If you have a wound that refuses to heal, you know how frustrating it can be.
Cuts, diabetic ulcers, surgical wounds, and pressure sores can stay open for weeks or even months. During that time, the risk of infection increases and daily life becomes difficult.
This is where red and near-infrared light therapy (photobiomodulation) may help.
Research shows that specific wavelengths of light can stimulate the cells responsible for tissue repair and improve circulation in the wound area.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- How red light therapy helps wounds heal
- Which devices you can safely use at home
- And how to use them correctly for the best results
👉 In a Hurry?
Jump to the best ways to use red light therapy for wounds – at home!
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Overview
- Can Red Light Therapy Heal Wounds?
- Best Ways to Use Red Light Therapy for Wounds (At Home)
- How Long Should You Do Red Light Therapy on a Wound?
- What Type of Wounds Can Red Light Therapy Treat?
- 5 Common Mistakes When Using Red Light Therapy for Wounds
- What Results Should You Expect?
- Side Effects and Risks
- Can Red Light Therapy Penetrate a Cast?
- Can You Use Red Light Therapy on an Open Wound?
Can Red Light Therapy Heal Wounds?
Laboratory studies have shown that exposing cells to red and near-infrared light can significantly increase cellular activity and proliferation compared with untreated cells.
Red and near-infrared light are absorbed by structures inside the cell called mitochondria.
This process increases cellular energy production (ATP), which helps cells repair and regenerate tissue.
Here’s How Red Light Therapy Affects Wounds
Infrared light therapy is described by science in terms of wavelength, measured in nanometers.
Any number between 620 nm to 680 nm is visible red light.
Any number between 700 and 1100 is invisible near-infrared light.
Here’s how it works:
1. Studies have found that near-infrared wavelength increases microcirculation and the formation of new capillaries.
The result?
The wound area receives more oxygen and nutrients to help with the natural wound-healing process.
2. Low-level laser therapy may improve lymphatic drainage, which can help reduce swelling around the wound.
3.Improved circulation and immune signaling may help the body remove damaged cells and debris from the wound area.
4. Infrared therapy promotes collagen production, as proven in many studies. Cold laser (red light waves) stimulates collagen and elastin production in the final wound healing phases.
5. It helps release ATP (raw cellular energy), which gives energy to the damaged cells in the wound so they can heal better and faster.
What Wavelength Works Best for Wound Healing?
Not all light wavelengths work the same way.
Most research on wound healing focuses on red light and near-infrared light.
Commonly studied wavelengths include:
- 630-660 nm (red light) – helps stimulate skin cells and collagen production
- 800-880 nm (near-infrared) – penetrates deeper into tissue and supports circulation
- 904 nm pulsed laser – used in some clinical photobiomodulation studies
Many home devices combine 660 nm and 850 nm, which allows treatment of both surface tissue and slightly deeper layers.
The most important factor is not only wavelength, but also correct treatment time and consistent daily use.
Red Light Therapy for Wounds Studies
Below are several peer-reviewed studies showing how photobiomodulation improves wound healing in both laboratory and clinical settings.
[table id=122 responsive=stack/]Best Ways to Use Red Light Therapy for Wounds (At Home)
Want the simplest way to try red light therapy at home?
Most people start with a small red/infrared therapy lamp, because it:
- Treats wounds without touching the skin
- Takes only a few minutes per day
- Costs much less than clinic treatments
The easiest beginner option is this red & near-infrared therapy lamp (660nm + 850nm), which covers the wavelengths most often used in wound-healing studies.
The LifePro lamp compact red and near-infrared therapy lamp combines two of the wavelengths most commonly used in wound-healing research (660 nm and 850 nm).
This one gets less hot than a near-infrared lamp and is best for heat-sensitive people.
A Near-Infrared Heat Lamp
Infrared heat lamps are reddish near-infrared bulbs, also known as “heat lamps”.
These powerful 250-watt heat bulbs emit near-infrared rays with red, orange, and yellow light combined.
Near-infrared heat lamps are powerful bulbs that emit strong infrared radiation together with visible red light.
