Brown vs. white rice, aging and relationships: The week in Well+Being
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Yahoo
03-06-2025
- Yahoo
The best red light therapy devices for 2025: Treat yourself to some RLT
Red light therapy (RLT) isn't just another wellness fad. Endorsed by scientific evidence and a growing body of research (although more research is still needed), the best red light therapy devices show promising results when it comes to reducing wrinkles, boosting hair growth, even easing chronic pain caused by inflammation. Some research even indicates that red light therapy can be a useful adjunct to traditional therapies for neurological disorders, cognitive function and obesity. While other light therapies exist, red light therapy — technically called photobiomodulation — uses longer wavelengths, including near-infrared and infrared light, that penetrate deeper into your body than other light colors, according to Dr. Frank Lipman, chief medical officer at the Well in New York City The key to enjoying the potential benefits of these devices is to identify products that use clinically-backed wavelengths of light, typically ranging from 600 to 900 nanometers (nm). At these wavelengths, red light therapy has the ability to stimulate the mitochondria — parts of your cells that produce energy. "This supports the body's natural healing processes to reduce inflammation and redness, increase collagen production, diminish the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and promote healing," Lipman says. The results can be impressive: One study found that after just eight treatments spread over a month, more than 90 percent of users noticed smoother skin, less redness and lighter dark spots. While that's exciting, keep in mind that the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA) suggests thinking of red light therapy as one piece of your skincare puzzle — not the whole solution. And heads up if you have a darker skin tone: You'll want to chat with your dermatologist before jumping in, since research shows you might be more likely to develop stubborn dark spots from the treatment. Ready to give it a try? The good news is you no longer have to visit a high-end spa or a doctor's office to reap the RLT rewards — or pay a premium to do so. Thanks to a growing market of at-home devices, including masks and full-body panels, it's easier than ever to bring the benefits home. To help you choose the best at home red light therapy device for your needs, we turned to three skin and health experts for their insider advice and we researched over two dozen options. After rigorously testing the top 10 for ease of use, features, comfort, design and results, we found top performers in every category — from portable units to professional-grade panels, including targeted tools for face and pain relief. Best overall red light therapy device More red light therapy devices we like for 2025 Types of red light therapy devices Factors to consider when purchasing a red light therapy device How we chose Other products we researched FAQs Meet the experts Today's red light therapy devices use gentle LED (light-emitting diode) technology to deliver specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light that stimulate cellular activity and promote healing — all without generating excess heat. Whether you're targeting wrinkles, soothing sore muscles or boosting overall wellness, there's a device designed for your needs. From portable handheld tools to comfortable masks to powerful full panels, here's a guide to finding your perfect match: Handheld devices: These compact red light therapy tools are ideal for spot treatments, letting you target specific areas like your face, joints or scalp. Their focused design makes them especially popular for addressing fine lines, acne or localized pain. While they're travel-friendly and often more budget-friendly than larger devices, you'll need to move them around manually — which can take extra time if you're treating larger areas. Red light masks: Designed specifically for the face, these wearable red light devices often combine red and near-infrared LEDs to help increase collagen production, reduce wrinkles and calm inflammation. Some are rigid and made of harder plastic, while others are made from flexible — and more comfortable — silicone for longer wear. Panels and full-body devices: Red light panels — flat, grid-style devices covered in LEDs — let you treat large areas of your body at once. Simply stand or sit in front of these rectangular or square units, which come in various sizes. "Full-body exposure to red and near-infrared light can have metabolic and immune benefits beyond skin health," says Lipman, making these devices especially valuable for athletic recovery, muscle and joint pain or systemic inflammation. While panels are most common, you'll also find full-body red light therapy bed devices that resemble tanning beds or sleeping bags. Just note that these larger setups command both a bigger budget and more space than handheld tools or masks. Combination devices: Some red light therapy tools incorporate multiple technologies or wavelengths. For example, you might find a red light device for the face that offers red light, near-infrared light and even blue light (commonly used for acne). These are great for users who want a multitargeted approach, like treating signs of aging, breakouts and inflammation all at once. Scrolling through endless Instagram ads of glowing faces and