Suppressed testosterone levels are a precursor for various potential physiological dysregulations in males. And although it’s a major hormone responsible for primary manly traits, this bodily-secreted chemical also plays a crucial role in women’s health. What happens when levels of this hormone drop beyond a normal threshold?

Low testosterone levels can be tricky to manage. Recently, the use of red light therapy has been touted as a promising method to boost T in the body, and there is growing interest in combining testosterone and red light therapy to manage the problems related to imbalanced hormones.

The purpose of this article is to explore the safety and efficacy of combining both therapies. As you read on, you’ll learn the possible risks and upsides of simultaneous use of these treatments.

Understanding Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)

For starters, let’s kick off with the role of testosterone before addressing its therapeutic supplementation. The functions of this hormone include the regulation of sex drive, voice deepening at puberty, the development of penis and testes, muscle size, bone strength, sperm production, fat distribution, etc. The multifaceted impacts of testosterone underscores why it’s crucial to male development.

Nevertheless, testosterone is also secreted in smaller quantities in women, where the hormone has similar effects as it does in males. Some include regulating sexual function, bone density, ovarian function, and muscle strength.

Inadequate levels of testosterone result in adverse characteristics like fragile bones, reduced libido, loss of muscle mass, infertility, decreased growth of facial and body hair, breast development in men, impotence, and more.

The clinical method used to address testosterone insufficiency is the administration of the deficient hormone. This procedure is called testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). However, there are side effects similar to those typically linked with hormonal therapies.

What Is Red Light Therapy? 

Red light therapy is commonly publicized as a remedy for skin issues like acne, scars, or stretch marks. There are also some schools of thought endorsing its significance in enhancing hair growth and reducing inflammation. But what exactly is this emerging therapy with so much praise?

The treatment employs the use of a lamp device or laser with a red light. This is a form of photobiomodulation or low-level laser therapy in theory, but with differing effects.

Near-infrared light and red lights are known to penetrate the skin. They go deep into the cell and its powerhouse, the mitochondria, which is their site of action. They cause the mitochondria to produce increased levels of energy (ATP) by upregulating their oxygen consumption. 

Consequently, this generated energy is transported across the cells and systems to enhance function. One of those is the endocrine system, which is responsible for the production of our chemical messengers.

The Science Behind Combining Red Light Therapy and Testosterone Therapy

Indeed, there could be a synergistic effect in combining red light and testosterone therapies. The theory about the former originated from a study where multiple men were subjected to UV lights until their skin reddened up. Researchers noticed a significant surge in their T levels after a few days of genital exposure. 

The experiment only affirms the fact that the Leydig cells, responsible for testosterone production, were stimulated during the procedure. This impressive outcome can also be attributed to the integrity of the mitochondrial cells of these subjects. 

Similarly, the stimulation of the light-sensitive opsin cells makes this treatment effective in boosting the production of testosterone. Other sites producing testosterone — albeit in small portions — are the adrenal glands and ovaries.

A combination of T administration and red light therapy is bound to cause a massive increase in the levels of the hormone in the body. As it stands, there are still limited studies on this practice. However, there are numerous postulations as the treatment method remains of interest to many researchers and pharmaceutical firms.

Benefits of Using Red Light Alongside Testosterone Therapy

While the combined method isn’t a standardized practice yet, we can theorize on the upsides of a combination of both therapies from medical literature. A few of these benefits will include those normally provided by testosterone, such as: 

• Enhanced muscle growth and strength
• Increased testosterone production and absorption
• Increased sexual drive and function
• Improved cognitive function and overall mood
• Enhanced skin and hair health

Safety Considerations and Potential Risks

A major concern for individuals seeking the combination of these therapies is whether or not it’s safe. Hormone therapy has peculiar merits and risks.

According to a study, there is a lower likelihood of sperm oxidative DNA damage and enhanced sperm motility with red light at 630 nm. The recommended wavelength of light associated with this therapy is within 600-950 nm.

A medical practitioner once relayed that some risk comes with temperature changes as you elevate the temperature of the scrotum. As such, this temperature increase is often frowned upon.

When pertaining to testosterone therapy, the risks associated with conventional hormonal treatment include acne, blood clots, breast malignancy, enlarged prostates, and cardiovascular effects.

It’s important to involve a healthcare professional before commencing both therapies. They will ensure you follow standard protocols and proper precautions are taken.

How To Use Red Light Therapy Alongside Testosterone Therapy 

The use of red light therapy at home is a proven safe, cost-effective, and natural approach to boost your testosterone levels. The devices come in panels, masks, light beds, and handheld forms. You can start with shorter sessions like 10-15 minutes before gradually increasing as needed. Begin with lower intensities and adjust according to suitability to avoid discomfort.

It’s important to take precautions like maintaining device distance from the eyes, watching out for skin sensitivity, and underlying medical conditions. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers need to consult their physicians before use.

Also, combination therapies like exercise, medication, and physical therapy are recommended. While monitoring progress, patience is vital in tracking noticeable results. Establish a regular treatment routine for an optimal outcome.

If you’re considering this treatment method, reach out to an expert today to find out more. .