They are often used for heat therapy and can warm the tissues around a wound, which may improve circulation and support the natural healing process.
Near-infrared light can penetrate several millimeters into tissue, which is enough to stimulate cells involved in wound repair.
To use a near-infrared heat bulb safely, you’ll need a clamp socket designed for a 300-watt bulb, like this one.
Here’s how to use it:
- Ready to begin? Clamp the lamp now in a safe spot. Set a timer for your first 3-minute session while you read the next step.
- Do not let the lamp directly touch your skin. Also, move the lamp or your body slightly during the lamp session, as otherwise, it may cause a slight burn. Point the light at the surrounding area of the wound, too.
- Remember to disinfect the lamp/device with alcohol.
- Set a timer for your session. Red Light therapy is very relaxing, and you may fall asleep and over-treat yourself.
- if at any point the heat feels too much, move further away from the lamp.
Many clinical studies apply doses of 1–10 J/cm² per treatment area, which often corresponds to a few minutes of exposure depending on the device power.
Even after your first session, you may notice warmth, relaxation, and reduced swelling around the wound – small wins that keep you motivated.
👉 If you want to compare more options, see our guide to the best red light therapy lamps for home use.
Red/Infrared Hand-Held Device
If you want a device that lets you treat a small wound very precisely, the UTK handheld light therapy device is one of the simplest options.
Several studies have shown that red and near-infrared light therapy can support wound healing by stimulating cellular activity and circulation in damaged tissue.
You can find all of these wavelengths (and two more) in the UTK Red Light Therapy device, which has 5 different wavelengths and a pulsing mode for each one and costs less than $80 on Amazon.
It is lightweight, small, portable, perfect for localized treatments, and comes with two rechargeable batteries to last for years.
I have the device at home and after 10 days of using it, my psoriasis patch diminished signiicanly. I also use it for acne spot treatments and even for treating the scar on my dog’s neck from a recent surgery.
Alternatively, you can use the CureBio Red Light Therapy Device, which has 3 wavelengths (you only need the red), but also has a separate attachment for small areas, and costs a little less than the UTK:
The CureBio red light therapy device includes a small treatment attachment designed for targeting tiny areas of skin.
This makes it useful for localized wounds, surgical incisions, or small ulcers that require focused light therapy.
The device includes three wavelengths (630 nm, 660 nm, and 850 nm), although the red wavelengths are the ones most commonly used in wound-healing research.
Holsn Infrared Red Light Therapy Wand
The Holsn red and infrared therapy wand delivers both 650 nm red light and 850 nm near-infrared light and allows longer treatment sessions with adjustable power levels.
Because it offers multiple timer settings and power levels, it can be useful for people who want a more customizable treatment routine.
It is portable and lightweight, and you can use it 2–3 sessions per day, 20 minutes each, for optimal results.
It’s easy to use and customizable – you can choose from 4 power levels and 4 timer options (5/10/15/20 minutes), and it is totally quiet. The only con is that you can’t use it while it’s charging. It even comes with protective glasses!
How Long Should You Do Red Light Therapy on a Wound?
According to multiple cited studies, optimal treatment time is between 1.5 and 5 minutes per treatment area per day, but you can increase gradually to up to 20 minutes a day, depending on your device:
- LED Panel/Lamp – 1.5–5 minutes daily, at a comfortable distance
- Handheld LED Device – up to 20 minutes a day at a comfortable distance
- Infrared Heat lamp –5 minutes daily at 12–24 inches away
What Type of Wounds Can Red Light Therapy Treat?
Research shows PBM can improve healing in several types of chronic wounds, especially diabetic ulcers and pressure ulcers.
(However, it may not be effective for all types of non-healing wounds)
People with the following conditions can greatly benefit from infrared therapy:
1. Diabetic ulcers
2. Venous ulcers
3. Pressure ulcers
4. Nonhealing surgical wounds
5. Minor burns and superficial skin injuries
6. Oral sores from chemotherapy/radiation
7. Metabolically disease-related wounds
8. Wounds that repeatedly break down
5 Common Mistakes When Using Red Light Therapy for Wounds
Red light therapy works best when used correctly.
