The near-infrared (NIR) region of the spectrum is called the therapeutic window because NIR light can penetrate deeply into tissue. Therefore, NIR-sensitive materials are attractive for biomedical applications. Recently, upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs) were used to construct NIR-sensitive materials. UCNPs convert NIR light to UV or visible light, which can trigger photoreactions of photosensitive materials. Here, how to use UCNPs to construct NIR-sensitive materials is introduced, applications of NIR-sensitive materials with a focus on biomedical applications are highlighted, and the associated challenges are discussed.