LED light therapy has become increasingly popular in at-home and professional skincare treatments. While it may have gained more traction in recent years, experts have been evaluating its effects for decades.
Scientists first began to explore light-emitting diode (LED) light therapy in the early 20th century as they studied the effects of light on biological processes in plants. Some of the first low-level laser therapy (LLLT) was documented in the 1960s when lasers that could emit focused beams of light were developed and used for health benefits.
Next came LED devices, which led NASA scientists to discover the healing potential of LED light therapy for astronauts. Since the 2000s, LED light therapy devices have become commercially available for skincare and wellness applications. Many skincare professionals also use LED light therapy in their office treatments.
But how does this therapy work exactly? In this article, let’s explore the detailed mechanism, applications, and benefits of LED light therapy for skin health.
What Is LED Light Therapy?
LED light therapy is a painless, non-invasive skin treatment that aims to help a variety of conditions. LED devices like lamps, light panels, handheld wands, and masks are placed onto the skin surface. These devices can isolate specific wavelengths of light and focus them on your skin.
Research shows that light energy can enhance blood flow, promote healing, reduce inflammation, increase cell turnover, and boost collagen buildup. Thus, it’s highly effective for rejuvenating your skin and improving certain skin conditions.
Different wavelengths of light have varied effects and are targeted toward different skincare needs. For example:
- Red light therapy: Red light increases blood circulation and decreases inflammation to promote healing and reduce pain and swelling. Near-infrared light has the deepest skin penetration. This light wavelength is often used to reverse signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots because it promotes collagen production and boosts cellular metabolism.
- Blue light therapy: Its main functions are to decrease inflammation, reduce the oil production of the skin glands, and destroy harmful infectious organisms like bacteria and other skin microbes. Blue and violet light wavelengths are often combined to treat skin conditions like acne.
- Green light therapy: This wavelength is said to support healing, boost skin firmness, and decrease melanin pigment production. Melanin is the naturally occurring pigment that gives skin its color. Too much or uneven melanin production can lead to dark spots, which can be treated with green light. These beneficial effects are seen on both the superficial and deeper layers of the skin.
- Yellow (amber) light therapy: Yellow or amber light therapy targets the most superficial layer of the skin to decrease inflammation and redness and improve skin sensitivity. This wavelength is best for treating conditions like rosacea, sun damage, and puffiness.
Benefits of LED Light Therapy
Research shows that LED light therapy can help treat the following skin conditions:
- Skin injuries
- Sunspots and hyperpigmentation/discoloration
- Scars (burns)
- Acne
- Eczema (dermatitis)
- Psoriasis
- Cold sores (herpes simplex infection)
- Vitiligo
- Age spots, dull skin, fine lines, and wrinkles
- Rosacea (redness)
- Actinic keratosis
However, that’s not all. Some of the additional benefits of LED therapy include:
- It’s incredibly safe as it doesn’t cause burns despite light exposure.
- It’s painless and non-invasive, so it doesn’t require any downtime in recovery like some other treatments.
- It’s quick and easy to perform.
- It’s suitable for all skin types and tones.
- It can be used on any part of the body.
Because it’s so easy to use, you can try LED light therapy at home. But be careful to read all manufacturer instructions and follow all safety precautions.
For best results, consider working with a professional, as they can help you identify the right treatment type and duration for your condition. You can also receive accurate guidance, undergo treatment with careful monitoring, and combine light therapy with other skin procedures like facials and peels.
Is LED Light Therapy Right for Me?
This is a safe and effective treatment because it only works with the visible light spectrum (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet) and doesn’t involve harmful ultraviolet rays that can damage your skin.
However, it may not be helpful for you if:
- You want to treat whiteheads, blackheads, cysts, or an active rash.
- You’re taking medications (like isotretinoin, lithium, oral contraceptives, antibiotics, antidepressants, and antihistamines) that can increase skin sensitivity to light.
- You have a history of skin cancer or eye disease.
- You’re looking for a quick fix. LED light therapy requires multiple sessions over several weeks to show beneficial effects, so you need to be patient and consistent to see results.
Finally, you may initially experience side effects like skin irritation, hives, tenderness, headaches, eye strain, irritability, fatigue, or insomnia. Be sure to consult your healthcare provider before starting treatment or if these effects persist for a long time.
Up Your Skincare Game With Laser By Monica
LED light therapy revitalizes and brightens your skin, kills bacteria to treat acne and prevent breakouts, stimulates cells, and increases collagen to fight signs of aging.
If you’re looking for LED light therapy in Manhattan or New York, Laser by Monica offers Celluma LED treatment as a standalone or in combination with facials or peels and other services like laser hair removal.
Schedule an appointment today to gift yourself that healthy, youthful glow.