Here are a few common mistakes that can slow your healing:
- Using the light too far from the skin – Light intensity drops quickly with distance. Most devices work best a few inches away from the skin.
- Using the device too rarely – Photobiomodulation works through consistency. Most studies use daily or near-daily treatments.
- Stopping treatment too early – Even if a wound looks better, the tissue underneath may still be healing.
- Using too much heat – Heat lamps can become very warm. Always keep a safe distance.
- Ignoring basic wound care – LED light therapy works best alongside proper wound cleaning and medical care.
What Results Should You Expect?
Red light therapy does not usually heal a wound overnight.
Most people notice changes gradually.
After the first few sessions
- Warmth and improved circulation around the wound
- Reduced swelling or redness
After 1–2 weeks
- Healthier-looking tissue
- Reduced inflammation
Over several weeks
- Faster tissue repair
- Gradual wound closure
The exact timeline depends on the size of the wound, the underlying condition, and overall health.
Studies have found that the healing process was accelerated when the LED irradiation started immediately after the wounds were created
Supporting wound healing early may help reduce the risk of complications.
Track your daily sessions:
Day 1: 3 min
Day 2: 5 min … and so on.
Take a photo every few days to see your progress.
Side Effects and Risks
Red light therapy is a proven, side-effect-free natural method.
If you use it correctly (and especially not tempted to overuse it), you’ll enjoy a safe treatment.
However, you still have to protect your eyes, to be on the safe side.
Because these devices produce very bright light, it is safer to wear protective red light therapy glasses during your treatment, especially if the device is close to your face.
Do not shine the light directly into the eyes.
Avoid using light therapy over cancerous lesions unless advised by a doctor.
Can Red Light Therapy Penetrate a Cast?
The penetration of red-light therapy depends on the wavelength and wattage of the light, as well as the distance and angle.
If you are using a home device, it is unlikely that the device would be powerful enough to penetrate through a cast.
You’ll need a professional device with a high enough irradiance to get through a cast.
Can You Use Red Light Therapy on an Open Wound?
Yes, you can use red light therapy devices on open wounds, as long as the device does not directly touch the wound surface.
In fact, a study published in Photomed Laser Surgery has proven that low-level laser significantly improved tissue repair for patients suffering from chronic diabetic wounds.
Make sure the device stays clean and does not touch the wound surface to avoid contamination.
Final Thoughts
Red light therapy is one of the most researched non-invasive methods for supporting wound healing.
If you want to try it at home, start with a simple red or near-infrared device and use it consistently for a few minutes per day.
Even small improvements in circulation and tissue repair can make a big difference in how quickly a wound closes.
To your health and happiness,
Meital
Studies
Chaves ME, Araújo AR, Piancastelli AC, Pinotti M. Effects of low-power light therapy on wound healing: LASER x LED. An Bras Dermatol. 2014;89(4):616–623.
Light therapy by blue LED improves wound healing in an excision model in rats, Adamskaya, Natalia et al. Injury
Immediate Vascular Photochemical Reactions to Infrared Laser Irradiation in Normal Volunteers. Journal of American Science
Harry T. Whelan, et al. Effect of NASA Light-Emitting Diode Irradiation on Wound Healing, Journal of Clinical Laser Medicine & Surgery.Dec 2001.305-314.
de Alencar Fonseca Santos J, Campelo MBD, de Oliveira RA, Nicolau RA, Rezende VEA, Arisawa EÂL. Effects of Low-Power Light Therapy on the Tissue Repair Process of Chronic Wounds in Diabetic Feet. Photomed Laser Surg. 2018 Jun;36(6):298-304.
Would you kindly send me your E-mail address, as i will have a few import points to ask about using 12w hand held red lamp, or ultrared lamp healing open wound on my leg, no medical what ever they are, will not help.
Hi Lali, please use my contact page here – it goes straight to my email. Thank you.
Does this near light therapy cause an internal hemorrhoid to worsen or help it?
It can only help. It increases blood circulation and brings energy to any area it is pointed to. You just have to use it carefully – not too close.
