FAR Infrared clinical studies general

Far Infrared (FIR) Therapies: Harnessing Advanced Ceramics and Fabrics for Enhanced Well-being

Far Infrared (FIR) therapies, utilizing ceramics and fabrics infused with FIR-emitting nanoparticles. The precise composition of ceramics determines the ability to emit IR radiation, governed by fundamental laws such as Stefan- Boltzmann and Wien’s displacement laws. Tourmaline, when milled into powders, emits FIR and used for blood flow enhancement. FIR-emitting ceramics have been ingeniously integrated into fabrics, patches and orthosis creating products that harness body heat to emit FIR following the principles of thermodynamics. Research, notably led by Ting-Kai Leung, has explored the biological effects of FIR therapies, demonstrating benefits such as enhanced cell viability, reduced inflammation, and oxidative stress mitigation. Clinical studies on FIR-emitting ceramic products, including those made from fibers, have shown promising results in alleviating various health conditions, such as menstrual pain, cellulite, and chronic foot pain associated with diabetic neuropathy. These findings collectively underscore the therapeutic benefits of FIR therapies in enhancing microcirculation, pain relief, and overall well-being.                                                               

Summary of study provided is entitled; Far infrared radiation (FIR): its biological effects and medical applications - PMC (nih.gov)

Bio Ceramics in Textiles: Exploring New Far Infrared Medical Applications: A 2023 Article

The 2023 article titled "Bio ceramics in Textiles: New Far Infrared Textiles Medical Applications" in the Journal of Materials Science Research and Reviews explores the benefits of incorporating bio ceramics into textiles, particularly focusing on far infrared (FIR) applications.

Key Benefits of FIR Bio ceramics in Textiles:

  1. Health Benefits: FIR bio ceramics can enhance blood circulation, reduce muscle fatigue, and promote overall well-being by emitting far infrared radiation that penetrates the skin.
  2. Thermal Regulation: These textiles help in maintaining body temperature by providing warmth without the need for external heating sources.
  3. Antibacterial Properties: FIR bio ceramics have inherent antibacterial properties, making them suitable for medical applications where hygiene is crucial.
  4. Comfort and Lifestyle Improvement: The integration of FIR bio ceramics in textiles can improve comfort and quality of life, especially for the elderly.

The article highlights the potential of these innovative textiles to revolutionize the medical textile industry by offering multifunctional properties that go beyond conventional textiles

Summary of study provided is entitled;
Bio ceramics in Textiles: New Far Infrared Textiles Medical Applications. A 2023 article in the Journal of Materials Science Research and Reviews, published in volume 6 – Issue 3 5/7/2023.

Bio Ceramic Wraps Reduce Oxidative Stress and Improve Quality of Life in Patients with Leg Pain from Poor Circulation: A 2022 Randomized Controlled Pilot Study

A 2022 randomized double-blind placebo-controlled pilot study, researchers investigated the effects of bio ceramic wraps (far infrared emitting-ceramics) on patients who met specific criteria. The study included thirty-five participants who were randomly assigned to either the control group (receiving placebo wraps) or the bio ceramics group. Over a 90-day period, the study assessed outcomes such as the six-minute walk test (6MWT), ankle-brachial index (ABI), flow-mediated arterial dilation (FMD), quality of life, and claudication. Additionally, oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers were measured in the patients’ plasma. The researchers found that bio ceramic wraps reduced oxidative stress, a harmful process that can damage cells, and improved the patients’ quality of life. However, in this patient group the wraps did not significantly affect inflammation, walking distance, blood flow, or artery dilation. The study was registered in the Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials.

Summary of study provided is entitled; Antioxidant Effect of Far Infrared Radiation Produced by Bio ceramics in Individuals with Intermittent Claudication: A Randomized, Controlled Pilot Study.

