Science Tool: Simplifying Routines, Benefits & Device Selection

Sources:

• Course Episode (Upcoming 2026)
• Article (2025)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Blue Light Block Glasses - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, Chroma, will do, as all of these offer blue-light blocking glasses.
2. Chroma Sky Portal, Sky Light and/or Trinity - code ALEX saves. The Sky Portal and Skylight are amazing as healthy indoor lighting that's flicker free and has the correct blue/red/NIR balance. The Trinity is great with its blue light option for setting the circadian rhythm.
3. Block Blue Light Biolight SAD Lamp - discount code applied automatically at checkout. Great budget option at an office desk. Check the Biolight review HERE.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Every single one of your cells has a peripheral clock, which is linked to the central “Suprachiasmatic Nucleus” clock in the brain 
• Light very strongly entrains that circadian rhythm, through the eye, linked to the central clock.
• Artificial Light At Night (ALAN) leads to less daytime wakefulness and a host of health issues.
• Shift work, jet lag, and ALAN lead to health issues across the board
• If you have a normal circadian rhythm, blue light blocking glasses can improve melatonin production and sleep quality. These glasses can help with shift work and jetlag too. Stronger effects if you have existing sleep issues!
• Strong link between circadian rhythm disruptions and well-being, quality of life, mental health, cognitive performance, neurodegeneration.
• At night, remove any (blue & green) light sources from your bedroom!
• Bright light exposure during the morning and early afternoon great for mental well-being and cognitive performance.
• Generally, 5,000 - 10,000 lux is sufficient, and ideally for 1+ hour a day, if you cannot get sunlight exposure.
• Use the lamps listed above for daytime exposure, which are far better than almost all LEDs and fluorescents used indoor (blue light dominant and flicker).

Sources:

• General eye health article (2024)
• Eye safety article (2026 update)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Handheld Devices - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, will do. You don't need an expensive eye health device!

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• For the best results, you'll have to expose your eyes to 40 - 60 mW/cm2 for up to 3 minutes per day. You can reach these results by standing 6 inches from the handheld panels I've listed above, keeping your eyes open.
• From a safety perspective, please keep in mind that some studies use 100 mW/cm2 per second or more, but I'm not going to recommend that as the 40 - 60 mW/cm2 range for 3 minutes is simple to use and gives good all-around results.
• Outdoor workers and hunter-gatherers get a 50 - 100 X dose of that protocol above into their eye area on a daily basis, including the higher energy blue and UV light
• Outdoor workers and hunter-gatherers generally have far fewer eye conditions than indoor workers
• Otherwise: general nutrition and lifestyle extremely important, such as diet, movement, circadian rhythm

Sources:

• Article (2024).
• Course Episode (2026)

Best Devices (Best at top, May 2026 update):

1. A Wall or Body Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do, focusing on the abdomen and torso

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Fat loss is possible, but through body recomposition most likely - contradictory
• The most recent science reviews, which take all available evidence into account, show more of a body recompositioning effect than pure fat loss
• Better waist circumference, better waist:hip ratio with light therapy
• The 600 nm range is superior right now, more so than NIR. This surprises me
• You’re getting overall health improvements too
• Far too few studies in this area still, and some industry-sponsored.
• It’s harder to give device recommendations, but likely, anything on the abdomen will do. Hence panels are a great option here.
• Far more research needed!
• Studies need diet and exercise controls (harder to do!)
• We need better studies, such as metabolic ward studies, that ensure that study participants all eat the same diet.
• Many different wavelengths, device setup, treatment frequency, etc. Need more regular LED devices. Too many laser studies right now.
• Most devices used at a distance in studies - I’d rather see the contact method being used too
• Optimal dosing unknown still but we have broad guidelines

Sources:

• Article (2025)
• Course Episode (Upcoming 2026)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Tabletop Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Mito Red, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do, for only directly treating the gut. Ideally, you'll press the tabletop panel against the abdomen for maximum penetration.
2. Handheld Device - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do, for only directly treating the key lymphatic areas.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Contact method best in this case: direct treatment on the abdomen
• Currently, the best evidence suggests improvements in gut inflammation, the microbiome, and the countering of leaky gut (a compromised barrier between the blood and gut). 
• Often, animal studies have shown benefits for conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, diarrhea, gastritis, and constipation - I consider all of these cases in the full article.

Sources:

• View Hair Loss Article (2024).
• Hair Growth Article (2025)
• Course Episode (Updated) (soon: 2026). The course episode updates the article.

Best Devices (Best at top, May 2026 update):

1. Currentbody Helmet - ALEXFERGUS 10% off
2. Mito Red MitoGROW Helmet - automatic discount applied at checkout
3. Hooga Cap (red & NIR predominance) - automatic discount applied at checkout

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Treatment for hair loss and hair growth more or less similar right now.
• Right now, I recommend any device that has a larger portion of 630 and 660 nm.
• More research is needed into power density, treatment frequency, and total dose.
• Theoretically, lower power devices will still work
• Hence, given the current science, I’d aim for budget options with lots of LEDs
• I do recommend helmets over other options as panels cannot reach the scalp unless you’re bald like Alex Fergus and I.
• Most brain-related red light therapy helmets have NIR, so they’re not optimal for hair loss. You need red light. Hence, ideally, you’ll get a dedicated device!

Sources:

• Course Episode (soon: 2026).
• Article (2025)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Kineon MOVE+ - Use discount code AFERGUSMOVE - use on the blood flow, transdermally or "intravenously", on the neck. So this is a systemic treatment that's very close to what's being used in the studies.
2. Weber Endolight - discount code ALEX saves - great device for using multiple visible colors of the light spectrum.
3. Handheld Device or Torches (budget option) - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do, for only directly treating the blood flow. The handheld devices or torches that you hold at your wrist (on the arteries, even pressed!). With a handheld device that has like 12-15 LEDs, you’ll need far less treatment time as the total power is much bigger, so start with 2-3 minutes there.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Intravenous light therapy (ILT) means irradiating your blood directly. Irradiated blood has systemic effects.
• Intravenous light therapy mostly stems from Soviet and post-Soviet Russian influence sphere research
• You don’t need a nurse for ILT. Many devices can accomplish this goal, such as wraps or the Kineon MOVE+, or a handheld device.
• Transcutaneous likely as effective as ILT.
• Most research available on 630 - 640 nm red light. But, also some 660 nm red light, blue light, and even UV light!
• Great for pain (35-50% reductions!), inflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial activity, quality of life
• Far more (high-quality) research needed though
• Best treatment areas are the carotid arteries in the neck, around the wrist (radial), and in the legs (femoral, tibial). Just pick one or two that work well for you during other daily activities.
• Study parameters vary big time, so not easy to give universal recommendations.
• No side effects though - and prob super safe to apply 620 - 670 nm.

Sources:

• Article (2024).

