Red Light Therapy & Brain Health: What the Science Is Saying
At RegenClinic, we’re passionate about supporting the body’s ability to heal itself—gently, naturally, and without pharmaceuticals. One of the most exciting areas of research in recent years is how red light therapy (RLT)—also known as photobiomodulation (PBM)—can support brain health.
If you’ve ever wondered how light can help with memory, mood, or neurological conditions, this post breaks down the science and the evidence behind it.
What Is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to stimulate healing in tissues—including brain tissue. This light energy is absorbed by the mitochondria (the energy producers in your cells), increasing ATP production, reducing inflammation, and improving blood flow.
When applied transcranially (through the skull), this light can penetrate brain tissue and activate natural repair mechanisms—offering hope for conditions like depression, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, ADHD, concussion, and more.Symptoms may include:
What the Research Shows
A growing number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs)—the gold standard in clinical research—show that red light therapy is not only safe, but can significantly improve brain function. Here are a few highlights:
🧠 Memory & Cognition
A study by Barrett & Gonzalez-Lima (University of Texas, 2017) showed that a single 8-minute session of PBM at 1064 nm significantly improved memory, attention, and processing speed in healthy adults.
🧘 Depression & Anxiety
In a 2018 Harvard-affiliated trial led by Cassano et al., patients with major depressive disorder received PBM twice weekly for four weeks. Results showed significant improvements in mood, energy, and sleep, with no side effects.
🧍 Parkinson’s Disease
An Australian study by Hamilton et al. (2021) applied both transcranial and intranasal PBM in people with Parkinson’s disease. Participants experienced improvements in balance, gait, cognition, and mood—along with reduced tremors.
💥 Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
A 2017 study at the VA Boston Healthcare System (Naeser et al.) treated veterans with chronic TBI using red light therapy. After just several sessions, patients had improved sleep, executive function, memory, and overall quality of life.
🧒 ADHD & Autism
Early pilot trials have shown improvements in attention span and emotional regulation in children receiving red light therapy for ADHD—pointing to its future potential in pediatric neurotherapy..
How Does It Work?
Red light therapy stimulates an enzyme called cytochrome c oxidase inside your cells’ mitochondria. This clears out nitric oxide, improves oxygen flow, and reboots your cells’ energy systems.
In brain cells, this means:
- More energy for neural repair
- Improved circulation and oxygenation
- Reduced inflammation and oxidative stress
- Enhanced neuroplasticity and cognitive performance
Is It Safe?
Yes. Across dozens of human studies, no serious side effects have been reported. PBM is non-invasive, painless, and well-tolerated—even in vulnerable populations like seniors, veterans, and children.
At RegenClinic, we use THOR Laser equipment—trusted by NASA, Harvard, and over 70 countries around the world—to ensure your treatment is backed by science and delivered with care.
What Conditions Might Benefit?
Red light therapy may support recovery or symptom relief for:
- Red light therapy may support recovery or symptom relief for:
- Parkinson’s & Alzheimer’s
- Dementia & cognitive decline
- Depression & anxiety
- Concussion & TBI
- Sleep disorders
- Chronic headaches
- ADHD & neuroinflammation
We tailor every protocol to your unique health goals and work alongside your existing care team if desired.
Curious to Learn More?
Red light therapy is one of the most promising natural therapies for supporting brain health, energy, and mood—without side effects or medication.
If you or a loved one is exploring non-pharmaceutical support for neurological or mood-related conditions, we’d love to help.
Call or text us at 250-813-2121
Email: sasha@regenclinic.ca
Let’s talk about how light could help you feel more like yourself again.