Do Red Light Therapy Mats Work?

How red light therapy is thought to work

Red light therapy uses LEDs that emit red light (around 630–660nm) and near-infrared light (around 810–940nm). Red light is absorbed mainly in the skin's outer layers, while invisible near-infrared light travels further into the body.

Researchers' leading explanation centres on the mitochondria, the parts of cells that produce energy. A review by de Freitas and Hamblin describes an enzyme in the mitochondria, cytochrome c oxidase, as one of the most important molecules that absorbs this light. The proposed result is increased production of ATP, the molecule cells use for energy. This is a proposed mechanism, and research into it is ongoing.

Decades of red light therapy research

• Studied since 1967. The first evidence of the effects of low-level laser light came from experiments by Dr Endre Mester at Semmelweis Medical University in Hungary in 1967.
• A large body of clinical trials. Red and near-infrared light have since been tested in randomised clinical trials around the world, enough that a 2025 umbrella review in the journal Systematic Reviews pooled earlier reviews of those trials across many outcomes.
• The specifications matter. Studies use specific wavelengths, light doses and session lengths, and researchers continue to refine these protocols. That's why the wavelengths and coverage of the mat you choose matter.

What makes a red light therapy mat effective

These are the specifications that make the difference, and how the InfraHeal Red Light Mat measures up.

1. Wavelengths: red and near-infrared together cover the skin's surface through to deeper tissue. Many mats use only 1 or 2 wavelengths. The InfraHeal Mat uses 4: 630nm and 660nm red, and 850nm and 940nm near-infrared.
2. Coverage: enough LEDs, spread across a mat large enough for your body. The InfraHeal Mat has 1,280 LEDs across 165 × 65 cm.
3. Direct use on bare skin: red and near-infrared light work best on bare skin, so the mat should sit close to your body.
4. A timer: consistent sessions are easier to keep up when the mat switches off automatically. The InfraHeal Mat has a 1–30 minute timer.
5. Quality and regulation: the InfraHeal Mat is included on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG 433074), FDA listed, made under ISO 13485 certified manufacturing, and its 4-wavelength design is patent pending.

Read our full guide to the 8 things to compare when buying a red light therapy mat.

Try it at home for 60 days

The best way to find out how a red light therapy mat works for you is to use it. Every InfraHeal Mat comes with a 60-day guarantee, free worldwide shipping and a 1-year product and parts replacement warranty, so you can build it into your routine and see for yourself.

Getting the most from your red light therapy mat

• Be consistent. InfraHeal recommends 10–30 minutes, once a day, and daily use for at least 4–8 weeks to see how it works for you.
• Start short. Begin with about 10 minutes and build up.
• Use it on bare skin and follow the session guidance in your user manual.
• Make it part of your routine, such as a morning session or an evening wind-down. The InfraHeal Mat includes 10-minute morning and evening video tutorials.

See our guide to how long to use red light therapy for session times on mats, pods and panels.

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FAQs

Do red light therapy mats actually work?

Red light therapy has been researched since 1967 and tested in clinical trials around the world. How well a mat works depends on its wavelengths, coverage and consistent use, which is what the InfraHeal Mat is designed around. With a 60-day guarantee, you can try it at home and see how it works for you.

How long does it take to notice a difference?

Everyone is different. Many people say they feel relaxed after their first few sessions. We recommend daily use for at least 4–8 weeks to see how it works for you.

Is a mat as effective as a panel?

They deliver light in different ways. A mat sits directly against your body and lights one side at a time while you lie down. A panel is used at a short distance and can light any area standing or sitting. The right choice depends on which areas you want to cover and how you prefer to use it. Compare formats in our guide to red light therapy at home.

Does the mat need to touch my skin?

Red and near-infrared light work best on bare skin, so lie on the mat with the area you want to cover uncovered, wearing minimal clothing.

Is red light therapy safe?

Red and near-infrared LEDs don't emit ultraviolet (UV) light, so they don't tan or burn the skin. Keep your eyes closed during sessions. Red light therapy isn't a substitute for medical advice, so speak with your doctor before use if you're pregnant, take medication that increases sensitivity to light, or have a medical condition.