The general pattern
Photobiomodulation has a cumulative effect, so the research protocols front-load sessions and then taper. For pain, inflammation and recovery, three to five sessions a week for the first two to four weeks is typical, dropping to one or two a week once symptoms have settled. For skin, two or three sessions a week for eight to twelve weeks, then weekly. For athletes using light for recovery, sessions after hard training days rather than a fixed schedule.
Why more is not better
Photobiomodulation follows what researchers call a biphasic dose response: too little light does nothing, the right amount stimulates cells, and too much suppresses the same effect. This is why clinical devices deliver a measured dose in a fixed time and why we do not recommend daily full-body sessions for most people. Twenty minutes in NovoTHOR delivers the full-body dose used in the studies; staying longer is not a bigger dose, it is a worse one.
Session length
NovoTHOR: 20 minutes. THOR Laser: a few minutes per treatment site, depending on the tissue depth and condition. Home panels: usually 10 to 20 minutes at the recommended distance, following the manufacturer's dose guidance.
How long to keep going
In some pain trials, the benefit lasted for weeks after a course ended, which is why some people choose maintenance sessions. Skin and hair benefits fade over months if treatment stops entirely. Many people settle into one session a week or a session after each hard training week.
How we structure it at Omnia
A first block of three sessions a week for four weeks, a review of what has changed, then a maintenance rhythm that fits your goal and diary. Our membership options at the Chiswick clinic are built around this pattern because it matches the evidence, not because more sessions are better for us. Prices and booking are on our red light therapy in London page.
The session schedules used in published trials are summarised in our red light therapy research library. For targeted treatment of one painful area, see low level laser therapy in London.
Book red light therapy in Chiswick: sessions from £70. Book online or call 020 4515 0000. Our clinic is at 8 to 9 Bedford Corner, The Avenue, Chiswick W4 1LZ, close to Turnham Green station, on bus routes 94, E3 and 272. Limited parking is available on request when booking.