Softlaser and Laser Therapy

For decades we have been used to the pattern that when we are ill we go to the doctor, get a prescription, then go home and take the medicine. If the situation is more serious, we receive an infusion or injection, or we might be admitted to a hospital for a few days for physiotherapy treatments.

This scheme worked for acute illnesses, but is it really the best solution when a chronic condition requiring long-term treatment is involved?

Think about it: if you suffer from low back pain and had to attend physiotherapy every week, that would be not only time-consuming but also financially burdensome. If you have joint inflammation and need to take anti-inflammatory drugs for years, what effect will that have on your body in the long run?

These questions are prompting more people and more professionals to look for new approaches to healing.

Today a paradigm shift is taking place in medicine. In treating chronic diseases, increasing emphasis is placed on the patient's active involvement in therapy. This does not mean that the doctor is unnecessary — quite the opposite. The doctor's role becomes even more important because they establish the diagnosis, develop the treatment plan, and monitor changes in the patient's condition.

The difference is that a significant part of the therapy now takes place in the patient's home, using medical devices specifically developed for home use.

Home medical devices represent a new therapeutic modality alongside traditional treatments. They do not replace medication, injections, or clinic-based treatments but complement them, making the therapy more complete.

This approach is especially important in chronic conditions where long-term, regular treatment is the key to success.

The softlaser is one of the most promising tools within this new therapeutic mindset.

What is the softlaser and how is it different from what you know?

When you hear "laser" you probably think of the destructive beams seen in films or the cutting tools used in surgery.

The softlaser, however, is entirely different. This device does not cut, burn, or cause pain — it heals. Its name derives from this: "soft laser" or "low-level laser therapy" refers to a low-energy, gentle laser beam.

Softlaser therapy — scientifically called photobiomodulation — has decades of history. The first studies began in the 1960s when Endre Mester, a Hungarian physician-researcher, accidentally discovered that low-energy laser light stimulates tissue healing. Since then, thousands of scientific studies have confirmed the method's effectiveness, and today softlaser therapy is recognized worldwide as part of modern medicine.

The essence of laser therapy is that the energy of light penetrates tissues where the cells' mitochondria — the cells' "power plants" — absorb it. This process triggers cellular metabolism, increases ATP production, and thus gives cells more energy for regeneration. It also improves microcirculation, reduces inflammation, stimulates collagen production, and accelerates wound healing. All this happens painlessly and without side effects.

What is a laser beam?

To understand how a softlaser works, it's useful to learn a bit about the physics of a laser beam. Don't worry — you don't have to be a physicist; I'll explain as clearly as possible.

The word LASER is an English abbreviation: Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. This phrase may sound complicated at first, but the idea is simple. Conventional light sources, such as an incandescent bulb or an LED, emit light of many different wavelengths scattered in various directions. A laser beam, by contrast, emits light at a single, precisely defined wavelength, and all photons travel in the same direction and phase. This is called coherence. The laser beam is therefore a pure, orderly light. This orderliness ensures that it effectively reaches the intended target.

Another important property of lasers is monochromaticity, meaning they emit light of a single color, a single wavelength. Wavelength is measured in nanometers (nm) and determines the color of the light as well as how deep it penetrates into tissues. This property is key for therapeutic applications.

The secret of the laser effect: wavelength, dosing, and the biological window

Now that you know what a laser beam is, let's look at what determines therapeutic effectiveness.

Three main factors determine the outcome of a softlaser treatment: wavelength, power, and dosing.

Wavelength is crucial because it determines how deep the light penetrates tissues. Skin and underlying tissues do not absorb all wavelengths equally. There is a so-called "biological window" or "therapeutic window" roughly between 600 and 1100 nanometers where light can relatively easily penetrate the skin and reach deeper tissues. Outside this range, light is strongly absorbed by either skin pigments or water, so it cannot reach the target area.

Power determines how much energy the laser delivers per unit time. Softlaser devices typically operate in the milliwatt (mW) range, in contrast to surgical lasers which operate at several watts. This relatively low power is sufficient to stimulate cells without causing tissue damage.

Dosing, also called dose, is the amount of energy delivered per unit area, measured in joules per square centimeter (J/cm²). The optimal dose depends on the condition being treated, the tissue type, and the treatment goal. If the dose is too low, the desired effect will not be achieved; if it's too high, cell overstimulation can occur, reducing effectiveness. This follows the Arndt-Schulz law, which states that there is an optimal stimulation range.

In softlaser therapy we therefore do not simply "shine" light on a painful area; treatments are performed with precisely calculated parameters and scientifically established protocols.

Home-use softlaser devices are designed to include these optimal parameters pre-set, allowing safe and effective treatment for the user.