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Wall or Body Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do best, as the lymphatic system is found across the body, with key nodes around the hips and shoulder areas
2. Tabletop Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do, for only directly treating the key lymphatic areas.

Notes Bart (edited from 2024 article):

• Preliminary evidence shows that red light therapy for the lymphatic system works, but much more research is needed.
• Whether you need red light therapy for lipedema or red light therapy for swollen feet, the coming years and decades will probably provide new evidence for the best wavelengths, power output, treatment protocols, and so forth.
• For now, using a common-sense approach with red light therapy dosing is probably the best way to go, with different wavelengths and light for general health support. Current evidence, however, for inflammation and other causes of poor lymph system function are affected big time by red light therapy.

Sources:

• Sleep Disorders Article (2024)
• Sleep Quality (Updated 2025)
• Sleep Quality (Course, 2026)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Multiple Wall Panels or Body Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. These allow a higher dose across the entire body to be applied consistently and quickly.
2. Chroma Ironforge or Trinity - code ALEX saves. Great for both local treatment at areas of heavy blood flow (arteries), and the back of the neck. Arguably, the UVA/UVB of the Trinity will boost sleep quality through vitamin D and other mechanisms.
3. Kineon MOVE+ - Use discount code AFERGUSMOVE - this device is best for intravenous light therapy treatment in the neck or other areas

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Full-body treatments show the strongest effects
• Great overall improvements in sleep quality, such as sleep efficiency, less rest needed
• Best evidence base for full-body treatment. Other applications worse
• Best dose in the 30 - 60 J/cm2 range, in studies using full-body applications.
• Melatonin increases of 60–70% are possible
• HRV and stress markers improve consistently
• REM sleep and sleep efficiency increase with brain-targeted treatment
• Even localized or inexpensive setups may provide measurable benefit
• Other opions, such as intravenous light therapy, acupuressure point treatment, and prefrontal cortex treatment, don’t show huge effects for now, meaning that full body treatment is likely the best way to go here.

Sources:

• View Article (2024)
• Video Update (coming soon 2026 - my data in there used for the recommendations below!)

Best Devices (Best at top, May 2026 update):

1. Chroma Trinity - code ALEX saves - the only device that combines red, NIR, UVA and UVB for testosterone maximization
2. A Wall or Body Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do

Justification for choices (from video sheets):

• Animal studies all over the place but SOME show good red/NIR results
• UVB exposure important, likely, as well as sunlight exposure
• But far more high-quality research needed

Notes Bart (from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Not that great amount of research on humans right now, only a few studies and wavelengths/light types are all over the place
• Animal studies not much better, although we have 10 or so now.
• Studies showing that light therapy increases testosterone slightly outnumber those saying it doesn’t. 
• BUT: some of the best studies use UV, on the testicles and chest. Sunlight also associated with higher test in some studies but not others.
• Red light therapy protocols not really well tested in humans in any serious matter, especially not the “testicle tanning”
• So we really need higher quality human research, especially with some well-dosed studies here.
• Best routine? Speculation, but likely a normal dose on the testicles with red/NIR, so 20-40 J/cm2. And, highly likely, a regular UVB across the body.
• Although it’s a science video, I briefly want to mention that a wall/body panel and the Chroma D-Light or Trinity best here IMO. Latter best overall.

Sources:

• Course Episode (Updated 2026) - article & video
• Article (2025)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Chroma Trinity - code ALEX saves - the only device that combines visible, NIR, UVA and UVB for balanced exposure across the board. So this isn't just UV light but also blue, red, near-infrared, for counterbalance.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Build UV exposure very slowly and keep exposure constant over time for lower melanoma risk
• Ensure you’re following a healthy lifestyle and diet for minimizing risk even further - melanoma isn’t just about UV light exposure!
• There are tons and tons of risk factors for both melanoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) - so don’t hyperfocus on sunlight but on all risk factors to get a complete understanding. Join my course to learn why.
• Maximize benefits by using sunlight and some of the UV devices strategically. Chroma Lux Vital and D-Light unparalleled for now!
• Sunlight arguably is the best option for most humans.
• If you live in a very high latitude region, consider a UV light device
• Lifestyle and nutrition also play a huge role in solar protection - more on that in a sec!

Sources:

• Article (2024)
• Course Episode (2026) - article & video

Best Devices (Best at top, May 2026 update):

1. Tabletop Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do, for treating the area you're going to train
2. Wall or Body Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do
3. Chroma Ironforge - code ALEX saves - the only device that combines red, NIR, UVA and UVB for testosterone maximization

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Red light therapy works, especially before workouts.
• Tabletop spot treatment best right now but far more research needed! Parameters all over the place
• Higher doses are necessary for the lower body. NIR best (800 - 1,100 nm)
• However, the upper body may respond more! 
• Men may benefit more than women
• The science is harder to translate into specific devices, as often lasers are used
• Both lasers and LEDs work. Spot treatment seems best now!
• Some endurance studies (running) show no effect right now, but higher doses may be necessary and studies are heterogeneous
• Full body improves sleep but not exercise performance!
• Muscle strength, size & endurance improve, as well as inflammation (2/3 reviews agree)

Sources:

• Course Episode (Upcoming) - article & video

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Handheld Device - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Mito Red, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU will do, for only directly treating the wound
2. Torches - a few companies such as Block Blue Light, Hooga, and Mito Light offer torches or torch-style devices, sometimes with blue light added as well, which is beneficial

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Light therapy works really well for most types of wound healing
• Usually, light therapy works equally well as many other interventions, but easy to apply and no side effects
• Wavelenghts of 400 - 900 nm most common. Also, power outputs of 1 - 10 J/cm2 most common in this case.
• Median around 660 nm wavelength
• Loads of studies (500) published so it’s extremely complex
• Best device types are the handheld devices or torches - simple conclusion in this case
• Simple handheld device will do for almost all cases. If you really want to follow the studies, turn off NIR with the handheld. 
• No device should be too small for wound treatment. If you have bigger wounds than a handheld device, you’ve got bigger problems and go to the hospital ASAP!