too-good-to-be-true before-and-afters? While those viral LED masks might be tempting, choosing the best red light therapy device isn't about chasing the latest sensation. Experts say that, instead, your perfect match depends on your wellness goals, how consistently you'll actually use it and the practical realities of your space and schedule. Here's what matters most: Wavelength: Different wavelengths penetrate the skin at different depths, says Timothy Demchak, a professor of applied medicine at Indiana State University. For optimal results, look for devices that offer both red light (630 to 680 nanometers) for skin benefits and near-infrared (800 to 830 nanometers) for deeper tissue treatment. This combo gives you the best of both worlds: surface-level improvements like collagen stimulation plus deeper healing for muscles and joints Irradiance: Irradiance refers to how much light energy is delivered to your body. "When it's too weak, it won't make much impact. Too strong, and it could be uncomfortable," says Lopez. "It's about finding the sweet spot backed by reliable research." That means, look for a device with irradiance levels between 20 an 200 mw/cm². This is generally considered safe and effective. Be wary of manufacturers making outlandish power claims — third-party verification is your friend here. Size and coverage area: Match your device to your goals. Full-body treatment calls for a larger panel or system, while targeted therapy for your face or specific problem areas might only need a compact device or mask. Larger devices pack more power and efficiency but demand more space and investment. Consider where you'll use and store your device — that sleek full-body panel might seem perfect until you realize it doesn't fit in your bathroom. Treatment time: Most effective protocols require 10 to 20 minutes per session, three to five times weekly. While that might not sound like much, it adds up. Devices with higher irradiance levels often cut down treatment time, making them more practical for busy schedules. Consider what fits into your routine. Even the most powerful device won't help if you can't make time to use it. Ease of use: You're more likely to use a device regularly if it's intuitive and comfortable. Some panels have adjustable stands or wall mounts, while others require awkward positioning. Masks should be lightweight and breathable. Handheld devices should feel ergonomic and not strain your wrist after a few minutes. And if the device feels like a hassle, it'll end up in a drawer. Look for tools with straightforward controls, timers and safety features like automatic shut-offs. Portability and storage: If you travel often or want to bring your red light device between home, the office or even the gym, opt for a compact and lightweight model. Some portable options even come with travel cases to make it easier to bring with you. That said, if red light therapy is going to be a permanent part of your routine and you have the space, a larger panel or mounted system may deliver better and faster results. FDA registration and safety features: Our experts acknowledge that being FDA-registered doesn't guarantee a product works, it does show that the device meets basic safety standards for at-home use. This is especially important if you're using the device on sensitive areas like your face or scalp. You should also look for built-in safety features like built-in timers or eye shields, and always follow the manufacturer's guidelines. To find the devices that truly deliver results, we spoke with three leading experts — a functional and integrative medicine physician, a nurse practitioner and a photobiomodulation researcher — to learn how light therapy works its magic at the cellular level. Their expertise helped illuminate (pun intended) what really matters in a quality device. Armed with this knowledge, we explored over two dozen popular red light therapy devices, focusing on those offering both red and near-infrared light at scientifically proven wavelengths. We then spent four months testing 10 devices, evaluating everything from how they felt against our skin to how well they held up with regular use. While not every device earned a spot in our final recommendations, we made sure to cite other solid options that deliver effective treatment. There are a lot of great red light therapy devices on the market. The following didn't make the winners list either because I haven't yet tried them or they're not as versatile as some of the options that did. That said, these are reputable brands that use clinically proven therapies and wavelengths. Bon Charge Red Light Therapy Blanket: Red light therapy blankets are fairly new to the market. This one combines clinically backed levels of red and infrared light and has 360-degree coverage at a steep price of $1,999. MitoMAX Red Light Therapy Device: This sturdy flat panel has great power with clinically-backed red and infrared wavelengths. It's a good option for those looking for a slightly less expensive model than our best overall pick ($750). PlatinumLED BIO Series: Another flat panel option, this one is known for high irradiance and professional-grade performance, but it's bulkier than some other available options. (Prices start at $399) Megellin Red Light Therapy Bag: This pricey ($1,499) light-infused sleeping bag offers full-body coverage — or you can lay it flat for two people to use at once. LightStim for Wrinkles: The LightStim wand, priced at $249, is specifically designed