It is also important to understand that treatment duration and frequency affect results. Generally, brief treatments performed daily or every other day yield the best results for chronic conditions. Patience is key: the effects of softlaser therapy appear cumulatively as treatments add up. You may not notice significant improvement after the first few sessions, but with regular use positive changes become increasingly apparent.

Interpreting dose and practical treatment methods

It's worth understanding the concept of dose in more detail, as this helps you use the softlaser consciously and effectively. As mentioned, dose is the energy delivered per unit area, expressed in joules per square centimeter.

But what does this mean in practice?

The dose is determined by three factors: the laser's power, the treatment time, and the size of the treated area. For example, if a device has 100 milliwatts of power and you treat a one-square-centimeter area for one minute, that yields roughly 6 joules per square centimeter dose.

Different conditions require different doses: surface wound healing generally requires a lower dose of about 1-4 J/cm², while deeper tissue problems like joint inflammation may require a higher dose around 4-10 J/cm².

Home devices' user manuals usually include recommended treatment times for various conditions, so you don't have to calculate anything — just follow the recommendations.

There are two main treatment techniques with a softlaser: point treatment and scanning (or sweeping) treatment.

With point treatment you place the applicator on a specific point and hold it there for the designated time. This method is particularly effective for treating well-defined spots, such as an acupuncture point, a tendon attachment point, or a small painful area. The advantage of point treatment is that it delivers concentrated energy to the targeted spot, allowing deeper and more intense effects. Treatment time per point typically ranges from about 10 seconds (Personal Laser L400, Energy Laser L500) to a few minutes (SafeLaser 500, B-Cure), depending on the condition and device power.

By contrast, the scanning or sweeping treatment is used for larger areas. Here you slowly and evenly move the applicator across the treatment area, as if "combing" the skin with light. This technique is ideal for treating muscle tension, more extensive inflammations, or diffuse pain. During scanning, ensure you move the device at an even speed and do not miss any part of the area. The motion can be circular or linear — the important thing is to cover the entire treatment surface evenly. Scanning usually takes longer than point treatment because a larger area must be covered, but it provides a more comprehensive effect.

Often the best results come from combining the two techniques. For example, when treating knee pain, you might first scan the whole knee area and then use point treatment to concentrate on the most painful points or tendon attachments. This combined approach ensures that both superficial and deeper structures receive appropriate stimulation.

Most home softlaser devices are suitable for both techniques, and the instruction manual typically contains detailed recommendations for the treatment methods appropriate to various conditions.

Colors and depth: what different wavelengths mean

Softlaser devices emit light at various wavelengths, each with its therapeutic role. Here are the most commonly used wavelengths and their characteristics.

The 660-nanometer wavelength falls within the visible light range and appears deep red. This light penetrates relatively shallowly into tissues, roughly one to two centimeters deep. It is excellent for treating skin and subcutaneous connective tissue. Hemoglobin and melanin still absorb a significant amount of light at this wavelength, but therapeutic effects are achieved in superficial tissues. The 660 nm laser is particularly effective for stimulating wound healing, treating skin issues, and reducing superficial inflammation. Devices with this wavelength include: Personal Laser L200, Energy Laser L800, SafeLaser 150.

The 808-nanometer wavelength lies in the near-infrared range and is invisible to the human eye. This light penetrates deeper, reaching up to three to four centimeters. It sits in the middle of the biological window where absorption by hemoglobin and water is relatively low, making it optimal for treating deeper tissues like muscles and joints. The 808 nm laser is one of the most researched and widely used wavelengths in softlaser therapy. Devices offering this wavelength include: B-Cure Classic, B-Cure Pro, Personal Laser L400, SafeLaser 500/1800, Energy Laser L500 Pro and L2000 Pro, and the PhysioLaser family.

The 980-nanometer wavelength is also in the infrared range and allows even deeper penetration. At this wavelength water absorbs somewhat more strongly, meaning part of the light energy converts to heat in tissues. This modest thermal effect brings additional benefits: it improves local blood circulation and enhances metabolism. The 980 nm laser is particularly useful for deep joint issues and muscle tension. This wavelength is optionally available in PhysioLaser 6.0 and PhysioLaser 12.0 devices.

The 1064-nanometer wavelength provides the deepest penetration within the therapeutically used range. It is optimal for treating structures located deep beneath the surface, such as tissues near bone, deep joints, and thick muscle masses. Although water absorption increases at this wavelength, penetration depth still suffices to reach deep tissues. The 1064 nm laser is especially valuable for spinal issues and large joint treatments. Modern softlaser devices often combine multiple wavelengths in a single unit so the treatment is effective at all tissue layers. This combined approach provides both surface and deep therapeutic effects. These wavelengths are optionally offered in PhysioLaser 6.0 and PhysioLaser 12.0 devices.

