The Basics
Red and near infrared light are part of the spectrum of light emitted by the sun (and by fire light too). When red and near infrared light are used therapeutically, it is commonly referred to as “Red Light Therapy”. Most research focuses on the 630–680nm and 800–880nm ranges.
It is also called Photobiomodulation (PBM), the non-thermal interaction of light on the cells in our body.
Red and near infrared light therapy stimulates your body's natural healing process at the cellular level through increased ATP production by the mitochondria.
It also creates a low-dose healthy metabolic stress (hormesis) that builds our cell's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant defence systems, and can help regulate our circadian rhythm.
Red light wavelengths (630–680nm being the most common range) are absorbed in highest proportions by our skin, making it very effective for improving skin health and collagen production.
Near infrared light wavelengths (common range of 800–880nm) are not visible to the human eye, but penetrate deeper into our tissues.
Both scatter once they enter the skin, and their benefits overlap.
Irradiance is the amount of light energy your skin receives over a period, often reported in mW/cm². Higher irradiance or power does not mean better results. If the dose is too great, the benefits are negated. For reference, the sun is about 24mW/cm² on our skin.
Laser red light therapy produces parallel, uniform rays of light at one wavelength. It treats a small area at a time, penetrates deeply and creates more heat. LED red light therapy, like Fringe products, produces non-parallel, non-uniform rays in a small range of wavelengths, treats a much larger area at once and creates less heat.
Studies show you can get the same benefits from LED red and near infrared light therapy as you can from lasers, at a fraction of the cost.
Blue light wavelengths in the 400s nm range are antimicrobial in nature. Our skin contains molecules called porphyrins, found in oil-producing glands, that absorb blue light. When absorbed, the acne-causing bacteria are destroyed. This is called a bactericidal effect.
Photobiomodulation (PBM), photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), low-level laser therapy (LLLT), cold lasers, low intensity light therapy (LILT), phototherapy, photobiostimulation, biostimulation (BIOS) and photomedicine.
How To Use
The panel delivers red light at 660nm and near infrared at 850nm in a 1:1 ratio, at 189W. The wraps use the same wavelengths at 60W, so they are designed to sit in direct contact with the skin rather than at a distance. The multi joint wrap adds optional vibration, and the head wrap includes an additional 1050nm wavelength.
The face mask and the neck & chest mask have three separate modes: red at 630nm, near infrared at 830nm and blue at 415nm.
Wraps are made for direct skin contact on a specific area, which is the most efficient way to get light into the tissue underneath.
The panel is used at a distance, around 10–15cm for a focused session, or further back to light a whole room. It is the higher powered of the two at 189W, compared to 60W for a wrap.
Many people use both: a wrap for targeted areas, and the panel for larger areas or ambient light.
We recommend 3 to 5 sessions per week, with up to 20 minutes per body area per session. Daily use is safe and some people prefer it, though more frequent sessions do not necessarily produce greater results than consistent use several times per week.
In some cases, twice daily sessions may be appropriate. If using the device twice in one day, we recommend spacing sessions across the day. Consistency over time matters more than frequency in any single week.
You can use the panel to light up a room for as many hours during the day or night as you would like- but for sleep we recommend lighting up your room for 30 mins - 1 hour before bed. You can also do 30 mins - 1 hour in the morning as well for an extra boost!
These are good guidelines for MOST people, but everyone is different! If needed, you can make modifications in the length of session time, distance from the wrap or panel, consistency, or lower the intensity of light.
Place the wrap with direct skin contact over the area you want to work on. Wraps can be used anywhere from head to toe, and you can move them between areas across the week.
You can, but it won't work as well. The most optimal results are achieved through direct contact between the light and your skin.
Lighter garments like underwear, bras, shorts and singlets may be worn during a session. They will reduce the light reaching your skin, but benefits will still be available.
You may notice something as early as your first session. Consistent use over time, however, is what gets you the best results.
Safety
Yes. Fringe red light therapy products are considered low risk with minimal contraindications, and thousands of scientific studies support the safety of red and near infrared light.
