materials that are essential to your body’s healing process. These wavelengths may enhance blood circulation, reduce wrinkles and fine lines, increase muscle recovery, decrease pain and reduce joint inflammation as well as skin redness/irritation.

Which wavelengths are the most effective for light therapy? And what benefits are associated with each of these wavelengths?

It really depends on the condition that you’re looking to heal (e.g. skin irritation versus muscle recovery or a post-op wound). This is because different wavelengths of light have different penetration levels. When applied, each wavelength can have a chemically different effect on your skin, muscles and/or bones. See the chart below for reference:

Red and near-infrared wavelengths have the deepest penetration levels, as they can reach all the way down to the bone. Research indicates that wavelengths in the narrow ranges of 630-680nm and 800-880nm can be extremely effective for:

• Reducing inflammation
• Improving blood circulation
• Decreasing pain
• Muscle recovery
• Increasing strength and endurance
• Speeding up wound healing
• Improving energy levels
• Weight Loss

Yellow light has a much shallower penetration level than red and near-infrared light, making it more appropriate for targeting the surface of your skin. It is also associated with the adrenal glands, nervous system and muscles. Yellow light may be effective for:

• Reducing wrinkles and fine lines
• Increasing collagen production
• Healing Rosacea and other skin irritations
• Flushing waste from the skin
• Boosting lymphatic flow
• Reducing the appearance of tiny blood vessels
• Healing UV damage
• Activating your lymphatic and immune systems
• Boosting your metabolism

Which wavelengths of light should I be using?

Red and near-infrared light are ideal for healing your body from the skin all the way down to the bone. If you’re looking to heal your muscles, reduce pain and inflammation, or speed up wound healing, these wavelengths can be very effective when used consistently.

If you’re experiencing skin conditions, yellow light is a good choice for improving the appearance and texture of your skin. It can also be used to boost your lymphatic system and support your immune system.

TrueLight® devices use a patent-pending combination of near-infrared, red, and yellow light; you have the option to use these wavelengths separately or simultaneously at the same time for even greater efficiency and effectiveness.

Are there certain wavelengths of light that I should refrain from using? 

Blue wavelengths of light (in the 390-470nm range) should be used with caution when it comes to your skin. Blue light notably has antimicrobial properties that can help prevent the spread of bacteria, which is why this may be an ideal solution for extreme cases of acne that are brought on by antibiotic-resistant forms of bacteria. However, dermatologists have anecdotally warned about the possible effects that blue light can have on skin, as there is growing evidence which indicates that it can cause wrinkles, worsen skin laxity, and lead to hyperpigmentation.

If you are experiencing an extreme case of acne, please consult with your doctor to find out if blue light therapy might be an appropriate solution for you.

Is LED light therapy safe? 

LED light therapy is generally safe and painless. This form of healing is widely accepted and growing in popularity because it is all natural and non-invasive. With that said, each person is unique and may have different reactions to various types of light therapy. Please speak directly with a physician that is familiar with your health history.

For specific questions about using light therapy while pregnant, or while undergoing cancer treatment, please consult directly with a physician to determine whether or not light therapy is a suitable option for you.

Do red, near-infrared or yellow light have any side effects or contraindications? 

Generally speaking, exposure to red, near-infrared, and yellow light are all safe for your skin and body, as scientific studies have shown that these particular wavelengths can promote healing and wellness.  TrueLight® products are low risk devices that have nominal contraindications. We do encourage you to speak to your physician before starting use if you are concerned based on your current medical condition or prescriptions (as some prescriptions can increase light sensitivity).

Where can I find more information and studies about LED light therapy? 

You can find a list of helpful studies and articles here: Science

What is TrueLight® Technology and how does it work?

TrueLight® light therapy devices emit a patent-pending combination of light wavelengths that not only rejuvenate and strengthen from the inside-out, but also help heal the surface of your skin from environmental and UV damage.  

This proprietary combination includes: two different wavelengths of red light for rejuvenation, near-infrared for strengthening, and yellow light for skin preparation and recovery.  No other products on the market include this combination of four wavelengths plus steady and pulsating modes.  When these wavelengths are combined they may:

• enhance blood circulation
• reduce wrinkles and fine lines
• speed up muscle recovery
• decrease pain
• reduce skin redness and/or irritation

What is the difference between the “pulse” and “steady” light modes that come with TrueLight® light therapy devices?

