Red Light vs. Near-Infrared: What's the Difference?

Red light is visible and surface-level; near-infrared goes deeper. Here's the plain distinction.
By Better Human Goods
1 min read

The terms overlap, which causes confusion. "Red light" usually refers to visible red wavelengths, while "near-infrared" refers to slightly longer wavelengths just beyond what the eye can see. Many devices include both. The general distinction people cite is that visible red light works nearer the skin's surface, while near-infrared penetrates a bit deeper — which is why some devices combine the two.

You'll also see "infrared saunas," which use infrared primarily to generate heat — a different application from the targeted LED panels used in red light therapy. The key practical point when comparing devices is which wavelengths they actually emit, since that's the real specification rather than the marketing name. We'll leave claims about what each does for the body to the research and to professionals. More in red light therapy at home explained.

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This article is general information, not medical advice.