Is Red Light Therapy Safe to Use Around the Thyroid or Chest?

Everything to know about thyroid safety and the benefits of RLT, according to an expert.

Red Light Therapy (RLT) is a popular beauty and wellness treatment that can be carried out in professional clinics, or at home using devices.

While some are created for a single treatment area, such as Project E Beauty’s LumaLux Pro LED Red Light Therapy Mask, which is designed to use solely on the face, there are several devices that can be used around the thyroid, neck and chest area, such as the LumaLux Neck and Dec Mask, LumaLux Face+, Alora Age Renewal LED Panel and LumaLux Dome.

But, is red light therapy safe to use on the thyroid area and chest, particularly those with a thyroid condition, a medical concern around the chest area, or recovering from a thyroid operation? Here is what Update Aesthetics’ founder Nina Prisk wants you to know about red light therapy and thyroid safety.

What is a thyroid disorder, and the symptoms?

The leading skin and aesthetics expert claims thyroid disorders are “significantly more common in women than men.” Prisk spotlights data that claims, “women are around five to eight times more likely to develop thyroid disease”, while “approximately one in 20 people in the UK has a thyroid disorder.”

The most common thyroid disorders are Hypothyroidism (underactive) and Hyperthyroidism (overactive), but the symptoms vary.

• • • Underactive thyroid symptoms: According to Prisk common symptoms of an underactive thyroid include “persistent fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, hair thinning, brittle nails, constipation and feeling unusually cold.”
    • Overactive thyroid symptoms: Prisk details “unexplained weight loss, anxiety, a rapid heartbeat, sweating, and heat intolerance” are symptoms of an overactive thyroid.

What is RLT, and the benefits of red light therapy?

Red light therapy (RLT), formally known as photobiomodulation, uses different light wavelengths, including red, infrared, and deep light. These wavelengths are absorbed by the skin’s cells, which stimulates cellular energy production (ATP) and kickstarts the body’s natural healing processes.

Red light therapy benefits include:

• • • Improved skin health as RLT stimulates collagen production, balances the skin tone, texture and firmness
    • Reduced inflammation
    • RLT can also offer sleep support
    • Wound healing
    • Improve mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety and SAD.

RLT can be carried out in professional clinics, or using at home devices from trusted sellers, such as Project E Beauty’s LumaLux Pro LED Red Light Therapy Mask, LumaLux Neck and Dec Mask, LumaLux Face+, Alora Age Renewal LED Panel and LumaLux Dome.

Is red light therapy safe around the thyroid, neck and chest?

For most healthy adults, Prisk reassures us that using red light therapy around the thyroid is “generally considered safe.” The founder explains: “Unlike UV light, red light is non-ionising, meaning it doesn't damage DNA.”

However, she advises anyone who has been diagnosed with a thyroid condition, has a history of thyroid cancer, or other thyroid related concerns, to seek advice from a medical professional before using red light therapy on the thyroid and chest area.

Prisk also emphasises the importance of using an FDA-approved from a reputable retailer, such as Project E Beauty’s LumaLux Pro LED Red Light Therapy Mask, the LumaLux Neck and Dec Mask, the LumaLux Face+, Alora Age Renewal LED Panel, and LumaLux Dome, and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

What are the benefits of RLT specifically around the thyroid and neck?

According to Prisk, “the neck is often one of the first areas to show visible signs of aging because the skin is thinner and naturally loses collagen over time.” So, using red light therapy around the thyroid, neck and chest area, whether it is the LumaLux Neck and Dec Mask, the LumaLux Face+, Alora Age Renewal LED Panel, and LumaLux Dome, can reduce visible signs of aging.

Prisk explains: “The neck and chest are excellent areas to treat with red light therapy. They often receive a significant amount of sun exposure over the years, making them prone to collagen loss, pigmentation and crepey skin. Regular red light therapy can help stimulate collagen production, improve skin firmness, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and improve overall skin quality.”

RLT benefits also extend to muscular neck pain. The expert adds: “Studies suggest red light therapy may help reduce inflammation, support tissue repair, and manage muscular discomfort and stiffness.” However, RLT is not a treatment for chronic neck pain, nor should it replace professional help.

Can RLT help people with thyroid conditions?

A medical study has found low level laser therapy “is safe for the treatment of patients with CAT-induced hypothyroidism.” However, further research is required to validate these results.

As evidence is limited, Prisk advises patients with any thyroid conditions or other medical concerns to speak to a healthcare professional before any RLT treatment. She says: “If you have a thyroid condition, thyroid nodules, are undergoing investigation for thyroid disease, or suffer with any medical conditions, including chest pains, consult a medical professional.” Prisk adds: “Red light therapy should never replace medical assessment or treatment and isn't intended as a treatment for cardiovascular or respiratory conditions."

Can RLT improve thyroid surgery scars?

The professional suggests when a wound has “fully healed” after surgery, RLT “may help improve the appearance of surgical scars” because LED light therapy supports collagen remodelling, reduces inflammation, and can even the skin tone.

However, Prisk stresses that RLT treatment should only begin once the wound has completely healed, and after discussing with your surgeon. “It's important to treat healthy tissue and allow the skin to recover naturally where it's already compromised”, she asserts.

Who should avoid RLT?

The expert advises anyone with “a condition that causes photosensitivity, or taking medication that increases sensitivity to light, have active skin cancer in the treatment area” to avoid RLT.

The mogul also suggests avoiding using RLT devices on “suspicious or changing moles, areas of active skin infection, or open wounds that haven't yet started to heal.”

If you are unsure if RLT is safe for you, please consult a medical professional.

How to use red light therapy on the thyroid and chest

RLT devices are super simple to weave into your daily routine, especially as the LumaLux Pro LED Red Light Therapy Mask, LumaLux Neck and Dec Mask, and LumaLux Face+ can be secured around the face or neck for you to complete your work or chores hands-free.

The LumaLux Dome is best used laying down as it sits over the treatment area, while the Alora Age Renewal LED Panel can be propped up on an angle to the treatment area, just avoid direct contact with the eyes.

Like most treatments, RLT benefits are prominent after consistent use. Prisk recommends using RLT on the neck area “just as frequently as the face, provided you're following the recommended treatment protocol.” However, it is important not to overdo RLT treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is infrared and deep infrared light therapy?

Infrared 850nm and deep infrared 1072nm wavelengths penetrate deep into the epidermal skin layer to support advanced phase collagen production and target deep-seated wrinkles and advanced signs of aging. Infrared wavelengths reach beyond the skin layer to treat muscle, tissue and bones to improve overall skin health and vitality.

Does LED light therapy really work?

Yes, red light therapy is a very effective skin rejuvenation technique that is backed by several peer-reviewed studies and is recommended by many skin experts and doctors.*

Is LED light therapy suitable for all skin types?

Yes, unlike many topical treatments, LED light therapy is a gentle and non-invasive treatment option making it suitable for all skin types. Please consult a professional before use if you are light-sensitive or have any active wounds on the treatment area.

LED Mask

LumaLux Face+ | Pro LED Red Light Therapy Face & Neck Mask

Red, infrared, deep infrared for fine lines, blemishes, and hyperpigmentation, dryness

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LED Panel

Alora | Age Renewal LED Light Therapy Panel

Target up to 5 skin layers with advanced blue, infrared and red light therapy contour panel

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