Red Light Therapy for the Eyes: Photobiomodulation

What Is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy is a light-induced treatment that has been used in the cosmetic field for many years. This therapy utilizes low-wavelength red or nearly visible infrared light to enhance the energy and function of the cells. This therapy works by augmenting the powerhouse or energy house of the cell called mitochondria. This technique has gained popularity recently for its benefits in improving vision and eye health.

How Does Red Light Therapy Work?

Red light therapy is otherwise known as photobiomodulation therapy (PBT). This approach is a painless and minimally invasive technique that typically takes about ten minutes. Red light therapy utilizes low-intensity red or infrared light in the treatment. This works by stimulating the cells and promoting healing. This therapy also helps promote energy in the system. The low-wavelength red light obtained in this process can then be absorbed by the mitochondria (membrane-bound organelles seen in the cytoplasm of the cells) in the body. The mitochondria play a pivotal role in several essential processes, including energy production and the body's healing mechanism.

What Is the Use of Red Light Therapy for Eye Health?

Red light therapy is known to improve vision. Moreover, it has other significant eye health benefits, from dry eyes to macular degeneration.

The potential applications of red light therapy for the eyes include the following.

• Retinal Function: Red light therapy is chiefly administered to enhance retinal function, whereas the retina is the sensory membrane present at the back region of the eye. Red light therapy is known to augment retinal function by increasing the production and efficacy of the energy contributed by the mitochondria of the retinal cells. This approach could increase the production of the primary source of energy called adenosine triphosphate (ATP) by precipitating the action of mitochondria. The increase in energy production substantially improves retinal cell function, resulting in improved vision.

• Dry Eye Syndrome: Dry eye syndrome is a common eye problem where a person experiences inadequate tear production and unsound tear quality. The clinical manifestations of dry eye syndrome include redness, mild discomfort, and blurred vision. Red light therapy effectively reduces and alleviates the symptoms associated with dry eye syndrome. This works by inducing tear production, reducing inflammation, and enhancing the ocular surface. The clinic studies have proven the significant efficacy of red light therapy in tear production.

• Glaucoma: Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases characterized by vision loss and blindness due to damage of the nerve called optic nerve. This condition often occurs associated with increased intraocular pressure (pressure inside the eyes). Red light therapy is suggested as an adjunct or alternative treatment for glaucoma. This approach for glaucoma works by improving blood circulation to the optic nerve, decreasing oxidative stress, and enhancing the viability of retinal ganglion cells. Nevertheless, further research is required to determine the safety and efficacy.

• Wound Healing: Red light therapy is known for its wound-healing properties. So, red light therapy for the eyes helps promote the healing process of ocular injuries, surgical interventions, and corneal abrasions. The mechanism of action includes the promotion of the migration and generation of corneal epithelium cells, inflammation reduction, and enhancement of collagen synthesis. This results in rapid healing, leading to improved vision.

• Eye Strain Relief: Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is an immensely emerging condition in this modern era due to prolonged exposure to system lights and screen time. Computer eye syndrome is characterized by digital eye strain and fatigue. Red light therapy contributes to promising outcomes for alleviating eye strain and fatigue. This approach increases blood flow, reduces inflammation, and enhances cellular energy synthesis. Hence, red light therapy is a non-invasive approach to improved vision in this digital age.

• Color Contrast Vision: The researchers studied the efficacy of red light therapy in certain groups of people. The outcome showed that the color vision of the individuals exposed to red light during the morning hours had improved by about 17 percent. Therefore, red light therapy helps improve color contrast vision.

• Macular Degeneration: Macular degeneration is a progressive and serious eye disease. This condition results in a loss of vision in the field of vision. Blurred vision is a clinical symptom. Red light therapy has shown certain benefits for individuals with age-related macular degeneration. But, it is not a recommended option for macular degeneration right now.

What Are the Contraindications of Red Light Therapy for the Eyes?

Some factors and contraindications can make red light applications unsuitable for some people. Red light therapy possesses contraindications that should be considered for safety measures.

The potential contraindications of red light therapy for eye conditions are,

• Underlying eye conditions like retinal disorders, severe glaucoma, cataracts, and other significant diseases.

• Photosensitivity or sensitivity to light.

• Recent or upcoming eye surgery.

• Acute and chronic eye infection.

• Ocular-related injuries.

• Medications that make the eyes more sensitive to light.

What Are the Cons of Red Light Therapy for Eyes?

Red light therapy also has certain cons and considerations when administered to the eyes.

• Eye Damage: Exposure to intense and prolonged red light with poor protection can result in retinal damage. This could lead to potential vision discrepancies.

• Potential Side Effects: Red light therapy can induce unwanted or adverse effects, including dryness, irritation, and discomfort of the eyes.

• Limited Evidence: Though clinical studies indicate the potential benefits of red light therapy over several eye health conditions, the evidence still needs to be expanded and requires comprehensive studies.

• Expenditure: High-quality red light therapy can be quite expensive.

• Lack of Regulation: The healthcare authorities might not approve or regulate major red light therapy devices, which possess variations in quality and safety profiles.

Conclusion:

When used with appropriate precautions, red light therapy is a natural, non-invasive, and favorable option for several eye health conditions. It is essential to rely on protective eyewear and safety aids to prevent potential eye damage. Still, it remains an adjunctive or complementary option. Comprehensive and more thorough research studies are required to appreciate the scope of the technique's benefits fully.