Far Infrared Therapy Reduces Pain and Improves Movement After Shoulder Surgery: A 2020 Study

In 2020, Ji Young Yoon et al., investigated the impact of far-infrared radiation (FIR) on postoperative pain and healing following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. The study included 38 patients who were randomly assigned to either the FIR or control group. The FIR group received FIR treatment twice daily starting one-week post-operation until the weaning off of the abduction brace at 5 weeks post-operation. The results showed that at 5 weeks post-operation, the FIR group had a lower average pain visual analogue scale (pVAS) score and a higher average forward flexion at 3 months post-operation compared to the control group. However, there was no significant difference in healing failure between the two groups. The study concluded that FIR could be an effective and safe procedure to reduce postoperative pain, thereby facilitating rehabilitation and better range of motion in the early postoperative period.

Summary of study provided is entitled:
The effect of postoperatively applied far-infrared radiation on pain and tendon-to-bone healing after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: a clinical prospective randomized comparative study - PubMed (nih.gov)

Infrared Therapy Significantly Reduces Chronic Low Back Pain: A 2006 Randomized Controlled Trial

A 2006 randomized controlled trial by George D Gale et al investigated the effectiveness of infrared (IR) therapy for chronic low back pain. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involved 40 patients with chronic low back pain of over six years’ duration. The patients were randomly assigned to receive either IR therapy or a placebo treatment. The IR therapy was delivered using two small, portable units in a sturdy waistband powered by small, rechargeable batteries. The units converted electricity to IR energy at 800 nm to 1200 nm wavelength. The results showed that the mean pain scores in the treatment group fell significantly from 6.9 of 10 to 3 of 10 at the end of the study, while the mean scores in the placebo group fell from 7.4 of 10 to 6 of 10. The study concluded that the IR therapy unit was effective in reducing chronic low back pain, and no adverse effects were observed.                                    

Summary of study provided is entitled; Infrared therapy for chronic low back pain: A randomized, controlled trial

Far Infrared Significantly Reduces Pain and Swelling in Knee Osteoarthritis: A 2022 Randomized Clinical Trial

A 2022 clinical study conducted by G.L. Bagnato and his team at the University of Messina, researchers explored the benefits of far infrared (FIR) emitting plasters for treating knee osteoarthritis. This single-blinded, randomized clinical trial divided participants into two groups: one received the FIR plaster, while the other received a placebo. The primary measure of success was the change in pain levels, assessed using the visual analogue score (VAS), from the start of the treatment to one month later. Remarkably, the FIR group experienced a notable decrease in pain within just one week, which continued through to the end of the month. Furthermore, the incidence of joint effusion—excess fluid in the knee joint—was halved in the FIR group. These findings suggest that FIR emitting plasters could be an effective non-drug treatment option for those suffering from knee osteoarthritis, offering significant pain relief and reduction in joint swelling.

Summary of study is entitled; far infrared emitting plaster in knee osteoarthritis: a single blinded, randomized clinical trial

Clinical studies FIR effects on pain

Far-Infrared Radiation to Improve Clinical Outcomes after Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A 2023 Prospective Randomized Comparative Clinical Study

The study titled "Far-Infrared Radiation to Improve Clinical Outcomes after Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Prospective Randomized Comparative Clinical Study" was published in Clinics in Orthopedic Surgery in October 2023. Here are the key details and outcomes:

Study Design
  • Participants: 64 patients with small- to medium-sized rotator cuff tears.
  • Groups: Participants were randomly divided into two groups: FIR group (31 patients) and control group (33 patients).
  • Intervention: The FIR group received FIR therapy using a radiator device (Aladdin-H) for 30 minutes per session, twice daily, starting from the first postoperative day for 10 weeks.
Outcomes Measured
  1. Pain: Assessed using a visual analog scale for pain (pVAS) at 5 weeks and 3 months postoperatively.
  2. Range of Motion (ROM): Evaluated at 3 and 6 months postoperatively.
  3. Functional Scores: Assessed at 6 months postoperatively.
  4. Healing: Evaluated using ultrasonography at 3 months and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 6 months postoperatively.
Key Findings

