Red Light Therapy and Cancer: What the Science Really Says

Explore the research behind red light therapy, photobiomodulation (PBM), and near-infrared light (NIR), and their potential roles in cancer care—from pain relief to mitochondrial support.

Researched and written by Keith Bishop, Clinical Nutritionist, Cancer Coach, and Retired Pharmacist, and Founder of Prevail Over Cancer and Prevail Protocol

Introduction: What is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy (RLT), also known as Photobiomodulation (PBM) and Photodynamic Therapy (PDT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-wavelength red light or near-infrared light to stimulate cellular function. It’s gaining traction for its potential to support skin health, reduce inflammation, promote tissue repair, and alleviate neuropathy symptoms.[i]

RLT targets the mitochondria, the energy-producing centers of cells. When exposed to specific wavelengths (typically 600–850 nm), mitochondria absorb the light, stimulate mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase, and produce more ATP (adenosine triphosphate)—the energy currency of the cell. This boost in cellular energy enhances healing, reduces oxidative stress, and decreases inflammation.[ii]

Red-Light Therapy Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Red light therapy may not be appropriate for every patient, especially during active cancer treatment. Always consult your oncology team before starting or changing any therapy.

How Red-Light Therapy Works

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Red Light Therapy and Other Health Issues

Beyond its cosmetic applications, RLT has been studied for its effects on several health issues, including:

• Skin rejuvenation: May reduce wrinkles, scars, and acne by stimulating collagen and fibroblast production.[iii]
• Wound healing: Shown to accelerate tissue repair and reduce inflammation.[iv]
• Muscle recovery: Used by athletes to reduce soreness and improve performance.[v]
• Joint pain relief: May help with arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.[vi]
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Decreases the number of inflamed cells.[vii]
• Neurological support: Being explored for cognitive benefits in conditions like dementia[viii], Alzheimer’s[ix], and Parkinson’s[x].
• Psychiatric Disorders: Major depressive disorder, general anxiety disorder, dementia, traumatic brain injury, schizophrenia, and sexual dysfunction.[xi]
• Depression: Weekly application of 810 nm on the bilateral prefrontal area seems to be ideal for the maintenance of the antidepressant effects.[xii]
• Sleep: Whole-body (PBM) improves sleep quality, as determined by a subjective questionnaire and a commercial sleep tracker, with higher serum melatonin and lower nighttime heart rate in participants.[xiii] 
• Eye Health: PBM can enhance treatment outcomes in several ocular diseases, including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and dry eye disease. Patients undergoing PBM have reported improvements in visual acuity, reduced retinal inflammation, and better tear film stability.[xiv]
• Traumatic Brain Injury: Near-infrared light can penetrate the brain.  NIR light increases mitochondrial respiration (energy), activates transcription factors, reduces inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress, and inhibits apoptosis (cell death).[xv]

How Deep Does Red Light Therapy Penetrate?

The depth of penetration of red light depends on its wavelength.[xvi]

• Red light (600–700 nm) typically penetrates up to 5–10 mm (approximately 0.2 to 0.4 inches) into soft tissue. It's most effective for skin and superficial musculoskeletal applications. This level is often referred to as low-level light therapy (LLLT).

• Near-infrared light (700–1100 nm) can reach 20–30 mm or more (approximately 0.8 to 1.2 inches), depending on tissue type, wavelength, and power density. This makes it suitable for deeper targets, such as joints, muscles, and even parts of the brain.

Red Light Therapy vs Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) Comparison

Red Light Therapy and Cancer

A group of researchers performed a systematic review of the current literature addressing the safety and efficacy of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) in cancer patients. They found a significant and growing body of literature indicating that PBMT is safe and effective and may even improve patients' overall survival.[xvii]

In patients receiving surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation therapy for head and neck cancer and breast cancer, PBMT:

• Reduced oral mucositis (inflammation in the mouth and throat) and improved the long-term survival.[xviii]
• Reduced Epithelitis or acute radiation dermatitis[xix] [xx]
• Decreased the incidence of acute dysphagia (swallowing problems), total parenteral nutrition (feeding liquids), and opioid pain medication use.[xxi]
• Reduced Xerostomia (dry mouth).[xxii]
• Decongestive therapies provided a significant improvement in lymphedema (swelling)-related symptoms, arm mobility, emotional distress,[xxiii] and reduced pain[xxiv] in patients with breast cancer and treatments.