for facial anti-aging benefits, but the smaller treatment area makes it less convenient than red light masks. Solawave Wand: A bargain at $135, this may be the best red light therapy wand for newbies. It's a good option for those who want something for spot treatment instead of full-face coverage. Dr. Dennis Gross DRx SpectaLite FaceWare Pro: This red light therapy mask ($455) is popular, but it's not as moldable and comfortable as some of the silicone masks we tested. HigherDose Red Light Hat: Designed for hair growth, this wearable has 120 LED bulbs spread throughout and uses 650-nm red light wavelengths to target your scalp. Some studies suggest this wavelength can stimulate hair follicles and improve hair thickness over time. At $499, it may be worth a try for some. The most effective devices emit red light between 630 and 680 nm and near-infrared light between 800 and 830 nm, according to Demchak. You also want to consider irradiance, better known as the power output. Think of it like your morning coffee: You want it strong enough to work (at least 20 mw/cm²) but not so strong or you'll feel the negative impact (keep it under 200 mw/cm²). The right strength depends on what you're treating and how deep you need that light to go. Good news: Red light therapy is generally gentle on your body. While some folks might notice a bit of redness or warmth, that's usually temporary and nothing to worry about. Lipman always suggests starting slow and sticking to the device's guidelines, just like you would with any new workout routine. Skip the sessions if you're pregnant, running a high fever or have a pacemaker. And if you've got darker skin, have a chat with your dermatologist first — they can help you avoid any unwanted dark spots. Yes. Demchak, for one, praises red light therapy as an effective treatment for acute and chronic pain. At the cellular level, it stimulates healing, reduces inflammation and improves circulation. It also regenerates cells and increases collagen production to repair damaged tissue, while boosting cell energy production that can trigger pain-relieving endorphins. Plus, as Demchak explains: "Pain signals travel from the injury site to the brain on nerves, but a high dose of light can decrease nerve conduction [thereby reducing pain]. Some people start experiencing changes in their skin tone and inflammation in about two weeks. But for bigger projects, like easing joint pain or encouraging hair growth, Lopez says it'll likely take four to six weeks of consistent use before you notice anything. The key word here is "consistency." Stick to your device's recommended schedule and you'll be more likely to see the results that you're seeking. Liliana Lopez, DNP, FNP, a nurse practitioner and cofounder of Health & Wellness with HBOT, a wellness center that offers red light therapy among other wellness modalities Timothy Demchak, PhD, ATC, GTS, a photobiomodulation researcher and professor of applied medicine and rehabilitation at Indiana State University Frank Lipman, MD, an integrative and functional medicine physician and chief medical officer at the Well, a wellness club in New York City Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
New York Times
01-06-2025
- New York Times
Get Creative
Last May, my father-in-law showed up at my house with a child-size drum set in his trunk. That might make some parents shudder, but I was thrilled. I was a drummer when I was younger, with a set just like this one, and now my 7-year-old son could follow in my footsteps. I've learned two things in the year since. First, you can't force your kids to like the things you like; my son has probably played those drums for 15 minutes total. More important, though, I learned that I wasn't a former drummer. I'm still a drummer. Even though I hadn't engaged that part of my brain in years, my trips downstairs to do laundry now usually include a few minutes bashing on that little drum set. I'm not making beautiful music — just ask my neighbors — but I'm having a great time. Every little session leaves me feeling energized. That spark of creativity is something my colleagues at Well, The Times's personal health and wellness section, think everyone could use more of. Starting tomorrow, they've got a five-day challenge that aims to help readers nurture their creative side. I spoke with Elizabeth Passarella, the writer behind the project, to learn more. After years away from the drums, I've been shocked by how good it feels to make music. Why is that? What you feel is what many of us feel when we do something creative: giddy and inspired. Whether you do something more traditionally creative, like draw or play music, or riff on a recipe because you were out of an ingredient, it gives you a little boost. And there is plenty of research that links creativity to happiness and better moods. Some people reading this are gifted painters and musicians, I'm sure. But others would probably say that they don't have much artistic talent. What would you say to them? You are all creative in some way. There's a definition of creativity that researchers use: generating something novel that is also useful. That could be the score to a movie. It could also be, as one expert told me, a brilliant solution to keeping your dog out of a certain area of your house. Or making up a weird game to play with your toddler. Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- Yahoo
China Insight: Will China's Cultural Tourism Boom Power Fashion's Next Growth Engine?
