Bon Charge Mini Red Light Therapy Device Review
HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket
In the last decade, I’ve come to realize the importance of light for health. I’ve written about how we have specific lightbulbs in the house, how I use an infrared sauna blanket, and how I use a SAD lamp/natural sunlight in the morning and blue light blockers in the evening to improve my mood and sleep.
Following this journey, it's no surprise that I'm drawn to red light therapy (RLT), also known as photobiomodulation. The science is still emerging, but similar to our growing awareness of the negative effects of nighttime blue light, research on RLT is incredibly promising. Studies suggest benefits ranging from improved skin health and athletic recovery to reduced pain, inflammation, and even better sleep—all with minimal downsides.
Intrigued, I decided to explore red light therapy firsthand with the Bon Charge Mini Red Light Therapy Device. In this review, I'll delve into the pros and cons, my personal experience with the device, and much more.
Let’s dive in.
The Bon Charge
Mini Red Light Therapy Device
Durability: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
Performance & Function: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Price: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Value: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
The Bottom Line
Red light therapy (RLT) is one of those things that can provide benefits to nearly everyone. Talking big picture, red light therapy has so many all-encompassing health benefits with little downside that it’s tough to find a counter-argument. Every human body can benefit from improved sleep, muscle recovery, pain management, skin health, and cellular health. So now it comes down to what is the best way to get this photobiomodulation.
The Bon Charge Mini Red Light Therapy Device stands out because it’s portable (and comes with a travel case), easy to hit targeted parts of the body, simple to set up and use, and has a high-powered irradiance (>100 mW/cm²) ensuring high-quality treatment. It's designed to emit both 660nm red light and 850nm near-infrared light, which can be used separately or in combination to target any focused or general areas of your health. The device's safe, flicker-free LEDs and zero harmful EMF radiation make it even more appealing.
However, the Bon Charge Mini Red Light Therapy Device is not without its drawbacks. The primary concern is the lack of an adjustable stand, which can make it challenging to position the device for targeted therapy. This issue requires users to get creative with mounting solutions. Additionally, while the cost is not cheap, this is more so due to the nature of the red light therapy market whose devices have a higher price tag. Once you can swallow that, the Bon Charge Mini falls on the more affordable end of the spectrum compared to some similar-sized handheld red light therapy devices. Additionally, it boasts an irradiance of >100 mW/cm², which is a strong output for a handheld device.
The Bon Charge Mini Red Light Therapy Device is a valuable tool for anyone looking to enhance their health and wellness through red light therapy.
The Bon Charge Mini Red Light Therapy Device
What is the Mini Red Light Therapy Device?
The Bon Charge Mini Red Light Therapy Device
The Bon Charge Mini Red Light Therapy Device is a portable device that utilizes red and near-infrared light to achieve therapeutic benefits. This compact size allows for easy use at home or on the go. and it’s small enough to be handheld making it easier to focus treatment on specific areas of the body.
Specifications
Taken from the HigherDose website:
Model: Mini
Size: 15cm x 9.5cm (5.9 in x 3.7 in)Irradiance>100mw/cm2
Flicker: Zero
Battery Life: 5,000 hours
Visible Red Wavelength: 660nm
Weight: 0.73kg (1.6lb)
Invisible NIR Wavelength: 850nm
Charge Time: 2 hours
Harmful EMF Radiation: Zero
Warranty: 1 Year
Power: 36W
Voltage: 4.2V
LEDs: 12pcs 3W
Material: Iron
Certification: CE, FCC, SAA, FDA
From The Manufacturer
Mini Red Light Therapy Device: Unlocking the power of restorative light frequencies with unrivalled power in the palm of your hand.
Experience the incredible benefits of red light therapy with the Mini Red Light Therapy Device. Designed to fit seamlessly into your daily routine, this compact and portable handheld device brings the rejuvenating power of red light to your fingertips, allowing you to enhance your well-being and promote natural well-being with ease.
This powerful red light therapy device can either be held in your hand, stood on a flat surface, or placed on a stand, making it an incredibly versatile device.
