LED Light Therapy: What It Is
LED (LIGHT Emitting Diode) light therapy is a non-invasive skincare treatment that uses varying wavelengths of light to enter the skin at different depths and to improve them. This technology was introduced in the 1990s, the time when NASA started studying the effects of LED on healing astronauts’ wounds. It was found that it helps cells and tissues grow. Bringing various skin benefits, the technology has later been employed for cosmetic and therapeutic skin treatments. It is widely used in dermatology and aesthetic practices with other treatments such as creams, ointments and facials to ensure the effectiveness of the light therapy.
As technology becomes advanced, there is a wide range of devices that allow you to use LED light therapy such as LED masks at home. Discover more about LED light therapy at-home devices.
Different kinds of LED light
LED light therapy utilises different colours of light to penetrate skin at different depths. Corresponding to different visible colours, the lights have various wavelengths which affect the depth they are able to enter. Here are 4 common colours of LED light used for light therapy.
Red Light
Red light has a wavelength of 620–750 nm that allows its ability to reach the dermal layer, the deeper layer of skin which lies beneath and supports the epidermis. It is generally used to reduce inflammation, stimulate the production of collagen, and enhance blood circulation.
Yellow Light
Having a shorter wavelength than red LED light, Yellow light (570–590 nm) can target epidermis, a topmost layer of the skin which protects the skin from the invasion of substances into the body. It is oftenly adapted to enhance wound healing and improve skin tone and texture as it can reduce redness and soothe sensitive skin.
Green Light
With a wavelength of 495–570 nm, Green LED light is able to enter the intermediate level, a middle layer between the epidermis and the dermal layer. It is usually used to reduce pigmentation and evens out skin tone. It can also give a hand on breaking down excess melanin, a natural skin pigment that plays a role in the colour of your hair, skin, eyes, and diminish hyperpigmentation and age spots.
Blue Light
Last but not least, blue light (405–420 nm) targets the epidermis and is able to destroy bacteria that might cause acne. Its ability to reduce redness and soothe sensitive skin is often used to refine skin tone and textures, and to enhance wound healing.
Conclusion
LED light therapy addresses a wide range of skin issues and conditions. Without the inclusion of harsh chemicals or invasive procedures, it is safe for all skin types that it has minimal risks and side effects. Nevertheless, it is important to follow the guidelines recommended by the device’s providers and use it correctly to prevent potential harm such as eye damage and skin irritation. Research should be done before purchasing at-home devices.
Bibliography
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22146-led-light-therapy
https://www.webmd.com/beauty/what-is-led-light-therapy-for-skin
