Red Light Therapy for Babies - Is It Safe to Use for Better Sleep?

Introduction: Red Light Therapy for Babies

New parents desire to give their infants the best, particularly because babies are more prone to diseases and conditions. Medications that can be used on adults are not necessarily safe or suitable for infants, so one must seek ways that are mild yet effective for their growing bodies. The development of newborns is influenced by several factors, including what they eat, how they sleep, and their initial physical movements. Although breastfeeding provides babies with most of the nutrients they need, it is also essential to create an environment conducive to improved sleep for the baby. Most parents are aware of the practice of sunbathing newborns to treat jaundice, a common condition in newborns. Throughout this guide, we will explore the potential benefits of red light therapy in supporting newborns in their recovery from jaundice and improving their sleep habits, ensuring they obtain the rest they need to grow and develop into healthy infants.

How Red Light Therapy Works for Babies

Following the trial of red light therapy in adults with various diseases and for general wellness, science has expanded its scope to include babies. This is because red light therapy is harmless and does not contain toxic chemicals or side effects. Red light therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for babies, particularly in the management of newborn jaundice. Jaundice causes the eyes and skin of newborns to appear yellow, a condition resulting from the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood. The body must break down and remove this pigment.

Red light therapy helps increase blood flow, allowing the blood to more effectively eliminate bilirubin from the infant's system. Red light therapy also aids the liver, the organ responsible for metabolizing bilirubin, by enhancing its function. Through increased cellular function and improved circulation in the liver, red light therapy can potentially eliminate the bilirubin accumulation more effectively.

Furthermore, red light therapy helps to enhance babies' sleep. Red light therapy stimulates melatonin production, aids in regulating circadian rhythms, causes muscle relaxation, and helps alleviate the fear of darkness in most babies.

Benefits of Red Light Therapy for Babies' Sleep.

Most new parents complain about the irregular sleeping patterns of their newborns because their bodies have not yet developed a well-established circadian rhythm for sleeping and waking. Infants usually sleep when they become tired, but red light therapy can induce babies to sleep more deeply and for longer periods, which encourages healthy growth and development. Here's how:

1. Regulates Circadian Rhythm

Red light therapy helps regulate the circadian rhythm of babies, improving their sleep and waking patterns. Over time, this allows babies to develop improved sleeping habits.

2. Promotes Relaxation

Red light therapy helps relax the body, making it easier for babies to fall asleep. It relaxes their nervous system and removes any physical tension, making it easy for them to sleep.

3. Improves Sleep Quality and Duration

Parents tend to place their newborns in rooms with night lights or light bulbs. Red light is preferable since it can reduce babies' fear of darkness and improve sleep quality and duration. Red light facilitates quicker sleep for babies and longer sleep times, bringing benefits to both babies and parents alike, with restful nights.

4. Decreases Sleep Disturbances

Certain babies experience sleep disturbances due to discomfort, darkness, or other environmental stimuli. Red light therapy alleviates such disturbances by providing a peaceful and soothing environment conducive to sleep.

5. Induces More Melatonin Production

Exposure to red light of specific wavelengths triggers the body to produce more melatonin, a hormone vital for regulating sleep.  An infant who is given this natural melatonin support may develop more consistent, day-night-synchronized sleep-wake cycles.

Difference Between Phototherapy and Red Light Therapy for Babies

Both red light therapy and phototherapy are done for babies, but serve to alleviate different issues and function differently.

Phototherapy is an established therapy for newborn jaundice. That's when a baby's liver isn't developed enough to remove bilirubin, causing their skin and eyes to appear yellow. Phototherapy involves using blue light to break down bilirubin, allowing the baby's body to eliminate it more efficiently. It's a standard and reliable method used in hospitals.

Red light therapy, however, is a newer, kinder treatment that employs gentle red or near-infrared light. It's not used only for jaundice—it's most famously associated with helping babies sleep better, relax more, and aiding in the production of melatonin, which supports healthy sleep cycles. There is early research that suggests it may assist in liver function and increase blood flow, which could also benefit babies with jaundice, although it is not currently the standard treatment for this condition.

In short, phototherapy is primarily used to treat jaundice, whereas red light therapy focuses on improving sleep and overall comfort. Both can be helpful in their own right, but it's always best to speak with your doctor before using either one on your baby.

What are the Side Effects of Phototherapy?

Phototherapy is generally safe, but as with any treatment, it has a few minor side effects:

1. Dry rash or skin

Some newborns develop a bit of skin rash or dryness.

