Light is Essential for Health
If you’ve purchased a Makiuri red light therapy (RLT) device, you may wonder how to fit it into your daily routine.
The how, when, and distance you use can influence results depending on your goals. Light is a nutrient for cells—certain wavelengths power cellular processes, influence hormones and neurotransmitters, support mood, enhance physical performance, aid recovery, and affect sleep and gene expression.
Key principle: Light is essential for health. When used consistently, Makiuri Red + NIR light can support cellular energy, inflammation management, circulation, sleep, skin vitality, and recovery.
Usage Guidelines
Frequency and duration
- General use: 3–7 sessions per week; 1 session per day is typically optimal. After about 15–20 minutes, benefits may plateau
- Healing or injury: start with 2–3 minutes per session and gradually increase.
Skin health and anti-aging (Makiuri approach)
- Timing: sit with the device first thing in the morning or within two hours of waking.
- Distance and time: about 25 inches away for 5–10 minutes.
- Routine tips: use this time for deep breathing, a brief meditation, or journaling. If exposing the scalp or facial hair, note that hair can affect light penetration; wear eye protection if advised by your health care provider.
Strength and recovery
- Pre-workout: 3–7 minutes at about 6 inches from targeted muscles to support mitochondrial function.
- Post-workout: 3–7 minutes at 6 inches, 3–6 hours after exercise, on the affected areas.
Brain performance and mood
- Position: 6–12 inches from the target area (forehead is a common site for mood and cognitive benefits).
- Duration: 3–10 minutes per session.
- Note: hair can block light; choose treatment areas with good light exposure.
Sleep and circadian health
- Morning use: 12–18 inches away, 3–10 minutes. Morning light supports daytime alertness and nighttime melatonin production.
- Evening use (if any): complete sessions at least 2 hours before bedtime to avoid boosting energy close to sleep.
- Caution: blue light disrupts sleep more than red/NIR light; adjust timing to suit your schedule.
Injury and wound healing
- Acute injuries: apply light to the affected area as soon as possible after injury (about 6 inches away, 3–5 minutes per session, twice daily).
Body Composition Improvements and Cellulite Reduction
- If appropriate for your protocol, use on the target area for 2–5 minutes at about 6 inches away, preferably during a fasting window or first thing in the morning.
Important notes
- Eye safety: always follow device-specific safety guidelines. If your device includes eye protection, use it as directed.
- Individual response: responses to RLT vary; consistency over time yields the best results.
- Brand clarity: Makiuri specializes in Red + NIR light therapy devices designed for cellular health and performance.
Inspiration and further reading
- This guidance reflects current red light therapy literature and practitioner experience, including works like Red Light Therapy by Ari Whitten.
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- More advanced protocols and tips are available through our newsletter. Stay tuned for deeper dives on dosing, wavelength selections, and routine optimization with Makiuri devices.