Near-infrared (NIR) light therapy uses wavelengths between 810 nm and 1080 nm to penetrate deep into the body’s tissues—stimulating cellular energy (ATP), enhancing blood flow, and reducing inflammation. Among NIR devices, helmets designed for brain therapy (transcranial photobiomodulation, or tPBM) are gaining popularity for their potential to improve cognition, mood, and mental clarity.
But with so many options on the market, how do you know which NIR helmet or device is right for you?
Selecting an effective NIR device—especially an NIR helmet—depends on a few key factors.
What to Look for in a Quality Near-Infrared Helmet
1. Choose the Right Wavelength
Clinical studies show the most effective range for NIR brain therapy lies between 810–850 nm. Some advanced helmets also use 1060–1080 nm for enhanced tissue penetration. Devices that don’t disclose their exact wavelength should be avoided, as efficacy depends heavily on this factor.
Fernandes et al., 2024 – Wavelength and penetration review
2. Prioritize Power Density and Fluence
For brain stimulation, the helmet must emit at least 25 mW/cm²—ideally up to 100 mW/cm²—to reach cortical tissues effectively. Total energy delivered (fluence) per session should be between 10–25 J/cm² to stimulate positive biological effects without causing thermal stress.
Zomorrodi et al., 2023 – Dose-response in NIR tPBM
3. Ensure Full-Head Coverage
A good helmet should offer 360° coverage with evenly spaced LEDs. This ensures that all major cortical regions receive uniform stimulation. Helmets are more efficient than handheld panels, which must be repositioned multiple times during treatment.
Berman et al., 2017 – Helmet vs. panel comparison
4. Check for FDA Registration and CE Marking
Safety and clinical efficacy depend on proper certification. Reputable NIR devices should be:
FDA-registered (Class II)
CE-marked for medical use
Equipped with internal cooling or non-thermal design
Real-World Product Examples
Evidence from Scientific Literature
Numerous peer-reviewed studies support the therapeutic value of NIR helmets:
Berman et al. (2017): Daily use of 1060–1080 nm helmet improved memory, attention, and EEG function in elderly patients with dementia.
Using a 1060–1080 nm helmet for 6 minutes daily over 4 weeks improved executive function, memory, and EEG connectivity in older adults with dementia. The results suggest that NIR helmets may enhance cognitive performance and brain network activity in early neurodegenerative conditions.
Liang et al. (2023): Alzheimer’s patients using NIR helmets showed MMSE score improvements of +4.4 points after 12 weeks.
Participants with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease received NIR helmet treatment (800–1080 nm, 30 min/day, 6 days/week) for 12 weeks and showed a significant increase in MMSE scores (+4.4 points) and improved daily function, with no adverse events. This study highlights the potential of NIR helmets to improve memory and safety in dementia care.
Cassano et al. (2019): Transcranial NIR therapy significantly reduced depressive symptoms in treatment-resistant patients.
In patients with treatment-resistant depression, NIR at 810 nm led to a significant reduction in depressive symptoms compared to placebo. The therapy was well tolerated and showed effects comparable to antidepressants, indicating that NIR helmets could be a safe, non-pharmacological alternative for mood disorders.
Kerppers et al. (2020): University students exposed to 945 nm tPBM experienced substantial anxiety reductions (p < 0.001).
University students undergoing 20-minute sessions of 945 nm tPBM showed statistically significant reductions in anxiety and stress. This supports the idea that NIR helmets using longer wavelengths may also help regulate emotional balance and nervous system function, even in healthy populations.
User Tips for Safe and Effective Use
Session Time: 20–30 minutes
Frequency: 3–7 times per week
Duration of Use: 6–12 weeks minimum
Start Low and Increase Slowly: Begin with 10 minutes on lower power and gradually increase as tolerated
Use on Clean, Dry Scalp: Avoid wet or oily hair for safety and efficiency
Eye Protection: Wear goggles or keep eyes closed during use, even though NIR is invisible
Reddit users frequently report that helmets are more convenient than light panels, especially for multitasking during therapy. Many users also appreciate adjustable pulsing (e.g., 10 Hz for calm, 40 Hz for focus) to match mental states.
Final Thoughts: Making a Smart Investment in Your Health
When choosing a near-infrared therapy device—especially a helmet—it’s crucial to balance scientific specifications with real-world usability. Devices that follow clinical protocols (810–1080 nm, 25–100 mW/cm², 20–30 min sessions) are far more likely to deliver measurable health benefits than cheap consumer gadgets.
Look for full coverage, power control, frequency options, and verified safety certifications. As research continues to confirm the cognitive and neurological benefits of transcranial photobiomodulation, investing in a well-designed NIR helmet can be a powerful addition to your health routine.
References：
Berman, M. H., Halper, J. P., Nichols, T. W., et al. (2017). Photobiomodulation with near-infrared light helmet in dementia: Pilot randomized controlled trial. Journal of Neurology & Neuroscience, 8(1), 176.
https://www.jneurology.com/articles/photobiomodulation-with-nearinfrared-light-helmet-in-dementia.html
Liang, L., Xue, J., Zhao, Q., et al. (2023). A Pilot Study of NearInfrared Light Treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease. Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, 91(1), 191201.
https://content.iospress.com/articles/journal-of-alzheimers-disease/jad220866
Cassano, P., Petrie, S. R., Mischoulon, D., et al. (2019). Transcranial photobiomodulation for major depressive disorder: A pilot randomized controlled trial. Brain Sciences, 9(2), 26.
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3425/9/2/26
Kerppers, F. K. I., et al. (2020). Transcranial photobiomodulation at 945 nm improves anxiety and stress in university students: A randomized trial. Lasers in Medical Science.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32346851/
Chao, L. L. (2020). Home-based transcranial near infrared light for Alzheimer's disease: feasibility and preliminary efficacy in a randomized controlled trial. Alzheimer's Research & Therapy, 12, 1–12.
https://alzres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13195-019-0477-7
Zomorrodi, R., et al. (2023). Dose-dependent modulation of human EEG by transcranial photobiomodulation with 810 nm NIR light: A crossover trial. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 17: 1056560.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36687798/
Envirogadget. (2024). Best near infrared therapy helmets: Safety, specifications, and certification guide.
https://envirogadget.com/best-near-infrared-helmets/
Mitozen Scientific. (2024). Helios Red & Infrared Helmet: Product specifications and usage protocol.
https://mitozen.com/helios/
GoldHealth USA. (2024). 810 nm NIR Helmet for brain wellness: LED count, output and safety.
https://goldhealthusa.com/products/810nm-brain-helmet
Neuronic. (2024). Neuradiant 1070: FDA-registered helmet with frequency pulsing and deep tPBM.
https://neuronic.tech/pages/neuradiant-1070