Pain Reduction: The group of patients who received Far Infrared Radiation (FIR) therapy reported feeling less pain compared to those who didn't receive the therapy. This was measured at two different times after their surgery:

  • At 5 weeks: The FIR group had an average pain score of 1.7 (on a scale where lower numbers mean less pain), while the control group had a higher average pain score of 2.8.
  • At 3 months: The FIR group had an average pain score of 2.4, compared to the control group's average of 3.2. In both cases, the difference in pain levels between the two groups was statistically significant, meaning it was unlikely to be due to chance.
  • Range of Motion and Functional Scores: No significant differences were observed between the FIR and control groups in terms of ROM or functional scores at any follow-up time points.
  • Healing: There was no significant difference in the healing rate of the repaired rotator cuff between the two groups.
Conclusion

The study concluded that FIR therapy is a safe and effective method to reduce postoperative pain, particularly in the early postoperative period, after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. This suggests that FIR can facilitate a more comfortable rehabilitation process.

Infrared Therapy Shows Promise for Reducing Muscle Pain and Inflammation: A 2022 Review

A 2022 literature review by Kyselovic et al, investigates the use of nonthermal infrared light for the relief of musculoskeletal pain, a condition affecting up to 33% of the global population. The study explores the use of infrared wavelength delivered via patches, fabrics, and garments containing infrared emitting bio ceramic minerals. Both preclinical and clinical studies have reported positive effects on muscular cells, muscular recovery, and reduced inflammation and pain. However, the full mechanism of action of infrared light in contributing to musculoskeletal pain relief remains unclear.

The article also discusses the biological effects of infrared radiation on biological systems, specifically through photo biomodulation therapy. This form of light therapy uses non-ionizing forms of light sources in the visible and infrared spectrum, resulting in beneficial therapeutic outcomes such as alleviation of pain or inflammation, immunomodulation, and promotion of wound healing and tissue regeneration. The depth of penetration into the skin and subcutaneous tissue decreases with increasing wavelength in the infrared spectral region. The article also explores the role of water as a dynamic biomolecule in the transfer mechanisms of the electrons and protons underlying the energy dynamics of biochemical reactions. The potential mechanisms through which IR-C radiation could improve musculoskeletal conditions are also discussed.

The eNOS/NO pathway and can lead to muscular relaxation, control of vascular tone, inhibition of platelet function, prevention of leukocyte adhesion, and reduction of intimal proliferation. Infrared therapy also has antioxidant effects, reducing oxidative stress and increasing nitric oxide metabolites, which can improve endothelial function and relieve pain and inflammation at the muscular level. Infrared therapy can also reduce inflammation by inhibiting key players in the inflammatory cascade, such as plasma IL-6 levels and TNF-α RNA concentrations. This anti-inflammatory effect can indirectly relieve pain by increasing nitric oxide (NO) levels and reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory mediators. Bio ceramic materials, which emit IR-C radiation at body temperature, are used for delivering infrared radiation for therapeutic use. These materials have been shown to influence blood circulation, reduce different types of pain, and improve muscular performance. Various studies have reported the efficacy of infrared-emitting ceramics in treating conditions like knee osteoarthritis, delayed-onset muscle soreness, chronic foot pain, dysmenorrhea, and chronic neck pain.                                        

New pain management approaches, such as infrared therapy, have emerged. This therapy can alleviate discomfort from pain and inflammation while promoting the body’s natural healing mechanisms. It is recognized as an effective, well-tolerated, and non-pharmacological option for health improvement. The absorption of infrared radiation stimulates signaling pathways related to pain perception, with water molecules potentially playing a key role in determining the penetration depth and biological effects of the infrared radiation. The increase in nitric oxide levels, reduction of oxidative stress, and inflammatory mediators induced by infrared are proposed as potential mechanisms explaining musculoskeletal pain relief. Despite the growing use of infrared radiation technology, the exact molecular mechanism remains unclear,
necessitating further research to assess and validate current theories.

