Red light therapy and acupuncture FAQ in Austin
Straight answers on Firefly, acupuncture, dry needling, booking and payment.
Firefly and red light therapy.
What is Firefly light therapy?
Firefly is a red and near-infrared light therapy device, the Firefly Clinic Pro by Bales Photonics. Using light this way is called photobiomodulation (PBM).
For each session, Aaron chooses among 8 wavelengths and sets light frequencies for you. Learn more about Firefly.
What does the light actually do in the body?
Red and near-infrared light is absorbed by an enzyme in your mitochondria, the power plants of your cells. Research shows cells then make more ATP, their energy source, and release nitric oxide, which supports blood flow.
Small signals also switch on genes linked to repair and calming inflammation. See how it works.
What's the difference between red light therapy, Firefly and a red light bed?
"Red light therapy" is the broad name for using red and near-infrared light on the body. A red light bed or panel is usually self-serve, with the same light across your whole body.
With Firefly, a licensed practitioner works on the areas you came in for. Aaron chooses the wavelengths and light frequency settings for you, guided by your F-Scan.
How many Firefly sessions do I need?
It depends on you, and results vary. Bales Photonics suggests a series of about 4 sessions to see how you respond. After that, Aaron will talk through whether more sessions make sense. See Firefly packages.
How long is a Firefly session?
Your first visit takes about 60 minutes, including the F-Scan. Follow-up sessions take about 30 minutes. Each area being treated takes a few minutes.
Does red light therapy hurt?
No. Firefly is non-invasive and painless, and there are no needles.
What is the F-Scan?
The F-Scan is a frequency scan done at your first Firefly visit. Aaron uses it to personalize your session settings. It's included in the $165 first visit.
Is Firefly red light therapy safe?
Firefly is non-invasive light therapy, and it's designed to be used without burning the skin. Before your session, tell Aaron if you are pregnant, sensitive to light, or take any medication that makes you light-sensitive. He'll decide with you whether to adjust or skip treatment. If you have a medical condition, talk with your physician first.
Is red light therapy being studied for brain or gut health?
Yes. Researchers are running early, small studies on red and near-infrared light for brain and gut health. The results so far are preliminary. Firefly is a general wellness device, not a treatment for any disease. See the research
Can I combine Firefly with acupuncture?
Yes. The Acupuncture + Firefly combo is about 90 minutes for $225, which saves $40 vs. booking both. You get both in one appointment. See the combo.
Acupuncture and dry needling.
Does acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture needles are very thin. Many people feel a brief pinch or nothing at all, sometimes followed by a dull ache or warmth near the needle. Tell Aaron at any time and he'll adjust.
What's the difference between acupuncture and dry needling?
Both use thin, solid needles. Dry needling targets tight muscles and trigger points. Acupuncture works with points across the whole body. Aaron is a licensed acupuncturist who offers both and may combine them. More on acupuncture and dry needling.
What should I wear to acupuncture?
Wear loose, comfortable clothes you can roll up past your knees and elbows. Gowns are provided when Aaron needs to reach your back, neck or shoulders.
How many acupuncture visits will I need?
It depends on what you come in for and how long you've had it, and results vary. Aaron will suggest a plan at your first visit and check your progress as you go. Sessions run 60 to 75 minutes. Pain and recovery.
Booking and payment.
Can I use my HSA or FSA?
Yes, HSA and FSA cards are accepted for acupuncture. For Firefly, ask your plan whether it qualifies. Payment details.
Do you take insurance?
We don't bill insurance. We can give you a receipt to submit for out-of-network or HSA reimbursement.
What is your cancellation policy?
We have a standard 24-hour cancellation policy. Please cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours before your appointment.
Cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice are charged. To cancel, text (512) 585-2421 or use your online booking.
Where do I park?
Parking is free. There are visitor spaces right in front of the door, and a large parking lot if those are full.
Julius Wellness is inside Concierge Health of Austin, 3001 Bee Caves Rd, Suite 210, Rollingwood. Directions and visit info.
What are your hours?
Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 9am to 3pm. Tuesday and Thursday, 10am to 4pm. Closed weekends. Book online anytime.
Firefly is a general wellness device. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and individual results vary. Talk with your physician about any medical condition.
Still have a question?
Call (512) 585-2421 for a free 15-minute consult, or book online.