Sources:

• Article (2026)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Rojo Dorada Mask, use code ALEX - with the added correct blue wavelength
2. Hooga Blue Light Device - click the link for 10% OFF. This can be used together with any other red/NIR device, such as a tabletop, wall, or body panel.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• The best devices combined low-blue wavelengths between the 400 - 420 nm range, and red, and near-infrared wavelengths
• Light therapy is on par with some pharmaceutical solutions and creams, in terms of effects, and both the blue and red wavelengths are useful here.
• Acne mostly impacts younger generations and has far-reaching consequences for them, so new solutions are needed
• Many other lifestyle and nutrition strategies can work, such as hygiene, vitamin A, D, zinc, etc, but light therapy is a great tool in the toolbox
• I have some great mask recommendations (Rojo!) here, as well as some panels, and one “secret” device…

Sources:

• Article (2025)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Chroma Trinity - code ALEX saves - for combining red, NIR, and blue and UV - make sure to use a bigger distance so the dose gets lower and you have optimal skin treatment. So, longer at a lower dose is better here. This device is recommended due to the UVA/UVB output
2. Tabletop Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Mito Red Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. Focus on the areas affected by eczema.
3. Handheld Devices - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, will do. Focus on the areas directly affected by eczema, with the dosing guidelines below

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Here, red light at 630 - 660 nm and near-infrared light in the 830 - 850 nm range show positive effects on the overactive immune system I've discussed.
• The gold standard, however, for eczema still seems to be ultraviolet light B exposure (the UV light that builds vitamin D in your skin), but I only recommend using that under medical supervision.
• So talk to your family doctor first before applying the UVA/UVB device suggested above
• A combination of red, near-infrared, and ultraviolet B light is likely to give the best eczema support here.
• Red light therapy helps with inflammation and immune modulation and aids your skin barrier function. Lower doses of up to 8-10 J/cm2 are likely best here with the red and near-infrared light.

Sources:

• Article (2025)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Chroma Trinity - code ALEX saves - for combining red, NIR, and blue, UVA and UVB - very helpful for supplying a balanced mix of blue/UVA/red/NIR, that's mostly needed, as well as supplying some UVB in the correct dose and wavelength.
2. Chroma Ironforge - code ALEX saves, for applying higher doses of red/NIR (the device has NIR predominance) in the areas affected by psoriasis.
3. Tabletop Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Mito Red Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. Focus on the areas affected by psoriasis. Get a wall or body panel if a lot of bigger areas are affected.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Different types of light therapy show great promise for psoriasis - ultraviolet, blue, red, and near-infrared light do the trick.
• Blue light reduces redness and scaling but high power and doses are used in many studies. Ultraviolet light, especially UVB (that creates vitamin D in the skin) is the gold standard but is routinely administered by dermatoligist.
• Use UV light at your own risk, and always consult your physician! This is not medical advice.
• Red and near-infrared light with 600–1000 nm wavelengths generally show very positive outcomes as well but use higher doses of 100 - 200 J/cm2 in some studies and high power. More red and blue light therapy studies are needed, however, but existing studies are very promising!
• For full data and context, check my 2025 article.

Sources:

• Article (2024)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Any of the current Gold-rated masks by Alex Fergus - from the Mask Shopping Tool - for facial rosacea
2. Tabletop Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Mito Red Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. Ideally, you have a larger proportion of yellow, and blue in there, but these companies don't offer that yet. Hence, go with masks for your face if you can.

Notes Bart (2024):

• So what light therapy is best for rosacea? Research is currently limited but a combination of red, near-infrared, and some other wavelengths such as blue and/or amber light is probably best.
• Make sure to use a low dose, such as up to 8-10 J/cm2, to emphasize skin beauty and not deep tissue treatment!
• So does light therapy help rosacea? Absolutely, but more research is needed! The best at home light therapy for rosacea devices are listed below once again!

Sources:

• Article (2024)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Tabletop Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do, for treating the area you're going to train
2. Chroma Trinity - code ALEX saves - for combining red, NIR, and blue light - make sure to use a bigger distance so the dose gets lower and you have optimal skin treatment. So, longer at a lower dose is better here. This device is recommended due to the large blue light output

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Red light therapy for scars is extremely promising as a treatment, especially if you're early. Later on, however, you can still get great benefits although the results will be lesser.
• Although the treatment varies for different types of scars, I recommend combining blue light, red light, and near infrared light for the best results.

Sources:

• Article (2024)
• Course Episode (2026 - published soon)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Any of the current Gold-rated masks by Alex Fergus - from the Mask Shopping Tool.
2. Tabletop Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. Ideally, you have a larger proportion of yellow, green, and blue in there, but these companies don't offer that yet. Hence, go with masks for your face if you can.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Needs a combination of blue, amber, red, and near-infrared for the best effects
• Most studies are carried out on the face, as that’s the most visible area of the body
• Different wavelengths work, including UV, blue, amber, red, and near-infrared, and combining them leads to better results. Be careful with UV light though
• Lots of unknowns in the research, but LEDs are effective, no lasers needed
• Surprisingly, even studies with higher doses lead to better outcomes
• But, to remain conservative, use doses of 5 - 15 J/cm2 4-5X a week
• Arguably, if you include blue light, you may need a higher dose, such as 15-30 J/cm2 or even more, as many blue light studies have better effects at higher doses.
• Dosing issue isn’t fully resolved yet though, in the reviews
• No good UV dosing protocols, and here more is not better!
• LEDs can replace lasers in most cases and are even better because of coverage, except for some cases such as melasma
• Consumer devices very useful and better for 99% of people unless you have a clinic
• LEDs generally very safe - no mention of melasma in the studies
• Ideally here, for the face, you’ll use a mask because these more often contain the blue wavelength

Sources:

• Article (2024)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Local sunburn: Tabletop Panels from any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do.
2. Full body sunburn: A Wall or Body Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. Focus on the red/NIR and a lower dose for superficial skin treatment.

Notes Bart (edited from 2024 article):

• It turns out that the answer to the question "is red light therapy good for sunburn" is yes. Don't get overconfident though, as sunburns are still very bad for your health!
• So instead of thinking you can get a sunburn and then use red light therapy for healing purposes, it's better to prevent it in the first place. So, wear long-sleeved clothes and a hat to avoid a sunburn - a strategy already in use for thousands of years!

Sources:

• Article (2024)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. A Wall or Body Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. Focus on deep tissue treatment, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall health!
2. Tabletop Panels from any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. Focus on deep tissue treatment, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall health!

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Unfortunately, there's no easy answer here. I would have loved to tell you that red light therapy for spider veins solves the problem completely.
• Insufficient direct evidence for red light therapy for spider veins (2024), but, loads of supporting mechanistic evidence.
• So, focus on using red light therapy for blood flow, lowering inflammation, workout recovery and capacity, etc, for indirectly countering varicose veins.

Sources:

• Article (2024)
• Course episode update (2026)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Torch - Several companies offer these, such as Block Blue Light, Hooga, or LightpathLED torch, which allow you to treat in the oral cavity. Here, treat the nerve location near the teeth/area that the dentist is going to treat.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Overall, the effects of red light therapy for dental anesthesia injections are highly positive, with 20-40% reductions in pain in both children and adults. That pain is measured with a "VAS" scale, which measures pain levels from 0 - 100.
• Looking at the published literature, the near-infrared wavelengths from the 800 nm and into the 900 nm range have the best level of evidence, and higher doses of 20-70 J/cm2 seem to have better outcomes than lower doses (5 J/cm2) and medium doses (10-15 J/cm2). About 80% of studies show positive outcomes in favor of the light therapy intervention over the placebo.
• Note: For anesthesia during dental treatment, I suggest using the device that your dentist is using, or to find a dentist who applies light therapy. It's very hard to apply a device for the purpose of red light therapy for dental anesthesia yourself because the syringe is placed in a very specific location. Also, the dentist will determine where the anesthesia needs to be applied, so you cannot apply the light therapy yourself before a dentist visit.
  
