Red light therapy is rapidly gaining popularity in the wellness world—and for good reason. This non-invasive treatment uses low levels of red and near-infrared light to support the body’s natural healing processes. From giving your skin a healthy glow to relieving sore muscles, it’s a simple way to enhance your self-care routine.

Dr. Debra Kimless, a local board-certified expert in plant medicine, uses 980 nm light, a form of near-infrared therapy that penetrates deep into muscles, tendons, nerves—even the scalp. “By increasing circulation, reducing inflammation and calming overactive pain pathways, this safe, non-invasive therapy has helped many of my patients find relief from stubborn conditions,” she says. “Those suffering from burning neuropathic pain in their feet have reported being able to walk more comfortably again. Patients with issues like Achilles tendinitis and tennis elbow often notice reduced swelling and a quicker return to daily activities. Even individuals with chronic back pain describe less stiffness and improved mobility after a series of treatments.”

Kimless adds that this same wavelength stimulates hair follicles: “In patients with alopecia, I’ve observed healthier regrowth as blood flow and nutrients return to the scalp. Whether used for pain relief or general wellness, 980 nm light therapy offers a modern, drug-free approach. And the best part is—no adverse effects!”

Dianna Manoogian, owner of Salt of the Earth Sarasota, blends salt therapy with pulsed light therapy using visible blue, red and near-infrared light. “Not all light therapy is the same,” she says. “We use a type two medical device—not something you’re going to buy online. We have 10 different settings with various frequencies that do different things to the body, so we can really customize treatment for pain, inflammation, wound healing or nerve regeneration.”

The therapy works by delivering pulsing LED light to the body, helping increase circulation and oxygenate blood. “The lights bring nitric oxide to the body,” says Manoogian, “which allows the body to put itself in the right position to heal.”

Franciska Bray, co-owner of two Perspire Sauna Studio locations in Sarasota, emphasizes the benefits of pairing full-spectrum infrared saunas with red light therapy. “Our saunas are Clearlight full-spectrum infrared models made from non-toxic mahogany and cedar wood,” she says. “I always tell clients it's worth investing more in a quality sauna because cheaper options often use treated wood or toxic glues that can be dangerous, especially when your pores and lungs are open during use.”

Perspire’s saunas use far, near and mid-infrared waves to deeply detoxify the body by heating it from the inside. Benefits include detoxification, cardiovascular support, calorie burning, improved skin, relaxation and pain management—including relief for arthritis. Each sauna integrates chromotherapy and red light therapy bars in the ceiling, offering dual benefits during a single 40-minute session.

“Toxins are everywhere—in our air, food and water,” Bray says. “While a traditional sauna heats the air around your body, infrared saunas heat your body from the inside, creating a false fever. Your body does what a regular fever would do—drive out toxins from your tissues and organs.” For optimal benefits, Bray recommends two to three sessions per week. Clients are encouraged to arrive hydrated and are provided with towels. Sessions are best done unclothed to allow full detoxification without interference from clothing materials.

At Purify The Sweat and Chill Lounge, owner Samantha Albano combines infrared sauna and cold plunge therapy to create a total wellness experience. A former athlete, Albano says years of diving for volleyballs took a toll. “Over time, I developed joint pain, back aches and sore muscles,” she says. “After college, I started noticing these aches more. Everyone kept telling me I was too young to be complaining about them.”

Albano's sensitivity to chemicals and certain foods led her to explore holistic
health. After a sensitivity test revealed inflammation and food allergies, she discovered red light therapy. “I was amazed at how it helps reduce inflammation, detoxify the body, ease muscle tension, improve joint pain and even burn calories,” she says. “I realized—if I needed this, chances are other people in our community did too.”

Red light therapy plays a central role at Purify. “When you arrive, we greet you and provide a bag with comfy clothes—long-sleeve shirt, pants and socks,” says Albano. “You’re guided to your private room where the far infrared magic begins. Slide into the cozy warmth like a gentle hug—whether you want to watch a show, listen to music or meditate through your headphones.”

The far infrared waves warm the body from within, prompting sweat that releases heavy metals and other toxins. “The infrared penetrates deeply—almost to the bone,” she says. “Your nervous system shifts from fight-or-flight to rest-and-digest, so many people fall asleep during their session. At the end, we offer a cold cloth for your forehead. Most people leave smiling—with relaxed muscles, soft skin, improved mood and better sleep.”   SRQ  Perspire Sauna Studio, UTC shopping center, 309 N Cattlemen Road Unit 2 Sarasota, 941-413-3331; 4924 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 941-413-1174. Salt of the Earth, 4037 Clark Rd. Sarasota, 941-702-8300, sotesarasota.com. Purify, The Sweat and Chill Lounge, 8205 Natures Way, Lakewood Ranch, 941-993-1931 purifylounge.com |