# Near-Infrared (850nm) Therapy

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## Definition

Near-infrared (NIR) therapy utilizes electromagnetic radiation in the 810–860nm spectral band to achieve deep-tissue photobiomodulation. At 850nm, photons penetrate 4–5cm into soft tissue, far exceeding the reach of visible red light (2–3mm) or any topical formulation (approximately 70 microns). The primary chromophore is cytochrome c oxidase, whose copper centers absorb NIR photons and undergo photodissociation of inhibitory nitric oxide, immediately restoring mitochondrial electron flow and ATP synthesis. Karu (2010, PMID 20374017) established the definitive mechanism. Hamblin (2017, PMC5523874) demonstrated that PBM at NIR wavelengths reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-1beta, IL-6) and suppresses NF-kappaB activation. In periorbital applications, this anti-inflammatory action reduces puffiness by improving lymphatic drainage.

## Related Topics

- red-light-therapy-wavelengths
- mitochondrial-photobiomodulation
- periorbital-red-light-therapy
- dark-circle-treatment

## See Also

- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infrared#Near-infrared
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Near-infrared_window_in_biological_tissue

## Target Keywords

- 850nm near infrared therapy
- NIR light therapy
- near infrared penetration depth
- near infrared skin treatment
- 850nm photobiomodulation