  

Sources:

• Article (2024)
• Course episode update (2026)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Torch - Several companies offer these, such as Block Blue Light, Hooga, or LightpathLED torch, that allow you to treat in the oral cavity. Here, treat the tooth itself, even towards the root of the tooth.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• The most frequently used wavelengths were 630 nm, 650 - 660 nm, 808/810 nm, and 1,074nm.
• Generally, total doses from 2-10 J/cm2 seem to work best. I recommend you start conservatively and go from there, adjusting by trial and error and always monitoring your outcome.
• Red light therapy for dentin hypersensitivity provides short, medium, and long-term benefits, for periods of up to months. Often, study participants have 40-70% pain reductions, that last for months in not just one but many studies.

Sources:

• Article (2024)
• Course Update (2026)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Torch Device - Several companies offer these, such as Block Blue Light, Hooga, or LightpathLED torch, which allow you to treat in the oral cavity. Here, treat the area affected by wounds. For more recommendations, check my full deep-dive article

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Read the full article, as I list 20 conditions in total, with treatment specifications. I show 20 different benefits of red light therapy in dentistry. These include everything from reducing the side effects of teeth whitening procedures to reducing the risk of side effects of cancer treatments, and more.
• For each goal of light therapy for oral health, I've included specific treatment parameters such as wavelengths and the total dose (in J/cm2) if these are available. I've also recommended some devices at the end of this blog post. Sometimes it's difficult to give great treatment parameters, however, because studies differ so much from each other and there's no "one protocol to rule them all" so to speak.
• The good thing is, the research on this topic is growing (almost) exponentially. In my opinion, the effects or red light therapy can be life-changing for oral health! Those life-changing results are also the reason research is exploding in this area. And with that explosion of knowledge in the coming years, you can expect even better results in the near future!

Sources:

• Article (2024)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Torch Device - Several companies offer these, such as Block Blue Light, Hooga, or LightpathLED torch, which allow you to treat in the oral cavity. Here, treat the area affected by wounds.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Human and animal studies both show benefits for different oral wound-healing goals, such as gum disease, incisions, and ulcers. There's no unique wavelength that works, but red light has slightly more benefit than, say, blue light or near-infrared wavelengths.
• I recommend a total dosage of 1-8 J/cm2. Higher doses perform worse in studies. Some human studies show a 3X increase in wound-healing speed when red light therapy is applied, which is quite significant!
• Many of the torches listed above are red light dominant, such as the Block Blue Light version.
  

Sources:

• Article (2024).
• Course episode update (2026)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Torch Device - Several companies offer these, such as Block Blue Light, Hooga, or LightpathLED torch, that allow you to treat in the oral cavity. Here, treat the tooth itself, even towards the root of the tooth.
2. Hooga Oral Light Therapy Device (we have yet to review this)

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• About 70-75% of studies are positive when using red light therapy during these scaling and root planing procedures. These procedure are non-surgical and often performed at the initial stages of periodontitis. Right now, slightly more near-infrared studies are available here than red light. There is no universal protocol here, however, and the therapy is best applied by a dentist.
• Next up, for surgical periodontal interventions by the dentist, studies are also generally positive for applying red and near-infrared light.
• Unfortunately, there aren't too many studies focused at at-home use of red light therapy for periodontal health. You'll have to treat each gum area for about a 5 J/cm2 dose.
• Anecdotally, in our Facebook group, there are lots of people with great results for periodontal treatment (gum) with light therapy.
  

Sources:

• Course Episode (Upcoming; 2026)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Vielight Neuro Gamme or Duo - code ALEX10 saves for brain treatment. Ideally with Vielight Intranasal MIP. Best overall evidence base for brain-related light therapy.
2. SunPowerLED - code ALEX10 saves. This device is high-power; consult your physician before trying. Check THIS interview for more info on this device.
3. Torch Devices (budget option) - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Block Blue Light, Hooga, will do. Hold at your prefrontal cortex but build up the dose slowly and monitor your response

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Very strong outcomes in recent individual studies on alcohol and opioid addictions
• Simple treatment methods, of generally treating the prefrontal cortex or related areas, with high power (250 mW/cm2), 60 J/cm2, and generally with 810 nm.
• Different devices used in studies, such as the SunPowerLED helmet and devices that look like the Vielight
• Results after treatment last for months in some studies. 2-3 weekly treatment sessions necessary
• Improvements in mood, less addictive behavior, and better self-regulation
• Alternative treatment methods: light therapy torches (inexpensive!)

Sources:

• Course Episode (Upcoming; 2026)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Vielight Neuro Gamme or Duo - code ALEX10 saves for brain treatment. Ideally, with Vielight Intranasal MIP. Best overall evidence base for brain-related light therapy.
2. SunPowerLED - code ALEX10 saves. This device is high-power; consult your physician before trying. Check THIS interview for more info on this device.
3. Neuronic - code AFERGUSUS100 saves - get the Neuronic 1070 helmet if you want to follow the protocol in the published study. Join my Course for more info.
4. Torch Devices (budget option) - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Block Blue Light, Hooga, will do. Hold at your prefrontal cortex but build up the dose slowly and monitor your response

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Very strong anxiolytic in some studies, where HAMD scores are cut by about 50%
• NIR more useful as it’s the only method that has been tested
• Different protocols, but 2/4 studies use transcranial PBM, 1 uses the Neuronic 1070 helmet, and 1 uses ear treatment
• Transcranial studies show best effects so far, but far more research is needed (only 4 studies available now)
• No need for lasers, all of the most promising studies use LEDs

Sources:

• Article (2024)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Vielight Neuro Gamme or Duo - code ALEX10 saves for brain treatment. Ideally with Vielight Intranasal MIP. Best overall evidence base for brain-related light therapy.
2. A Wall or Body Panel for gut treatment - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. Wall/body panel for gut/systemic effects and full body treatment.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Light therapy for autism seems extremely promising, although more research is needed. Preliminary studies show good benefits that can be life-changing over time. For the best results, it's smart to combine sunlight, red light therapy, and blocking blue light at nighttime.
• Use red light therapy once daily, but start very slow with a lower dose.
• Ideally, get sunlight exposure in the morning and in the afternoon. The morning exposure is perfect for setting the circadian rhythm. The afternoon exposure is great for building vitamin D, inflammation, blood flow, and many other factors.

Sources:

• View Article (2023)
• Course Update (2026).

