How Red Light Therapy May Help Ease Depression: New Research, Real Results
At RegenClinic, we see every week how people are seeking healing that’s natural, science-backed, and free from harsh side effects. Depression is one of the most common—and most debilitating—conditions we support.
Now, a growing body of research is showing that red light therapy may be an effective tool in helping people find relief from depression by targeting the brain directly.
A 2023 review led by Harvard researchers in Photobiomodulation, Photomedicine, and Laser Surgery takes a close look at how and why red light therapy (photobiomodulation or PBM) works for major depressive disorder—and the results are promising.
Understanding the Science:
Why Red Light Helps Mood
Photobiomodulation works by delivering low-level red and near-infrared light to areas of the body or brain. This light reaches the mitochondria—the powerhouses of your cells—and stimulates energy production (ATP). In people with depression, mitochondrial function is often impaired. Restoring it may be key to long-term relief.
The Harvard review identified several key ways red light therapy may improve brain function and mood:
Boosting energy in brain cells
In depressed individuals, certain brain regions—including the prefrontal cortex—show signs of hypoactivity, meaning they aren’t firing as effectively as they should. PBM helps restore energy metabolism in these areas by activating an enzyme called cytochrome c oxidase, which increases ATP production and oxygen use.
Improving blood flow to the brain
Low mood and fatigue often correlate with reduced cerebral blood flow. Red light therapy promotes vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), improving oxygenation and nutrient delivery—especially in areas involved in emotional regulation.
Reducing neuroinflammation
Chronic inflammation in the brain has been linked to treatment-resistant depression. PBM has anti-inflammatory effects, lowering pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress. This may allow for clearer thinking, improved mood, and better response to other therapies.
Balancing brainwave activity
The review found that transcranial PBM can normalize brainwave activity, especially alpha and theta waves, which are associated with relaxation, calmness, and emotional processing. People receiving PBM showed more stable EEG readings post-treatment—an indicator of improved brain function.
What the Studies Say
In a randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trial by Cassano et al. (2015), participants with major depressive disorder received red light therapy twice weekly for four weeks. Results showed that 60 percent of participants experienced a clinically significant reduction in depressive symptoms, and 20 percent achieved remission after just four sessions.
Source: Cassano P, Petrie SR, Mischoulon D, et al. “Transcranial Photobiomodulation for the Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder. A Randomized, Double-Blind, Sham-Controlled Trial.” Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 2015.
A functional MRI pilot study by Naeser et al. (2014) observed increased activation in mood-related areas of the brain, including the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, after a single session of red light therapy.
Source: Naeser MA, Zafonte R, Krengel MH, et al. “Improved cognitive function after transcranial, light-emitting diode treatments in chronic, traumatic brain injury: two case reports.” Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 2014.
A 2023 review by Cassano and colleagues examined multiple human studies and concluded that photobiomodulation therapy is safe, well-tolerated, and potentially valuable for individuals with depression—especially those who are sensitive to or not benefiting from traditional antidepressants.
Source: Cassano P, Petrie SR, et al. “Photobiomodulation Therapy for Major Depression and Other Disorders: A Review.” Photobiomodulation, Photomedicine, and Laser Surgery, 2023.
What Makes RegenClinic Different?
At RegenClinic, we use THOR Laser systems—the same class of devices trusted by Harvard, NASA, and top research institutions worldwide. Our transcranial red light treatments use precisely calibrated wavelengths and dosages based on current clinical evidence.
If you’re already seeing a therapist, taking medication, or working with another healthcare provider, red light therapy is a complementary tool that may help their efforts go further. And if you’re exploring natural approaches, PBM offers a safe, non-pharmaceutical option that supports your nervous system directly.
Ready to Try?
We’ve seen clients walk in carrying years of heaviness—and after a few weeks of consistent treatment, start to feel more present, more energized, and more like themselves again.
If you’ve been struggling with low mood, anxiety, or burnout, we’d love to help you explore red light therapy in a calm, supportive space.
Want to learn more? We’d love to talk.
Call or text us at 250-813-2121
Email: sasha@regenclinic.ca
Let your healing journey be guided by science, care, and light.