Red light therapy, also called photobiomodulation, is the use of specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light on the body. Researchers have studied it since the late 1960s, and there are now thousands of published papers on the subject.

The short version of the mechanism: certain wavelengths are absorbed by mitochondria, the part of your cells responsible for producing usable energy. Researchers study whether that absorption helps cells carry out their ordinary maintenance and repair work more efficiently.

Two wavelength ranges, two jobs

Most consumer devices, including Veliora pads, emit light in two ranges. Red light around 660nm is absorbed close to the surface, which is why skin-focused studies concentrate there. Near-infrared light around 850nm travels deeper, into muscle and joint tissue, which is why recovery-focused studies concentrate there.

It is not heat therapy, though red light pads do produce some warmth as a byproduct. It is not a laser, and there is no UV component, so it does not tan or burn the way sunlight does.

What the evidence actually covers

The most heavily studied use is post-exercise muscle recovery. Other studied areas include everyday joint and muscle comfort, local circulation, skin tone and texture, and stiffness or range of motion.

Honest framing matters here: these are the areas photobiomodulation research has looked at, not guarantees about any individual's results. Red light devices are general wellness products, not medical treatments, and they're not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you have a specific medical condition, talk to your doctor before starting any new routine.