“Recover as hard as you run.”
That’s one of the first things my coach told me ahead of training for the New York City Marathon. When pushing the pace for 20-plus miles, or training sprint intervals throughout the week, it’s easy to forget to take care of your body.
I used to think sleep was the only tool I needed to reboot. And although it’s important, one of the main tools in my recovery has turned out to be red light.
According to a 2025 study, photobiomodulation therapy (which includes both red light therapy and near-infrared light) is “a promising non-surgical method for inducing skeletal muscle regeneration.”
Does it work? Red light therapy can expedite muscle recovery by using specific light wavelengths to up cellular energy and decrease oxidative stress in damaged tissues. This promotes healing and helps your body return to equilibrium so you can bounce back quicker from tough workouts.
iRestore is leading the charge right now in terms of red light. Not only does the company sell belts to support your muscles, but they also provide face masks and caps to boost hair and skin health.
Below, learn more about some of my favorite products the brand has to offer.
This alien-esque face mask looks like something straight out of “E.T.” — and it boasts major benefits for your wellbeing.
The device emits eight wavelengths that go deeper than regular LED masks to help smooth fine lines and reduce dark spots. It’s made with advanced VIXO laser technology (featuring 800 lasers and LEDs!), offered in five smart modes: anti-aging, clear, brighten, restore or all. All it takes is one 10-minute session (3-5x per week) to revive your complexion, and watch the results really come to fruition in 8 weeks (though individual results may vary).
Forget waist trainers. This non-invasive body contouring device gently wraps around your waist, hips or thighs to help with skin tightening, muscle recovery and relaxation.
You can choose from three brightness levels, set your treatment time and let advanced red and near-infrared light therapy go to work.
The product’s triple-wave technology utilizes three light wavelengths to reach multiple layers of the skin: red light (630nm) firms and smooths at surface level. Near-infrared (850nm) increases circulation and reduces fluid buildup. Deep near-infrared (940nm) reaches fat-rich areas.
This device is FDA 510(k) cleared for specific indications including temporary reduction of circumference, improvement of wrinkles, and relief of minor muscle and joint pain.
Tired of piling on thickening shampoos and conditioners? Your journey to fuller, luscious locks just got a lot easier. This cap is made with 500 laser and LED diodes that work to increase hair density, naturally thicken strands and fight against hereditary hair loss.
The device emits triple wavelengths (625/655/680nm), delivering 2,500 mW of power output, the most powerful hair growth device on the market. It’s also FDA 510(k)-cleared to treat androgenic alopecian.
The device fits comfortably around your scalp with an air-ventilated design, and you only need to use it for 12 minutes per day. Set the timer and slip it on your head while chilling on the couch, doing chores or cooking dinner.
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