WHAT IS LED LIGHT THERAPY FOR SKIN?
LED light therapy for skin, also known as low-level light therapy, is a popular non-invasive aesthetic skin treatment found to have many benefits and capable of treating a variety of skin conditions, as well as being suitable for use on any body part.  The treatments may be done as a mono-therapy or as a complementary procedure used in the recovery of various aesthetic treatments. In our practice at DMH Aesthetics, we commonly use LED Therapy, Lightstimä after treatments including micro needling, injectable fillers, IPL, laser skin resurfacing, Morpheus8ä, and Hydrafacialsä.  We also commonly utilize LED light therapy after surgical procedures including face lifts, eyelid surgery, thread lifting, and facial fat transfer.

 

ORIGINATION OF LED LIGHT THERAPY
LED light therapy for skin is a treatment that originated in 1960s and was used primarily for pain relief and wound healing purposes.  Early NASA research proved that the use of specific LED light wavelengths had several therapeutic benefits. Initially, the LED treatments were focused on wound healing and pain relief.

 

LED LIGHT THERAPY FOR SKIN BENEFITS
LED light therapy has been shown to have several benefits to the skin including improved circulation, the stimulation of  regenerative and reparative  processes in the skin, the promotion of wound healing, relief of pain or a decrease in its intensity, reduction of inflammation, as well as a variety of skin conditions including acne, dermatitis, psoriasis, rosacea, scarring, sun damage, and signs of aging including wrinkles.

LED light therapy is safe because it does not produce thermal injury. Rather it functions through a nonthermal process called “ photobiomodulation”, which is thought to stimulate the growth of fibroblasts which lead to increased collagen synthesis, the release of growth factors, as well as an increase production in extracellular matrix of the skin, with the potential, when used on a regular basis to reduce wrinkles or rhytids, while improving skin tone.  

 

LED light is emitted at different wavelengths, with each wavelength penetrating the skin at different depths and thus having distinct clinical benefits.  Two of the more common wave links include red and blue light.

 

WHAT IS RED LIGHT THERAPY FOR SKIN?

LED red light therapy for skin has been shown to potentially improve scarring and signs of aging including wrinkles. It is thought that the red light activates specialized skin cells called fibroblasts which are responsible for the production of collagen. With consistent LED treatments, LED therapy may boost the skins ability to produce collagen, which diminishes with age. LED red light has also been shown to reduce skin inflammation, hence it is a very popular after treatment following lasers, light therapy’s, and any treatments that may be irritant to the skin. 

 

 

WHAT IS BLUE LIGHT THERAPY FOR SKIN?

LED blue light therapy is thought to reduce the activity of sebaceous glands which produce oil in the skin. Overproduction of oil by sebaceous glands can lead to acne or worsen its state. Thererfore, blue light therapy, when used in conjunction with other acne treatments, may improve acne symptoms by reducing the activity of sebaceous glands..  Additionally it is thought that blue light may potentially destroy bacteria in the skin, which is a cause of inflammation in active acne.  According to the American Academy of dermatology, most people with active acne using LED light therapy as part of their acne treatment protocol, see an improvement in their skin condition. Multiple treatment sessions are generally required and best results for typically seen after several weeks of regular treatments.

 

LED LIGHT THERAPY FOR SKIN SIDE EFFECTS
The safety record for LED light therapy is excellent. Since the light does not contain ultraviolet rays, it is suitable for use on a regular basis. Additionally, it is safe for use on all skin types, unlike chemical peels and some laser therapies.  Short-term side effects, which are exceedingly rare, may include mild inflammation, rashes, and skin redness. Individuals should not consider LED light therapy if they are on certain medications including Accutane or other medications that may make their skin sensitive to sunlight. If you fall in this category, we advise you consult with your dermatologist before considering LED light therapy. 

 

LED LIGHT THERAPY FOR SKIN AT HOME

Because of its great safety record, LED light therapy has been popularized as a safe and effective treatment performed at home for skin health and rejuvenation.  The LED Lightshieldä is one such device which offers a multiple LED wavelengths, allowing it to treat a multitude of skin conditions.  The device has several benefits which includes a wireless console, allowing for LED therapy without disrupting your day-to-day activities. Following the treatment, there is no recovery time, making it a great at home therapy that may be utilized for aesthetic benefits on a day-to-day basis.

With the rise of the Coronavirus pandemic, the LED Lightshield has additionally found a valuable new role, serving as a potential mechanical barrier from droplets and aerosols, known to be culprits of transmission of the SARs-CoV-2 virus ( Covid19).  Its ease of use makes it the perfect adjunct to face masks, allowing for greater protection from potential infection transmission.