Straight answers from our San Francisco clinic.
What is red light therapy?
+
Red light therapy (also called photobiomodulation or low-level light therapy) uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to reach the skin and the tissue beneath it. The light is absorbed by mitochondria, the energy centers of your cells, which helps them produce energy, calm inflammation and repair. It's non-invasive, painless and has no downtime.
Where can I get red light therapy in San Francisco?
+
TruSpine offers full-body red light therapy on a Dahlia red light bed at 50 Francisco Street, Suite 257, in North Beach / North Waterfront, near Fisherman's Wharf, Russian Hill and Telegraph Hill. Book online or call (415) 421-1115.
Does red light therapy help with weight loss?
+
Red light therapy isn't a weight-loss treatment on its own, and it won't replace diet, activity or medication. Research shows it can help with inch loss and body contouring when it's combined with a structured plan. That's why we use it alongside GLP-1 medical weight loss and nutrition guidance, and often with T-Shape 2 for skin tightening.
Does red light therapy help with pain?
+
Pain and inflammation are where red light therapy has the most published research, including reviews of randomized controlled trials. It may help ease joint and muscle pain and support recovery. At TruSpine, we often combine it with chiropractic care and shockwave therapy for a more complete plan.
How long is a red light therapy session?
+
Each session on the Dahlia bed takes about 15 minutes. You can come straight from work or the gym and get on with your day afterward.
How often should I do red light therapy?
+
We usually recommend 2 to 3 sessions per week. Your plan depends on your goals, and we'll adjust it as you go.
How much does red light therapy cost in San Francisco?
+
New clients can try an introductory red light therapy session for $79. After your first visit, we'll recommend a plan and explain package options before you commit.
What are the Dahlia programs?
+
The Dahlia bed runs targeted programs for fat loss, pain, recovery, skin and circulation. Each one adjusts the wavelengths and intensity for that goal. We choose the program that matches what you want to work on.
Does red light therapy hurt? Is it hot?
+
No. Most people find it relaxing. You may feel gentle warmth, but it doesn't burn or tan the skin the way UV light does.
What should I wear?
+
Light needs to reach your skin, so wear minimal clothing, such as a swimsuit or underwear, on the areas being treated. Remove jewelry and makeup on treated areas. Keep your eyes closed or covered during the session.
Is red light therapy safe?
+
Red light therapy is considered low-risk. Side effects are uncommon and usually mild, such as temporary warmth, redness or eye strain if the eyes aren't protected. Tell us your health history first so we can make sure it's right for you.
Who should not do red light therapy?
+
Check with us first if you're pregnant, have a light-sensitive condition or seizure disorder, take medications that increase light sensitivity (some antibiotics, acne medications or retinoids), or have a history of skin cancer or an active cancer in the area being treated.
Red light therapy vs. infrared sauna: what's the difference?
+
An infrared sauna mainly heats your body to make you sweat. A red light bed delivers specific red and near-infrared wavelengths to your skin and tissues without the high heat, and each session takes about 15 minutes. Many people use both for different reasons.
Can I combine red light therapy with GLP-1 medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide?
+
Yes. Many patients add red light therapy to their GLP-1 weight loss program to support body contouring and skin. If loose skin is a concern, ask about T-Shape 2 skin tightening.
When will I see results?
+
It varies by person and goal. Some people notice they feel looser or recover faster within the first few sessions, while body-contouring and skin changes build over a series. We'll track your progress and adjust your plan.