The Mini Red Light Therapy Device delivers >100 mw/cm2 of high- powered irradiance and emits 660nm red light and 850nm near infrared- light separately or in combination.
If you are looking for a cost effective and hassle free red light therapy device, then this product is for you. Equipped with a travel case the Mini Red Light Therapy Device can be transported with ease.
The Mini Red Light Therapy Device emits zero harmful EMF radiation, and the LEDs are flicker free.
Key Benefits
Just some of the incredible benefits you can experience using a BON CHARGE Mini Red Light Therapy Device
Younger Looking Skin: Rejuvenate skin, reduce fine lines/wrinkles and promote younger, firmer more glowing skin
Faster Recovery: Soothe stiff aching muscles with deep penetrating near infrared light
Improved Sleep: Induce relaxation with red light frequencies that calm the mind, body and soul for optimized sleep
Hair Growth: Stimulate hair growth with red and near infrared light for fuller, thicker hair
Weight Loss: Optimize energy production at a cellular level to accelerate weight loss goals
Reduced Scars / Blemishes: Say goodbye to scars, stretch marks, blemishes and spots as red light targets the upper layers of the skin
Selling Points
Pocket-Sized Powerhouse: It’s compact, easy to move around to target specific areas of the body such as the face and hands (which large units have difficulty doing) and it comes with a travel case to store in after use.
Targeted Treatment: pinpoint problem areas with the handheld design, or stand it upright for broader light coverage.
Dual Power: Choose between red light (660nm) and near-infrared light (850nm) or combine them for a comprehensive treatment.
Safe & Effective: Delivers high irradiance (>100 mW/cm²) for clinically proven results, free of harmful EMF radiation and with flicker-free LEDs. Not only is this is strong for a handheld device, but it’s strong in general giving you bang for your buck.
Travel-Ready: A convenient carrying case keeps your device protected and ready to use on the go.
No EMF (read more about why that's important here)
Medical-grade LEDs: Ensures long-lasting performance and consistent light output.
Automatic Shut-off: Provides peace of mind and prevents overheating.
Price: While the device is not cheap, it is on the least expensive side of the spectrum when it comes to handheld red light therapy devices. Plus, you get a good bang for your buck with its power in this price range.
One-year manufacturer’s warranty. According to their site:
“We stand by this product with a 1-year Manufacturer’s Warranty. Our products are rigorously tested in lab and real-life situations to bring you only the best quality and functionality. Our founders also personally road-test every product in their day-to-day life for at least six months before launch. That’s how committed we are to you and why our products are considered best in class.”
Drawbacks
Price: This is a general drawback of red light therapy products, however, compared to comparable red light therapy devices of comparable size, Bon Charge’s is actually on the less expensive side.
It needs a better stand. For targeted red light therapy, rather than just general skin exposure, you’ll need to get creative with mounting. For instance, when I needed to target the middle of my back due to a recent strain, I placed the device on the edge of the kitchen table and sat in a chair with my back to it, adjusting my sitting height to aim the light where I needed it. An ideal solution might be a tall, adjustable stand that can be positioned in various locations, allowing you to target specific body areas without it falling over or requiring creative setups. (Let me know what you think of this idea, Bon Charge.)
Who/What Do I Recommend It For?
Red Light Therapy Use (Generally):
Skin Health: Red light therapy is being investigated for its potential to improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, fine lines, stretch marks, and scars, and even help with specific conditions such as psoriasis, rosacea, eczema, and some types of acne. Research has also shown that it can prevent recurring cold sores or herpes simplex. It’s also used to repair sun damage to the skin.
Tip: Google before and after red light therapy for skin and you’ll find some incredible improvements. But it's the internet so don’t believe it all.
Headaches and Migraines: Some people find red light therapy helps alleviate headaches and migraines. Focus the light on the forehead, temples, and the back of the neck.
Muscle Recovery: Athletes and fitness enthusiasts use red light therapy because it has shown to reduce muscle soreness and improve recovery after workouts.