Best Devices (Best at top, May 2026 update):

1. Vielight Neuro Duo - code ALEX10 saves. Ideally with Vielight Intranasal MIP. Best overall evidence base for brain-related light therapy.
2. Chroma Trinity - code ALEX saves - full body red & NIR treatment, such as the abdomen and for getting systemic effects. There's a strong link between vitamin D, UVA/UVB exposure, circadian rhythm, and depression too.
3. A Wall or Body Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. Wall/body panel for systemic effects and full body treatment.

Notes Bart (from course episode) - edited:

• Light therapy can be of help for depression
• Science reviews: Doses of 60-80 J/cm2 seem to work best for most at 800 - 1,100 nm
• My view: power outputs, dosing, wavelengths, treatment areas, all over the place
• Gut, IV, and systemic treatment may have additional benefit
• Few side effects with proper dosing
• Anxiety and addiction impacted too!
• My overall view: medium support!
• Cost-benefit analysis: Well worth it. Huge upsijde

Sources:

• Article (2025)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. No recommendations right now due to risk. Read article to learn why.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Right now, only animal studies are available on red light therapy for epilepsy. Red light therapy may be very promising here, because of its impact on mitochondrial function, oxidative stress (a byproduct of energy production), and inflammation of the brain. Red light therapy targets all these domains.
• With regard to epilepsy in the animal studies, neuroprotection, a reduction of seizures and their intensity, and enhanced neuronal health are found.
• However, we still need human studies to confirm these effects so I'm very skeptical to recommend this intervention without medical supervision.
• It's best to have a medical professional who is specialized in neurology apply the light therapy here.
• For more info, also consider the Dr. Randy Beck interview by Alex Fergus on this topic.

Sources:

• Migraines article (2025)
• Green light therapy article (2023)
• Green light therapy (Coming 2026)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Kineon MOVE+ - Use discount code AFERGUSMOVE - use on the blood flow, transdermally or "intravenously", on the neck. So this is a systemic treatment that's very close to what's being used in the studies.
2. Hooga for green and yellow (590 nm) light (discount automatically applied at checkout).
3. Handheld Devices & Torches - (budget option) any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Hooga, Rouge, Mito Redm Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, will do. You can hold a handheld devices at your prefrontal cortex (roughly forehead) or at the back of your neck, for budget treatment - the same for torch devices.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Both red and green light are very promising here. Red light therapy with the wavelengths between 635 and 904 nm show benefit on acupuncture point applications and intravenously (directly into your bloodstream).
• In these preliminary studies, good results are achieved for how frequently you have a headache or migraine, its severity, and the amount of medication you'll need.
• Far more research is needed with higher-quality studies to draw stronger conclusions. With current studies, it's also highly likely that many treatment protocols that work really well haven't been discovered yet. Some of the studies use more complicated application protocols, such as the intravenous 635 nm light therapy of lasers on acupuncture points - these cannot be replicated by most consumers.
• Green light therapy (500s - 600 nm, give or take!) has also demonstrated pain reduction and improved sleep and anxiety outcomes, especially in responsive individuals, with no major side effects. As green light therapy is cheap, it's very much worth trying in my opinion!

Sources:

• Article (2025)
• Course episode on neurodegeneration (2026 update)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Vielight Neuro Duo - code ALEX10 saves. Ideally, with Vielight Intranasal MIP. Best current overall evidence base for brain-related light therapy.
2. SunPowerLED - code ALEX10 saves. This device is high-power; consult your physician before trying. Check THIS interview for more info on this device.
3. Kineon MOVE+ - Use discount code AFERGUSMOVE - use on the blood flow, transdermally or "intravenously", on the neck. So this is a systemic treatment that's directionally close to what's being used in some of the studies.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Inflammation plays a massive role in MS. Red light therapy plays a massive role in lowering (chronic) inflammation!
• Right now, human studies on red light therapy for MS are limited but they still show some improvement in muscle function, inflammation, and quality of life.
• Animal studies show slowing down the damage to the myelin, enhanced sensory and motor function, and lowering neuroinflammation
• There is a treatment effect, but few high-quality human studies are available right now. "Weird" treatment protocols, such as under the tongue or radial artery on the wrist, or to the tibialis anterior muscle in the lower leg. Ideally we’d see more “common-sense” protocols!

Sources:

• Article (2025)
• Interview (2025)
• Course Update (2026) - "Neurodegeneration & Neurological Conditions" episode

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. SYMBYX Biome - no discount available right now. Good for gut treatment too.
2. Vielight Neuro Duo - code ALEX10 saves. Ideally, with Vielight Intranasal MIP. Best overall evidence base for brain-related light therapy.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Many studies show incredible outcomes but there are few studies on PD and light therapy! Only 5+ high-quality human studies out there.
• Studies in humans show encouraging results, particularly with devices using near-infrared light (e.g., 810–904 nm). Here, you'll see improvements in motor skills, cognition, and quality of life without significant side effects. Longer-term studies yield the best results here, so treatments over months and years likely have the best outcome!
• We don’t know what we don’t know. Other wavelengths and treatment protocols could wok better, and, no long-term effects are fully known!
• SYMBYX has more studies backing it, but Vielight still has a great overall profile

Sources:

• Article (2024)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Vielight Neuro Duo - code ALEX10 saves. Ideally, combined with Vielight Intranasal MIP. Best overall evidence base for brain-related light therapy.
2. Chroma Trinity - code ALEX saves - for blue light therapy for the circadian rhythm, as well as red/NIR therapy across the entire body.
3. Lightpath LED Diesel Blue Combo - use code ALEX and get 5% off. Great for blue light as well, as it emits a large portion of blue, which is optimal for the circadian rhythm. I still think the Chroma Trinity is far more optimal.

Notes Bart (edited from 2024 article):

• Light therapy for PTSD is just getting started. And, both red and blue light therapy applications are already very promising.
• Red light therapy when applied around the traumatic event may prevent PTSD from forming. Blue light therapy in the morning may improve fear, insomnia, and other symptoms. Of course, both can be used together for the best effects.

Sources:

• Article (2025)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Vielight Neuro Duo - code ALEX10 saves. Ideally, combined with Vielight Intranasal MIP. Best overall evidence base for brain-related light therapy.
2. Kineon MOVE+ - Use discount code AFERGUSMOVE - use on the blood flow, transdermally or "intravenously", on the neck. So this is a systemic treatment that's directionally close to what's being used in some of the studies.
3. SunPowerLED - code ALEX10 saves. This device is high-power; consult your physician before trying. Check THIS interview for more info on this device.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• In current publications, red light therapy improves Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) at many different mechanisms. Mechanisms include inflammation of the brain ("neuroinflammation"), mitochondrial function (the energy-producing factories of your cells), blood flow, the creation of new brain cells, and so forth.
• For TBI, both light therapy through the skull ("transcranial") and directly into the bloodstream ("intravascular") are promising. The human studies here show improvements in cognition, mood, sleep, and cerebral blood flow with minimal side effects. Red light therapy is also relatively affordable and should thus be used together with other therapies.
• For the best results, I recommend early treatment--but make sure to talk to your doctor first! Supervision of medical professionals is essential here.
• More research on red light therapy for TBI is needed. But current publications are already promising.

