Photobiomodulation

Photobiomodulation (PBM or PBMT) is a non-invasive light therapy using red and near-infrared light in the wavelength range of 600 to 1,000 nm to stimulate biological processes directly within cells. The term comes from Greek and Latin: photo (light) + bio (life) + modulatio (regulation). In simple terms, it means regulating life with light.

Photobiomodulation is today one of the most scientifically researched non-invasive therapies, with more than 5,000 published studies in the PubMed database. Its mechanism of action is documented at both cellular and molecular levels. [R]

Why photobiomodulation is important

Modern people spend most of their time indoors under artificial lighting, which lacks the red and infrared components of natural sunlight. These wavelengths are essential for mitochondria. Without them, cells produce less ATP, regenerate more slowly, and inflammatory processes in the body are harder to regulate.

Photobiomodulation compensates for this deficit through targeted exposure to precisely defined wavelengths and intensities. Jaroslav Lachký, founder of Mitochondriak®, has been working on this topic for more than a decade, and photobiomodulation forms the foundation of the brand’s philosophy: without the right light, mitochondria simply do not function at full capacity.

Other names for photobiomodulation

The same method is referred to differently across sources. For clarity:

• Red light therapy / red and infrared light therapy (most accurate English equivalent)
• Red Light Therapy (RLT) (popular English term)
• LLLT (Low Level Laser Therapy) (older scientific term, now replaced by PBM as modern devices use LEDs, not only lasers)
• Photobiomodulation / PBM / PBMT (currently preferred scientific term since 2015)
• Light therapy / phototherapy (broader category that includes PBM)

How photobiomodulation works

Light of specific wavelengths penetrates the skin and is absorbed by a photoreceptor in mitochondria called Cytochrome C oxidase (CCO). This is the fourth complex of the mitochondrial respiratory chain. After photon absorption, a cascade of biological events is triggered:

• Increased production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) - cellular energy required for every movement, thought, and regeneration process
• Release of nitric oxide (NO) from Cytochrome C oxidase, improving blood flow
• Reduction of oxidative stress - regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS)
• Modulation of inflammatory response - reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-a, IL-1beta) and support of anti-inflammatory mediators (IL-10)
• Support of metabolic water production directly in mitochondria, improving internal hydration

The result is improved cellular function, faster regeneration, and reduced inflammatory response. [R]

What wavelengths photobiomodulation uses

Photobiomodulation works with two main groups of wavelengths:

Red light (RED): 620 to 700 nm
Penetrates mainly superficial layers of tissue. It is ideal for skin, collagen stimulation, wound healing, and antimicrobial effects. Key wavelengths are 630 nm, 660 nm and 670 nm, with 670 nm considered particularly effective for ATP production.

Near-infrared light (NIR): 700 to 1,000 nm
Penetrates deeper into the body — into muscles, joints, tendons, bones, and organs. It is invisible to the naked eye. Key wavelengths are 810 nm and 850 nm, with 850 nm capable of penetrating almost the entire human body.

Devices Mitochondriak® work with a combination of both wavelength groups simultaneously, covering both superficial and deep tissues in a single therapy.

Related terms

• NIR (Near Infrared) — near-infrared light, an invisible component with deeper tissue penetration
• ATP — adenosine triphosphate, the cellular energy currency increased by photobiomodulation
• Circadian rhythm — the body’s internal clock directly influenced by light
• Melatonin — sleep hormone supported by red light
• Pulsation — a device mode where light pulses at a defined frequency to enhance certain effects
• Oxidative stress — imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants reduced by photobiomodulation
• Cytochrome C oxidase (CCO) — key mitochondrial enzyme absorbing red and NIR photons

Frequently asked questions about photobiomodulation

What is photobiomodulation in simple terms?

It is a therapy where you expose your body to red and invisible infrared light. This light penetrates into cells and stimulates their “power plants” (mitochondria) to work more efficiently. The result is more energy, faster regeneration, and less inflammation. It is also known as Red Light Therapy.

What is the difference between photobiomodulation and red light therapy?

None — it is the same method. Photobiomodulation is the scientific term used in research and PubMed. Red light therapy (RLT) is the popular term used in media and communities. The older term LLLT is now being replaced by photobiomodulation.

What does photobiomodulation help with?

Clinical studies document effects across multiple areas. In joint and muscle pain, meta-analyses report a 30–50% reduction in pain. In skin, studies confirm collagen stimulation and improved texture. For sleep, one study found a 28% improvement in quality and a 75% increase in melatonin after 14 days. Other areas include muscle recovery, thyroid function, and cognitive performance. [R]

Is photobiomodulation safe?

Yes. Photobiomodulation does not involve UV radiation, does not produce harmful heat, and has no serious side effects when properly dosed. The so-called Arndt-Schulz law applies: too long or too intense exposure may be less effective, but not dangerous. When following device guidelines, it is safe for all age groups including children and seniors.

What wavelengths are used in photobiomodulation?

Red light in the range of 630 to 670 nm affects superficial tissues (skin). Near-infrared light (810 nm and 850 nm) penetrates deeper into muscles, joints, and organs. The wavelength 670 nm is considered key for ATP production in mitochondria.

How long does one photobiomodulation session take?

A standard session lasts 10 to 20 minutes from a distance of 30 to 60 cm from the body. For superficial areas (skin), 5 to 10 minutes is sufficient. For deeper tissues (joints, organs, bones), 15 to 30 minutes is recommended. More information can be found in the FAQ section.

How does photobiomodulation differ from tanning beds?

Tanning beds primarily use UV radiation for skin tanning. Photobiomodulation uses red and NIR light (600 to 1,000 nm) without UV. Some advanced Mitochondriak® devices may include a UV component, but it serves a different biological purpose (vitamin D, nitric oxide) and is used in strictly controlled doses separately from the main therapy.

Summary

Photobiomodulation is a non-invasive, safe, and scientifically supported therapy using red and near-infrared light (600 to 1,000 nm) that acts directly on mitochondria via the enzyme Cytochrome C oxidase. It stimulates ATP production, reduces inflammation, supports regeneration, and improves overall cellular function. It is synonymous with Red Light Therapy (RLT) and LLLT.

Want to try photobiomodulation at home? Explore our red light therapy devices or use our product selection guide.

Scientific studies and sources

• Hamblin MR. Mechanisms and mitochondrial redox signaling in photobiomodulation. Photochem Photobiol. 2018;94(2):199-212. PubMed PMID: 29211238
• Umbrella review of RCT meta-analyses on photobiomodulation across multiple health outcomes. Systematic Reviews. 2025. PMC12326686
• Immunomodulatory effects of photobiomodulation: a comprehensive review. PMC. 2024. PMC11991943
• Overview of studies and benefits: studies