Pain Management: Studies suggest red light therapy may offer relief for pain associated with conditions like arthritis, muscle tension, and tendonitis.
Wound Healing: Red light therapy may promote faster healing of wounds and tissue repair.
Cellular Health: Red and near-infrared light from red light therapy devices are absorbed by cells, particularly by mitochondria (cellular powerhouses). This absorption is thought to boost mitochondrial activity leading to increased energy (ATP) production, reduced cellular damage, and improved blood flow.
Hair Growth: Some studies suggest red light therapy may be associated with hair growth by stimulating follicles and improving scalp health.
Sleep: Research suggests red light therapy might have potential benefits for regulating sleep patterns. Some users report experiencing faster sleep onset and more restful sleep.
Cancer treatment: According to this 2018 review, the use of photobiomodulation may have benefits for those undergoing cancer treatments.
Thyroid function: A 2013 study found that near-infrared light therapy significantly improved thyroid health in chronic autoimmune thyroiditis patients. Notably, 47% of participants reduced or eliminated their thyroid medication within nine months. The treatment also reduced thyroid peroxidase (TPOAb) antibodies for Hashimoto's disease, indicating less autoimmune activity. A 2010 study found that red light therapy helped 38% of participants reduce their thyroid medication dosage, with 17% stopping medication entirely.
Dementia: A 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis looked at 12 trials and 766 participants to find that light therapy significantly improved cognitive function as measured by a common dementia test (MMSE).
General Wellness: Red light therapy extends to general health by potentially improving circulation and reducing stress.
Bon Charge Red Light Therapy Device
Targeted Treatment: The handheld design allows for focusing light on specific areas of concern.
Travel-Ready: The small size and portability make it perfect for on-the-go use, ideal for busy individuals or frequent travelers.
Wallet-Friendly Option: Compared to larger devices, the Bon Charge Mini offers a more accessible price point.
Space-Conscious Choice: Ideal for those with limited space at home who still want to explore red light therapy.
Tips
Because the lack of a good stand is my biggest drawback, here are ideas for how to position it:
I aim it at my legs while I stand at my desk to write (on my feet and on a stool to hit both sides of my legs).
I position it next to me in bed to hit, aiming it at my core, as I read before lights out.
On my face (eyes closed) first thing in the morning as I sip my coffee for a few minutes.
I place it next to me as I’m in my bed while I read or meditate before lights out.
Hold it over different parts of the body (see below) while watching TV.
Suggestions for using it:
Areas of the body with aches and pains
On the parts of the body that you used during a workout. While I don’t have any evidence for this, do it 4 hours before or after a workout so that it doesn’t interfere with the recovery process, in the same way you shouldn’t take any vitamins within a 4-hour window of a workout.
On scars, cuts, scrapes, and other wounds for faster and better recovery.
On your core before bed as you read a book for better quality sleep.
On your face for smoother skin.
Use it consistently.
Near-Infrared (NIR), Red Light, or Both?
The Bon Charge Red Light Therapy Device utilizes two key wavelengths of light for potential therapeutic benefits: red light and near-infrared (NIR) light. Here's a breakdown of the key differences:
Red Light:
Wavelength: Visible to the human eye, appearing red (around 660nm for Bon Charge devices).
Penetration Depth: Primarily targets the upper layers of the skin (dermis).
Benefits: Research suggests red light may be helpful for:
Improving skin health (reducing wrinkles, fine lines)
Promoting wound healing
Reducing inflammation
Soothing muscle tension
Near-Infrared (NIR) Light:
Wavelength: Invisible to the human eye (around 850nm for Bon Charge devices).
Penetration Depth: Penetrates deeper than red light, reaching muscle tissue, bones, and deeper skin layers.
Benefits: Studies suggest NIR light may be beneficial for:
Pain relief in muscles and joints
Enhanced muscle recovery after exercise
Improved cellular health and function
Deeper tissue healing
The Synergistic Effect:
The Bon Charge device combines both red and NIR light to potentially offer a broader range of benefits.