Summary of study provided is entitled; Physical properties and biological effects of ceramic materials emitting infrared radiation for pain, muscular activity, and musculoskeletal conditions

Far Infrared Patches Effectively Reduce Pain and Improve Skin Sensitivity in Muscle Pain Syndrome: A 2017 Study

This 2017 randomized controlled study by Lai et al was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of far- infrared ray (FIR) patches in mitigating pain in patients diagnosed with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS). The study was double-blind in nature and involved 125 participants. The focus was on 201 myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) in the trapezius muscle. Over a duration of 24 hours, both FIR and placebo patches were administered. Both types of patches demonstrated a reduction in pain intensity. However, the FIR patches exhibited significant improvements in the pressure pain threshold and maximal pain tolerance, indicating enhanced skin sensitivity.           

Upon the study's conclusion, it was determined that FIR patches are effective in relieving pain and improving skin sensitivity. This suggests potential benefits for the treatment of MPS. The study underscores the potential of FIR therapy and encourages further research in this area.                                                                        Summary of study provided is entitled;
Far infrared patches relieve pain and improve skin sensitivity in
myofascial pain syndrome: A double-blind randomized controlled study.             

Far Infrared Belt Reduces Menstrual Pain and Improves Blood Flow: A 2016 Pilot Study

This 2016 pilot study by Ye et al aimed to assess the beneficial effects of using a far-infrared (FIR) belt on the management of patients with primary dysmenorrhea. The study, which involved 51 Taiwanese women with primary dysmenorrhea, found that there was an increased abdominal temperature and an increase in abdominal blood flow in the group wearing the FIR belt compared to
those in the control group. The study also found that the average dysmenorrhea pain duration of the FIR group was significantly reduced. These results suggest that the use of a belt made of far-infrared ceramic materials can reduce primary dysmenorrhea.

Summary of study provided is entitled;
Effects of Somatothermal Far-Infrared Ray on Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Pilot
Study

Far Infrared Device Reduces Muscle Stiffness in Chronic Neck Pain: A 2014 Pilot Study

A 2014 study by Chien-Hung Lai and colleagues was a randomized, double-blind, placebo- controlled pilot study that aimed to determine the efficacy of a device containing a far-infrared emitting ceramic powder (cFIR) in managing chronic myofascial neck pain. The study involved 48 patients with chronic myofascial neck pain who were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (wearing a cFIR neck device for 1 week) or the control group (wearing an inert neck device for 1 week). Measurements were based on a visual analogue scale (VAS) scoring of pain, sleep quality assessment, pressure-pain threshold (PPT) testing, muscle tone and compliance analysis, and skin temperature analysis. Both groups showed significant improvement in pain scores, but there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. However, the experimental group reported significant decreases in muscle stiffness in the upper regions of the trapezius muscles after 1 week of treatment. The study concluded that short-term treatment using the cFIR neck device partly reduced muscle stiffness, and further investigation of the long-term effects of cFIR treatment for pain management is warranted.                                                           

Summary of study provided entitled: Effects of Far infrared irradiation on myofascial neck pain: a randomized, double-blind, placebo- controlled pilot study

Clinical studies FIR in sports performance

Preliminary Assessment of the Acute Effects of Far Infrared-Emitting Garments: Implications for Recovery and Performance" (2023)

The study explored the potential benefits of FIR-emitting garments on sports performance and recovery. Here are the key findings:

Key Benefits:
  1. Improved Muscle Oxygenation: The FIR garments were found to enhance muscle oxygenation, which is crucial for both performance and recovery.
  2. Reduced Body Resistance and Reactance: Participants wearing FIR garments showed significant reductions in body resistance (−6.7%) and reactance (−5.4%) compared to the control group. These changes suggest better hydration and cellular health.
  3. Potential for Enhanced Recovery: The study indicated that FIR garments help in faster recovery by improving blood flow and reducing muscle fatigue.
Study Design:
  • Participants: 10 male trail running athletes.
  • Method: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover study.
  • Intervention: Participants wore a whole-body FIR-emitting suit during a 12-minute incremental treadmill run.
Conclusion:

The study concluded that FIR-emitting garments could be beneficial for athletes by improving muscle oxygenation and aiding in recovery, although further research is needed to confirm these findings.