Sources:

1. Article (2023)
2. Course Episode (soon published, 2026)

Best Devices (best at top):

1. Kineon MOVE+ - Use discount code AFERGUSMOVE - this device is best for the knee and other smaller joints
2. Chroma Ironforge - Use discount code ALEX - this device is recommended for bigger joints, such as the shoulders and hip.
3. Handheld Devices - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rouge, Mito Redm Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, will do. This device is especially great for treating small joints, and getting a versatile device
4. A Wall or Body Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. This device is especially great for multiple joints and Rheumatoid Arthritis, which is a systemic condition.

Notes Bart (from videos and articles):

• Kineon MOVE+ Pro is a great consumer tool
• For even better penetration, you may want to use high-powered lasers such as class III and IV lasers
• Skin contact treatment almost certainly superior in this case!
• NIR superior
• Device such as Ironforge very good as alternative to MOVE+ Pro - especially for other joints such as the hip
• MOVE+ Pro and Ironforge have superior wavelengths for these goals, also NIR predominance
• Panels can work but they are harder to use correctly on the anatomy

Sources:

• Back & neck pain article (2024)
• Sciatica article (2026)
• Course Episode (Upcoming 2026)

Best Devices for back pain (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Handheld or Tabletop Panels from any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Mito Red, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. Focus on deep tissue treatment, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall health!
2. Chroma Ironforge - Use discount code ALEX - this device is recommended for the lower and middle back, ideally with stand.
3. Kineon MOVE+ - Use discount code AFERGUSMOVE - this device is best if you need to keep a device in place in a specific location

Best Devices for neck pain (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Kineon MOVE+ - Use discount code AFERGUSMOVE - this device is best for the neck, as you can place it in a very specific location, such as the cervical spine.
2. Handheld or Tabletop Panels from any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Mito Red, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. Focus on deep tissue treatment, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall health!
3. Chroma Ironforge - Use discount code ALEX - only get this if you can easily move it around your neck. Great for travel and quick treatment.

Best Devices for sciatica (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Handheld or Tabletop Panels from any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Mito Red, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. Focus on the spinal area, especially the lumbar and sacral spine region.
2. Chroma Ironforge - Use discount code ALEX - only get this if you can easily move it in the area, around the spinal/sacral area.
3. Kineon MOVE+ - Use discount code AFERGUSMOVE - this device is best for the neck, as you can place it in a very specific location, such as the the lumbar or sacral spine or that area. This option is superior for people who cannot treat the area themselves by holding a device there, or want to be able to move while treating the area.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• High intensity treatment better than lower intensity, especially for sciatica and neck pain
• Objective VAS reductions are the result, as well as lower disability. Sometimes improvements in movement visible, as well as function
• Near-infrared light superior.
• Focus treatment on vertebral area in all 3 cases, including nerve locations
• Generally red light therapy is best paired with exercise, although not all studies show a difference.
• Much more research needed in all 3 areas.
• Best to start with interventions such as light therapy, TENS, PEMF, as a conservative treatment. DYOR really well before considering any surgery.
• Full updates in upcoming course episode.
• Back pain: Expect improvements after one or multiple sessions. Experiment with doses as they go as high as a whopping 1,500 J/cm2.
• Neck pain: Start with a lower dose (up to 20 J/cm2, give or take). Monitor your response and adjust accordingly.

Sources:

• Article (2025)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Body & Wall Panels from any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Mito Red, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. Focus on covering the full body. Go low and slow and monitor your response, then increase intensity/duration.
2. Tabletop Panels from any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Mito Red, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. This is recomended if you cannot afford wall or body panels.
3. Chroma Ironforge - Use discount code ALEX - for spot treatment on fibromyalgia points. This device has a high intensity, so go slow and monitor, but, you can treat your entire body with this on more of a budget.
4. Kineon MOVE+ - Use discount code AFERGUSMOVE - use this device on your neck, for systemic effects, with the "transcermal" or (technically "intravenous") method. You're treating your blood flow, not the location.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Some recent medical studies show that red light therapy can improve insulin sensitivity (how well your cells take up "sugars" from the bloodstream using insulin) and lower blood glucose spikes after meals. For instance, shining 670 nm red light at the back lowers blood sugar levels by a whopping 27.7%! The light was applied after a meal.
• Other studies have shown beneficial effects with the application of 830 nm near-infrared light to the legs and 630 nm red light, which is directly emitted into the bloodstream. Near-infrared light reduces blood sugar levels, while red light boosts blood flow and mitigates the damaging effects of high blood sugar.
• Read my 2025 article for full context about these studies.

Sources:

• Article (2024)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Tabletop Panels from any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Mito Red, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. Focus on deep tissue treatment, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall health!

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• For diabetic neuropathy, tons of different human studies exist, and most of them (80%+) have positive outcomes. What seems to work best according to the science, is a lower power output, treatment directly on the front and the bottom of the feet with contact of the device, and a combination of red and near-infrared wavelengths. Sensation, pain, balance, and function will improve with these, with an average of 3 treatments per week for at least 1 month.
• A tabletop device where the power output can be adjusted likely works best, as you only need 3-5 J/cm2 per location. Over time, you can increase the dose to 30-40 J/cm2 max, which is used in some of the studies.

Sources:

• Article (2025)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Body & Wall Panels from any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Mito Red, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. Focus on covering the full body. Go low and slow and monitor your response.
2. NovoTHOR (mention ALEX FERGUS). This device is expensive, but used in many of the fibromyalgia studies. At $100K+ USD, the option is far too expensive for most people and I recommend getting a body or wall panel before you'd get a NovoTHOR, or even one or several tabletops if you have budget constraints.
3. Tabletop Panels from any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Mito Red, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. This is recomended if you cannot afford wall or body panels.
4. Chroma Ironforge - Use discount code ALEX - for spot treatment on fibromyalgia points. This device has a high intensity so go slow and monitor.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• There's no one single treatment protocol that's working, but full-body red light therapy exposure has the best cards right now.
• For the whole body red light therapy, twice weekly treatments is used in the studies most often. It may be recommended to deviate from that frequency, however, and monitor your outcome - do what works for you!
• Next up, high-powered red light therapy at fibromyalgia pain points is your best bet.
• Combining the red light therapy with strategies such as exercise within your limits, potential medication, and even cognitive behavioral therapy likely yields the best results. So there's no reason to focus on red light therapy exclusively.
  

