How Far Should You Stand From a Red Light Therapy Panel?
Why the correct distance depends on the exact device and manufacturer guidance.
The short version
Red light therapy is a form of photobiomodulation that exposes tissue to selected red and/or near-infrared light. Devices vary substantially, so wavelength, output, distance and session time should be interpreted together rather than as isolated numbers.
What the evidence can and cannot say
Research is active and some applications have promising evidence, but broad consumer marketing often reaches farther than the evidence. Independent medical guidance still describes many promoted uses as insufficiently established.
Why device instructions matter
Home devices differ in output and geometry. A protocol copied from another panel may deliver a different dose. Use the instructions for the exact device you own.
How this connects to buying
Understanding wavelength, irradiance, distance and coverage makes product comparisons more useful and reduces the temptation to choose a device from a single headline specification.
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