Red Light Therapy Pulsing: Worthless or Useful?

Red light therapy pulsing means that light is emitted in short bursts instead of continuously. At different intervals, the light turns on and off. Continuous light therapy, on the other hand, emits light at all times. Some experts believe pulsing enhances therapy, while others claim it adds no benefit.

So, does pulsing improve results, or is it just a marketing gimmick? This article breaks down the science, reviews studies, and helps you decide whether pulsing is worth using in red light therapy.

Why Is Red Light Therapy Pulsing Controversial?

Several companies and experts question the value of pulsing. Some claim it’s just a trend taken from laser therapy and not useful for LED devices. Some believe that pulsing light improves biological effects, while others argue that continuous exposure is just as effective.

So, who’s right on the topic of pulsing? Let’s look at the science.

Red Light Therapy Pulsing: What the Research Says

Conclusion: Pulsing seems to matter in some cases, but it is not always superior.

When to Use Pulsed Red Light Therapy

Based on research, pulsing may be useful in the following cases:

• Deeper Penetration – Helps with brain therapy, muscle recovery, and joint pain.
• Reducing Heat Buildup – Allows high-intensity treatments without discomfort.
• Brainwave Entrainment – Aligning pulses with brain waves could support cognitive function.
• Neurological Disorders – Some research suggests 10 Hz pulsing benefits brain injury recovery.
• Pain Management – Pulsing may improve effects for chronic pain and inflammation.

However, if you’re using red light therapy for general skin health, beauty, or mild recovery, pulsing may not be necessary. If you’re unsure, stick to continuous light. It’s proven, simple, and effective.

Potential Risks of Pulsed Red Light Therapy

• Eye Strain & Fatigue – Rapid pulsing can cause discomfort if exposed to the eyes.
• Headaches or Brain Fog – Some people experience mild disorientation with pulsed frequencies.
• Epilepsy Risk – Flickering light may trigger seizures in sensitive individuals.

Solution: Wear eye protection and avoid high pulsing frequencies if you’re sensitive.

Final Verdict: Is Pulsing Worth It?

Yes, in some cases! Pulsing may enhance results for brain health, deep tissue treatment, and pain relief.

No, if you just want simplicity. Continuous light works great for skin, beauty, and mild muscle recovery.

Best approach: If your device has pulsing, experiment and track results. But if not, continuous therapy still works perfectly fine.

👉 Our Lumavit devices all have pre set modes already set with specific pulsing found most effective based on comprehensive studies.

Furthermore our devices offer the possibility to set your light frequency band and pulsing individually between 1-9,999 Hz.

Find our full product range HERE.