Physiological benefits, Wavelength and depth of penetration – Activeforever Quasar MD Plus Advanced Light Therapy Device User Manual
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Physiological Benefits
In mature skin and tissue, the increased cellular activity results in physiological
benefits which taken together are frequently called, “Photorejuvenation”. These
benefits are:
1. Increased blood circulation;
2. Increased proliferation of fibroblasts;
3. Stimulation of collagen production;
4. Increased lymphatic activity;
5. Stimulation of the body’s anti-inflammatory response.
These effects are discussed in detail in Chapter 3.
Wavelength and Depth of Penetration
There is a relationship with wavelength and how quickly the energy is absorbed.
Normally, the shorter the wavelength the quicker it is absorbed. Longer
wavelengths therefore penetrate further into the tissues. The very short
wavelength Ultra Violet (UV) is absorbed almost completely within the first 1 to 2
mm of skin depth. Depth of penetration is defined as the depth at which 60% of
the light is absorbed by the tissue, while 40% of the light will continue to be
absorbed in a manner that is less fully understood. This 60% distance is where
the light will have the greatest bio-stimulation effect.
The diverse tissue and cell types in the body all have their own unique light
absorption characteristics; that is, they will only absorb light at specific
wavelengths and not at others. For example, skin layers, because of their high
blood and water content, absorb red light very readily, while calcium and
phosphorus absorb light of a different wavelength. Although both red and infrared
wavelengths penetrate to different depths and affect tissues differently, their
therapeutic effects are similar.
Visible red light, at a wavelength of 660 nanometers, penetrates tissue to a depth
of about 8-10 mm. It is very beneficial in treating problems close to the surface
such as wounds, cuts, scars, trigger and acupuncture points and is particularly
effective in treating infections. Infrared light (904nm) penetrates to a depth of
about 30-40 mm which makes it more effective in the treatment of joints, deep
muscle, etc. It must not be thought that Infrared light penetrates to 30-40 mm and
then starts to have an effect. It is much as a streetlamp on a foggy night. The
light is brightest next to the lamp itself and slowly fades as it penetrates the fog.
The greatest biostimulation effect will be closest to light source.
19. Infrared light penetrates the body easier (deeper) than red light.
True
False