Methodology
How We Evaluate Devices
LightTherapyIQ is a research-based publisher. We evaluate devices from published specifications, regulatory records, affiliate availability, consumer-facing claims, and independent third-party measurements where they exist.
Research-Based Reviews
Our device coverage starts with manufacturer specifications: wavelengths, LED count, stated irradiance, price band, treatment geometry, warranty, FDA statements, and product pages. We then look for independent measurement sources, especially third-party spectrometer testing from reviewers such as Light Therapy Insiders and Alex Fergus.
We do not claim to run an in-house optical lab unless a page explicitly says so. When a measurement appears in our database, it is attributed to the source class and linked where available.
Evidence Grading Scale
Multiple controlled human trials, systematic reviews, or regulator-reviewed clinical submissions support the claim.
Human evidence exists, but the trial base is smaller, condition-specific, or less consistently replicated.
Mechanistic evidence, small studies, indirect evidence, or extrapolation from adjacent conditions.
No credible clinical evidence located for the specific claim or device use case.
FDA Terminology
FDA-cleared, FDA-registered, and FDA-approved do not mean the same thing. A 510(k) clearance means the device was found substantially equivalent to a legally marketed predicate for a specific intended use. Registration means a company or device is listed with FDA systems; it is not proof of premarket review. FDA approval is a higher pathway and is not the term we use for these consumer light therapy devices unless a source specifically proves it.
In practice, our device database labels devices with verified K-numbers as FDA-cleared, while body panels with no 510(k) are labeled FDA-registered or no clearance found. We do not describe panels as FDA-cleared based on registration language.
Affiliate Disclosure
LightTherapyIQ may earn commissions from qualifying purchases through merchant or Amazon links. Commercial relationships do not determine evidence grades or FDA terminology. See the full affiliate disclosure.
Correction Policy
Device pricing, affiliate programs, FDA listings, and product pages can change. Send corrections, source links, or documentation to hello@lighttherapyiq.com. We review credible corrections and update pages when the evidence supports a change.