Can Red Light Therapy Support Better Sleep?
Sleep is one of the foundations of recovery. Yet for many people, getting enough restorative sleep can be surprisingly difficult.
An emerging area of research is investigating whether photobiomodulation (PBM)—the therapeutic use of red and near-infrared light—may influence sleep quality.
At Lumora Core in Perth, we use NovoTHOR, a professional whole-body photobiomodulation system. So what does the science actually tell us about red light therapy and sleep?
What is photobiomodulation?
Photobiomodulation exposes tissue to specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light. Unlike ultraviolet light, PBM does not work by damaging tissue. Instead, the light interacts with cellular processes, with research suggesting effects on mitochondrial activity, cellular signalling, circulation and inflammatory pathways.
These biological effects have led researchers to investigate PBM across areas including recovery, pain, neurological function and, increasingly, sleep.
What does the latest research show?
A 2026 systematic review and meta-analysis examined five randomised controlled trials involving 240 participants. Overall, PBM produced a modest improvement in measured sleep quality compared with sham treatment.
However, the researchers also emphasised that the number of studies remains small and treatment protocols vary considerably. Larger, well-designed trials are still needed before firm conclusions can be made.
Interestingly, research specifically involving whole-body photobiomodulation has also produced early signals relating to sleep. A 2025 systematic review found five whole-body PBM studies. Two reported improvements in sleep-related measures, including higher melatonin levels and lower nocturnal heart rate, although the overall evidence base was small.
Does that mean NovoTHOR will improve your sleep?
Not necessarily.
The current evidence suggests that PBM may support sleep quality, but it should not be considered a treatment for insomnia or a replacement for established sleep strategies or appropriate medical care.
Sleep is influenced by many factors—including stress, exercise, caffeine, alcohol, medications, circadian rhythm and sleep environment.
For people already focusing on these fundamentals, whole-body PBM may be an interesting addition to a broader recovery routine.
Whole-body red light therapy in Perth
At Lumora Core in Applecross, Perth NovoTHOR delivers red and near-infrared light across the body during a comfortable 15-minute session.
Our approach is simple: use high-quality technology, follow established treatment protocols and communicate the science without promising more than the evidence supports.
Ready to experience NovoTHOR?
Discover whole-body red and near-infrared light therapy at Lumora Core in Perth. Book your 15-minute NovoTHOR session today and make recovery part of your routine.
Reference:
Photobiomodulation and sleep quality: systematic review and meta-analysis. Lasers Med Sci. 2026 Jun 20;41(1):122
A systematic review on whole-body photobiomodulation for exercise performance and recovery. Lasers Med Sci. 2025 Jan 30;40(1):55
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