2. Loose stools

Their poop may become slightly loose when they're being treated under the light.

3. Overheating

The light can cause babies to overheat, so nurses monitor them closely to ensure they remain comfortable.

4. Eye discomfort

Babies have small eye covers, but if they shift position, the intense light will irritate their eyes.

5. Dehydration

Babies lose more fluid, so they might need to be fed more to remain hydrated.

6. Bronze baby syndrome

Occasionally, a baby's skin can become grayish-brown, particularly if they already have liver issues. This typically resolves after the light is discontinued.

Safety Considerations for Using Red Light Therapy on Babies

Safety should always be the top priority when considering red light therapy for babies.  Red light treatment is generally safe in infants, but there are some important safety regulations and guidelines to follow:

1. Visit a Pediatrician

It is essential to visit a pediatrician before applying red light therapy to a baby.  That way, the therapy would be suitable for your baby's special needs and health issues.

2. Select the Right Device

When selecting a red light treatment device for your child, it is essential to choose one specifically designed for babies. Light emitted by these devices should be emitted at appropriate, safe wavelengths and intensities.  Total Spectrum devices are one of the most highly recommended device types for babies.  Since they provide a balanced spectrum of wavelengths of light that are safe for sensitive skin and eyes, Total Spectrum devices work extremely well. Although still safe for therapeutic use, their controlled, gentle light emission is low enough to avoid causing any damage to your baby's skin or eyes. These devices are safety-oriented and provide optimal wavelengths for different conditions, including sleep improvement and skin health, making them a great option for red light therapy for babies. Always ensure that the device has been certified for use on babies to ensure both effectiveness and safety.

3. Limit Exposure Time

The eyes and skin of newborns and babies are very sensitive.  To prevent overheating or irritation, always adhere to the recommended exposure time frame, which is typically a few minutes per session.

4. Controlled Environment Use

A peaceful, safe, and controlled environment is best for red light therapy.  Refrain from using it in environments where the baby may be distracted or prone to overheating.

5. Observe the Baby's Skin

Monitor the baby's skin for any signs of reaction, such as redness or irritation, before initiating red light therapy. If any discomfort is noted, discontinue use of the therapy immediately and consult a medical professional.

6. Don't Substitute for Medical Treatment

Although red light therapy can be helpful with symptoms such as jaundice or insomnia, do not use it as a substitute for medical care. Always follow the recommendations of medical professionals when dealing with a medical issue.

Conclusion

Yes, red light therapy is safe for infants if applied correctly and under guidance. It is a gentle, non-invasive way to induce better sleep without drugs or harsh therapies. By regulating melatonin levels, reducing muscle tension, and establishing a healthy sleep-wake cycle, red light therapy can significantly enhance the quality of your infant's sleep.

Numerous parents have reported positive experiences, particularly when using red light therapy to create a soothing bedtime atmosphere. Products such as those from Total Spectrum are manufactured with infant protection in mind, providing the correct wavelength and intensity appropriate for a baby's sensitive skin and eyes.

Although red light therapy holds promise in enhancing the quality of sleep, it's not a substitute for medical care if your baby has a medical condition. Always consult your pediatrician prior to initiating any new wellness strategy. However, when used appropriately, red light therapy can be an effective and helpful adjunct to help your little one sleep better, develop well, and feel calmer, winning over both babies and parents.

FAQs: Addressing Common Questions

Is red light therapy safe for babies?

Red light therapy is safe in most cases when properly used and applied with the approval of a healthcare provider in infants. Low-level light therapy is non-invasive and does not involve harmful radiation. Nevertheless, consulting a pediatrician prior to application on newborns is wise in order to ensure it can be used with their particular situation.

Should I leave the red light on all night for a baby?

No, it is not advisable to have a red light on the whole night for a baby. Although red light therapy is generally safe when used appropriately, prolonged use, particularly overnight, is not always necessary or warranted. It is advisable to adhere to guideline recommendations regarding red light therapy duration and to seek advice from a pediatrician before regular use for a baby.

At what age can you start red light therapy?

Red light therapy can generally be used safely at any age, but it's important to use caution, especially with infants and young children.

Are red lights better for babies?

Red light therapy may offer benefits for infants, particularly in terms of healing, reducing inflammation, and supporting skin conditions such as diaper rash or eczema. Babies, however, have more sensitive eyes and skin, so red light therapy must be used with caution and according to safety protocols. Always consult a pediatrician prior to using red light therapy on infants to determine if it is safe and suitable for their individual needs.