Are you looking for a red light therapy device that is as precise and portable as a torch, or maybe you want a larger panel? In either case, Hooga makes red light therapy devices in various sizes and shapes.
Red light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that works by emitting specific wavelengths of light in the red and near-infrared range (NIR) that penetrate deep into the skin. It is mostly used for its potential skin rejuvenating, pain-relieving, and inflammation-reducing properties. To see results, red light therapy requires consistent use, which I know can be time-consuming if you are going to a clinic or a wellness center for these sessions. Thankfully, we now have a range of at-home devices, with Hooga being one of the leading manufacturers.
In this article, I will review the top 6 Hooga devices and some tips for reaping the most out of your sessions. I have also included an expert opinion on the topic from Jonė Pukėnaitė, MD.
Your well-being is our top priority. Our in-house Research team and expert fact-checkers diligently review every content piece, ensuring you receive accurate, safe, and up-to-date health information to support your health decisions. Get an inside look at our thorough testing framework.
Quick overview of the top 6 Hooga red light therapy devices
Let’s take a quick look at the 6 red light therapy devices in a brief comparison table before reviewing them in detail below.
In this article, the term “treatment” is used to refer to the application of red light therapy. Non-medical grade red light therapy devices are not intended to mitigate, treat, or cure any disease.
| Device | Coverage area | Wavelength | Irradiance |
| Rechargeable Red Light Therapy Belt | Versatile use | 660 nm and 850 nm | 110 mW/cm2 |
| ULTRA1500 | Full body | 630 nm, 660 nm, and 810 nm, 850 nm | 165 mW/cm2 at 6” |
| PRO300 | Small body area coverage | 660 nm and 850 nm | 109 mW/cm2 at 6” |
| Red Light Therapy Torch | Targeted treatment | 460 nm, 630 nm, 660 nm, 850 nm, and 940 nm | 120 mW/cm2 |
| Red Light Therapy Knee Massager | Knees | 630 nm, 660 nm, and 850 nm | Not specified |
1. Rechargeable Red Light Therapy Belt
Whether you’re an athlete recovering from intense workouts, someone dealing with chronic pain, or simply looking to improve your skin's appearance, the Rechargeable Red Light Therapy Belt by Hooga may be a game-changer for you. The device is designed for versatile use to help reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and improve collagen production in the skin.
The belt measures approximately 17.5" x 7.8" and can be adjusted to fit different body parts for targeted effects. You can set a timer for the preferred treatment duration, select the brightness from 5 levels, and activate pulse mode.
According to the provider, you can use the Hooga red light therapy belt daily. However, for your safety, you should follow the instructions and select the most suitable usage option.
Specifications and usage
- Wavelength: 660 nm and 850 nm
- Irradiance: 110 mW/cm2
- Treatment duration: 1–30 minutes
- Warranty: 2 years
User experience
Users generally find the Hooga Red Light Therapy Belt effective for relieving pain. They love the belt’s portability and rechargeable battery, which allows for convenient use during activities like reading or watching TV.
However, some users found the buttons confusing and had to consult instructional videos to operate the device properly. While it fits most people comfortably, a few users noted that the belt could be longer to accommodate larger waistlines.
The Rechargeable Red Light Therapy Belt is priced at $99 and, like other products by the provider, is available in 4 interest-free installments and is HSA/FSA-eligible.
2. ULTRA1500
ULTRA1500 is a full-body light therapy panel that is suggested to deliver medical-grade red and near-infrared light therapy right at home. With a lifespan of over 50,000 hours, this device is built for long-term use, making it a reliable companion for your wellness journey.
The device offers a versatile use for people looking for methods to alleviate pain, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and improve overall skin tone. Depending on the area you want to target, you can position the panel 6 to 18 inches away and enjoy red light therapy sessions of 2 to 15 minutes.
The ULTRA1500 is designed for daily use, with features like adjustable brightness, a built-in timer, and a pulse mode for enhanced therapy. Moreover, the device includes 4 cooling fans to prevent overheating.
Specifications and usage
- Wavelength: 630 nm red, 660 nm red, 810 nm NIR, 850 nm NIR
- Irradiance: 165 mW/cm2 at 6”
- Dimensions: 39.5" x 8.6" x 2.5"
- Treatment duration. 2–15 minutes
- Warranty. 3 years
User experience
Users value the ULTRA1500 by Hooga for its effects on pain relief, faster healing, and improved skin appearance. They also love its construction and how easy it is to use. The digital timer, adjustable settings, and built-in cooling fans add to its value as a preferable pick over competitors. Many noted the fast delivery and customer support.