Laser classes: balancing safety and effectiveness

Lasers are classified for safety by international standards from Class 1 to Class 4. This classification primarily indicates the risk to the eye and skin. When choosing a home softlaser device, it is important to understand the differences between classes.

Devices in Class 1 (B-Cure and SafeLaser) are the safest; under normal use even long-term exposure is not considered hazardous to the eyes. These devices typically use prisms or diffused light, meaning the laser beam is optically spread out, reducing energy density. The advantage of Class 1 devices is maximum safety, while the drawback is that the diffused light delivers less energy to individual points, limiting deep tissue effects.

Devices in Class 3B (Personal Laser L400, Energy Laser L500 Pro, L2000 Pro, PhysioLaser 500) are medium-power lasers that emit a continuous, concentrated beam. These lasers deliver significantly more energy into tissues, making them more effective for treating deep structures. However, Class 3B devices require greater caution: never look into the beam, and protective goggles must be worn during treatment. Home-use Class 3B devices include appropriate safety features, but the user must strictly follow the instructions.

The difference in effect between the two classes is significant. A prismatic Class 1 device is excellent for surface problems like minor skin wounds or superficial pain relief. But if you have deeper joint problems, muscle pain, or chronic inflammation, a Class 3B continuous laser will be considerably more effective. Greater penetration depth and a more concentrated energy delivery allow the therapeutic effect to truly reach targeted structures.

Class 4 includes high-power devices (greater than 500 mW), often referred to as High-Intensity Laser Therapy (HILT). They are used for intensive pain relief and deep treatments but may only be applied by trained professionals. Such devices should not be given to lay users for home use. For professionals I recommend the PhysioLaser 1000, PhysioLaser 2.0, PhysioLaser 6.0 and 6.0 Pro, and PhysioLaser 12.0 and 12 Pro models.

It is also worth mentioning the difference between pulsed and continuous modes. In continuous mode the laser emits at a constant intensity, while in pulsed mode the light turns on and off periodically. Pulsing allows higher peak powers without overheating tissues. Some studies suggest that specific pulsing frequencies have particular biological effects and can target certain cellular processes. Modern softlaser devices often offer both modes so the operating mode can be tailored to the treatment needs.

When can a softlaser help? Conditions and treatment possibilities

Softlaser therapy is extremely versatile and has proven effectiveness in treating many conditions. Here we review the main areas where laser therapy can be used successfully at home.

In musculoskeletal problems, the softlaser is one of the most valuable home therapeutic tools. Joint inflammations, whether rheumatoid arthritis or degenerative joint disease, respond well to laser therapy. Light reduces inflammation, relieves pain, and stimulates regeneration of joint tissues.

It is similarly effective for spinal problems: neck and low back pain, complaints caused by herniated discs, and muscle cramps can all be alleviated with regular softlaser treatments.

For athletes and physically active people, the softlaser device is almost indispensable. Recovery from muscle strains, sprains, and tendinitis can be significantly accelerated with laser therapy.

Treatment not only shortens healing time but also reduces scar formation, which is important for regaining full function of muscles and tendons. Many elite athletes regularly use softlaser therapy for regeneration and injury prevention.

Softlaser is particularly effective in accelerating wound healing. It has proven benefits in treating surgical wounds, diabetic ulcers, hard-to-heal skin lesions, and leg ulcers. Laser therapy accelerates healing and reduces infection risk by stimulating fibroblast activity and collagen production so wounds close faster with higher-quality scar tissue.

Softlaser therapy has also shown promising results in treating nervous system problems. Peripheral neuropathies, such as diabetic neuropathy or numbness and pain from carpal tunnel syndrome, can be alleviated with regular treatments. The laser stimulates nerve cell regeneration and improves nerve conduction, leading to gradual reduction of symptoms.

Softlaser is applicable to a broad range of skin conditions. It can help alleviate symptoms of acne, psoriasis, and eczema, slow skin aging processes, and fade scars. Light stimulates skin cell renewal and improves overall skin condition.

Laser use is increasingly common in dentistry as well. Inflammation of the temporomandibular joint, gingivitis, issues of the oral mucosa, and faster healing after dental procedures are all areas where softlaser therapy provides proven benefits. Home devices with appropriate applicators may also be suitable for some intraoral treatments.

Certain ENT conditions, such as some forms of tinnitus, sinus, ear canal, and middle ear inflammations can also be treated.

Chronic pain syndromes like fibromyalgia respond well to softlaser therapy. Although these conditions are complex and multifactorial, regular laser treatment can help reduce pain and improve overall well-being. In such cases laser therapy should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan under medical supervision.

Laser therapy at home: benefits of the new treatment option

Home use of a softlaser fundamentally changes the possibilities for treating chronic diseases. Think about what this means in practice: you don't have to travel to the clinic multiple times a week, you don't need to adapt to office hours, and you don't have to wait on a waiting list. You can perform therapy when it suits you best, whether morning, evening, or weekend.