When LED lights are pulsed, body tissue can heal more rapidly. When it is given a continuous burst, it can sedate the cell and relieve the pain. TrueLight® products provide the ability to choose from pulsating or steady lights, depending on your needs at any given time. Your sessions can be tailored to concentrate on either healing or pain relief. Here are some interesting studies that may be of interest.

How do TrueLight® devices compare to other light therapy products?

How often should I use my TrueLight® device?

For optimal cellular health, including deep tissue repair and recovery, we recommend a 20-minute session for each treatment area at a distance no greater than 6-8″ away from the device. However, next to bare skin allows for best light wavelength penetration.  Longer sessions also allow for the wavelengths to penetrate more broadly, allowing a more intense treatment. Please note:  We do recommend no more than one treatment per area per day, because your cells need time to process the light absorption into its metabolic functions.

What is the Energy Density or Irradiance for TrueLight® Product?

There are many ways to measure a light therapy device’s effectiveness. The best way is by how you feel when you use it, or the changes to your body you can measure. Measuring your Nitric Oxide/NO2 levels before and after use is an easy and inexpensive way to see the impact at a molecular level. But that means you must already own one. When you’re shopping, you’ll discover that there isn’t a standard way to compare your options.

You may see the “power” of a device listed, which seems like it could be a standard. Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as measuring the power and ranking one with another. It’s important to take into consideration how many wavelengths the device uses and the distance from the body that the “power” is measured. The energy density, also known as the irradiance, that a light therapy device puts out is important. A high-power unit can make a device work faster, but more heat doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s more effective near/on the skin. When a device is moved away from the skins surface, the power ratio goes down, so the irradiance is lower at that distance. A device may have a mid-range power, so it can be comfortably used next to the skin for longer periods of time.

Some devices have a limited number of wavelengths that result in the appearance of being “powerful”. Devices with limited wavelengths are also limited with the broad benefits they can provide. It’s important to keep in mind which wavelengths of light a light therapy device offers to best suit your needs.*

*The technology used in TrueLight® light therapy products are patent-pending, so for the time being we are not at liberty to fully disclose our exact energy density/irradiance.  However, we can divulge that we fall into the ideal range of 10mw/cm2 when used at 4” to 6” away.

Do TrueLight® devices emit any EMFs?

You’ll be happy to learn that TrueLight® devices are designed from the ground-up to minimize EMF radiation! For example, at a 6″ distance, the Energy Square emits absolutely no non-native EMF radiation, and even with direct contact only 0.6 milligauss is emitted. This amount is very negligible and considered safe. For reference, when your cell phone rings, it emits 9-15 milligauss.

Multiple design choices were taken into account during the design of our TrueLight® devices to ensure their safety. One of the reasons we don’t use fans in our devices, for instance, is because the EM coil in fans produce additional EMF radiation. Our TrueLight® light therapy devices are designed with safety, portability and effectiveness in mind.

Can I wear clothes while I use my TrueLight® device?

For best results, place the front of the device next to bare skin, no more than 6” away from the area being treated.  We also recommend removing all traces of make-up, dirt, or sweat. Make certain that the area of your body you are treating with the TrueLight® device is fully exposed to the light. 

Do I need to wear protective eyewear while I use my TrueLight® device?

We recommend NOT looking directly at the LEDs, especially if you have any light sensitivities, but rest assured that TrueLight® products do not produce any damaging UV light.  If you are sensitive to light or are concerned, we suggest keeping your eyes closed or looking away from the device, especially while using it near your face. Please feel free to use sunglasses or goggles as you see fit, or if your doctor recommends it. 

Are TrueLight® devices safe to use while pregnant? 

While there is no evidence of harm to a an unborn baby, there are currently no safety standards tests either.  We recommend consulting with your physician before beginning this or any other treatment while pregnant.

Is it safe for children to use TrueLight® devices?

Yes, light therapy is considered safe and effective for people of all ages. However, as with all new health and wellness regimens, we recommend consulting a healthcare professional first before allowing your child to use a TrueLight® device. 

Are TrueLight® products FDA cleared or approved?