Some users pointed out light color changing inconsistently and the panel being narrower than some would like. A few people think the price is on the higher side. Despite these drawbacks, most feedback remains positive.
The Hooga ULTRA1500 is priced at $1,399, but the provider offers flexible payment options to help make this investment more manageable. You can choose from the interest-free installment plan or pay in lump sums, as well as use your HSA/FSA funds.
3. PRO300
Anyone looking for a convenient, targeted way to harness the benefits of red light therapy — athletes, skincare enthusiasts, those with chronic pain, and more — may find Hooga’s PRO300 panel as an excellent choice.
With its dual-chip LEDs delivering optimal wavelengths, this panel may hold benefits for skin rejuvenation, pain relief, and muscle recovery. Its compact size and built-in stand make it perfect for tabletop use, and the cooling fans keep a comfortable temperature while you are enjoying the red light therapy benefits.
Specifications and usage
- Wavelength: 660 nm red and 850 nm NIR
- Irradiance: 109 mW/cm2 at 6”
- Dimensions. 12.7" x 8.6" x 3.1"
- Treatment duration. 2–15 minutes
- Warranty. 3 years
User experience
Many users noted visible improvements in health and beauty concerns like wrinkles, rosacea, and joint pain after just a few weeks of use. Yet, these effects may vary from person to person. The device's sturdy build, bright light, and easy-to-use features, like the built-in timer, cooling fan, and adjustable stand, have earned the love of satisfied customers.
Nonetheless, some users have encountered issues, including difficulties with the adjustable stand, lack of specific instructions, and the need for an EU power cable for international customers. A few users reported problems with flickering lights and broken components.
PRO300 by Hooga costs $279 and is available with HSA/FSA funds. Besides the offered interest-free installments, the 60-day return policy may make it a more accessible red light therapy option.
4. Red Light Therapy Torch
Hooga Red Light Therapy Torch may be a perfect choice for those looking for a precise and portable solution to target canker and cold sores, yet it is advisable to seek medical advice before using the device for the suggested purposes. Also, note that the evidence for the effectiveness and safety of red light therapy in managing cold sores is still quite limited.
With its rechargeable battery and included charging cable, this red light torch may be ideal for traveling and taking on long trips, ensuring you have red light therapy whenever you need it. The short treatment duration of 1–3 minutes daily makes it an even more user-friendly option for a red light therapy device.
Specifications and usage
- Wavelength: 460 nm blue, 630–660 nm red, 850–940 nm NIR
- Irradiance: 120 mW/cm2
- Treatment duration: 1–3 minutes
- Warranty: 2 years
User experience
Users love Hooga’s red light torch for its simplicity and ease of use for targeted treatment. Although some users were initially skeptical about its benefits, they found relief after trying it.
However, there is not much customer feedback for the Red Light Therapy, and no noteworthy mentions of drawbacks were highlighted in the reviews.
This portable red light therapy device from Hooga costs $139.
5. Hooga Red Light Therapy Knee Massager
People struggling with knee pain and soreness may benefit from Hooga’s 3-in-1 Red Light Therapy Knee Massager. This device offers a three-step approach to knee pain and stiffness management by combining heat and red light therapy with vibration massage.
These pain-relieving effects are suggested to be achieved by promoting blood circulation and tissue repair, as a result of combining red light therapy with heat therapy. The latter has adjustable temperature settings that reach 90°F and 130°F. To experience relaxation from tight muscles, you can choose the vibration intensity from 2 available options.
For user safety, the Hooga knee massager has a built-in timer for automatic shut-off after 20 mins of usage.
Specifications and usage
- Wavelength: 630 nm, 660 nm, and 850 nm
- Irradiance: Not specified
- Treatment duration: Not specified
- Warranty: 1 year
User experience
From the very limited number of customer reviews about the Red Light Therapy Knee Massager by Hooga, we conclude that users appreciate the device's pain and soreness-relieving effects. They also talk about its affordability compared to similar devices in the market. Users also mention Hooga’s helpful customer service.
Some downsides mentioned are the lack of tech specifications regarding irradiance or device dimensions and the clarity of usage guidelines.
The Hooga Red Light Therapy Knee Massager costs $189, with the option to split the cost into four interest-free installments. Moreover, you can also purchase this device using your HSA/FSA funds.
Expert’s opinion
I have asked Jonė Pukėnaitė, a Medical Doctor and Board Certified Lifestyle Medicine Specialist, for some insights into the topic.
