Qu'est-ce que la photobiomodulation ?

What is photobiomodulation?

What is photobiomodulation ? What are its effects on our cells? Can we really promote the body's regeneration and repair with red light?
In this article, we explain how this innovative method works, what scientific studies have demonstrated, and share concrete examples of its applications.

What is photobiomodulation?

Photobiomodulation, also known as red light therapy or low-level laser therapy, refers to a therapeutic method using a specific light. This light is absorbed by the body's cells, increasing their energy to promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Completely non-invasive, painless and without the use of medication, this method is an innovative and effective approach.

Can we really heal with light?

The idea that light can heal may seem surprising, but several recognized therapies already use light as a treatment tool.
For example, phototherapy is used against infant jaundice. In the most severe cases, newborns are placed in an incubator equipped with blue LED panels. This light helps to break down the bilirubin absorbed through their skin.

For psoriasis, it is ultraviolet rays that help reduce skin lesions.

These examples show that light can have concrete therapeutic effects. However, each therapy uses a specific light and triggers different biochemical effects.

Photobiomodulation follows this principle, distinguishing itself by the use of a unique light with specific benefits.

The discovery of photobiomodulation

Professor Endre Mester , a Hungarian researcher, is recognized as the father of photobiomodulation. In 1967, he made an accidental discovery while using a faulty laser in an experiment to shrink cancerous tumors in laboratory rats.

Although the laser didn't work as expected, he observed that the incisions made on the rats healed much faster when exposed to this low-intensity laser. This observation marks the first demonstration of the link between light and improved cellular function.


Photobiomodulation requires a very specific light

For the biochemical effects of photobiomodulation to occur, a specific light is needed. But which one?

What is light?

Light is a form of energy and is part of the electromagnetic radiation spectrum. Just like the heat from a fire or Wi-Fi, light belongs to a specific category of waves.

Each type of electromagnetic radiation is distinguished by its wavelength, measured in nanometers. Visible light, perceptible to the human eye, is between 380 nm and 780 nm. This characteristic, called wavelength, is essential to understand the specific effects of the different lights used in photobiomodulation .

Red and near infrared

In photobiomodulation, two types of electromagnetic radiation are used to stimulate cells:

  • Red light , with a wavelength between 630 nm and 660 nm.
  • Near infrared light , with a wavelength between 810 nm and 850 nm.

These two types of light act in a complementary manner to stimulate cells, provide them with energy and promote their regeneration.


The effects of photobiomodulation on our cells

The human body is made up of 30,000 billion cells, each specialized in a specific function. These cells are grouped into tissues, which in turn form organs, integrated into different systems.


Inside most of these cells (except red blood cells) are hundreds of essential structures: mitochondria, known as the powerhouses of cells.

Mitochondria, the energy powerhouses of our cells


Mitochondria play a central role in the functioning of cells by producing the energy needed for their activities. They convert the nutrients we consume into energy through the oxygen we breathe, a process known as cellular respiration. This energy is then used to maintain balance and essential body functions.

Mitochondria sensitive to this very specific light

During a photobiomodulation session, red and infrared light passes through tissues to reach the mitochondria of cells. This light stimulation activates the mitochondria, increasing their energy production.

This process improves overall cellular function , reduces inflammation , and promotes better blood circulation . To date, thousands of scientific studies have confirmed the health benefits of red and infrared light.

Photobiomodulation is an innovative therapy that uses specific red and infrared lights to stimulate mitochondria and improve cellular functions. Non-invasive, painless and supported by extensive scientific research, it offers significant benefits for tissue regeneration, reduced inflammation and improved blood circulation. This unique method opens the door to new possibilities for well-being and overall health.

Scientific sources

Shining light on the head: Photobiomodulation for brain disorders

Therapeutic potential of intranasal photobiomodulation therapy for neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders

Pulsed Near Infrared Transcranial and Intranasal Photobiomodulation Significantly Modulates Neural Oscillations

Review of transcranial photobiomodulation for major depressive disorder

Significant Improvement in Cognition in Mild to Moderately Severe Dementia Cases Treated with Transcranial Plus Intranasal Photobiomodulation

Transcranial photobiomodulation in the management of brain disorders

Back to blog