Regularity is one of the keys to therapy effectiveness, and home use makes that possible. In chronic conditions, consistency is far more important than a single intensive treatment. If you can only attend physiotherapy once a week, results will be limited. But if you can perform home softlaser treatment daily or every other day, continuous stimulation leads to significantly better outcomes.

The financial aspect is also notable. Purchasing a quality softlaser device is an initial investment but can yield substantial savings in the long run. Clinic treatment costs, travel time and expenses, and lost work time all add up. A home device replaces those costs and can be used by the family for years.

Home softlaser use provides causal treatment, not just symptom masking. Medications often only reduce pain or inflammation without addressing the underlying problem. Laser therapy acts on a cellular level, stimulating regeneration and supporting the healing process. In the long term this may reduce the need for medications, which is especially important for those who have taken painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs for years.

Many people worry whether they'll be able to use a home softlaser correctly. This fear is understandable but largely unfounded. Modern home devices are designed for safe and effective use by laypersons. Pre-set programs, automatic timers, and user-friendly interfaces all help ensure you don't need to be a specialist to get effective treatment. Of course, it's worth reading the user manual thoroughly before first use and consulting a professional about the appropriate treatment protocol if necessary.

The new therapeutic pillar brings a new cast to healing

Traditional medical treatments — medications, injections, infusions, and clinic-based physiotherapy — remain indispensable. No one claims that a softlaser can replace medical care. What we say is that home medical devices complement traditional treatments as a fourth therapeutic pillar.

This new pillar means the patient's active participation in their own healing. You are not a passive sufferer of illness but an active participant in therapy. This shift in mindset is also psychologically important: patients who take an active role in healing are generally more motivated and committed to treatment.

Home softlaser therapy does not replace medical consultation. It's advisable to coordinate device use with a professional who can help develop the appropriate treatment protocol and monitor changes. In this way the softlaser becomes an integral part of complex therapy, where every element — medication, medical intervention, and home treatment — together serves recovery.

How to choose a softlaser device?

If you decide to use a softlaser at home, consider a few factors when choosing a device.

First, think about what condition you primarily want to treat.

If you mainly have superficial problems, a 660 nm, lower-power device may be adequate.

However, if you have deeper joint or muscle problems, choose a device that emits in the infrared range and has higher power.

The laser class is also important. Class 1 devices (B-Cure and SafeLaser) are safer but have limited therapeutic effect. Class 3B devices (Personal Laser L400, Energy Laser L500 Pro, L2000 Pro) are more effective but require greater caution.

Consider what type of treatment you need and how experienced you are with such devices.

The applicator's size and shape influence how comfortably you can treat various body parts. A larger applicator covers bigger areas faster, while a smaller head is better for precise treatment. Some devices have interchangeable applicators, offering greater flexibility.

Ease of use should not be overlooked, especially if you are not tech-savvy. Well-designed home devices include pre-set programs for different treatment goals, so you don't have to set complicated parameters. Simply choose the appropriate program and start the treatment.

Also remember that softlaser therapy has certain contraindications. Caution is needed during pregnancy, in cases of malignant tumors, active infection in the treatment area, and certain photosensitive conditions. If you have any chronic illness or take medication, consult your doctor before starting laser therapy. For safe use, eyes must be protected from direct laser exposure; Class 3B devices typically include protective goggles.

Summary: the healing power of light in your hands

The softlaser is one of the most promising home medical devices. It operates on the scientifically established principle of photobiomodulation: light energy stimulates cellular function, reduces inflammation, relieves pain, and accelerates healing.

Different wavelengths penetrate to different depths, so by choosing the right device you can target the specific problem. The 660 nm red light acts on superficial tissues, while 808, 980, and 1064 nm infrared light reaches deeper structures.

Differences between laser classes reflect the balance between safety and effectiveness: Class 1 devices are safer but less effective, while Class 3B devices offer greater therapeutic potential.

Laser therapy can be performed at home, representing a revolutionary change in the treatment of chronic conditions. Regular, consistent treatment, time and cost savings, and the provision of causal therapy all serve to make the patient an active participant in their own recovery.

Home use of a softlaser does not replace medical care but complements it. This new therapeutic modality stands alongside traditional treatments as a fourth pillar, completing complex therapy. If you suffer from chronic pain, joint problems, or other long-term conditions requiring ongoing treatment, softlaser therapy can genuinely help improve your quality of life.

The healing power of light is no longer available only in clinics and doctor's offices. Modern softlaser devices make it possible to use this effective therapy in your own home, on your own schedule. This shift in approach to chronic disease treatment — and it is now in your hands.