If you select links we provide, we may receive compensation.
In particular, LED light therapy devices can treat a slew of concerns and offer some impressive benefits.
You’ve likely seen these devices on social media or on television.
Stocksy
In fact, there’s reason to treat the whole body with LED light therapy.
With benefits ranging from anti-aging toacne-fighting, LED light therapy is something that many people could benefit from.
Their thoughts on everything you gotta know about LED light therapy, below.
Meet the Experts
What Is LED Light Therapy?
LED means light-emitting diode.
“Amber lightstimulates collagenand elastin.
Red light is most commonly used to promote circulation.
White light penetrates the deepest and works to tighten and reduce inflammation.
Blue light kills bacteria.”
Depending on the light, your skin is going to respond differently.
Experts indicate washing your face with a gentle cleanser that doesn’t irritate your skin.
“We place LED panels a few inches away from the patient’s face,” says Dr. Nazarian.
“Eye protection is also placed as the lights are quite bright.
We treat [the skin] for about 15 to 20 minutes.
At first, it feels warm, but patients report liking the feeling.”
The light doesn’t cause any burns or skin damage.
It’s pretty much painless, and if you like lights, the colors can even be relaxing.
“The red lights are used for fine lines and wrinkles.
The blue lights are used to improve acne and prevent breakouts.
Also, blue light penetrates deep to [treat] cystic acne,” explains Dr. Nazarian.
Red and blue are the most common hues, but there are a few others, too.
“After microneedling or microdermabrasion, we finish with LED lights,” says Dr. Nazarian.
But you’re not going to get as intense of a treatment at home," says Dr. Nazarian.
At-home LED devices are easier and always available (you don’t need to book any appointments).
Side effects are rare, but make note if you experience redness or increased inflammation.
It’s also smart to talk to your doctor about your current medications and topical products.
Some oral acne medications and products like retinoids can cause skin sensitivity.
How Much Does LED Light Therapy Cost?
LED Light Therapy Aftercare
LED light therapy is noninvasive, so no recovery time is required.
And you should be able to continue with your everyday activities once your treatment is over.
“If it’s just for maintenance, we add it to our patients' monthlymicrodermabrasionor micro-needling treatments.”
The Final Takeaway
Although most say the results are fantastic, they’re not permanent.
In other words, think of it more as a complement to give that boost to your skincare routine.
2013;32(1):41-52.
Singh A, Yadav S.Microneedling: advances and widening horizons.Indian Dermatol Online J.
2016;7(4):244-254. doi:10.4103/2229-5178.185468
