This is just a sneak peek at the thousands of consumer insights available to CivicScience clients. Discover more data.
In the world of cosmetic treatments, red light therapy (RLT) is far from new. In fact, the technique was accidentally discovered in the 1960s. Since then, RLT has been studied for its ability to aid in a variety of different physical concerns, from face and body rejuvenation to diabetes and weight loss.
Today, red light therapy has even been heralded as the “ultimate” health and wellness trend. Given that the wellness industry in the U.S. is worth $1.8 trillion, trends like this are worth paying attention to.
Currently, CivicScience data find 16% of U.S. adults have used red light therapy and another 16% plan to do so. But who is behind the ballooning interest in this technique?
As the data show, adults under the age of 35 are the most likely to have used red light therapy or be interested in doing so. Those who are single and never married maintain the greatest amount of experience and interest.
Take Our Poll: Have you ever tried red light therapy as a skincare measure?
Healthy lifestyle and red light therapy go hand-in-hand.
Given that red light therapy is one of the hottest current wellness trends, it may not come as a surprise that those who consider themselves very healthy are the most likely to have already used and liked RLT. Vegetarians and vegans have also used and enjoyed RLT at a significantly higher rate than those who eat a more animal-forward diet.
Consumers look to ease pain and inflammation.
Red light therapy’s uses span across categories and so does consumer interest. The largest percentage of respondents indicate an interest in using red light therapy for pain relief and inflammation reduction, although better sleep and anti-aging or facial rejuvenation are also top concerns.
There are even some claims that red light therapy can aid in weight loss through the reduction of fat cells and body contouring. CivicScience data show that more than 1-in-4 RLT users have also invested in elective surgery for cosmetic or weight loss purposes, suggesting that they are willing to pay for the physical aesthetic they desire, should red light therapy choose to expand more in this direction.
How red light therapy fans splurge.
As red light therapy has become more popular, accessibility to the treatments has evolved such that consumers can experience RLT in a spa or doctor’s office, or with an at-home treatment device. In light of this, it’s worth noting that physical pampering at a salon or spa is high on the list for how RLT fans choose to splurge on themselves, among purchasing an expensive meal or a luxury designer product. Gucci red light therapy masks, anyone?
Join the Conversation: In your opinion, how effective do you think red light therapy is?
With increasing interest and hype, it’s clear that the red light therapy trend is showing no signs of cooling down. In fact, given the many ways that RLT fans can experience this treatment – either at home or in an office – there are countless ways for the market to expand to meet consumer needs. Additionally, with the treatment’s potential benefits for cosmetic and health-focused concerns, time will only tell what impact this accidental discovery will have on the world of wellness.
