These days, it seems like literally every minute there’s a new treatment or beauty “fad” to hit the market – all promising to give you the skin of your dreams by smoothing away those lines or zapping those pesty zits. Sadly, these new treatments don’t always deliver on their promises, leaving us disappointed and back to square one (minus some hard-earned money!). Luckily, there are tried-and-tested solutions that answer the call for glowing and youthful-looking skin.
One of the most all-around effective and proven options on the market is LED light therapy, offering a comprehensive range of benefits for individuals seeking non-invasive and effective solutions for various skin concerns. Over the past decade, LED light therapy has established itself as a revolutionary skincare treatment and a leader in the medi-aesthetic space.
Clinically proven to help diminish fine lines, boost collagen production, treat acne and improve skin tone and clarity, this non-surgical aesthetic treatment is a must for those looking to improve their skin thanks to its unprecedented service power and treatment scope. Furthering its appeal, LED is gentle, non-invasive, painless and works for everyone no matter your age or skin tone. It also works seamlessly when combined with other treatments, making it one of the most versatile beauty solutions in the world.
The History of LED
LED light therapy actually has a fascinating origin story, with its roots tracing as far back as the early 19th century when scientists observed that certain wavelengths of light could influence cellular processes and stimulate healing. It wasn’t however until the mid 20th century however that researchers began harnessing the potential of LEDs with the invention of the first visible LED in the 1960’s marking a pivotal moment – thus enabling further exploration into its applications.
LEDs (otherwise known as Light Emitting Diodes) were used by NASA to help facilitate plant growth for astronauts in outer space. During this process it was found to have significant properties for use within the human body as well, namely extremely effective wound healing and the ability to stimulate tissue growth. It was discovered through the use of different wavelength and colours, each would have a different corresponding effect on the body. It’s no wonder then that since then, the beauty industry has tapped into this technology to treat various skin concerns!
How does it actually work?
LED light therapy machines work by using different wavelengths that correspond to various colours visible to the eye. Each wavelength penetrates the skin at different depths: blue reaches the shallowest part while red gets to the deeper layers of the skin. This allows LED to target specific problem areas of the skin, depending on the color of light and wavelength used.
By using varying colours and wavelengths of light, the technology activates the skin’s natural processes to heal and repair itself. Treatments can help treat acne, reduce the appearance of fine lines and other aging concerns (including helping to boost skins collagen production levels), help fade discolouration and sun-damaged skin as well as improving overall tone and texture.
Is it safe?
LED light therapy has risen in popularity over recent years as both an effective treatment option and a non-invasive treatment that’s very safe, regardless of skin type or color. There are no harmful UV rays, which cause premature skin aging, and it does not have any post-treatment downtime when compared to more invasive forms of treatments.
The non-invasive nature of LED light therapy makes it a suitable option for individuals with various skin types and tones. Additionally, the absence of downtime allows individuals to resume their regular activities immediately after a session, making it a convenient option for those with busy lifestyles.
Professional LED light therapy equipment feature five wavelengths of power-packed medical-grade LED: blue, green, yellow, red, and near-infrared. Each specific color can be used individually, utilising the strategic wavelengths associated with it, or can be combined with multiple wavelengths tailored to a client’s specific skin issues.
5 different wave lengths – 5 different beauty solutions
- Blue light (420nm) affects the topmost layer of the skin by slowing down the production of oil in sebaceous glands and killing bacteria that causes acne through inflammation. Blue light therapy can help treat active acne as well as helping to prevent future breakouts, making it a non-invasive alternative to traditional acne treatments.
- Yellow light (590nm) increases collagen and elastin production, which prevents signs of aging. It facilitates faster skin healing, making it suitable for issues that involve rosacea and for dealing with redness and post-laser treatments.
- Green light (520nm) strengthens the capillary network to reduce skin redness and hastens the wound healing process. It’s great for those with sensitive skin and who have issues with redness as well as assisting to fade decolouration caused by sun-damage.
- Red light (633nm) reaches the deeper layers of the dermis (where fibroblasts are activated) to increase the production of collagen and elastin to target the signs of aging, even decreasing the enzyme associated with breaking down collagen. As a result, collagen and elastin production is increased, leading to improved skin elasticity and a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.
Red light therapy is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in promoting overall skin health and reducing redness. It can also be used in combination with Blue light to reduce inflammation caused by acne
- Near-infrared,with a wavelength of 830 nm, has unique benefits as it penetrates the deepest layers of the skin, reaching the subcutaneous tissue and boosting deep cellular regeneration and encouraging wound repair. It promotes a faster healing process by accelerating cellular regeneration, making it an ideal choice for individuals recovering from sunburns, wounds, or post-surgical procedures. Near-infrared light also aids in reducing inflammation, contributing to a quicker recovery. It can also reduce post-procedure pain and discomfort and is often paired with other treatments, resulting in lesser downtime and shorter healing periods.
Can I do this at home?
Whilst at home red-light therapy devices utilise much lower energy to keep them safe for use (compared to the high-energy treatments you’d get in-office with an LED machine) however most professionals will recommend red-light therapy at home (such as mask, wand or panel) as a convenient and accessible option for people to complement and work alongside professional treatments.
Other benefits
Beyond its cosmetic benefits, LED light therapy has been recognized for its positive impact on overall mood and general well-being. Exposure to specific wavelengths of light has been linked to the stimulation of serotonin, often referred to as the “feel-good” neurotransmitter. This dual benefit of enhancing both skin health and emotional well-being makes LED a holistic approach to skincare.
In conclusion, LED offers a comprehensive approach to skincare by utilising specific light wavelengths to address a wide range of common skin concerns. Whether it’s stimulating collagen with red light, combating acne with blue light, promoting healing with near-infrared light, or targeting pigmentation issues with customizable treatments, LED therapy stands out as an advanced solution thanks to its personalised and versatile treatments.