How to read red light therapy specs
Wavelength (nm)
Panels list the light colours they emit in nanometres. Red is usually listed around 630–670 nm and near-infrared (NIR) around 810–850 nm. Some panels add other wavelengths, such as 1060 nm or a trace of 480 nm blue (PlatinumLED BIOMAX, checked 4 Nov 2026). NIR is invisible, so a panel may look dimmer than it is.
Irradiance (mW/cm²)
This is how much light power lands on each square centimetre. It depends heavily on distance and on the meter used. Brands measure it in different ways (some with solar power meters that read NIR poorly, others with spectrometers), so numbers from different brands often can't be compared directly. Look for the distance the figure was measured at, the type of meter, and whether a third-party test exists.
Treatment area and distance
A larger panel covers more of the body at once. Irradiance falls quickly as you move away, so a figure at 15 cm doesn't tell you much about 60 cm.
Flicker and EMF
Many brands advertise "flicker-free" drivers and low EMF at a stated distance. These are manufacturer claims, and a few reviewers test them independently.
Certifications and electrics
Look for electrical safety marks that fit your region: RCM (AU/NZ), UKCA/CE (UK/EU), FCC/ETL/UL (US), cETL/CSA (CA). Check the input voltage range on the spec sheet. For example, Hooga and BON CHARGE list AC 85–265 V (brand pages, checked 4 Nov 2026).
Quick checklist
- Which wavelengths, and in what proportion?
- Irradiance at what distance, and measured how?
- Panel size against the area you want to cover
- Warranty length and where returns go
- Voltage, plug type and the countries it ships to