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Red Light Therapy vs. Urolithin A: Cellular Health & Mitochondrial Rejuvenation

Christina Bates
Written by:
Christina Bates
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4 minute read
May 29, 2025
Woman stands between two Red Light Therapy panels at Restore Hyper Wellness
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What's the key to healthier aging? Cellular health, particularly the rejuvenation of mitochondria.

Two prominent wellness interventions, Red Light Therapy and Urolithin A supplements, have emerged as leading wellness tools. Both target mitochondrial function but differ fundamentally in their mechanisms and clinical outcomes. 

In this thorough comparison, our experts uncover the superior choice for promoting cellular resilience and healthier aging.

Mechanisms of Action

Red Light Therapy

Red Light Therapy utilizes specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to penetrate tissues and stimulate mitochondrial activity. The primary mechanism involves the absorption of light by cytochrome c oxidase in the mitochondria, leading to increased production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the cell’s main energy source. This process enhances cellular metabolism, supports tissue repair and promotes the synthesis of collagen and other structural proteins. 2,6,7

Urolithin A

Urolithin A is a metabolite produced by gut bacteria from dietary ellagitannins, such as those found in pomegranates and walnuts. Urolithin A activates mitophagy, the process by which cells clear out damaged mitochondria, encouraging the formation of newer, healthier mitochondria. Clinical studies have shown that Urolithin A supplementation can improve muscle endurance and reduce inflammation, but its effects depend on individual gut microbiome composition and do not directly increase ATP production in the same immediate way as Red Light Therapy.

Why Our Experts Choose Red Light Therapy

Direct Mitochondrial Rejuvenation

Red Light Therapy directly stimulates the mitochondrial respiratory chain, leading to immediate increases in ATP production and cellular energy. 1,2 This direct action not only supports tissue repair but also enhances the skin’s structural integrity by promoting collagen synthesis and epidermal proliferation, key factors in reversing visible signs of aging. 1,2,5

Lasting and Visible Results

Clinical studies show that Red Light Therapy produces progressive and lasting improvements in skin quality, with effects persisting even after cessation of treatment. 1 Unlike Urolinthin A, which primarily benefits muscle health and requires the body’s ability to metabolize ellagitannins (a capacity not present in everyone), Red Light Therapy offers universal benefits regardless of individual metabolic differences. 1,2,5

Broader Cellular Benefits

Beyond mitochondrial energy, Red Light Therapy reduces oxidative stress, improves circulation and modulates gene expression linked to tissue regeneration. 1,2,6 These systemic effects contribute to healthier aging across multiple physiological systems, not just muscle or skin.

Non-Invasive and Accessible

Red Light Therapy is painless, non-invasive, and can be administered safely with well-defined protocols, making it accessible for regular use. 1,2,5 This contrasts with Urolinthin A, which, while safe, is limited by individual gut microbiome variability and does not consistently enhance all aspects of mitochondrial function. 4,6

Shine Brighter with Red Light Therapy 

Both Red Light Therapy and Urolithin A offer scientifically validated approaches to support mitochondrial health and healthier aging. However, Red Light Therapy’s direct stimulation of mitochondrial energy production, robust skin rejuvenation effects and systemic cellular benefits position it as the superior choice for those seeking comprehensive, non-invasive strategies to promote longevity and cellular vitality. 1,2,5,6 Consistent use of Red Light Therapy offers lasting improvements in skin quality and overall cellular health, making it a cornerstone intervention for healthier aging.

Book your Red Light Therapy appointment today!


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Citations

  1. Singh A, D’Amico D, Andreux PA, Fouassier AM, Blanco-Bose W, Evans M, et al. Urolithin A improves muscle strength, exercise performance, and biomarkers of mitochondrial health in a randomized trial in middle-aged adults. Cell Reports Medicine. 2022 May;3(5):100633.
  2. Denk D, Singh A, Kasler H, Lucia Alcober Boquet, Davide D'Amico, Gorol J, et al. Impact of urolithin A supplementation, a mitophagy activator on mitochondrial health of immune cells (MitoIMMUNE): A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in healthy adults. Journal of clinical oncology. 2024 Jun 1;42(16_suppl):e14562–2.
  3. Liu S, D’Amico D, Shankland E, Bhayana S, Garcia JM, Aebischer P, et al. Effect of Urolithin A Supplementation on Muscle Endurance and Mitochondrial Health in Older Adults: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA network open [Internet]. 2022 Jan 4;5(1):e2144279. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35050355/
  4. Jayatunga DPW, Hone E, Khaira H, Lunelli T, Singh H, Guillemin GJ, et al. Therapeutic Potential of Mitophagy-Inducing Microflora Metabolite, Urolithin A for Alzheimer’s Disease. Nutrients [Internet]. 2021 Oct 23;13(11):3744. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8617978
  5. Hou Y, Chu X, Park J, Zhu Q, Hussain M, Li Z, et al. Urolithin A improves Alzheimer’s disease cognition and restores mitophagy and lysosomal functions. Alzheimer’s & dementia. 2024 May 16;
  6. Kuerec AH, Lim XK, Khoo ALY, Sandalova E, Guan L, Feng L, et al. Targeting aging with urolithin A in humans: A systematic review. Ageing Research Reviews. 2024 Sep;100:102406.
  7. Novel A. Urolithin A: A Novel Geroprotectant Capable of Stimulating Mitophagy [Internet]. Genesis Scientific Publications. 2024 [cited 2025 May 22]. Available from: https://www.genesispub.org/urolithin-a-a-novel-geroprotectant-capable-of-stimulating-mitophagy

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