Flicker refers to changes in the brightness of electrical light, often occurring so quickly that the human eye cannot perceive it. While most people won't consciously notice flicker, long-term exposure may lead to adverse effects or increased sensitivity over time. A common misconception in the biohacking and wellness community is that flicker from red-light therapy devices may harm users or compromise the therapy's effectiveness. Let’s break down the facts.
What Causes Flicker?
Flicker arises from the power grid’s use of alternating current (AC), which oscillates at a frequency of 50 or 60 Hz. This constant voltage shift causes light bulbs—whether incandescent, fluorescent, or LED—to flicker as the electrical current alternates. In LED devices, including red-light therapy panels, flicker happens because the LEDs rapidly turn on and off in sync with the AC current.
Interestingly, flicker in red-light therapy may have potential benefits. For short treatment durations, flicker could allow deeper tissue penetration and might activate specific cellular processes that static light cannot. However, this remains a debated topic, and high-quality devices like those from Luminousred minimize flicker to ensure user comfort and safety.
Key Factors to Consider
When it comes to flicker, there are three critical points to keep in mind:
- Cheap LEDs Have Higher Flicker Rates: Low-quality LEDs often emit more flicker, potentially causing stress or discomfort.
- Increased Blue Light Emission in Cheap LEDs: High blue light levels, especially after dark, can disrupt circadian rhythms and cause eye strain.
- Lack of Testing in Low-Cost Devices: Budget-friendly products may skip third-party testing, safety regulations, or verified data compliance.
Addressing Flicker in Red-Light Therapy
It’s important to note that flicker exists in all AC-powered lighting to some extent. However, research shows that thousands of medical studies have used LED lights without identifying harmful effects from flicker. Red-light therapy devices, particularly those under FDA approval, are rigorously tested for safety and efficacy. Additionally, pulsing—distinct from flicker—is often intentionally incorporated into red-light therapy protocols to enhance therapeutic benefits.
For most users, the short exposure times typical of red-light therapy (compared to daily exposure to household lighting and screens) further minimize any potential risks. Still, sensitivity to flicker varies, and a lack of education around this topic often leads to unnecessary fear.
What You Get with Luminousred
Luminousred offers completely flicker-free devices designed with high-quality components. While pulsing light may have its advantages, our devices focus on steady, non-flickering light to prioritize comfort and safety. Additionally, we include safety goggles with every device, catering to users who may find red light intense.
Our LEDs are paired with advanced drivers to eliminate flicker, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable red-light therapy experience. We care about your well-being and aim to provide you with a high-quality, worry-free product.
Explore More
If you’re curious about pulsing devices, check out the Lucia light, designed specifically for that purpose. To learn more about the components powering our devices, read our article on the hearts of every Luminousred device.
Sources and References
- IEEE Recommended Practices for Modulating Current in High-Brightness LEDs for Mitigating Health Risks to Viewers (2015)
- Solid-State Lighting Technology Fact Sheet (2013)
- Designing to Mitigate the Effects of Flicker in LED Lighting (2014)
- Flickering LED Light Treatment Can Pave Way to Alzheimer Cure (2016)