TrueLight® products are considered therapeutic devices, and they meet the low-risk general wellness status outlined by the FDA.  TrueLight® devices are not intended to diagnose, cure or prevent disease.  They are intended only for personal household use, commercial use is not intended. TrueDark® makes no claims, representations or warranties regarding the ability of this product to cure any physical, skin or mental condition. A qualified health professional should be consulted with regard to any condition requiring medical attention.

Are TrueLight® devices compatible with my country’s voltage? 

All TrueLight® devices have a dual voltage input, so they should work using any worldwide voltage between 80-265v and 50-60Hz. Please note that TrueLight® devices come with a US plug, but any standard plug adapter will allow you to use them in your country of choice.  

For the TrueLight® Energy Square, you can avoid needing an adapter if you use a standard C13 power cord with a plug that is compatible with the outlets in your country. C13 power cords are commonly used on almost all desktop computers and some monitors, and are easy to find or buy.  

Why does it look like some of the lights on my TrueLight® device aren’t on? 

Near-infrared is invisible to the naked eye, so while it may look like these lights on your device aren’t working, they are on and doing exactly what they are supposed to! NIR penetrates deep into the body, all the way down to the bone. It is helpful for improving blood circulation, muscle recovery time, and energy levels. 

How do I clean my TrueLight® device?

We recommend wiping down our Energy Squares with a cloth dampened with mild soap and water. Make sure the cloth is lightly damp but not soaked! Dry with a clean, dry cloth and ensure your device is completely dry before using. You can also use alcohol wipes to sanitize your device.

What forms of payment are accepted?

We take all major credit cards, Visa, Master Card, Discover, AMEX and PayPal.

Can I use my HSA or FSA card to purchase a TrueLight® device? Does this quality as a medical expense?

Your purchase may qualify as an HSA/FSA expense, and we do accept this form of payment. Please consult with your tax advisor.

How do I purchase TrueLight® devices with my HSA or FSA card? 

You can place an order using your HSA/FSA card as you would any other credit card.

For assistance, contact us via chat or through the online contact form.

What do I do if the device that I want is out of stock?

Sign up for our newsletter to receive alerts on sales and when new stock arrives.

Where do you ship to? 

We proudly ship worldwide!

What shipping options do you offer?

You can choose your ideal shipping method during checkout, as we offer a few different options and prices. Please note that depending on your country’s local laws, you may need to pay an additional import duty fee to the carrier before delivery. This is a separate fee from the cost of shipping, imposed by your country’s Customs office. For more information, contact your local Customs office.

When can I expect to receive my order?

For all orders within the United States, it typically takes 3-5 business days to receive your order. International orders (outside of the U.S.) can take 2-3 weeks to arrive, depending on your local customs.

How do I track my order?

You can track your order here.

What is the return and exchange policy?

We offer a 90 day return policy on products ordered through shoptruelight.com. If you experience any issues with the product, please email info@shoptruelight.com and you can send it back for refund within 90 days of purchase. 

Please note all SALE ITEMS are non-refundable and are not eligible for a return.

When returning products, it is your responsibility to take reasonable care to see that the products are not damaged in transit and are received back to our shipping location.

If you choose to return your Truelight product after the 90 day period, in order to be eligible for a store credit, the item must be in like new condition with all packaging, remotes and instructions manuals. 

How do I submit a warranty claim on my order?

We offer a 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects in all our products. If you experience a defect with your TrueLight® device, we’d be happy to help. Please reach out to our customer service team at info@shoptruelight.com and we will be happy to work with you on your order.

How do I return my item(s)?

In order to return an order, please reach out to customer support at info@shoptruelight.com.

How do I exchange my item(s)?

In order to return an order for an exchange, your order must have been placed within the last 90 days. Please reach out to customer support at info@shoptruelight.com.

Where is TrueLight® based?

We are located in the Greater Seattle Area.

Do you have retail locations?

We sell TrueDark® eyewear exclusively online, and do not currently have a retail store. However, we do ship worldwide from the United States. You can also find authentic TrueLight® devices on Amazon by specifically searching for our company name (TrueDark). 

We do also have reseller partners that located across the globe. Some of these resellers only sell TrueLight® devices on their website, but others already have TrueDark® products in-store that people can try out for themselves. If you live outside of the United States and would like more information about our international reseller partners, please contact us at info@shoptruelight.com for further assistance.