​Red Light Therapy and Cancer: Shining a Light on the Hype, the Hope, and the Hazards

Introduction

If you spend enough time in online cancer discussions, you’ll notice a glow. It’s not the glow of health; it’s the red glow of people sitting in front of panels that look like props from a low-budget sci-fi movie.

This is red light therapy (RLT).

It’s been promoted as everything from a skin miracle to a way to reboot your cells. Like many “biohacks,” it walks the line between promising science and exaggerated marketing.

Let’s set aside the hype. Here’s the truth about red light therapy in cancer: the benefits, the risks, what to look for in a panel, and why I use mine for 20 minutes in the morning and 20 minutes in the evening as part of my routine.

What Is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of light, usually in the red (around 600–700 nm) and near-infrared (NIR, 800–1000 nm) range. These wavelengths penetrate skin and tissue more deeply than visible light, reaching muscles, joints, and even mitochondria in cells.

The theory is that mitochondria absorb this light, especially through cytochrome c oxidase, which helps improve ATP (energy) production. More ATP means more energy for cells to repair, regenerate, and function well.

In simpler terms, it’s like photosynthesis for your cells.

The Positives for Cancer

This is where nuance matters. Red light therapy is not a cure for cancer. But research suggests some supportive roles:

• Mitochondrial function: Healthy cells with better ATP production are more resilient. Some cancer researchers, like Dr. Thomas Seyfried and Dr. Michael Pavlides, argue that improving mitochondrial metabolism is crucial for changing the landscape against cancer.
• Anti-inflammatory effects: RLT can lower oxidative stress and inflammation markers, both important in cancer environments where inflammation often fuels progression.
• Immune modulation: Some studies suggest red light may help balance immune function – boosting surveillance without encouraging the kind of runaway inflammation cancer thrives on.
• Pain and healing: For patients undergoing surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy, RLT shows promise in reducing pain, oral mucositis, and speeding up healing time.

For me, the main benefit is mitochondrial support. I’m on a ketogenic diet, fasting protocols, and a strong off-label medication regimen aimed at starving cancer cells. My healthy cells need every advantage they can get. Red light is one of those small tools that could make a difference.

The Negatives and Caveats

Nothing about cancer is ever simple. Red light therapy has some potential downsides:

• Tumor stimulation risk: Some studies indicate that red/NIR light could, in certain situations, stimulate the growth of cancer cells alongside healthy cells. The mechanism is understandable; if mitochondria are somewhat functional in a tumor, they may also benefit from the light.
• Dosage matters: Too little has no effect. Too much could cause harm or simply waste time.
• Not a standalone: If you’re hoping to cure cancer with a lamp, you’ll be disappointed and misled. RLT is an adjunct, not a replacement.
• Data is still early: Whilst animal studies and small human trials show benefits, there are not enough large-scale oncology trials.

This is why I use it strategically: as a supportive therapy, not a miracle cure.

What to Look for in a Red Light Panel

If you’re thinking about adding RLT, not all panels are the same. Here’s what to consider:

1. Wavelengths: Look for red (around 660 nm) and near-infrared (around 850 nm). These are the most studied for their effects on mitochondria.
2. Irradiance: This refers to the power output (measured in mW/cm²). If it’s too low, it’s useless. If it’s too high, you risk overdoing it. Aim for panels that deliver safe, effective irradiance at a reasonable distance.
3. Size: Bigger panels cover more surface area, but smaller ones, like the Bon Charge Demi I use, are effective for targeted use – such as on the area of my chest above my oesophagus.
4. Flicker-free: Some cheaper devices flicker at frequencies you can’t see, which can cause fatigue or headaches.
5. Build quality: Heat management, EMF shielding, and durability matter if you’re using it daily.

I use the Bon Charge Demi Red Light Therapy Device, which I bought through Healf (where you can get 10% off with the above link). It delivers the right wavelengths, solid irradiance, and reviews place it as highly reliable.

How I Use It

For me, red light therapy is as much a ritual as it is a treatment.

20 minutes in the morning helps kickstart my energy, mood, and metabolism for the day.
20 minutes in the evening signals calm, supports recovery, and seems to improve my sleep quality.

Sometimes I combine sessions with breathwork or meditation. Other times, I just sit and let the glow wash over me while my boys joke about “Daddy’s spaceship lamp.”

It’s not dramatic. It’s not invasive. But it’s consistent. And in the world of cancer, consistency is vital.

Beyond Cancer: Other Health Benefits

Even if you’re not facing cancer, evidence for red light therapy’s benefits in general health is growing:

• Muscle recovery: Athletes use it to reduce soreness and speed recovery.
• Skin health: It can boost collagen production, reduce wrinkles, and help manage acne.
• Brain health: Some early studies suggest it has protective effects against dementia and brain injuries.
• Mood: It may help regulate circadian rhythms and reduce seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
• Metabolic health: There are links to better insulin sensitivity and reduced inflammation.

It’s one of those rare “biohacks” where the mainstream benefits (skin, fitness) overlap with serious potential in chronic illness.

Conclusion

Red light therapy isn’t a magic solution. But in a world where much of cancer care feels like losing control, it’s one more option I can use.

It may not cure tumours. But it helps my cells work better, reduces inflammation, and supports my overall health. And when you’re battling something as relentless as cancer, every little bit helps.

If you’re curious, I bought my panel from Healf – I use the Bon Charge Demi Red Light Therapy Device, and you can use my link for 10% off over the whole site.

Just remember: it’s a tool, not a cure. A glow, not a miracle. But for me, it’s a glow worth having.