Shedding Light on Laser Therapy, Red Light Therapy, and Cold Laser

“Light therapy is more than just a bright idea—it’s a pathway to healing.”

Let’s cut through the clutter and get straight to it. Light therapy is making waves, and it’s no surprise. With more than 7000 studies backing it, we’re discovering new ways to harness light’s natural power for healing. But the terms—laser therapy, red light therapy, cold laser—can make the whole field feel like a confusing mash-up of science fiction. Today, we’re here to untangle these terms and see what each really means for your pet’s health.

A Brief History of Lasers and LED’s

In the 1970s, lasers were all the rage in medicine. They were powerful enough to reach deep inside tissues without needing an incision, revolutionizing diagnostics and treatments alike. Meanwhile, LEDs were mostly blinking away on Christmas trees—not exactly groundbreaking. But things have changed. Fast forward to today, and LEDs are now at the core of some of the most effective treatments for inflammation, pain relief, and healing.

What’s in a “Cold Laser”?

A “cold laser” isn’t actually cold—it’s just low-power. It won’t heat up or burn tissue, which is why it’s sometimes called a “soft” laser. This gentle approach can still penetrate deep, allowing it to stimulate healing in tissues without any risk of overheating. Cold lasers are the quiet heroes of light therapy, working effectively without the flash.

The Rise of the LED and Red Light Therapy: Thanks, NASA

In 1999, LEDs got a major boost thanks to none other than NASA. The same technology that powers car headlights today found its way into medical treatments. LEDs, specifically “Red Light Therapy,” emerged as a contender for therapeutic uses, especially because of their ability to penetrate tissue without the intensity of traditional lasers.

Why “Red Light Therapy” Isn’t Just About the Color

Let’s clarify—red light therapy isn’t just red. Most red light therapy devices also use infrared light, which can reach deeper layers of tissue than red light alone. However, the name stuck, even though “Red and Infrared Light Therapy” would be more accurate. So, while “red” might be in the title, the benefits go far beyond one part of the light spectrum.

Enter the Scientists—and a Mouthful

Just when we thought things were simple enough, science coined a new term: “Photobiomodulation.” While this term is precise, describing the use of light to adjust biological processes, it doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue. Think of it as a way to trigger healing responses without causing damage, primarily by reducing inflammation and supporting cell repair. But we’ll keep it simple and stick with terms you’re more likely to see in the clinic.

So, Which Therapy Is Right for Your Pet?

Regardless of what you call it—laser therapy, red light therapy, or cold laser—each form of light therapy brings something unique to the table. They all share the same goal: healing your pets with the wonder of light, minus the dramatic side effects.