The Invisible Wavelength: Do I Need To Wear Protective Goggles?
Ana Martins, PhD
The future of light-based wellness is clarity. A clear relationship with photons. A ritual built on facts.
The Light You Cannot See: Meet the Near-Infrared
Near-infrared (NIR) light sits just beyond the edge of visible red, typically defined as wavelengths longer than ~780 nm. In red light therapy, NIR commonly appears around 810–850 nm, paired with visible red (around 630–660 nm) as a deeper-reaching wavelength. [1]
Although NIR is widely used in research and consumer devices, it is not visible to the human eye. Bright visible light naturally triggers aversion responses, such as blinking, turning away, and limiting viewing time. NIR, by contrast, can be "on" without providing the same visual cue. That invisibility changes behavior, which matters for eye exposure: your senses do not receive clear feedback.
At BON CHARGE, we follow established light-safety guidelines that set limits for how much light the eyes and skin should be exposed to, based on the type of light and how long you use it. [2]
Near-Infrared Interacts with Biology
Photobiomodulation (PBM) is an interaction between light and living matter: photons meeting biomolecules called chromophores.
One of the most frequently discussed targets is cytochrome c oxidase (CCO), an enzyme in the mitochondrial respiratory chain often described as part of the cell's "energy machinery." In PBM models, red and NIR photons are absorbed by chromophores that influence cellular respiration and signalling cascades, including changes in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) signalling. PBM acts like a controlled "dial" of cellular messaging. [3] [1]
More is Not Always Better
Your effective "light dose" depends on things like the colour of light used (wavelength), how strong it is, how far you are from it, how long you use it for, whether it is pulsed, and how your tissue absorbs light.
Research suggests light absorption follows a biphasic dose response, which means there is a "sweet spot" where more is not always better, and the same light can have different effects depending on the settings. [1]
The Need for Protective Goggles
Relying on "it doesn't look bright" is not a useful rule.
Near-infrared light is not visible to the human eye, and yet it can be focused by the eye onto the retina in the same way visible light does. We just don't see it, and we don't feel it - which means we don't respond to it even if overexposed.
For this reason, protective goggles are a must when looking directly at panels that emit near-infrared. And because most panels use both red and near-infrared, it is important to always wear protective goggles in case the invisible NIR mode is still on.
Can Eyelids Replace Protective Goggles?
Red and near-infrared light can pass through eyelids depending on device settings such as power, irradiance, and distance. Eyelids are not enough to stop near-infrared light from reaching the retina.
This is why you must:
- Avoid direct viewing of LEDs.
- Follow manufacturer instructions for distance and duration.
- Use protective goggles when the session places the eyes in or near the light path, especially for face/eye-area routines.
What About The Red Light Face Mask?
The BON CHARGE Red Light Face Mask comes with dedicated eye cups to shield the eyes from direct light during use. Always make sure the eye cups are secured in place before you wear your face mask.
The New Quiet Luxury
Luxury wellness is often described through materials, design, and ambience. But there is a quieter luxury coming through in the realm of clarity.
The most elevated experience is one where you understand what you are doing - and why:
- Set the scene: choose a distance and position you can repeat.
- Keep it measured: stay within the recommended session length.
- Respect your eyes: avoid direct viewing of LEDs.
- Wear protective goggles: when using light directed at the face or when facing a panel.
- Let consistency do the work: make it a sustainable practice, not a single event.
This is what modern wellness looks like: evidence-based clarity.
BON CHARGE: This content is for general education and is not medical advice. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always follow product instructions and consult a qualified healthcare professional for guidance tailored to you. Individual results may vary.
References
- Zein, R., Selting, W. & Hamblin, M. R. Review of light parameters and photobiomodulation efficacy: dive into complexity. J. Biomed. Opt. 23, 120901 (2018).
- International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection. ICNIRP guidelines on limits of exposure to incoherent visible and infrared radiation. Health Phys. 105, 74–96 (2013).
- Hamblin, M. R. Shining light on the head: photobiomodulation for brain disorders. BBA Clin. 6, 113–124 (2016).