If you are sensitive to light, or take any medication that causes light sensitivity, check with your healthcare provider before you start.
If you can go into the sun for 20 minutes safely, it is very likely you will have no reason to use caution with our products for 20 minutes. Don't stare directly into the lights.
Speak with your doctor first if any of the following apply: active cancer, pregnancy or breastfeeding (over the abdomen or breasts), current steroid use, a photosensitivity disorder, seizures triggered by light, headaches triggered by light, or medication that causes photosensitivity.
Place the device on your inner forearm, turn it on and leave it for 3 minutes. Stop immediately if your skin feels hot or uncomfortable. Remove the device and wait 24 hours, checking the area regularly for redness or itching.
The wrap should feel comfortably warm, never hot. If it feels too warm, shorten the session or lower the intensity.
People with light sensitivity or darker skin tones may feel more warmth, and should do a sensitivity test before their first full session.
Add distance. Move the panel further than 15cm away, or hold the wrap up to 1cm off the skin. You can also shorten the session to 5–10 minutes, or drop the intensity to 50%.
Too much light can create a heat-type rash or skin redness, similar to mild sunburn. Our products are designed to deliver enough energy to be effective without the intensity tipping over into too much.
Eye protection is not required, but please be sensible. We don't recommend staring directly into the panel with your eyes open, as it can be uncomfortable or irritating. Eye protection is available and entirely optional.
No. Fringe products emit red and near infrared wavelengths only, which sit well outside the UV range.
No. They are not manufactured to withstand the heat or humidity of a sauna.
Fringe products have a negligible flicker rate.
The panel measures 0.6μT at 15cm. The wraps and face mask measure 0.0μT at 0cm.
Special Considerations
We do not recommend using your wrap over your abdomen or breasts while pregnant or breastfeeding. Other areas like legs, arms, upper back and head are fine. Always check with your doctor first.
Speak with your doctor first. If they approve, infants and children must always be supervised by an adult during a session, and skin temperature should be checked frequently for anyone who can't tell you how it feels.
Yes, red light therapy is a great option for pets, for many of the same reasons people use it. Always supervise your animal during a session. Start at 50% intensity for 5–10 minutes and build up from there if they are comfortable.
Yes. The adapter is universal voltage (100–240V AC), so it works on Australian power and abroad. You only need the right plug adapter for the country you're in. Make sure any replacement supply is 5V DC.
Lithium batteries usually have to travel in your carry-on. Check with your airline before you fly.
Ordering, Returns & Warranty
Fringe devices are supplied in Australia as Class II medical devices included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). The ARTG number and the approved indications for each device are listed on its product page.
We have a 60 day “love it” policy. If it isn't right for you, email hi@fringeheals.com.au within 60 days of delivery and we'll organise the return.
Every device carries a one year warranty covering parts and labour. It does not cover devices that have been abused, misused or modified. Return shipping within the warranty period is paid by the customer, and repairs after the warranty expires are at the customer's cost. Replacement parts may occasionally be supplied in a different colour.
This warranty is in addition to your rights under the Australian Consumer Law.
The Knowledge Base
Understanding The Science Behind Red Light Therapy
We'd rather you understood the evidence than took our word for it. Explore how red light therapy works and what the science supports so far.
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Neuro
Case Report: Red Light Therapy for Neuropathy
81-year-old male diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy approximately 8 years ago. History of bladder cancer which was treated with...
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Women's Health
Red Light Therapy for Women's Health: 10 Ways It Can Support Your Body
Introduction Women's health is remarkably complex. Across a lifespan, the female body navigates hormonal cycles, reproductive transitions, and...
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Gut Health
How Red Light Therapy Supports Abdominal and Pelvic Health
Why Abdominal and Pelvic Health Matter The abdomen is home to several of the body’s most important systems....
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Red Light Therapy
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Fringe Red Light Therapy Device
Discover the best red light therapy device, from full-body panels to targeted wraps for joints, brain health, and...
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