Should I Use the “Red Light” at Planet Fitness?

This is a common question from patients, and as a member of Planet Fitness one I have wondered about myself.  I took an extra trip to Planet Fitness a few weeks ago for some investigative reporting.  Prior to checking it out in person, I viewed and read several videos and posts online.  However, none were by a medical professional, so they had little actual scientific background.  So, hope this sheds some light.

The device at Planet Fitness is marketed as their Total Body Enhancement, and the actual device is the Beauty Angel 7200.  The device consists of two different “therapies”.  The lights, and a metal plate that the user stands on as it vibrates.  The vibration is to help with muscles.  The marketing materials for this device describe the light as “Beauty Light”.  Looking at the device, neither the bulbs, nor the device were labeled with the exact wavelength of light.  So, I investigated further. Online, I found the user manual and called the service number at JK Products.  A nice lady there told me that the bulbs emitted red light in the 630-680nm range.  

In the user manual for the Beauty Angel 7200 they list the “Intended Use”.  It says that the device is intended to “temporarily firm and tone the appearance of the muscles and body.” The vibrating metal base plate is the “Vibrashape Function”.  This portion is for “muscle stimulation of healthy people.  Proper use… temporarily increases local blood circulation, relaxes muscles, relieves minor aches and pains and muscle spasms.”

The next section in the manual is listed “Skin Conditions”.  Per the manufacturer, it lists…”Not applicable for this device”.  The Planet Fitness attendant I spoke to, as well as a number of online sites, suggest that the “Beauty Light” of the Beauty Angel helps with acne, cellulite, wrinkles and more.  However, the banner outside the door of the device just mentions that it is a UV free environment, which is accurate with the bulb reference I was given by the manufacturer.

So, with that out of the way… 

What is LED red light used for in dermatology?  The primary way we use LED red light in our office is for the photodynamic therapy procedure in the office.  We also use it for skin tightening post Coolsculpting.  Red light has been shown to scientifically stimulate collagen and elastin and reduce inflammation.  However, the exact extent varies with frequency of application and power of the LED light.  

Should I use the red light booth at Planet Fitness? If you have time to kill, and if you already have the membership where the red light is included, then its probably fine.  It likely will not help or hurt as far as your skin is concerned.  I am not an expert in muscle fitness, so that is out of my realm to comment.

To learn more about LED light therapy, see our prior article below.  Have you used the red light at Planet Fitness?  Have you seen any results?  I’d love to hear your comments below and on social media.

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