Latest news with #Well
Yahoo
a day ago
- Health
- 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.
Daily Record
a day ago
- Sport
- Daily Record
Lennon Miller's rise from Motherwell towards Scotland debut as insider explains key factors in making it happen
The Fir Park starlet is in line to feature against Iceland and Leichtenstein having been selected again by Steve Clarke Stuart Kettlewell says Lennon Miller's rise towards a Scotland debut is all down to the kid's class and character. The Motherwell starlet is in line to feature against Iceland and Liechtenstein having been selected again by Steve Clarke. Miller was with the squad for the Nations League double-header against Greece in March but didn't get off the bench. He should now get a chance to shine in the summer friendlies. Former Fir Park boss Steven Hammell gave Miller a debut just six days after his 16th birthday but he pushed on during Kettewell's time at Well and was handed the armband. Kettlewell, now boss of Kilmarnock, takes no plaudits for Miller's ascent though and insists the youngster's qualities on and off the park have made it happen. Asked about nurturing the teenager, he said: 'I could take you years and years further back from that as well. I take no responsibility for Lennon's development. 'I've never made a football player before in my life but I think you facilitate it. 'You try to guide them and show the pathway that might be beneficial. 'You touch on Lennon, that one can be probably the easiest of them all when you're a top talent, you live your life right and do the right things. 'So my job within it was I played him and I gave him games. But there's been plenty of others in the mix there as well that, if they follow your lead and take it seriously, you can help them if you're prepared to give them an opportunity. 'I came through at Queen's Park where young players were given an opportunity. I was a really young captain. 'Then once I got into coaching, I started working with the Under-20s at Ross County and got a lot of success there. 'That has always been a part of my pathway and my thought process is to try to give those opportunities. 'Sometimes you sign a rough diamond and you feel that you give them a facility because I always speak about just being a facilitator.' Kettlewell's track record in handing youth a chance was a key factor in his appointment at Rugby Park. After leaving Well at the beginning of the year, he could have gone to Carlisle before Mark Hughes took the post. There were other opportunities too but they didn't hold the appeal of Kilmarnock. Kettlewell said: 'That [Carlisle] was an opportunity that came up very quickly for me. 'There's been two or three options, nothing against the clubs, nothing against the opportunities. 'Sometimes you need to go on your gut feeling as to whether you think it's the right thing. 'It's not just about working in football for me, it's trying to work in the right job. I want to see the fruits of my labour and to see people prosper from within that.'
STV News
2 days ago
- Sport
- STV News
Managerless Motherwell bring in former Dundee player Jordan McGhee
Motherwell have confirmed the arrival of former Dundee player Jordan McGhee as their search for a new manager continues. The versatile 28-year-old, who can play in defence or midfield, has signed a two-year deal with the club holding the option of a further year. It emerged midway through last season that McGhee had agreed a pre-contract with Well but he continued to play regularly for Dundee, helping them secure William Hill Premiership survival on the last day of the campaign. The ex-Hearts player made almost 200 appearances in six years with the Dark Blues after moving to Dens Park from Falkirk in 2019. McGhee is the second new face to check in at Motherwell this summer after Austrian midfielder Lukas Fadinger finalised a two-year contract just days after manager Michael Wimmer departed the club. Get all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
New York Times
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- 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
- General
- Yahoo
'Steady Kettlewell will be hungry for success after tough spell'
Does Stuart Kettlewell's Scottish Premiership experience make him a shrewd and steady Kilmarnock appointment? The former Motherwell boss' move to Rugby Park has been met with mixed reviews from fans of the Ayrshire club. Kettlewell led the Steelmen to seventh and ninth-placed finishes in his time at Fir Park before departing with the team in fifth in January. The ex-Ross County manager's Well exit came amid a run of one win in nine games, with the 40-year-old citing fan abuse as the reason for his resignation. Despite a bottom-six finish, Well scored the third most goals in the league in the 2023-24 season under Kettlewell. But a shift in playing style earlier this campaign prompted criticism from the support even though the team were competing for a top-half spot. Could Kettlewell's experience of that scrutiny benefit Kilmarnock? The Scotman's sports editor Mark Atkinson believes so. Speaking on the BBC's Scottish Football Podcast, he said: "I think it's a steady appointment. Kilmarnock fans might take umbrage at that, but I think it's not a bad choice. "I think he'll do a really good job because he's so experienced. I think when you get a manager that's come out of a really difficult period, they're going to be even hungrier for success than some others."