Effects of Far-Infrared Radiation Lamp Therapy on Recovery from Muscle Damage Induced by Eccentric Exercise" (2023)

The study examined how FIR lamp therapy affects muscle recovery after intense exercise.

Study Design
  • Participants: 48 healthy sedentary women, divided into two groups (24 each).
  • Groups: One group received FIR lamp therapy, while the other received a sham treatment.
  • Exercise: Participants performed maximal eccentric contractions of the elbow flexors (72 repetitions) or knee flexors (100 repetitions) with their non-dominant limbs.
  • Therapy Sessions: FIR or sham treatments were administered for 30 minutes at 1, 25, 49, 73, and 97 hours post-exercise.
Key Outcomes
  1. Muscle Soreness: FIR therapy significantly reduced muscle soreness compared to the sham treatment.
  2. Recovery Markers: Improvements were observed in several recovery markers, including:
  • Maximum Voluntary Isometric Contraction (MVC) Torque: FIR group returned to baseline strength by 72 hours post-exercise, while the sham group still showed a 17-19% deficit at 120 hours.
  • Plasma Creatine Kinase Activity: Lower levels in the FIR group, indicating less muscle damage.
  • Proprioception: Better maintenance of joint position sense and force matching in the FIR group.
Conclusion

The study concluded that FIR lamp therapy is effective in accelerating recovery from muscle damage induced by eccentric exercise, reducing muscle soreness, and improving recovery markers, showing the benefits of FIR in recovery from strenuous exercise.

Far Infrared Fabric Enhances Knee Muscle Performance in athletes: A 2022 Study

The study titled "Far-infrared-emitting fabric improves neuromuscular performance of knee extensor" was published in Lasers in Medical Science in February 2022. Here are the key details and findings:

Study Design
  • Participants: 14 resistance-trained males.
  • Method: A crossover, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.
  • Intervention: Participants wore FIR-emitting fabric for approximately 82 ± 19 hours before undergoing neuromuscular tests.
Key Outcomes
  1. Increased Peak Torque: The FIR condition showed a significant increase in peak torque during maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) tests, both before (318.5 ± 68.7 Nm) and after (284.1 ± 58.2 Nm) the intervention.
  2. Improved Total Work: There was a trend towards a significant increase in total work performed during the fatigue test (4,122.2 ± 699.8 J) in the FIR condition.
  3. No Temperature or EMG Changes: The improvements in neuromuscular performance were observed without significant changes in thigh temperature or electromyographic (EMG) signals.
Conclusion

The study concluded that wearing FIR-emitting fabric can enhance the neuromuscular performance of knee extensors in resistance-trained males, suggesting potential benefits for athletes and individuals engaged in resistance training

Summary of study provided is entitled:
Far-infrared-emitting fabric improves neuromuscular performance of knee
extensor - PubMed (nih.gov)

Far Infrared Boosts Knee Muscle Performance Without Affecting Male Fertility: A 2022 Pilot Study

The study by Manoel Silva et al. investigated the effects of far infrared (FIR) emitting fabric on knee extensor performance and semen quality over 120 hours. Here are the key points:

Study Design

  • Type: Double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, crossover trial.
  • Participants: Healthy resistance-trained individuals.
  • Assessments: Neuromuscular tests for knee extensors and fertility assessments.

Key Findings

  1. Neuromuscular Performance: FIR fabric improved the neuromuscular performance of knee extensors.
  2. Semen Quality: FIR did not significantly affect conventional semen parameters or sperm DNA fragmentation.

Conclusion

The study concluded that FIR fabric enhances knee extensor performance without impacting seminal parameters.