Red light therapy is increasingly explored for its potential to improve skin health, ease inflammation, and support tissue repair. Specific wavelengths, like red light (around 660 nm) and near-infrared (850 nm), are believed to penetrate the skin and reach deeper tissues, stimulating processes that aid recovery (Wunsch & Matuschka, 2014). However, the research on the topic is still evolving.
Jonė appreciates Hooga's range of devices suitable for home use. She says that “the ULTRA1500 panel stands out with broader coverage and an irradiance of 165 mW/cm2 at 6 inches, making it a good choice for those looking for full-body sessions and deep tissue recovery. Smaller devices, such as the PRO300 or wearable light belts, are more practical for specific areas or localized needs.”
However, she also warns that without FDA or CE certifications, it’s unclear whether the devices deliver the claimed energy levels or penetration depth, which are key to effective outcomes. Independent verification would add confidence, especially since subtle variations in irradiance can influence results.
Tips and tricks for best results
If you want to get the best health results from usage of red light therapy devices, here are some tips on how to use and maintain it:
- Stay consistent. As device providers claim, consistent use of red light therapy may be important for noticeable improvements.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions. It’s crucial to consult a doctor before using red light therapy devices for guidance on treatment duration and frequency.
- Start slow. Start with a shorter treatment period and gradually increase if required.
- Use goggles. Use protective eyewear to avoid damage from strong and close red light emitted from the device.
- Clean the device regularly. After each use, wipe down the device with a soft cloth and pack it in a provided or original box to prevent the build-up of dust or oils that can affect performance.
Mistakes to avoid when using red light therapy devices
Avoid the following mistakes to reduce the risks of adverse effects when using red light therapy devices:
- Overuse
- Incorrect distance
- Using damaged or faulty devices
- Not testing before using the device on larger body areas
Effectiveness and safety
Numerous studies back the potential benefits of red light therapy, showcasing its effects on skin health, pain relief, and hair regrowth.
- Skin health. Studies have shown that red light therapy may help promote skin rejuvenation by stimulating collagen production. It may also help improve skin complexion and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
- Hair regrowth. A recent study showed that red light therapy may help stimulate hair follicles at the cellular level, potentially promoting new hair growth and improving hair density.
- Pain relief. Studies comparing red light and NIR therapy with placebo treatments showed that the former may help reduce pain in more than 50% of cases. The pain reduction may be associated with the stimulation of cellular repair and reduced inflammation.
Although red light therapy is considered generally safe, there are certain contraindications. Always check with your healthcare provider before using any device, especially if you have a medical condition. Also, keep in mind that red light therapy does not work similarly for everyone, and results may vary from person to person.
Conclusion: which Hooga red light therapy device is the best?
Based on our review of Hooga’s red light therapy devices, we’ve categorized them according to needs, budget, and suitability:
- Best value — Rechargeable Red Light Therapy Belt which can be used on various body parts and is sold at a comparably affordable price.
- Best for athletes — ULTRA1500 may be suitable for athletes needing wider coverage for skin and muscle healing, showing potential for faster recovery.
- Best for pain relief — Hooga Red Light Therapy Knee Massager could be a good choice for those looking for pain relief in their knees.
FAQ
Are Hooga red light devices medical grade?
No, Hooga red light therapy devices are not FDA-cleared or approved as medical devices. While the brand provides contradictory information, it mentions that all the devices by Hooga are general wellness devices that are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
How long should I use Hooga red light therapy?
Treatment duration may vary depending on the device type. Always refer to the specific guidelines provided on Hooga’s website to ensure you're using their devices correctly and safely.
Does red light skin therapy actually work?
According to several studies, red light therapy may work for the skin by potentially stimulating collagen production, reducing wrinkles, and enhancing skin tone.
Are there any risks to red light therapy?
Red light therapy is generally safe when used as directed. Yet, caution is required for individuals under 18, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and people with underlying conditions such as thyroid disease, epilepsy, infections, photosensitivity, cancer, and recent burns. Moreover, the risks of most consumer-grade devices are largely unknown since most of them have not been tested or evaluated by the FDA.
3 resources
- Photomedicine and Laser Surgery. A Controlled Trial to Determine the Efficacy of Red and Near-Infrared Light Treatment in Patient Satisfaction, Reduction of Fine Lines, Wrinkles, Skin Roughness, and Intradermal Collagen Density Increase.
- Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. Improvement of Pain and Disability in Elderly Patients with Degenerative Osteoarthritis of the Knee Treated with Narrow-Band Light Therapy.
- Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials of United States Food and Drug Administration-Approved, Home-use, Low-Level Light/Laser Therapy Devices for Pattern Hair Loss: Device Design and Technology.
Your email will not be published. All fields are required.