A Beginner's Guide to Starting with a TotalSpectrum Red Light Therapy Device

The first questions you're bound to have after you've bought your TotalSpectrum red light therapy device are:

• How often can I use my device per week?
• How many minutes per day should I do therapy?
• At what distance should I treat my targeted body part?
• Can I do it twice a day or multiple times a day?
• What's the best time of the day?
• If there's a recommended time, is that for all body parts together or do I need to treat each body part for the recommended time?
• What should I wear?
• Which performance mode is best for my condition?

In this article, we'll cover all these questions and more, specifically for our patented RLT Home TotalSpectrum series of red light therapy panels.

What is Dosage in Red Light Therapy?

The concept of dosage in red light therapy (RLT) involves determining the right amount of light energy to deliver to the skin or body for therapeutic benefits. Dosage is calculated based on two factors:

1. Irradiance or Power Density: It is measured in milliwatts per square centimeter (mW/cm²) and refers to the power of the light shone by the red light therapy device. It describes how much light energy is being delivered to an area in a certain period of time.
2. Time: Length of time in minutes or seconds for how long a body part is exposed to light.

Together these two allow you to calculate the energy dose which is in Joules per square centimeter. J/cm2 = mW/cm2 x number of seconds/1000

$\text{Energy Dose (J/cm²)}=\text{Irradiance (mW/cm²)}\times \text{Time (seconds)}\mathrm{/}1000$

Why is Proper Dosage Important in Red Light Therapy?:

• Too Little: If the energy is too little, the session may not be effective. The light may not penetrate the body deep enough to stimulate cellular activity.
• Too much: If too high, it can be ineffective too. That's why we recommend using red light therapy 5 days a week and giving a 2 day break (ideally not more than 3-40 mins a day in total). It stops your body from building tolerance. In rare cases, your skin may show signs of over exposure like roughness or patches or similar signs. It can have other adverse effects like building of excessive heat in the retina, which can cause cataracts in the long run. All this is only if you exceed the recommended dose by a large margin. 

Your Dosage Depends on 4 Things

1. Power Density/Irradiance of the device: The irradiance, measured in milliwatts per square centimeter (mW/cm²), is a critical factor. It determines the intensity of the light emitted by the device. 
2. Distance from the Red Light Therapy Device: The closer you are, the more the energy that your body receives.
3. Condition Being Treated: Skin conditions require less energy compared to deep tissue concerns. 
4. Skin's Sensitivity and Light Absorption Capacity: Skin tone, thickness, sensitivity etc may mean that different people need different light energy for it to be effective.

The pre-built performance modes in our TotalSpectrum devices are a great place to start. We'll come to them later in this article.

Welcome to the World of RLT Home's TotalSpectrum Healing

If you've purchased a TotalSpectrum device, let us assure you that you now own one of the most powerful, potent, and well-researched devices available. Developed after reviewing over 1,500 human studies, our devices have already delivered extraordinary benefits to our customers. Our 400+ reviews on our website and on Trustpilot are a testimony to that.

Benefits range from relieving 20-year-old shoulder pain to complete healing of calcium deposits in tear glands; from rejuvenating saggy skin to achieving plump, glowing skin; from tackling unmanageable knee pain to climbing stairs effortlessly; from uncontrolled weight gain to plateauing to much lower weights for many of our customers. 

Established in 2023, we are known for our excellent customer support - providing individual advise and care to you every step of the way in your healing journey. You've made a great choice, here's how to use your device most effectively:

Get Started with One of Our Patented Performance Modes

For TotalSpectrum Mini, Compact and Max

Our TotalSpectrum devices, like the Mini, Compact, and Max, have specialized modes for different health needs. They include:

1. Fitness:
- Purpose: Boost physical performance and endurance.
- Mechanism: RLT may increase ATP in cells for better muscle work. It also helps with oxygen delivery and reduces muscle stress.

2. Fat burning:
- Purpose: Help with weight loss and fat metabolism.
- Mechanism: RLT can make fat cells release fat. It also boosts metabolic rate by improving mitochondria function.

3. Muscle Recovery:
- Purpose: Lessen muscle soreness after exercise and speed recovery.
- Mechanism: RLT reduces muscle inflammation and stress, leading to quicker recovery.

4. Inflammation:
- Purpose: Lower systemic and localized inflammation.
- Mechanism: RLT and NIR light decrease inflammatory cytokines and increase anti-inflammatory ones. This reduces pain and swelling.

5. Skin Care:
- Purpose: Enhance skin health, reduce aging signs, and treat skin issues.
- Mechanism: RLT boosts collagen, reduces inflammation, and improves blood flow. It's good for wrinkles, acne, and scars.