My son had surgery this past Thursday to remove an infected abscess. It is right above his rectum and he has an open wound about the size of a 50 cent piece that is packed. Would this be beneficial?
According to the studies I have mentioned in the article – yes, it would. Good luck!
Have you had good results using red light therapy with seasonal affective disorder?
Yes, especially by using intranasal red light therapy
What about anal fissures after childbirth. I have a set up of three Phillips heat-ray250watt infrared bulbs.” Do you think this will help even if the fissure is slightly internal? Doctors say I need surgery but I am only 29 but in daily pain. Trying everything! Also, how long should I do treatment?
It may help, though I don’t know about research done specifically for this condition. Infrared light therapy penetrates 2-3 cm into your tissues. You can do the treatment for 20-30 minutes, as long as you feel comfortable. Make sure to keep a safe distance of 24 inches away from the light.
I had abdominal surgery one week ago and have a lot of swelling that is slow to resolve. I have a joove like near infrared panel, should I use that, or wait until swelling goes down?
Yes, red light therapy is proven to promote wound healing. I would try it.
How much time do you think I should do?
About 10-15 minutes a day.
I’m seeing both 1.5 to 5 inches distance and then 12″ to 24″ distance away from wound. which is it?
1.5 – 5 is minutes for treatment, not distance. I hope this helps.
Hello, thank you for this article.
I had laparoscopic abdominal surgery yesterday and have clear large bandaids covering the wounds. Would you suggest waiting a week until I get the bandaids off or can I start red light therapy sooner?
To my knowledge, you can start with the red light before taking off the bandages. Some of the light may penetrate through them.
Hello I had surgery on my foot 6 weeks ago just had cast removed yesterday and there’s still some swelling. Should I wait to use near infrared? Thank you
To my knowledge if you are 6 weeks after surgery you can use the red light to heal your wound. Good luck!
How do I use an infrared hex handheld heat lamp on a pubic boil? Should I use it as the heater for my warm compresses?
You can do that, but to get the benefits of the light you’ll need to point the heat lamp to the boil directly, keeping it at a safe distance of 24 inches.
I have a kind of wound on my lips, a kind of inflammation that the outer layer of the skin of the lips keeps peeling off because of an old wound(both lower and upper lips). Each time a new layer of skin starts to grow, it peels off again because apparently it is a new skin and there is always pressure on the lips hence I have to talk, eat and drink through it. I had the issue twoyears before but after some months and after a lot of vitamin c,and plasma therapy it got heald.
Can the infrared of 100 watts (R95E) help to heal it.
It’s worth a try, but keep it at a safe distance and use safety goggles to protect your eyes. I would also use those vitamins and supplements again since it helped you the last time it happened.
My small dog had a lump removed from his tail and the skin graft did not work, now he has an open wound that we are treating. Would 1 to 2 miniutes, 12″ away everyday, with / without bandages be a good routine for him?
Yes, I think it would. Let me know how it worked o.k? :)
Time recommended for red led light 660nm 12w for bruising?
To my knowledge you can use for 20-25 minutes once a day.
My husband is in a dementia facility & he has had sore buttocks for 3 months, but, now (8 months) he has open ulcers & I have had 4 different doctors look at him–primary, dermatologist, wound specialist and facility medical personnel & they all prescribe different kinds of creams. Now, they have him on a cream that is almost $400.00 an ounce that insurance does not cover. He is in so much pain, he screams every time someone wipes him. I was there yesterday, determined to leave him naked from the waist down, and after 6 hours, free up pull-ups, he seemed better from the air! I am tired of crying every time I visit, because he does not deserve this condition & they won’t do what I say. I am going to buy an infrared light & go there a couple of times per day. I want a hand-held. Thank you for whatever you can suggest!
I have a rather deep surgical wound that will not heal. It still has to be packed and bandaged everyday. Can I use the red light even though my wound is packed and bandaged? Will it be effective at this point? Or should I wait until the wound progresses to the point that it does not have to be packed or bandaged anymore? Thank you for your help.
To be on the safe side, I would consult my doctor about this. However, to my knowledge, it’s safe to use red light wound therapy without the bandage, as long as you keep it in a safe distance. Listen to your body and see how it feels.