Sources:

• Article (2025)
• Update article/video (2026)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Handheld Devices Or Torches from any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Mito Red, Hooga, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. Focus on deep tissue treatment, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall health! A torch device, such as from Hooga or Block Blue Light, is likely slightly easier to target the tissues.
2. Chroma Ironforge - Use discount code ALEX - this device is recommended for higher dose treatment and should deliver more light deeper into the tissues, which is an advantage as the thyroid needs a higher dose.
3. Kineon MOVE+ - Use discount code AFERGUSMOVE - this device is best for ease of use, as you can directly target the thyroid while getting on with your day.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Higher doses, of 20-30 J/cm2 and arguably much higher (translating to LEDs) can be life-changing for hypothyroidism, especially (Hashimotos in many studies).
• If necessary, you may need to increase the dose to 100 - 200 J/cm2 (only under medical supervision!)
• More or less 10 human studies available, with good results across the board, with lower TSH levels, smaller thyroid volume, better T4/T3 values, less antibodies, etc
• A few smaller devices will work really well here - NIR dominant as in the studies. Arguably a smaller device is best here as it's easier to apply to the area.
• My article here gives tons of background info such as other strategies for thyroid health, don’t ignore these!

Sources:

• Article (2024)
• Video (Upcoming 2026)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Kineon MOVE+ - Use discount code AFERGUSMOVE - this device is best for the knee and other smaller joints. This is also the ease of use #1, as you can directly target the joint and continue with your activity
2. Chroma Ironforge - Use discount code ALEX - this device is recommended for higher dose treatment and should deliver more light deeper into the tissues.
3. Handheld Devices - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, will do. Handheld devices are more versatile, like the Chroma Ironforge, and you can use them to treat many other areas fo the body
4. Any Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. They are harder to directly fit on the anatomy of the knee though.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• “Knee pain” is multifactorial and consists of multiple conditions - patellofemoral knee pain is very different from meniscus pain, which is different from MCL or ACL problems
• 25% of adults have knee pain, that number is increasing, and risk increases with age
• Knee Osteoarthritis good evidence base, other pain types less so
• Overall 10 - 30 J/cm2, with slight NIR predominance likely best, given current evidence. All of these devices allow for a roughly 10 - 30 J/cm2 dose, and potentially more
• Even panels should work well, and have proven benefits for surrounding tissues, but none of the studies investigate that. So that remark is speculative!

Sources:

• Article (2024)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. A Handheld Panel or Torch - Several companies such as Block Blue Light, Rouge, Mito Red, Hooga, offer torch-style devices or handheld panels.
2. Tabletop Panels from any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. Focus on deep tissue treatment, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall health!

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• In terms of red light therapy for neuropathy, there's loads of very positive animal study evidence. Human research is sparse, for now, but promising. It's very hard to translate that sparse research into clear human recommendations.
• For the best results, you'll want a clear diagnosis of the exact area that's affected by neuropathy, by a medical professional. A diagnosis with the affected area makes targeted treatment possible.
• Often, you'll have to treat the area in the spine where the neuropathy originates, such as if you've got herniated discs, bulging discs, spinal stenosis, arthritis, etc, or problems further along in the nervous system, towards your peripheral tissues.

Sources:

• Article (2025)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. A Tabletop Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Mito Red, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. Ideally used at the chest, rib, and abdominal area.
2. Chroma Ironforge - Use discount code ALEX - this device is recommended for higher dose treatment and should deliver more light deeper into the tissues around the chest/ribs/abdomen.
3. A Wall or Body Panel for max body coverage. Any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Mito Red, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. It's harder to deliver a high dose to the target tissue of the chest/abdomen/ribs with a wall or body panel, without applying a super high dose to the rest of the body also, hence a 3rd place here.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Some animal and foundational laboratory studies (in vitro) show lowered inflammation and enhanced pancreatic function with light therapy treatment.
• Human studies are sparse, but it's likely that many biological mechanisms, such as chronic inflammation, are affected by applying light.
• More high-quality human studies are needed on this topic.
• But, if I had this condition, I would treat the area under my chest, around my lower ribs, with either handheld or tabletop devices, directly pressed against the skin for deepest penetration.

Sources:

• Article (2024)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. A Wall or Body Panel for max body coverage. Any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Mito Red, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do.
2. A Tabletop Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Mito Red, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• No direct studies on red light therapy and restless legs syndrome exist. However, red light therapy likely affects many of the underlying mechanisms plagueing people with the condition, such as inflammation, depression and anxiety, poor sleep, relaxation, sleep quality, and blood sugar control.
• Red light therapy is worth a try because standard medical treatment with pharmaceuticals may be paired with side effects.
• For the best results, I recommend using red light therapy for restless leg syndrome in a more systemic approach. Not only have the studies above demonstrated that the systemic approach is best for depression and anxiety, the same is also true for many of the sleep quality benefits studies.
• For you that means that a bigger red light therapy setup that hits a more significant percentage of your skin is arguably the best for countering restless legs syndrome. Of course, price will be a problem for many people when they're looking at a red light therapy panel setup.
  

Sources:

• Article/video (2026)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Handheld panels - such as Rouge Nano (has NIR only mode) or Block Blue Light PowerPanel Portable. Both arguably have 50 - 75 mW/cm2 with the contact method (3-4 J/cm2). Others: Mito Light Bulb 5.0 for EU (NIR only option), Hooga HG24, etc
2. Chroma Ironforge - Use discount code ALEX - for 500 mW/cm2, and NIR predominance. So 30J/cm2 per minute, meaning you only need to treat for about 30 seconds
3. Kineon MOVE+ - Use discount code AFERGUSMOVE - which is ideal if you cannot hold the device due to shoulder pain. Also optimal for treating specific areas such as the biceps tendon, supraspinatus origin, etc. Follow instructions. Downside: knowing anatomy!
4. Any Tabletop, Wall, or Body Panel that you can use directly on the skin. If you buy a device for shoulder pain only, you're got no need for a huge panel.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• NIR superior evidence right now, at 5 - 20 J/cm2, mostly for SIS and frozen shoulder. Wavelengths between 800 - 1,100, but mostly 800 - 905
• About 5 - 20 J/cm2 dose with NIR (may want to buy NIR only device or NIR predominant device here!)
• Benefits mostly for pain and range of motion, less for function
• Great tool together with exercise or physical therapy
• Lots of caveats with the research though - check my full article/video for more info. Treatment difficult as many studies are laser-based, but generally will need to treat the affected area, which studies also do.

Sources:

• Article (2025)

Best Devices (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Kineon MOVE+ - Use discount code AFERGUSMOVE - apply on the tendon, and also the bone area where the tendon is attached.
2. A Handheld Panel or Torch - Several companies such as Block Blue Light, Rouge, Mito Red, Hooga, offer torch-style devices or handheld panels.
3. A Tabletop Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Mito Red, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do.
4. A Wall or Body Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. You likely won't need a wall or body panel to treat a tendon, but of course, for general health benefits, it's far superior.

Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Red light therapy has a decent evidence base for tendinopathy, with animal studies leading. Human studies generally show benefit with doses of 2 - 20 J/cm2 per day and an emphasis on near-infrared light.
• For the best results you'll have to treat your tendon several times per week. More research is needed here, however, with the testing of different treatment parameters and devices.
• For the best results, combine exercise, lifestyle adjustments, physical therapy, and red light therapy. 

