Ask Dr. Candy - What is the Difference Between Cold Laser and Red Light Therapy?

By Dr. Candy Akers

Sometimes, when families look into the purchase of a cold laser for home use, they ask me to explain the difference between cold laser and red light therapy. I admit, sometimes the terminology and definitions can be confusing. 

The main difference is that red light therapy only uses wavelengths that are in the visible light spectrum. Cold lasers aka low-level lasers use types of waves that the human eye cannot see. This addition of energy from the infrared and far infrared spectrum allows better penetration through skin, hair, clothes, etc. to stimulate healing in deeper tissues of six inches or greater.

So, red light therapy is better suited for skin health and a cold low-level laser is better for healing under the skin.

The illustration below gives us a visual point of view of these spectrums.

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Want even more information about this effective and non-invasive treatment? Check more information below and Dr. Candy's favorite Low-Level-Laser!

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Dr. Candy Akers

About the Author

Holistic Veterinarian, Veterinary Clinic Owner, Veterinary Medical Supervisory Board Leader, Certified Raw Dog Food Nutrition Specialist, and Author Dr. Candy completed her undergraduate studies at The University of Delaware and graduated veterinary school in 2009 from Oklahoma State University. In high school, she was drawn to wildlife rehabilitation. Wildlife rehab gave her unparalleled experience in animal healing in a field that has limited resources and a wide variety of conditions to treat. Before vet school, Dr. Akers spent two years working full time providing oil spill response for wildlife all over the country. Since graduating with her Degree of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) in 2009, Dr. Candy has specialized in companion animal nutrition. Extensive education in nutrition has made her a firm believer in species specific-biologically appropriate diets. One of her passions is educating pet parents about the natural alternatives that actually work. She brings the best of holistic health and conventional medicine together in a unique approach to pet health. This approach is often applied to chronic diseases, allergies, and autoimmune conditions. She started her own veterinary practice 9 years ago in Colorado. Overall, she has dedicated her entire life to improving the health and happiness of animals everywhere.