Hi,
The local Home Depot and Lowe’s have Red 630, Green 525 and Blue 450 led bulbs at 3W and 8 W. Could I use the 8 W for treatment? I cannot find the power density info for these bulbs to calculate treatment doseage.
To my knowledge these bulbs are not powerful enough for treatment. See this post for more info: https://www.infrared-light-therapy.com/infrared-heat-lamp-therapy/
Hi there,
what do you think about this bulbs ? Which is best ?
TheraBulb Infrared Bulb NIR-A 250 Watt 700 nm to 1200
RubyLux Infrared Bulb NIR-A 250 Watt 850nm
ABI 25W Deep Red LED 660nm
I would go for the RubyLux, but they are all good.
The link you’ve provided does not work so I can’t look at it. As for your cupboard size, it seems a little small to me, and I would only use 1-2 bulbs in it. You have to make sure you’ll be able to keep a safe distance from the light as instructed in the post.
I will try to keep the distance, maybe find bigger cupboard, I think it would be better if it is place for rotating on a chair.
I want to do like on the link, very simply, just piece of board, lamp sockets, lamps, cables and power switch but I want to put it from outside on cupboard.
Please and can you write me the best material for covering an electrical cables-use shielded cables? So how to minimize EMF? Or with infrared lamps is not so bad?
I’m sorry but I’m not very good with electricity, I can’t help you with that. Maybe someone in the community can answer this? As for the EMF, as you can see in the video, the EMF is very low and reduces to none if you keep that safe distance.
I have a 36 watt 660 , how far away should it be from my skin ?
Since it’s low power, just get it close enough to feel comfortable heat.
Can you use and IR illuminator that’s made for night vision cameras? They admit a 850nm of light and are far cheaper than what’s designed for therapy.
That’s an interesting idea…:) However, it’s not thought to be the best wavelength for wound healing – it should be more in the range of red and near infrared wavelength.
I am doing a rotator cuff surgery. I assume I will ice for a couple of weeks.
At what point would one use the red light therapy?
Thx :)
You can use it once there is little to no inflammation in the area. Good luck!
Hello
What would be the best time each day and distant treatment for a deep leg ulcer for a lady who is 88 ?
How many minutes do I use the infared light for foot uclers
From the post: “According to studies, optimal treatment time is 1.5 – 5 minutes per treatment area.” Do this every day for at least 40 days. Good luck!
Hi I live in the UK. I want to purchase a high quality near infrared bulb 250w more or less like ruby but we do not have them over here.
What reputable brand would you recommend?
Riz,
Here’s a page where you can buy one from Amazon.uk:
I would recommend the Wells Poultry one.
I have the light now but will welding glasses protect me well enough from the light? thank you in advance :)
Yes, but in any case just don’t look directly at the light.
How often do I use the 250 watt infrared lamp on on 1/4 inch diameter shallow pressure wound on my bottom. I’m a paraplegic.
I would start with once a day. But, please make sure you keep the light at a safe disatnce of at least 12 inches, because you will not feel if it’s burning your skin. I would also consult my doctor about how to do ths treatment.
Will it cure kidney weaknesses?
Will it cure foot nail fungus etc?
I don’t know about kidney weakness curing, but it can sure help because increasing blood circulation is helpful for any condition, disease, or injury. For nail fungus, it can help as well, but for both, I would use infrared and not red light. See our red light therapy FAQ page for more questions and answers
Hello, will this work for a very bad case if plantar Fasciitis. I have been to 5 doctors inured extremely painful shots, Acupuncture, physical therapy, you name it. I’ve tried it. I have been in alot of pain daily for over 3 years now. It has destroyed my life.
Rafael,
I’m sorry to hear what you are going through, but don’t lose hope just yet. Yes, I think it’s definitely worth a try – read this article that better suits your condition, and follow the simple instructions:
https://www.infrared-light-therapy.com/infrared-heat-lamp-therapy/
Please let me know if the wound has to be uncovered for the light to work or will it still work through a bandaged wound?
Hi:)
To my knowledge it will work through a bandage, though you may need to get the light a bit closer.