Understanding Light

Different light, different outcomes. Photons are packets of energy that are usually defined based on the length of their wave which is measured in nanometers, or 10 -9th meters.

The wavelengths are classified in bands of energy which we typically recognize as UV, Visible and Infrared light. Within each band of energy there are peak energies which may better be absorbed by the cells. For example, while the blue spectrum might range from 415 – 480 nm’s. 417 might be best for acne, 450 for seasonal affective disorder and 465 might be best for MRSA. They are all blue, but each blue seems to present different healing signatures.

Photobiomodulation is a term used to describe how different photons in different intensities and wavelengths create healing signatures that can modulate life processes.

Multiwave PBM systems will mix different wavelengths of energy, with the objective of stimulating multiple healing signature at different depths to stimulate different cell types.

UV light (10 – 310 nm’s) may cause tanning of the skin and as well is expected to cause skin damage. PBM using high intensity LED’s in the visible and NIR spectrum typically have no UV light.

Visible blue (415 & 470 nm’s) light may be antiviral and antibacterial depending on the actual wavelength. 417 nm seems to work better for acne and 470 for MRSA. 450 blue is for seasonal affective disorder, and recent studies suggest that blue speeds wound healing and pain relief. They are all blue, but each blue variant seems to have its own healing signature(s).

Visible green (528 nm) light has been shown to stimulate both the quality and quantity of blood flow. Green is considered the safest of colors and recent studies have suggested that it accelerates wound healing by positively affecting hemoglobin. In our research with admittedly small samples, we have found 528nm green to be effective in cases of neuropathy, diabetes, shingles and acne. Blood based diseases may benefit from green.

Visible red (630 – 660 nm’s) seems to be effective in activating cellular energy, detoxifying the cells and building new arteries. Generally red 633 has been tested more for skin-tone (collagen and elastin) while 660 may better influence ATP production. Recent studies have used 640 red for performance enhancement. The EDGE POLY is both 633 and 660 red.

Near Infrared (810, 830, 850, 880 and 940 nm’s) seems to be effective in reaching deeper into the connective tissues and organs. Near infrared is not visible to the naked eye. In the EDGE POLY we use 810 because it is thought to have the deepest penetration which means it may better reach into and stimulate deeper muscles, connective tissues and organs. In addition to 810 we mix 850. Generally, the longer wavelengths like 880 and 940 will create heat in the cells. While heat has benefits, it is not our goal to heat the cells with the EDGE. We leave that for infrared saunas.

Far Infrared (NIR 940 to FIR 1000+ nm’s) has been shown to heat the nanowater in the cell membrane. This heat is what we expect from a Far Infrared Sauna. Most PBM systems do not use FIR because their focus is more on mitochondria than heat based detoxification. There are many benefits of FIR, but traditionally it is not a reaction we seek.