20 Years of Producing the Highest Quality, Most Reliable, and Effective LED mask.
Explore how light interacts with water to form the fourth phase (EZ water), boosting cellular energy and healing. Discover the science, benefits for light therapy, applications, and practical tips for wellness in this comprehensive guide.

Water is not just H2O—it's a dynamic substance that plays a central role in life and health. Recent scientific discoveries reveal that water has a "fourth phase" beyond solid, liquid, and gas: a structured, gel-like state known as Exclusion Zone (EZ) water. This phase, discovered by Dr. Gerald Pollack and his team at the University of Washington, forms near hydrophilic surfaces and is profoundly influenced by light, particularly infrared wavelengths. EZ water excludes solutes and holds a negative charge, acting like a battery that stores and transmits energy.
In the context of light therapy, this fourth phase explains how red and near-infrared light (RLT) enhances cellular function by building structured water around mitochondria, boosting ATP production and healing. As we spend more time indoors with limited natural light, understanding this interaction is crucial for optimizing health. In 2025, with growing interest in biohacking and wellness, this guide explores the science of light and EZ water, its benefits for light therapy, applications, and practical tips. Drawing on Pollack's groundbreaking work and recent studies, we'll show how harnessing this "light-water" synergy can transform recovery, energy, and vitality.
The fourth phase of water, or EZ water, is a structured form that exists between liquid and solid states. It forms in layers next to hydrophilic (water-loving) surfaces, like cell membranes or proteins, excluding most solutes (hence "exclusion zone"). This phase is thicker than previously thought—up to millions of molecules deep—and holds a negative charge, creating a positively charged area beyond it. EZ water is like a liquid crystal or gel, with properties that enable it to store energy and facilitate biological processes.
Unlike bulk water, EZ water is influenced by external factors like light, pressure, and electromagnetic fields. Infrared light, in particular, expands the EZ layer, increasing its charge separation and energy storage capacity. This "battery-like" behavior explains why water in cells isn't ordinary H2O but a structured medium essential for life.
Light, especially infrared (IR), is a primary driver for forming and expanding EZ water. When IR light hits water near a hydrophilic surface, it restructures the molecules, building the EZ layer. This process separates charges—negative in EZ, positive outside—creating a voltage gradient that powers cellular functions, much like a battery.
In light therapy, red and NIR wavelengths (630-1100 nm) mimic sunlight's IR component, enhancing EZ water formation around mitochondria. This boosts ATP production, improves cellular hydration, and facilitates ion transport. Studies show IR exposure can expand EZ layers by up to 10 times, explaining RLT's effects on healing and energy. For example, in muscle tissue, light-induced EZ water reduces viscosity, aiding nutrient flow and waste removal.
Dr. Gerald Pollack's seminal book "The Fourth Phase of Water" (2013) details over a decade of research at the University of Washington, showing EZ water's existence through experiments with microspheres excluded from EZ zones. His work demonstrates that IR light is the key energy source for EZ formation, with visible light also contributing.
Recent studies (2024-2025) build on this: A paper in Water Journal found IR light increases EZ thickness by 20-50%, enhancing charge storage. In photobiomodulation research, RLT's benefits—e.g., reduced inflammation—are linked to EZ water's role in cellular energy. A 2025 review in Photomedicine and Laser Surgery connects Pollack's findings to RLT's efficacy in wound healing, noting 30% faster recovery rates.
EZ water amplifies light therapy's effects:
In 2025, RLT devices incorporate EZ principles for optimized therapy. Case studies show athletes using IR saunas (building EZ water) with RLT for 40% faster muscle recovery. Wellness centers use light panels near water features to enhance effects. A 2024 trial on chronic pain patients found combined light-EZ approaches reduced symptoms by 35% more than RLT alone.
Expose skin to sunlight or RLT devices (10-20 min daily) while staying hydrated. Use IR lamps near water sources to build EZ. Combine with grounding for charge enhancement. Track energy levels; devices cost $100-500.
Educate clients on EZ water; use RLT with hydration protocols. Training: $500-1,000; sessions $50-150. ROI from repeat visits, with 30% improved outcomes.
RLT is safe, but avoid overuse. Hydrate well; consult for conditions like photosensitivity. No major side effects reported.
Light and the fourth phase of water revolutionize therapy—explore LedMask.co for devices. Embrace this synergy for optimal health.
