What You Need to Know About IR Skin Treatment

In modern manufacturing, speed, efficiency, and sustainability are key drivers of innovation. Manufacturers increasingly utilize ultraviolet (UV) curing to quickly cure coatings, adhesives, and resins, replacing traditional thermal drying methods. UV LED curing enables industries to transition to a more energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, high-performance solution.

This article examines the use of UV light for curing resin, discusses the limitations of conventional systems, and highlights the advantages of UV LED technology in enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, and complying with environmental regulations.

What is IR Skin Treatment?

Infrared (IR) skin treatment is a non-invasive skincare technique that uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to support skin health and rejuvenation. These wavelengths, typically in the 630–660 nm and 810–850 nm ranges, are the most effective within the “therapeutic window”—a scientifically recognized spectrum for safe and beneficial biological effects.

What sets IR skin treatment apart is its ability to penetrate deeply into the skin: red light reaches up to 5 mm into the dermis, while near-infrared light penetrates even further, targeting underlying tissues such as blood vessels, muscles, and joints. This deep tissue reach makes IR treatment suitable for supporting a range of skin-enhancing effects, from stimulating collagen and elastin production to accelerating wound recovery and helping to reduce inflammation.

The beam angle of the light source also plays a key role—narrower angles focus energy more precisely, which is ideal for clinical settings. In comparison, wider angles offer coverage for general skincare treatments.

Research highlights how these wavelengths stimulate mitochondrial activity and ATP production, which powers cellular repair and regeneration processes. 
In sum, IR Skin Treatment offers a scientifically supported method for achieving firmer, more resilient skin, making it a compelling solution for beauty, wellness, and medical care sectors alike.

How Does IR Skin Treatment Work?

IR Skin Treatment operates on the principle of photobiomodulation, where low-level infrared light stimulates biological processes at the cellular level. The primary mechanism involves the activation of mitochondria—organelles within cells responsible for energy production. 

Near-infrared light (typically in the 810–850 nm range) penetrates the skin, and mitochondria absorb it and respond by increasing the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This molecule fuels essential cellular functions.

This ATP increase enhances cellular metabolism and supports skin regeneration and structural maintenance. The process encourages fibroblast proliferation and enhances the synthesis of collagen and elastin—proteins vital for skin elasticity and firmness. Moreover, near-infrared light promotes vasodilation, improving microcirculation and oxygenation in the treated area, accelerating wound healing, and reducing inflammation.

What makes IR treatment particularly effective is its depth of penetration. Unlike red light, which primarily affects the epidermis and upper dermis, near-infrared light can reach the subcutaneous layers, muscles, and connective tissues. By penetrating these deeper tissues, IR therapy effectively supports skin rejuvenation and tissue-level recovery in wellness and rehabilitation contexts.

What is the Difference Between IR LED and Red Light Treatment?

While often mentioned together, IR LED and Red Light Therapy differ significantly in their operational wavelengths, depth of tissue penetration, and physiological effects.

Red Light Therapy

Red Light Therapy typically operates between 620 to 700 nm and is most effective in targeting the superficial layers of the skin, such as the epidermis and upper dermis. It is widely used in cosmetic applications to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, calm redness, and manage surface acne.

At around 630–660 nm, red light stimulates fibroblast activity and enhances collagen production—both essential for maintaining a smooth, youthful complexion. It can also support circulation in capillaries, improving skin tone and nutrient delivery.

IR LED Therapy

IR LED Therapy, on the other hand, utilizes longer wavelengths—commonly between 810 and 850 nm. These wavelengths penetrate much more profoundly, reaching into the subcutaneous tissue, muscles, joints, and even bone in some cases. The ability to stimulate deeper tissues allows IR therapy to effectively reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, accelerate recovery, and support long-term skin health at a structural level. 

For example, studies have demonstrated IR’s efficacy in promoting wound healing, reducing post-operative swelling, and relieving musculoskeletal pain.

The selection of wavelength depends on the application depth and desired biological response, which is critical for manufacturers designing multifunctional LED skincare systems.

Synergistic Use

Combining both wavelengths has become a common practice in modern LED skincare systems. Red light primes the surface and boosts initial collagen synthesis, while IR light sustains deeper tissue repair and vascular function. This layered approach offers more comprehensive rejuvenation across all skin layers and enhances recovery following invasive treatments like microneedling or laser resurfacing.

Key Applications and Advantages of IR Skin Treatment

IR Skin Treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution; its strength lies in its adaptability across diverse environments and user needs. This technology is reshaping the delivery of skincare and recovery therapies, reaching everyone from high-end aesthetic clinics to home users.

Beauty Salons and SPA Equipment

Professional beauty and spa environments increasingly incorporate IR Skin Treatment into premium facial and body therapies. These treatments utilize IR LED panels or handheld devices to deliver controlled doses of near-infrared light, targeting fine lines, sagging skin, and pigmentation irregularities. 

Its non-thermal and gentle nature makes IR light suitable for users seeking low-discomfort, light-based rejuvenation support. Moreover, IR technology complements other modalities, such as radiofrequency or microneedling, by accelerating post-treatment recovery and amplifying collagen synthesis.

Medical Care Devices

In the medical field, IR LED technology plays a vital role in dermatological and rehabilitation settings. Clinicians employ these devices to manage post-surgical healing, chronic wounds (e.g., diabetic ulcers), and inflammatory skin conditions. By improving microcirculation, IR light facilitates oxygen and nutrient delivery, which is crucial for tissue regeneration.

Clinical-grade systems may be calibrated for precise dosimetry, ensuring consistent and replicable therapeutic outcomes. IR therapy is also employed in musculoskeletal recovery—alleviating pain from tendonitis, joint inflammation, and nerve damage.

Home Skincare Devices

TSLC (Taiwan Semiconductor Lighting Co., Ltd.) has over a decade of specialized experience in LED design and manufacturing. It has a proven track record of developing reliable, high-performance components for IR skin treatment technologies.

TSLC’s IR LED products are distinguished by:

  • Customizable Wavelengths: IR wavelengths are tailored to align with targeted therapeutic outcomes and specific device requirements.
  • High-Efficiency Systems: Optimized for low power consumption while maintaining effectual irradiance output.
  • Long-Term Reliability: All components undergo rigorous in-house reliability tests to meet industry-level safety and performance standards.

With vertically integrated capabilities—from chip-level innovation to system-level implementation—TSLC delivers flexible and scalable solutions for manufacturers aiming to offer next-generation skincare and therapeutic devices.

Further reading: Applications of Ultraviolet Curing and UV Light  for Curing Resin