Summary of clinical study provided is entitled; A pilot study on the effects of far-infrared-emitting fabric on neuromuscular performance of knee extensor and male fertility - PubMed (nih.gov)

Far Infrared Garments in Sports: Potential Benefits for High Performance and Recovery, Further Research Needed

The systematic review titled "Utilization of Far Infrared-Emitting Garments for Optimizing Performance and Recovery in Sport: Real Potential or New Fad?" was published in PLOS ONE in May 2021. Here are the key points:

Objective

The review aimed to summarize the scientific evidence on the use of FIR-emitting garments in sports and to provide directions for future research.

Methodology
  • Databases Searched: PubMed, Cochrane, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and SPORTDiscus.
  • Selection Criteria: Studies investigating the effects of FIR-emitting garments on at least one physiological outcome related to exercise performance and/or recovery in humans.
  • Quality Assessment: The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale.
Key Findings
  1. Limited and Inconclusive Evidence: Only 11 studies met the inclusion criteria, and the results were inconclusive, preventing firm conclusions about the effectiveness of FIR-emitting garments in athletes1.
  2. Potential Benefits: Early results suggest that FIR-emitting garments may benefit exercise performance and recovery, mainly through improved thermoregulation and haemodynamic function1.
  3. Research Gaps: The review highlighted the need for more high-quality, well-designed studies to better understand the potential benefits and mechanisms of FIR-emitting garments in sports1.
Conclusion

While FIR-emitting garments show promise for enhancing performance and recovery in sports, the current evidence is not strong enough to make definitive claims. Further research is needed to establish their efficacy and mechanisms of action.

Summary of study provided is entitled; Utilization of far infrared-emitting garments for optimizing performance and recovery in sport: Real potential or new fad? A systematic review

Clinical studies FIR cosmetic and wounds

Far Infrared Therapy Shows Promise for Skin Rejuvenation, Acne, and Wound Healing: A 2024 Review

A 2024 review by Hanandez-Bule, Rodriguez and Bacci. The review explores the use of light therapy, including far-infrared (FIR), in dermatology. It highlights the mechanisms by which FIR works, such as improving blood circulation, reducing inflammation, and promoting cell regeneration. The article also discusses the clinical efficacy of FIR in various dermatological applications, including:

  • Skin Rejuvenation: FIR helps in reducing wrinkles and improving skin texture.
  • Acne Treatment: FIR can reduce acne by decreasing inflammation and bacterial growth.
  • Other Applications: FIR is also used for wound healing and reducing the appearance of scars.

Overall, the review suggests that FIR is a promising non-invasive treatment option for various skin conditions due to its therapeutic benefits. 

Summary of study provided is entitled: Unlocking the Power of Light on the Skin: A Comprehensive Review on Photo biomodulation

Far Infrared Therapy Shows Promise for Heart Disease, Diabetes, Kidney Disease, and Wound Healing: A 2024 Review

A 2024 review by Wen, Pan and Ma. The review on far-infrared (FIR) irradiation highlights its diverse therapeutic applications and mechanisms. FIR is utilized for non-contact, non-invasive treatments of conditions such as myocardial ischemia, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease, leveraging both thermal and non-thermal effects to enhance blood flow and reduce inflammation. In cancer detection, FIR is employed through Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and infrared thermography (IRT), offering additional diagnostic methods. FIR also promotes wound healing by improving microcirculation, reducing oxidative damage, and stimulating cell proliferation and angiogenesis. The review emphasizes the need for further clinical studies to fully understand FIR’s mechanisms and broaden its medical applications.

Far Infrared Therapy for Skin Rejuvenation, Wound Healing, and Pain Relief: A 2021 Review

A 2021 article entitled Photobiomodulation: The Clinical Applications of Low-Level Light Therapy in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, The key points discussed include;

Mechanism of Action.

