By Venturis Clinic, Oklahoma City · Updated October 2026
Red light therapy uses gentle red and near-infrared light to interact with the body’s cells, especially the mitochondria that produce cellular energy. It is painless, non-invasive and relaxing. At Venturis Clinic in Oklahoma City, red light therapy is offered after a Good Faith Exam as part of a personalized plan, alongside our intravenous laser and other light-based services.
What is red light therapy?
The scientific name for red light therapy is photobiomodulation (PBM). It uses specific wavelengths of visible red and invisible near-infrared light, delivered at low power so the skin and underlying tissue are not heated or damaged. Unlike tanning beds, red light therapy does not use ultraviolet light.
How red light therapy works
Research led by Dr. Michael Hamblin at the Wellman Center for Photomedicine describes how red and near-infrared light is absorbed by cytochrome c oxidase in the mitochondria. That absorption is linked to increases in cellular energy (ATP), changes in nitric oxide and signaling that can influence inflammation and repair (Hamblin, 2017). The same work notes a “biphasic” dose response: the right amount of light matters, and more is not always better. That is why dose, distance and session length are set by our team rather than guessed.
What research has explored
Photobiomodulation is an active area of research. Studies have explored its role in areas such as:
- Muscle and joint recovery and comfort
- Inflammation and tissue repair
- Skin health and wound healing
- Energy, fatigue and brain health, including early research in long COVID
Results vary by condition, device and dose, and red light therapy is not a cure for any disease. You can read our plain-language reviews in What photobiomodulation actually is and the long COVID light therapy trial.
Red light therapy, intravenous laser and Weber photobiomodulation
Red light therapy works from outside the body. We also offer intravenous laser therapy using the Weber system, where low-level light is delivered directly to the blood through a fine fiber-optic placed in an IV. Some patients use one, some use both, and some pair light therapy with EBOO, UBI or IV nutrients. Your plan is built after your Good Faith Exam.
Who may benefit from a conversation about red light therapy
Patients ask us about red light therapy for recovery and comfort, energy and fatigue, skin health, and as part of care for long-standing conditions such as long COVID, mold-related illness (CIRS) and MCAS.
Who should not have red light therapy, or needs extra care
- Medications or conditions that increase light sensitivity
- Pregnancy (treatment over the abdomen is avoided)
- Eye conditions; protective eyewear is always used
- Suspicious or changing skin spots in the treatment area, which should be checked by a doctor first
- Recent use of photosensitizing products on the skin
What a session looks like
- Good Faith Exam. We review your goals, history and medications.
- Setup. You’ll wear protective eyewear, and we position the light for the area being treated.
- Treatment. Most sessions are short, often 10 to 20 minutes. You may feel gentle warmth; it should never feel hot or painful.
- Plan. Benefits in research typically come from a series of sessions, so we’ll recommend a schedule and check in along the way.
Safety
Red light therapy is generally very well tolerated. Occasional side effects include temporary redness, warmth or eye strain without proper eyewear. Using the right dose matters, which is why sessions are planned by our team.
Cost
Cost depends on your plan and is discussed at your consultation, before anything is scheduled.
Frequently asked questions
Is red light therapy safe?
For most people, yes, when used at appropriate doses with eye protection. We screen for light sensitivity first.
How many sessions will I need?
It varies. Most plans involve a series of sessions with regular check-ins.
Is red light therapy the same as a tanning bed?
No. Red light therapy uses red and near-infrared light, not ultraviolet light.
What’s the difference between red light therapy and intravenous laser?
Red light therapy is applied to the skin; intravenous laser delivers light directly to the blood through an IV.
Where can I get red light therapy near me in Oklahoma City?
At Venturis Clinic, 7917 N. May Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73120, serving the metro, Edmond, Norman, Tulsa and beyond.
Get started
Book a free 15-minute discovery call or call (405) 848-7246. Explore more in our Patient Education Library.
Red light therapy and photobiomodulation are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Individual experiences vary. All services are performed by licensed medical staff under our medical director after a Good Faith Exam. This page is educational and is not medical advice.