The eyes are the one area where the most important advice about light therapy is about protection rather than benefit. Do not look into a red light panel, and always wear the eye protection supplied. Near-infrared light is invisible, so the eye's natural blink reflex does not protect against it.
What the research looks at
Eye research on photobiomodulation uses specialised ophthalmic devices, not body panels. These deliver very low, precisely controlled doses to the eye under the supervision of an eye specialist.
- One such system has been studied in early-stage dry age-related macular degeneration, with modest changes in some vision measures
- Repeated low-level red light has been studied for slowing short-sightedness in children, alongside concerns about possible retinal damage at higher exposures
These are specific clinical treatments with their own approvals and safety monitoring. Their results do not apply to general red light therapy devices.
What it is not
Our systems are not designed or tested for any eye condition. They should never be used as a substitute for care from an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
When to see an eye specialist
Sudden changes in vision, flashes, new floaters, a curtain over part of your vision, eye pain or redness need urgent assessment. Regular eye checks matter more as you get older.
Related reading
See our page on vision research.