In the post-pandemic economy, consumer desire is no longer driven solely by products but also by experiences that spark cultural resonance and emotional connection. As China navigates economic headwinds, a key question emerges: can the integration of culture and tourism serve as a catalyst to boost consumption and ignite new engines of growth, particularly in the fashion and lifestyle sectors? More from WWD Why Saudi Arabia and Qatar Are Primed for New Design Events as Contract Business Drives Demand Daniella Pierson Launches Chasm to Close the Gender Gap Through Entrepreneurship Not a Lot of Love for 520: Brands Rethink Local Campaigns Amid China Uncertainty The month of May — bookended by the May Day Golden Week and the Dragon Boat Festival — has become a vital barometer for evaluating China's cultural tourism momentum. The surge in domestic travel and experiential consumption during these holidays is not only reinvigorating local economies but also reshaping the urban fashion landscape in unexpected ways. According to official data, 314 million domestic trips were made during the May Day holiday alone — a 6.4 percent increase year-over-year — generating 180.27 billion yuan (about $24.97 billion) in tourism-related spending, up 8 percent from the previous year. While per capita spending has yet to return to pre-pandemic levels, the rebound in demand signals a clear shift: consumers are prioritizing culturally immersive, emotionally resonant experiences that often intersect with fashion and lifestyle consumption. Cultural Immersion Meets Fashion Aspirations Trends such as 'reverse tourism' — in which travelers explore lesser-known towns and county-level cities — are gaining popularity. At the same time, attractions centered on the renewal of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) have emerged as major draws. National trend culture is sweeping the country, with searches for ICH-themed tourism surging and ticket reservations for heritage-focused sites up 132 percent year-over-year. Immersive, hands-on experiences have become particularly attractive to younger audiences. Data from Ctrip shows that workshops like ceramic art classes in Jingdezhen and traditional kesi (silk tapestry) weaving in Suzhou now attract thousands of daily participants. The blending of cultural performance and tourism has turned cities like Henan's Luoyang, Anhui's Anqing and Xinjiang's Kashgar into popular destinations offering deeper, story-rich experiences. Events such as the Puppet Carnival in Fujian's Zhangzhou and hand-painted lantern exhibitions in Sichuan's Zigong Lantern Museum further demonstrate how traditional crafts are being revitalized through design-forward, tourist-friendly formats. In this shift, cultural tourism is not just a leisure activity — it's becoming a new platform for fashion expression and consumption. Macao's Cultural Reawakening and the Rise of Experiential IP The evolution is not limited to mainland China. In Macao, the May 7 relaunch of 'The House of Dancing Water' — a 2-billion Hong Kong-dollar reinvention of the acclaimed show that had been on hiatus for five years — marks a milestone in cultural tourism's commercial potential. Attended by high-ranking officials and industry leaders, the premiere underscored Macao SAR's strategic pivot toward 'tourism+' as a model for economic diversification. Lawrence Ho, chairman and chief executive officer of Melco International Development, described the show as a symbol of Macao's aspiration to fuse entertainment, culture and tourism into a global narrative. The production, co-created with Italy's Peparini Studios, integrates technological innovation, multicultural storytelling, and a performance ensemble representing over 30 countries — including retired Olympic athletes — into an immersive, fashion-adjacent spectacle. The show's impact goes beyond the stage. With advance ticket sales exceeding MOP 180 million (about $115.4 million) and City of Dreams hotel occupancy soaring to 92 percent, 'The House of Dancing Water' is expected to draw over 500,000 attendees annually and significantly boost local employment. Moreover, the performance has established a new commercial ecosystem. Custom-designed costumes (24 sets in total), re-orchestrated symphonic scores and newly introduced characters such as 'the Sailor' are driving secondary consumption through merchandise and IP-based fashion collaborations — demonstrating the economic value of experiential culture. Policy Momentum and Urban Collaboration Backed by favorable national policies — ranging from tax incentives to funding subsidies and streamlined project approvals — cities across China are actively investing in the convergence of cultural, tourism and fashion economies. Shanghai is leading this charge. The city's 2025 'First in Shanghai' campaign, 55 Shopping Festival, and Shanghai Summer international consumption season are all examples of how municipalities are integrating retail activations with cultural programming. The 55 Shopping Festival alone featured 13 high-impact IP events over May and June, including innovative retailtainment experiences and premium business district promotions. In Beijing, the Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism partnered with the Singapore Tourism Board and Pop Mart to launch the 'Beijing×Singapore Pop Toy Show Dual City Plan.' Running from May 31 to June 20, the collaboration will explore the fusion of pop culture, fashion toys, and urban tourism through landmark activations in both cities — highlighting how trendy IPs can fuel cross-border cultural consumption. From Soft Power to Hard Value In today's globalized economy, cultural exchange is more than a diplomatic nicety — it is a strategic growth engine. The true revitalization of a city is not defined by skyscrapers or mega-malls, but by its ability to inspire, engage, and convert cultural energy into commercial and social value. As cities continue to experiment with immersive formats and fashion-forward cultural tourism, the potential to unlock new consumption models is clear. The chemical reaction between culture, tourism, and fashion is still evolving — but its impact on sustainable growth could be profound. Editor's Note: China Insight is a monthly column from WWD's sister publication WWD China analyzing key trends in that important market. 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