What is it?
LED light therapy is a non-invasive, painless skin-care treatment that can help rejuvenate skin by boosting collagen production and may also aid in the treatment of acne by helping to reduce inflammation and oil production. It may also help reduce scarring.
It is uses wavelengths of UV-free LED lights for the treatment of many skin conditions ranging from atopic dermatitis to acne. More evidence is required to say just how good it is in the treatment of acne, but some results have been promising.
What is it for?
“LED” refers to the light emitting diodes, which work by emitting light that is absorbed into the deeper layers of the skin. It is a popular facials procedure in the UK.
The Blue Light LED facial treatment – is effective in the treatment of:
- Mild to moderate acne
- Stabilising oil glands
- Easing inflammation
- Purifying the skin.
The Red Light LED facial treatment – Penetrates deeply into the skin to:
- Stimulate collagen production
- Rejuvenate the skin
- Encourage cellular repair
- Boost circulation
- Reduce scarring
- Reducing wrinkles
- Even out skin tone.
Is it safe?
It is gentler and generally less expensive than other invasive or even non-invasive procedures.
- There is no risk of burning
- No known side effects
- Zero down time after treatments
What does it cost?
In the UK treatments are delivered an aesthetician and average around the £50 mark, depending on the clinic and the area being treated.
What is the procedure like?
LED treatments can last anywhere from ten to thirty minutes, and can be used as a stand-alone treatment or part of a facial.
A typical treatment for the face consists of:
- Cleansing of the face
- Selection of the light colour according to the condition you want to treat
- Combination with Galvanic current and hydrogel mask for enhance results (as a combination therapy, however not essential)
- Treatment with selected LED light.
Can everyone have LED treatment?
It is very safe, and is suitable for most people. However, you should not have it if you are taking medications that make your skin photosensitive such strength retinoids or Accutane often prescribed for acne.
It should not be performed if you have suspicious skin lesions or malignant tumors, or on people who are sensitive to light, have migraines triggered by light or have epilepsy. People with thyroid problems should avoid it and it is not recommended for pregnant women.
Is it effective?
It is a relatively new treatment so robust studies supporting it are few and far between. Anecdotally people are reporting good results of acne treatment and skin rejuvenation.
Who should perform this procedure?
Always see a qualified medical professional.
[1] Patrizi, A; Raone, B; Ravaioli, GM (5 October 2015). “Management of atopic dermatitis: safety and efficacy of phototherapy.”. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology. 8: 511–20.
[2] http://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis/treatments/phototherapy
[3] Titus S, Hodge J (October 2012). “Diagnosis and treatment of acne”. Am Fam Physician. 86 (8): 734–40.
[4] Bouzari N, Elsaie ML, Nouri K (2012). “Laser and Light for Wound Healing Stimulation”. In Nouri K. Lasers in Dermatology and Medicine. Springer London. pp. 267–75.
