LED (light-emitting diode) therapy is a skincare treatment that uses varying wavelengths of light, including red and blue. It can improve skin conditions such as wrinkles, acne, and psoriasis. The wavelengths stimulate your skin receptors to boost collagen production and speed up the regeneration process. Unlike other types of light therapy, LEDs do not contain ultraviolet rays. Therefore, they’re safe for regular use. Compared to chemical peels or laser therapy, LED light therapy is a very superficial form of skin resurfacing. The treatment is also safe for all types and colors of skin.
Red LED light acts on cells in the skin known as fibroblasts, which play a role in collagen production to help recover damaged skin. Therefore, it helps reverse signs of photoaging. It works by penetrating the outer layer of your skin, kicking collagen production in gear. Increased collagen means smoother skin, minimizing fine lines, wrinkles, stretch marks, sun damage, and rosacea.
Blue LED light is most often used to treat acne. It reduces activity in the sebaceous glands, so they produce less of the oil that can plug the hair follicles, leading to acne. Blue light may also kill acne-causing bacteria known as Cutibacterium acnes.
LED light therapy combines blue and red lights to fight acne — the blue light targeting the C. acnes and the red light targeting inflammation and redness.
Ideal Candidate
This is suitable for all ages and skin types because they are customized to each person's needs and concerns. Typically, our LED light therapy is designed to correct acne-prone skin and inflammation. This would be a good option for people who are pregnant or potentially pregnant, or for an acne patient who doesn't feel comfortable using prescription medications.
LED light therapy would work best for patients with:
acne
dermatitis
dull skin
eczema
psoriasis
rosacea
scarring
signs of aging, including wrinkles and age spots
sun damage
wound healing
other inflammatory skin conditions
Do not use certain medications, such as isotretinoin (Accutane)
Procedure Technique
During the procedure, we will properly cleanse and prepare your skin before applying the LED light or mask to your face. You will be given blackout goggles to protect your eyes. After the light treatment, we will finish by applying a light sunscreen. You may want to bring a hat to wear outside after the treatment to avoid sun exposure.
What to Expect
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, most people with acne will see an improvement in their symptoms from using LED light therapy, but they should not expect all acne to clear. It is necessary to have several treatment sessions before noticing an improvement in skin appearance. People usually see the best results several weeks after their last treatment. It may also be necessary to have follow-up sessions to maintain these results.