Clinical Applications: The article highlights several clinical uses of LLLT, including:

  • Skin Rejuvenation: FIR and NIR light improve skin texture and reduce wrinkles by stimulating collagen production.
  • Wound Healing: These wavelengths accelerate tissue repair and reduce inflammation.
  • Pain Relief: FIR and NIR light can alleviate chronic pain by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair

Challenges and Future Directions: Despite its commercial success, the article notes that more rigorous, independent clinical trials are needed to fully establish the therapeutic efficacy of LLLT. The current evidence is promising but often limited by small sample sizes and methodological flaws

Far Infrared Therapy Reduces Wrinkles and Prevents Skin Aging: A 2017 Study

There are a number of studies that explore the use of ceramic far infrared (FIR) therapy for wrinkles and skin rejuvenation. One such study titled"Far-infrared suppresses skin photoaging in ultraviolet B-exposed fibroblasts and hairless mice" and it was published in 2017. The study investigated the effects of FIR on skin photoaging induced by ultraviolet B (UVB) exposure in fibroblasts and hairless mice. The study highlights include;

  • Objective: To determine if FIR therapy can inhibit skin photoaging caused by UVB irradiation.
  • Method: The study used NIH 3T3 mouse embryonic fibroblasts and SKH-1 hairless mice. FIR treatment was applied to assess its impact on collagen production and skin thickness.
  • Results: FIR therapy significantly increased procollagen type I through the induction of the TGF-β/Smad axis. It also inhibited UVB-induced expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) and MMP-9, which are enzymes that break down collagen1.
  • Conclusion: FIR treatment resulted in decreased skin thickness and inhibited collagen degradation, suggesting its potential benefits in preventing and treating skin photoaging1.

This study provides evidence that ceramic FIR therapy can be effective in reducing wrinkles and improving skin health by promoting collagen production and reducing the breakdown of existing collagen.

Far Infrared Radiation Improves Skin Texture and Reduces Wrinkles: A 2016 Study

The 2016 article "Effects of Infrared Radiation on Skin Photo-Aging and Pigmentation" published in the Yonsei Medical Journal investigates the impact of far infrared (FIR) radiation on skin aging and pigmentation. Here are the detailed findings:

  • Participants: 20 patients with mild to moderate facial wrinkles and hyperpigmented lesions.
  • Treatment: Daily FIR radiation treatments (900 to 1000 µm) for six months.
  • Evaluations: Photographic and clinical evaluations every 4 weeks, along with skin biopsies at baseline and one month post-treatment.

Key findings on benefits;

  1. Collagen and Elastin Production:
  2. Clinical Improvements:
  3. Objective Medical Evaluation:
  4. Histological Analysis:

The study suggests that FIR radiation can effectively improve skin texture and reduce wrinkles by stimulating collagen and elastin production. However, it does not significantly affect hyperpigmented lesions. FIR therapy is considered a safe and non-ablative method for skin remodeling and treating photo-aged skin.

Far Infrared Therapy Shows Promise for Reducing Cellulite: A 2015 Evidence-Based Review

The 2015 article "Cellulite: An Evidence-Based Review" in the American Journal provides a comprehensive evaluation of the scientific evidence regarding the efficacy of various treatments for cellulite reduction. Here are the key points:

  • Prevalence: Cellulite affects 80-90% of post-pubertal women and is a significant cosmetic concern.
  • Objective: The review aims to systematically assess the effectiveness of different cellulite treatments.
  • Methods: The review follows PRISMA guidelines, analyzing 67 studies that report on the efficacy of cellulite treatments in human subjects.
  • Findings: Many studies had methodological flaws, such as not using cellulite severity as an endpoint or lacking sufficient statistical analysis.
  • Effective Treatments: The review on cellulite treatments mentions that far infrared (FIR) therapy has shown some beneficial effects. Specifically, FIR therapy can improve cellular metabolism and function by increasing the bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO) and calcium ions (Ca2+), which in turn enhances blood circulation

In a study involving women with cellulite, the use of pants made from FIR-emitting fabric led to a slight reduction in edema and a significant decrease in surface temperature. These changes resulted in a qualitative improvement in the appearance of the skin, including better skin texture and reduced depth of depressions.