Who Should Avoid Red Light Therapy?

• People with photosensitive conditions
• Those taking photosensitizing medications
• Active tumors (unless supervised)
• Pregnancy (precautionary)
• Eye conditions without protection

Low-level light Therapy (LLLT) in animals is not known to induce cancer to grow.[xxv]

Emerging studies indicate that red light therapy may play a role in cancer treatment, particularly through photodynamic therapy (PDT). Research has explored its effects on skin cancers, esophageal cancer, lung cancer, and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. A study on melanoma found that red light phototherapy inhibited tumor growth and enhanced immune response. Another investigation into hypoxic tumors—which are notoriously resistant to conventional treatments—demonstrated that red-light-activated compounds could induce cancer cell death even in low-oxygen environments.

Cancers and Cancer-Associated Challenges Studied with Red Light Therapy and NIR Near-Infrared Therapy

• Actinic Keratosis[xxvi]
• Melanoma[xxvii]
• Breast cancer[xxviii] [xxix]
• Head and neck cancer[xxx]
• Glioblastoma (brain cancer)[xxxi]
• Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma[xxxii]
• Oral Mucositis Management[xxxiii]
• Liver Cancer[xxxiv]
• Chemotherapy-induced alopecia (hair loss)[xxxv]
• Xerostomia Induced Cancer Treatment[xxxvi]

Photobiomodulation with Chemotherapy

Research is beginning to examine the combination of Red-Light NIR therapy and chemotherapy. The following chemotherapy drugs exhibit enhanced anticancer effects when combined with RLT NIR Therapy.

• Cisplatin[xxxvii]
•  

Red Light Therapy and Pain

Red Light Therapy Impact on Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy

Researchers found that PBM was a promising, low-cost resource for managing sensory symptoms of CIPN, with positive clinical effects on balance and gait speed.[xxxviii]

Neuropathic Pain Questionnaire (DN-4), the Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy Assessment Tool (FANPIQ) and its interference items, and the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) were used. Balance was assessed by measuring displacement amplitude, speed, and area using a force platform on rigid and deformable surfaces. The 10-meter walk test assessed gait speed (GS).

Red Light NIR Biphasic Response in Cancer

Red light and near-infrared (NIR) therapy are gaining traction in cancer care—not as direct cures, but as modulators (modifiers) of cellular behavior with dose-dependent effects. NIR light exhibits a biphasic response, meaning its biological impact varies dramatically with fluence (energy per unit area). At low fluence, NIR can stimulate mitochondrial activity, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue repair—beneficial for cancer-related fatigue, wound healing, and immune support. This regenerative effect is supported by studies showing enhanced ATP production and reduced oxidative stress at lower doses. For example, low-level NIR exposure has been shown to activate cytochrome c oxidase and improve cellular resilience in damaged tissues.[xxxix]

However, high fluence NIR flips the script. When delivered at higher intensities, NIR light can induce oxidative damage, disrupt mitochondrial membranes, and trigger apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells. This cytotoxic (cell toxic) potential is being explored in photothermal and photodynamic therapies, where targeted NIR exposure helps ablate tumors while sparing surrounding tissue. A recent review in Nature Reviews Clinical Oncology highlights how NIR-II wavelengths (1000–1700 nm) penetrate more deeply and deliver more precise energy to tumors, thereby enhancing therapeutic outcomes.[xl] Similarly, Nature Biotechnology discusses how NIR-II imaging improves tumor visualization and treatment accuracy.[xli]

This biphasic nature of NIR therapy underscores the importance of fluence calibration. In cancer care, low-dose NIR may support recovery and immune modulation, while high-dose NIR may serve as a strategic tool for tumor targeting. Understanding this duality enables clinicians and patients to utilize red light therapy more safely and effectively—whether for symptom relief or as an adjunctive treatment.

