Red light therapy dose is measured in joules per square centimeter (J/cm²). Enter your device specs to find the session time that hits the research-backed effective dose.
🔴 Calculate Your Red Light Dose
Usually listed on the spec sheet (20–100 mW/cm² is typical for panels).
Understanding Red Light Therapy Dose
Red light therapy (photobiomodulation) works through specific wavelengths — typically 630–660 nm (red) and 800–850 nm (near-infrared). The effective dose for most outcomes sits in the 20–30 J/cm² range; higher isn’t always better, and too much light (over ~60 J/cm²) can actually blunt the benefit. Device power drops sharply with distance, which is why the same panel needs a longer session at 12 inches than at 6. For the full evidence, read our red light therapy benefits guide.
Reference: Typical Session Times by Irradiance (target 30 J/cm²)
| Irradiance (mW/cm²) | Contact | 6 in | 12 in |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 | 25 min | 40 min | 75 min |
| 50 | 10 min | 16 min | 30 min |
| 100 | 5 min | 8 min | 15 min |