We recently had an outstanding educational experience with Mr. Steam, learning about the products they have to offer our residential and commercial clientele and the health benefits of steam.

As we were introduced to each project, there was a moment where chromotherapy was mentioned but not explained. Being eternal skeptics (a trait all three of us in the office share), Rachel raised her hand to ask what chromotherapy IS. We understand that light can set a mood, and certainly affect an atmosphere, but is it “therapy”?

Several designers swore by its benefits, whereas others (like us) remained skeptical. As designers, we all understand that colors affect our mental state, but the vibration of color rays clearing our skin? Hmmm… maybe or maybe not. 

So, we jumped into scientific papers and decided to establish the validity of Chromotherapy, and we’re excited to share what we found with you, because some of this is what we expected, and some of it is not!

Chromotherapy and Light Therapy in Medicine

Chromotherapy has been around for a long time and is the use of color light as a medical treatment. The first “oh, right” moment was when we read that blue light has been used since the 1950s to treat babies with jaundice. The blue light breaks down the excess bilirubin the babies with undeveloped livers have not yet done.

On further reading, we found that the FDA has approved light therapy for Seasonal Affective Disorder, acne, hair loss, fat loss, and more. Hmmm… maybe there’s some validity to this after all. 

Always, skeptics, we wondered if while there may be validity, does that mean it’s a good idea for us to self “medicate” and expose ourselves to light dosing? Is there such a thing as overdoing chromotherapy or injuring ourselves with light exposure?

Can Chromotherapy be bad for us?

The answer is yes, BUT… 

Blue light exposure has been shown to cause lesions on the retina. Light exposure can also increase the risk of skin cancers. But, how much light exposure and color therapy does it take to get to this point? 

The overwhelming documentation we found is that overall, chromotherapy can be quite beneficial, and different light waves can provide health benefits with approval and recommendation from your medical professional. Generally, it’s always good to follow the rule of “everything in moderation”.

According to Generator Athlete Lab, different colored light provides the following benefits:

Red light:  Activates and improves circulatory and nervous systems.  Aids in the production of red blood cells and collagen cells.  Helps to burn fat.

Orange light:  Enhances overall mood. Aids in stomach and digestion issues, as well as asthma and bronchitis.

Yellow light: Works on internal tissues. Reactivates and purifies the skin.

Green light: Calming, relaxing.  It is used in conjunction with blue lights for SAD sufferers.

Blue light: Stimulates muscles and skin cells.  Addresses infections.  Used to treat liver conditions and break down bilirubin.

Purple light:  Relaxes nerves and lymphatic systems.  Addresses inflammation and urinary illnesses.  Helps with eye inflammation, glaucoma, and eye fatigue.

Our skepticism set aside and newly enlightened, we are happy to design a fabulous steam room, sauna, or wellness space with chromotherapy, and we suggest discussing this with your medical professional before delving into incorporating this treatment as a daily ritual.