30/10/2024
LED therapy is something I've been utilising in clinic for about 18 months now as either a standalone treatment or in conjunction with acupuncture. I use the Celluma Pro brand of LED/near infrared panel.
LED light therapy is a popular, non-invasive skincare treatment used for various skin issues, such as acne, wrinkles, inflammation, and skin rejuvenation. It employs specific wavelengths of light to pe*****te the skin at different depths, stimulating cellular activity and encouraging natural healing.
Hereâs a breakdown of common types of LED light therapy for the face:
1. Blue Light Therapy
Purpose: Primarily used to treat acne. Blue light targets bacteria known as Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), which is a significant contributor to acne breakouts.
Mechanism: Blue light (wavelengths around 400-490 nm) pe*****tes the skin and is absorbed by these bacteria, effectively killing them without damaging surrounding skin.
Supporting Studies: Research has shown that blue light therapy can reduce acne lesions and inflammation. Studies indicate that itâs particularly effective in reducing mild to moderate acne symptoms (Gold, 2017).
2. Red Light Therapy
Purpose: Often used to reduce wrinkles and promote anti-aging effects.
Mechanism: Red light (wavelengths around 620-750 nm) pe*****tes deeper into the skin, stimulating fibroblasts to produce collagen, which can reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and overall skin elasticity.
Supporting Studies: Red light has shown to be effective in boosting collagen production and reducing signs of aging (Avci et al., 2013). Studies have also shown that red light reduces inflammation, making it beneficial for conditions like rosacea and psoriasis.
3. Near-Infrared Light Therapy
Purpose: Used for deeper tissue healing, improving skin texture, and reducing inflammation.
Mechanism: Near-infrared light (wavelengths around 700-1400 nm) reaches deeper into the skin, stimulating blood circulation, and promoting cellular repair processes.
Supporting Studies: Research supports near-infrared lightâs benefits in wound healing and reducing inflammation, which can improve skin appearance and texture (Enwemeka et al., 2014).