6. Sleep Optimization:
- Purpose: Improve sleep quality and regulate circadian rhythms.
- Mechanism: Certain light wavelengths affect melatonin, a sleep hormone. RLT also reduces anxiety and stress for better sleep.

7. Elderly Health:
- Purpose: Address health issues common in the elderly.
- Mechanism: This mode combines elements of other modes for a full treatment for the elderly. It tackles muscle loss, inflammation, poor sleep, and skin aging.

Our Ultra Model is a Spa-Grade Device with the Following Modes:

Six Modes for Ultimate Versatility (Choose from 6 meticulously curated modes):

• Acne: Reduce acne by promoting healing, reducing inflammation, and targeting the bacteria that contribute to acne development.
• Fat Burning: Reduction of fat and cellulite by penetrating skin and targeting fat cells, encouraging lipolysis and boosting metabolism.
• Hair care: Targets scalp health and hair growth by stimulating follicles, improving blood circulation, and nourishing roots. Helps reduce hair loss and strengthen hair, promoting thicker, healthier growth.
• Skin Repair: Stimulating collagen production and increasing blood flow,& this mode contributes to healthier, more radiant skin, and helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Relaxation:  The soothing effects of our relaxation mode can reduce stress and promote a sense of calm, aiding in relaxation and mental well-being.
• Sleep Optimization: This mode helps to regulate circadian rhythms and melatonin production, promoting better sleep quality and helping to alleviate insomnia.

All 4 TotalSpectrum are built with the same tech. If you have either and are interested in learning more about a missing performance mode, write to us and we'll help you set it up on your device.

Optimizing Your Therapy

To derive maximum benefit from these modes, it’s important to use your TotalSpectrum device at the right distance:

• For Skin-Related Benefits: Position yourself about 18 inches from the device. This distance is optimal for treating superficial skin layers, enhancing collagen production, and improving overall skin texture and tone.
• For Deeper Tissue Healing: If your focus is on deeper tissue healing, such as muscle recovery or reducing deep-seated inflammation, sit closer to the device, between 6 to 12 inches. This proximity allows for deeper penetration of the light, effectively reaching muscles, joints, and deeper layers of the skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often can I use my device per week?

We recommend using your TotalSpectrum device five days a week. This frequency has been found to be optimal for most users. Allowing for a two-day break, ideally spaced out across the week — such as on Tuesday and Saturday — gives your body time to respond to the therapy. This break not only aids in healing but also helps prevent the development of tolerance to the therapy, ensuring your body continues to respond effectively over time.

How many minutes per day should I do therapy?

For each performance mode on your TotalSpectrum device, the ideal therapy times are pre-set, reflecting our research and successful human trials. These modes are tailored with specific wavelength irradiances and pulsing settings for optimal effectiveness.

As a general rule, aim to keep your daily therapy sessions to 30 minutes or less. This guideline is rooted in research: shorter, consistent sessions have shown the most success. Remember, in red light therapy, regularity is more important than longer session times. Consistency is the key to achieving the best results.

At what distance should I treat my targeted body part?

When beginning your journey with red light therapy, it’s advisable to start with conservative distances and reduce the distance from the device as needed based on your body's response and the results you observe. Here are the recommended starting distances for various conditions, with the suggestion to gradually reduce them if you're not seeing the desired results:

1. Skin Health (Acne, Wrinkles, Scars, Anti-aging):
   • Distance: Start at 12 to 24 inches. This initial distance provides a gentle yet effective approach to skin therapy.
   • Mode: Use the 'Skin Care' or 'Skin Repair' modes for targeted benefits.
2. Muscle Recovery and Deep Tissue Healing:
   • Distance: Begin with 12 to 24 inches, allowing your muscles to gradually adapt to the light's penetration.
   • Mode: The 'Muscle Recovery' mode is specifically designed for these needs.
3. Joint Pain and Inflammation:
   • Distance: Start at 12 to 24 inches, especially if the area is sensitive.
   • Mode: Opt for the 'Inflammation' mode for targeted relief.
4. Hair Growth and Scalp Health:
   • Distance: Initiate at 12 inches, balancing direct exposure with comfort.
   • Mode: 'Hair Care' mode is ideal for these concerns.
5. Fat Burning and Weight Management:
   • Distance: Begin at 24 to 36 inches for broader area coverage.
   • Mode: The 'Fat Burn' mode will be most beneficial.
6. Improved Sleep Quality:
   • Distance: Start at 24 to 36 inches to promote relaxation.
   • Mode: Use the 'Sleep Optimization' or 'Sleep' mode for best results.
7. Mental Clarity and Mood Improvement:
   • Distance: Initiate at 24 to 36 inches for a calming effect.
   • Mode: The 'Relax' mode is recommended.
8. Sensitive Skin Conditions:
   • Distance: Start at 24 to 36 inches for a gentle approach.
   • Mode: 'Skin Care' or 'Skin Repair' modes can be effective, depending on specific skin issues.
9. Elderly Health:
   • Distance: Begin with 24 to 36 inches for overall well-being.
   • Mode: The 'Elderly Health' mode combines elements suitable for general health concerns in the elderly.
10. Arthritis (Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis):
    • Distance: Start at 12 to 24 inches for joint areas.
    • Mode: 'Inflammation' mode to alleviate joint pain and reduce inflammation.
11. Chronic Back Pain:
    • Distance: 12 to 24 inches, focusing on the painful areas.
    • Mode: 'Muscle Recovery' or 'Inflammation' mode, depending on the underlying cause.
12. Migraine and Tension Headaches:
    • Distance: Begin at 12 to 24 inches, targeting the forehead and temples.
    • Mode: 'Relax' mode for tension relief and to promote relaxation.
13. Plantar Fasciitis and Foot Pain:
    • Distance: Start with the feet 12 to 24 inches from the device.
    • Mode: 'Inflammation' or 'Muscle Recovery' mode, targeting foot discomfort.
14. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:
    • Distance: 12 to 24 inches, focusing on the wrists and hands.
    • Mode: 'Inflammation' mode to help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
15. Post-Surgical Recovery:
    • Distance: Begin at 12 to 24 inches, targeting the surgical area.
    • Mode: 'Muscle Recovery' to enhance healing and reduce inflammation.
16. Sports Injuries (Sprains, Strains):
    • Distance: 12 to 24 inches, directly on the injured area.
    • Mode: 'Muscle Recovery' mode for accelerated healing and pain relief.
17. Peripheral Neuropathy:
    • Distance: Start at 12 to 24 inches, focusing on affected areas.
    • Mode: 'Inflammation' mode to improve circulation and reduce nerve pain.
18. Psoriasis and Eczema:
    • Distance: Begin with 12 to 24 inches from affected skin areas.
    • Mode: 'Skin Care' mode to help soothe and improve skin conditions.
19. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD):
    • Distance: 24 to 36 inches, ideally in a comfortable setting.
    • Mode: 'Relax' mode to help alleviate symptoms and improve mood.
20. Hypothyroidism/Thyroid Disorders:
    • Distance: 6 to 12 inches, targeting the neck area where the thyroid gland is located.
    • Mode: 'Relax' or 'Elderly Health' mode to support thyroid function and overall wellness.
21. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome:
    • Distance: 18 to 24 inches for full-body exposure.
    • Mode: 'Fitness' or 'Sleep Optimization' mode to boost energy levels and improve sleep quality.
22. Menstrual Cramps and PMS:
    • Distance: 12 to 24 inches, focusing on the lower abdomen.
    • Mode: 'Inflammation' mode to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
23. Fibromyalgia:
    • Distance: 12 to 24 inches for full-body or targeted areas.
    • Mode: 'Muscle Recovery' or 'Inflammation' mode to manage pain and improve mobility.
24. Depression and Anxiety:
    • Distance: 18 to 36 inches for a calming effect.
    • Mode: 'Relax' mode to help alleviate symptoms and improve mood.
25. Diabetic Neuropathy:
    • Distance: 12 to 24 inches, targeting affected extremities.
    • Mode: 'Inflammation' mode to improve circulation and reduce nerve pain.
26. Postpartum Recovery:
    • Distance: 12 to 24 inches, focusing on the abdomen and pelvic area.
    • Mode: 'Muscle Recovery' or 'Skin Care' mode to aid in healing and toning.
27. Acid Reflux and GERD:
    • Distance: 12 to 24 inches, targeting the upper abdomen and lower chest area.
    • Mode: 'Relax' mode to promote relaxation and potentially ease symptoms.
28. Insomnia:
    • Distance: 18 to 36 inches as part of a pre-sleep routine.
    • Mode: 'Sleep Optimization' mode to enhance sleep quality.
29. Age-Related Macular Degeneration:
    • Distance: 12 to 24 inches, with caution to avoid direct eye exposure.
    • Mode: 'Elderly Health' mode to support overall eye health and wellness.

Remember, the key to successful red light therapy is customization based on your personal experience. Adjust the distance and select the performance mode that best aligns with your health goals, and modify as needed to find your ideal therapeutic balance.

Can I do it twice a day or multiple times a day?

Yes, it is acceptable to perform more than one of the performance modes a day. While using multiple modes in a day is safe,  alternating between different modes on different days can optimize results, as varied stimulation can be more beneficial for the body.

What time of the day is best?