Red light works on the surface layers, while NIR light penetrates deeper, potentially creating a more comprehensive therapeutic effect.
This combination may be more effective for certain conditions, like muscle recovery or deeper tissue healing, compared to using just red light therapy.
Other Red Light Therapy Devices
If you're considering the Bon Charge Mini, keep in mind the need for creative positioning due to the lack of a stand. It's still a solid option, especially for those looking for a portable and versatile red light therapy device.
The Bon Charge Mini is the least expensive of the devices which makes it worthwhile in itself but if you’re looking for something that hits a wider area and rests on a large stand and you’re willing to pay the price then consider these three options from Bon Charge:
My Experience
The Bon Charge Mini Red Light Therapy Device arrived right when I needed it most. Training for a Spartan race while doing The 75 (Sorta) Hard with friends had my body rebelling. The last few weeks were brutal—a nagging lat strain, constantly heavy and achy legs, and fatigue were just a part of my day.
The Bon Charge Mini came pre-charged, so I immediately took it out of its carrying case and put it to work. I shined the red light on my legs, back, and face, repeating this routine daily for the following weeks. While there wasn't an immediate fix, within a couple of weeks, I noticed a significant change. My aches and fatigue started fading, and to my surprise, I even saw improvements in my workouts, running faster and lifting more.
This little device wasn't just a leg and back savior. A month ago, I finished writing my first book, and the constant typing left a lingering overuse pain in my thumbs. I started using the red light on my hands while typing, and after two weeks, the pain completely disappeared.
With much more time in the sun coming up I plan to use it to prevent (or recover from) sun damage and to help smooth out my face and get rid of a scar on my foot from years ago. It hits such a wide area of benefits for the body without any side effects for me that the Bon Charge Mini is now a permanent part of my daily routine.
The Final Verdict: Is the Bon Charge Mini Red Light Therapy Device Worth It?
The Bon Charge Mini Red Light Therapy Device is a strong contender for those curious about trying red light therapy. This portable device packs a powerful with its high irradiance and the option to use red or near-infrared light. It's easy to use and travel-friendly, making it great for on-the-go treatments. The biggest downside is the lack of a stand, which requires some creativity for targeted therapy, however, considering its affordability and effectiveness, the Bon Charge Mini is a solid option, especially for those new to red light therapy or with specific areas of pain.
Yes, the Bon Charge Mini is worth it.
Bon Charge Red Light Therapy FAQ
How often should I use the Bon Charge Red Light Therapy Device?
Bon Charge recommends using it for 10-minute sessions.
How far away should the Bon Charge Red Light Therapy Device be from my target area?
About 3 inches to one foot.
Do I need to wear eye protection?
Bon Charge recommends wearing goggles (which can be found on their site) and not looking directly into the lights.
Are there any side effects from using the Bon Charge Red Light Therapy Device?
Red light therapy is generally well-tolerated, but some people may experience mild side effects like temporary redness or warmth in the treated area. These effects typically subside quickly. If you experience any discomfort, stop using the device and consult a doctor.
Can I use red light therapy with clothes on?
Yes, but results aren’t guaranteed. Doing it without clothes is best
Does it heat up?
Red light therapy feels slightly warm, but not hot. It's a comfortable sensation.
Can you get a tan from it?
No. Red light therapy uses a different type of light than tanning beds (red vs. UV). It won't cause tanning.
Can I use the Bon Charge Red Light Therapy Device with medication?
Certain medications may increase your skin's sensitivity to light. It's crucial to consult with your doctor before using red light therapy if you're taking any medications.
How long will it take to see results with the Bon Charge Red Light Therapy Device?
The time it takes to see results can vary depending on the individual and the specific condition. Some people may experience noticeable benefits within a few weeks, while others may require longer use. Consistency with treatment is generally recommended for best results.
Can you overuse red light therapy?
Red light therapy is generally safe but if you’re using a very high power or for excessive periods, symptoms can include blistering and skin redness.
Consult a Doctor
Consulting a doctor before using red light therapy is crucial, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions. Certain medications, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and some medical conditions may require caution.
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