Based on current peer-reviewed literature, red light and near-infrared (NIR) light as sole treatments—without adjunctive chemicals or therapies—have shown variable effects on cancer cell growth depending on wavelength, dose, cancer type, and cellular redox status. Here's a focused summary of what the research says:

🔬 Impact of Red Light & NIR Monotherapy on Cancer Cell Growth

✅ 1. Low-Level NIR Can Inhibit Cancer Cell Proliferation

• Study: In vitro exposure of human breast cancer cells (MCF-7) to 830 nm NIR light reduced proliferation and induced apoptosis.
• Mechanism: Mitochondrial stress and modulation of ATP production.
• Reference: Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology, 2020

✅ 2. Red Light May Suppress Tumor Growth in Specific Models

• Study: Red light (630–660 nm) reduced tumor volume in murine models of melanoma and breast cancer.
• Mechanism: Modulation of inflammatory cytokines and induction of apoptosis.
• Note: Effects were dose-dependent—low fluence promoted healing, while higher fluence suppressed tumor growth.
• Reference: International Immunology, Oxford Academic, 2021

⚠️ 3. Biphasic Dose Response: Low Doses May Stimulate Growth

• Observation: Some studies report that low-dose red or NIR light can stimulate cancer cell proliferation due to enhanced mitochondrial activity and ATP production.
• Implication: Careful dosing is critical—too little may promote growth, while optimal dosing may suppress it.
• Reference: MDPI – Near Infrared Photoimmunotherapy Review, 2023

Summary of Red Light and NIR Effects

Red Light & NIR Therapy Dosing Chart for Cancer Contexts

Supporting References:

• Reduction of Tumor Oxygenation During and After Photodynamic Therapy – British Journal of Cancer, 1998
• Near Infrared Photoimmunotherapy Review – MDPI, 2023
• Photobiomodulation Therapy: Mechanisms and Dose Response – Frontiers in Bioengineering, 2020

Recommended Wavelengths, Dosages & Treatment Parameters

The PlatinumLED Red Light Panels used at https://www.hyperbaric.plus/red-light-panels, when used for 10 minutes, exceed the 30–60 J/cm² threshold, confirming that even a 10-minute session delivers a high fluence suitable for protocols aimed at inhibiting cancer cell growth or inducing apoptosis.

⚠️ Important Note for Readers:

Because red light and NIR therapy exhibit a biphasic dose-response, meaning that low doses may stimulate cell growth while higher doses may inhibit it, individuals considering light therapy for cancer-related concerns should always consult with a qualified practitioner. Personalized guidance ensures that fluence, wavelength, and treatment timing are tailored to the cancer type, stage, and therapeutic goals.

⚠️ Clinical Red Light Therapy Considerations

• Tumor Type Sensitivity: Effects vary widely across cell lines—some glioblastoma and pancreatic models show resistance.
• No Universal Protocol: There is no standardized dose or wavelength for cancer monotherapy using red/NIR light.
• Avoid Generalization: While promising, results are not universally inhibitory—some contexts may promote survival.

Natural Compounds That May Enhance Red Light Therapy

PDT utilizes red light NIR to activate photosensitizing agents, destroying cancer cells. Several natural compounds have been investigated for their potential to augment the effects of red-light therapy, including curcumin, resveratrol, and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). These compounds are known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties, and emerging research suggests they may complement photodynamic therapy (PDT) when exposed to specific light wavelengths.

• Curcumin: Found in turmeric, curcumin has demonstrated photosensitizing properties, meaning it can become more effective in generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) when exposed to red light. These ROS can help target and destroy cancer cells, making curcumin a potential adjunct in photodynamic therapy (PDT)- based cancer therapy.[xlii] However, its poor bioavailability remains a challenge, leading researchers to explore nanoparticle formulations that enhance its absorption.[xliii]
• I often recommend Onco-Adjunct Pathway 2 as a source of highly absorbed curcumin.
• Quercetin: A natural antihistamine, was found to enhance the effectiveness of PDT in treating Triple Negative Breast Cancer and Melanoma.[xliv]
• I often recommend Onco-Adjunct Pathway 2 as a source of highly absorbed curcumin.
• Berberine: Based on mechanisms of action, combining berberine with red light therapy MAY offer synergistic cancer benefits. At the time of publication, the combination of berberine and red-light treatment has not been evaluated.
• I often recommend Onco-Adjunct Pathway 3 as a source of highly absorbed berberine.
• Resveratrol: This polyphenol, commonly found in red grapes, has been studied for its ability to modulate oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation in cancer therapy. Research suggests that resveratrol may enhance the cytotoxic effects of PDT when combined with light exposure, potentially increasing cancer cell destruction while protecting healthy cells from oxidative damage.[xlv]
• I often recommend Onco-Adjunct Pathway 4 for a source of highly absorbed resveratrol.
• EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate): A key component of green tea, EGCG has antioxidant and anti-cancer properties that may complement light-based cancer treatments. Studies indicate that EGCG can increase the susceptibility of cancer cells to oxidative stress, making them more vulnerable to therapies like red light therapy and PDT.[xlvi]
• I often recommend Onco-Adjunct Pathway 4 for a source of highly absorbed EGCG.

