Blue Light Therapy

Blue light therapy uses light to treat conditions that typically occur on or just under the skin. Photoreceptors within the eyes are sensitive to low-wavelength blue light. These receptors provide information to help regulate a person’s biological clock and other areas of the brain.

It is believed by some that it treats depression but the exact mechanism by which blue light therapy treats depression is unclear. However, experts hypothesize that it:

• alters the circadian rhythm
• suppresses melatonin secretion
• modulates serotonin levels in the brain

In other words, blue light may help regulate emotional responses in the brain. This can be especially helpful for areas of the brain that depression typically affects. These areas include the hippocampus, hypothalamus, and amygdala.

Experts generally consider blue light therapy to be a safe procedure. However, side effects may occur. Some side effects include:

• headache
• nausea
• heart palpitations
• diarrhea

A person should also avoid using the therapy in the evening since it could mess up their sleep cycle.

People interested in blue light therapy may want to approach its use with caution. A person should not discontinue current treatments to try the therapy. They should also discuss their interest with a doctor before trying the therapy.

Thank you for reading.