Sources:

• COVID article (2024)
• Cold sores article (2025)
• Course update (2026 - coming soon, also includes infections in general)

Best Devices for COVID (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Kineon MOVE+ for intravenous treatment - Use discount code AFERGUSMOVE - place this device on an artery, such as in your neck, wrist, etc, for intravenous treatment, which has a good evidence base for COVID
2. Chroma Trinity for UVA/UVB exposure, immune support, melanin, and vitamin D - Use discount code ALEX. Great for full-body targeting with red/NIR as well.
3. A Tabletop Panel - any of the best/most reputable companies, such as Rojo, Mito Red, Rouge, Block Blue Light, Mito Light EU, PlatinumLED, will do. Primarily aim at the chest, lungs, neck (thymus), and back.

Best Devices for Herpes Simplex (Best at top - May 2026 update):

1. Kineon MOVE+ - Use discount code AFERGUSMOVE - use on your lips.
2. A Handheld Panel or Torch - Several companies such as Block Blue Light, Rouge, Mito Red, Hooga, offer torch style devices or handheld panels.

COVID Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Overall, red light therapy is helpful for COVID-19. Light therapy of great help for HSV-1 infections and general immune support.
• Less evidence for other viral infections such as influenza. No evidence on many other viral infections. For full context/understanding, check the course update (2026 - coming soon)
• Best evidence-based treatment with devices really depends on the infection.
• More research needed for COVID-19, counterintuitively, as research really has slowed down since 2023. For COVID, light therapy is best for, prevention, early treatment, and mild cases, and less likely works in studies with severe problems. No side effects established right now!
• As always, these interventions are best to be viewed as part of a general health regimen. Other light sources extremely important here, such as UVA/UVB
• For COVID, many good outcomes such as preventing an overactive immune system, excess inflammation, and better breathing patterns as outcome. Lower viral load and lower pneumonia risk, shorter hospitalization time.

HSV-1 Notes Bart (edited from 2026+ videos and articles):

• Currently, there are 20+ studies on red light therapy for herpes labialis. 
• Most of these studies show huge improvements, such as halving the symptomatic period. The studies generally use different wavelengths, such as 650, 660, 808, 870, and 1,072 nm, and generally use lower dosages, such as 5 - 10 J/cm2, for great results. 
• If you don't get results, use doses of up to 30 J/cm2.

Below, you can find the red light therapy basics - these articles are best when you're just starting out with red light therapy:

• 36 Powerful Red Light Therapy Benefits
• Benefits Of Red Light Tanning Beds (+ Alternatives!)
• Discount Codes, Deals & Recommendations - Red Light Therapy
• How to Choose A Red Light Therapy Device: Complete Guide
• How To Use Red Light Therapy 101: The Best Guide For Starters
• How To Use Red Light Therapy At Home: Expert Tips
• Is Red Light Therapy Science-Based? An Introduction
• Red Light Therapy Dosing Chart: The Raw Data From Hundreds Of Studies
• Red Light Therapy Dosing: Why It's Complicated!
• Red Light Therapy Panel Size: What You Need To Know!
• Red Light Therapy Pros & Cons: The Complete List
• Red Light Therapy Treatment Area: Do Bigger Panels Give Better Light Coverage?
• Risk & Dangers: The Real Deal With Red Light Therapy
• The Power Of Red Light Therapy On Mitochondria
• The Ultimate Red Light Therapy Shopping Tool
• What Is Red Light Therapy?

Below, you'll see all the comparisons of different red light therapy products. These comparisons will help you make a better decision, depending on your needs and desires:

• Best Red Light Therapy Full-Body Panels 2024: Huge Comparison!
• Best Red Light Therapy Panel 2025: Epic Comparison
• MitoADAPT MIN Vs BioMAX 300: Which Is Better?
• Mito Light Vs PlatinumLED, Block Blue Light & Rojo!
• PlatinumLED Vs Block Blue Light Vs Rojo: Big Showdown!
• PlatinumLED Biomax Vs Block Blue Light Mega: Big Battle
• Pulsed Red Light Therapy Panels: My Top Options!
• Red Light Therapy Panel Length: Unveiling The Top-3 Tallest Panels!
• Red Light Therapy Panels At Home Panels 2024-2025 Revealed!
• Red Light Therapy Stand Options: An Extensive Guide!
• The 11 Best Red Light Therapy Travel Devices!
• The Best Budget-Friendly Red Light Therapy Panel Review
• The Best Handheld Red Light Therapy Device: Epic Review
• The Best 810nm Red Light Therapy Panel For Amazing Health Benefits
• The Best Valued Red Light Therapy Panel 2025! The Ultimate Guide
• The Most Powerful Red Light Therapy Panels Compared!
• The Top-5 Soundproof Red Light Therapy Panels: Must-Read!
• The Ultimate Red Light At Home Device Review 2024: Wall Panels Special!
• Top 12 Lowest EMF Panels Compared - Minimize EMF Exposure!
• Top 5 Red Light Panels If Money Doesn't Matter
• Unveiling The Top-5 Widest Red Light Therapy Panels!

• Blue Light Therapy: Everything You Need To Know
• Color Light Therapy: All You Need to Know
• Green Light Therapy Benefits: The Very Promising Science
• Red Light Vs Blue Light Therapy: Benefits And Differences
• 590nm Wavelength Health Effects Ultimate Guide
• 660nm Wavelength Health Effects Cheatsheet
• 810 Nanometer Wavelength Health Benefits/Effects Cheatsheet
• The 830nm Wavelength Health Effects Cheatsheet
• 850nm Wavelength Health Effects: The Ultimate Guide
• 1,064nm (1,060nm) Wavelength Health Benefits: Everything You Need To Know
• Red Light Therapy Vs Infrared Sauna: Everything You Need To Know
• Red Light Therapy Wavelengths Benefits: The Ultimate Guide

• Does Red Light Therapy Work With Clothes On? My Experiment
• Does Red Light Therapy Create Vitamin D? Check This Important Data!
• Fire Vs Red Light Therapy: A Must-See Experiment
• How Often Should You Use Red Light Therapy Explained
• Red Light Therapy: What’s The Ideal Distance from Skin?
• Red Light Therapy Pulsing: Worthless Or Useful? A Science Breakdown
• Red Light Therapy Treatment Protocols: A Startling Revelation
• Starting A Red Light Therapy Business: Doctor & Entrepreneur With Clinic Case Study!
• Sunlight Vs Red Light Therapy: Exciting Experiment!
• The Surprising Amount Your Red Light Panel Costs To Run
• Using Red Light Therapy Stands Of OTHER Companies?!
• Using A $20 Grow Light For Red Light Therapy - Fact Or Fiction?