While these compounds show promise, their clinical applications remain under investigation, and further studies are needed to determine optimal dosages, wavelengths, and treatment protocols. I recommend consulting with functional medicine practitioners who are familiar with supplements and red-light therapy, as well as your specific health challenges.

Learn about ProtiSorb™ enhanced polyphenol absorption. 

Methylene Blue and Red-Light Therapy: A Powerful Combination

Enhancing Mitochondrial Function

Methylene blue is a photosensitizer that has been studied for its ability to enhance mitochondrial function when combined with red light therapy. Research suggests that methylene blue can act as an electron donor, supporting the electron transport chain in mitochondria and improving cellular energy production. When exposed to red or near-infrared light, methylene blue stimulates cytochrome oxidase, a key enzyme in mitochondrial respiration, thereby increasing ATP production and enhancing cellular metabolism.

Click or tap here to read our Methylene Blue and Cancer Blog. 

Red Light Therapy Neuroprotective Benefits

Studies indicate that methylene blue, when combined with red light therapy, may offer neuroprotective benefits. Research has explored its potential to reduce oxidative stress, improve cognitive function, and support brain health. A study published in Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience found that low-dose methylene blue and near-infrared light could protect neurons from degeneration, suggesting potential applications in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Additionally, methylene blue has been shown to increase neuroplasticity, which may enhance memory and learning.

Red Light Therapy Applications for Functional Medicine

Beyond neurological benefits, methylene blue and red light therapy have gained attention in functional medicine for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Some practitioners use this combination to support cellular repair, reduce inflammation, and improve metabolic function. Methylene blue has also been explored for its potential role in mental health treatments, with studies suggesting it may help relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety when paired with photobiomodulation.

While promising, further research is necessary to determine the optimal dosages, wavelengths, and treatment protocols for various conditions. To explore the latest studies, check out Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, Psychology Today, and Spectra Wellness.

Methylene Blue with Red Light Therapy and Cancer

Methylene blue, when combined with red light therapy, has shown promise in photodynamic therapy (PDT) for cancer treatment. As a photosensitizer, methylene blue absorbs red light and generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can induce apoptosis in cancer cells and disrupt tumor metabolism. A systematic review of preclinical studies found that PDT using methylene blue led to tumor size reduction in multiple cancer types, including colorectal cancer, carcinoma, and melanoma. Additionally, research suggests that methylene blue may enhance the effects of chemotherapy and radiation, making cancer cells more susceptible to treatment. While these findings are promising, further clinical trials are needed to establish optimal dosages and protocols for integrating methylene blue with red light therapy in cancer care.

Potential Health Concerns of Red Light Therapy

Although red light therapy is generally safe, some risks should be considered:

• Overexposure: Prolonged use may lead to temporary skin redness or irritation.
• Eye Safety: Direct exposure to intense red light may harm the eyes, so protective eyewear is recommended during treatment.
• Skin Sensitivity: Individuals with light-sensitive conditions or those taking photosensitizing medications should consult a healthcare provider before starting RLT.
• Burns or Blisters: Using red light therapy for longer than recommended may cause burns or worsen certain skin conditions.

Red Light Near Infrared NIR Cancer Reference Sources

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[ii] Graeme Ewan Glass, Photobiomodulation: The Clinical Applications of Low-Level Light Therapy, Aesthetic Surgery Journal, Volume 41, Issue 6, June 2021, Pages 723–738, https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjab025

[iii] Graeme Ewan Glass, Photobiomodulation: The Clinical Applications of Low-Level Light Therapy, Aesthetic Surgery Journal, Volume 41, Issue 6, June 2021, Pages 723–738, https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjab025

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