• For Energy and Alertness: Morning sessions can be very effective. Using red light therapy in the morning may help kickstart your day, enhance alertness, and regulate your circadian rhythm.
• For Relaxation and Sleep Improvement: Evening sessions are ideal. Red light therapy in the evening can help your body wind down, relax, and prepare for sleep, especially if you're using modes aimed at sleep optimization.
• For Workout Recovery: Post-exercise, regardless of the time of day. If you're using red light therapy for muscle recovery, it's best to do it after your workout sessions.
• For General Health and Wellness: Anytime that fits into your schedule. If your goal is overall well-being, the best time is simply when you can consistently incorporate it into your daily routine.

If there's a recommended time, is that for all body parts together or do I need to treat each body part for the recommended time?

When using your TotalSpectrum device, if you're treating multiple body areas, it's important to divide your total therapy time evenly between those areas. For example, when treating both the front and back of your body, split the total recommended session time evenly between the two to ensure balanced exposure. This method prevents overexposure to the light therapy, which is crucial for efficacy.

Similarly, if you're focusing on multiple specific areas (like the shoulders, knees, and back), allocate a portion of the total recommended time to each area. This approach ensures that every targeted part receives adequate treatment within the overall duration of your therapy session.

Remember, the goal is to distribute the therapy effectively while adhering to the recommended total duration for optimal results.

What should I wear?

In short, where possible, wear nothing except the protective glasses provided with your TotalSpectrum device. The key to effective red light therapy is ensuring that the light can penetrate the skin in the area you're treating, so direct exposure is crucial for optimal results. 

This is not possible in some circumstances, in which case, wear the minimum appropriate clothing. Light-permeable fabrics may be a good choice in some circumstances.

Which performance mode is best for my condition?

To determine the best performance mode for your condition using your TotalSpectrum device, we recommend reviewing the section titled 'At what distance should I treat my targeted body part?'. There, you will find a list of common conditions along with their corresponding recommended treatment distances and performance modes.

Select a performance mode that closely aligns with your specific condition or one that is similar to it. 

These modes are designed to target specific issues effectively, based on the unique wavelength irradiances and pulsing settings suited for each condition. Begin with the mode that best matches your needs and adjust as necessary based on your personal experience and results.

Advanced User Settings and Hacks

Each TotalSpectrum device offers the flexibility to create custom modes, allowing you to tailor your therapy to your specific needs. In these custom settings, you can adjust the intensity of the 'Red' and 'Near Infrared' (NIR) light irradiance from 0 to 100. Additionally, you can customize the pulsing settings. The red wavelengths are grouped together, enabling you to set individual intensities for a single red wavelength, and the same applies to the NIR wavelengths. Once you configure these custom settings in the setup mode, the device will remember your preferences for future sessions.

Effective User Strategy for Enhanced Results

One effective strategy that has proven successful for many of our customers is alternating between two performance modes. This approach can optimize the therapeutic benefits by combining different aspects of red light therapy. Here’s an example of how a customer successfully used this method to heal 20-year-old shoulder pain:

1. Frequency of Therapy: The customer engaged in therapy 5 days a week, taking 2 days off with gaps in between, such as on Tuesday and Saturday. This schedule allowed for consistent treatment while giving the body time to respond and recover.
2. Alternating Performance Modes: The customer alternated between 'Inflammation Mode' and 'Muscle Recovery Mode' on different days. This strategy provided a balanced mix of deep tissue healing and ATP (adenosine triphosphate) enhancement, targeting both inflammation and muscle recovery.
3. Session Structure: Each session lasted 20 minutes, with the customer positioned 6-12 inches away from the panel. The 20-minute session was divided into 10 minutes dedicated exclusively to the shoulder, followed by 5 minutes for the frontal body and 5 minutes for the back. This division ensured focused treatment on the problem area while also addressing overall body wellness.

By adopting such targeted and structured approaches, users can maximize the therapeutic potential of their TotalSpectrum device and achieve significant improvements in their conditions.

I have a Question, Who Should I Ask?

We are here to help. Post your question down below in the comments or write to us by going to our contact page. 

Summary

Maximize Your TotalSpectrum Red Light Therapy Experience:

• Frequency: Use the device 5 days a week, with breaks ideally on days like Tuesday and Saturday.
• Session Duration: Engage in 15-20 minute sessions, customizing the time based on the areas treated.
• Treatment Distance: Start with a conservative distance (e.g., 12 to 24 inches) and adjust based on your condition and response.
• Clothing: Wear minimal clothing for direct skin exposure or light-permeable fabrics for gentle treatment.
• Performance Modes: Choose modes like 'Inflammation' or 'Muscle Recovery' based on your specific needs, and consider alternating modes for comprehensive benefits.
• Advanced Settings: Utilize custom mode settings to tailor the intensity and pulsing of red and NIR lights.

Utilizing the TotalSpectrum device could play a significant role in your pursuit of health and wellness objectives. It's recognized for its capacity to contribute to improved well-being. Wishing you a beneficial journey as you explore the potential of red light therapy.