“If you keep your eyes open, the light can cause damage,” says Bowe. Then your red light device, nor your skin, should When to be hot or even hot. “If the wavelengths of light create heat, it can cause the pigment-producing cells in your skin to pump out more melanin, so you need to be extra careful that it doesn’t emit heat if you’re prone to hyperpigmentation.”
Murphy-Rose adds that it’s best to talk to your doctor before using red light if you have any conditions that make you more photosensitized or take medications that increase your photosensitivity. And before you buy that expensive device, make sure it’s properly tested. “I would always recommend doing your research before investing in an LED fixture,” says Newman. “Not all LEDs are created equal, it is very important to check that your device is operating at the correct wavelengths to deliver the results you are looking for and has been tested for safety.”
However, the non-invasive treatment is largely free of side effects. Whether you choose to treat skin conditions at the spa or try light therapy at home, the positive effects of red light therapy are worth your time and dollar direction.
How to find the best red light therapy device for you
Interested in trying red light therapy? When choosing the best device for you, Ruth says “you should consider factors such as wavelength, power output and coverage of the device’s treatment area.”
“Choose a device with wavelengths between 630 and 850 nanometers, as these wavelengths have shown optimal penetration for skin rejuvenation,” he says. And of course, a stamp of approval from the Food and Drug Administration never hurts. “I instruct patients to look for devices that have been cleared by the FDA to ensure safety and efficacy,” notes Ruth.
Do red light therapy devices work?
“With continuous red LED treatments, clients can be confident that their skin will look firmer and have a more even tone and texture,” says the board-certified dermatologist. Dr. Dennis Gross. So the devices work, but how? “The LED works like any other local component,” says Gross. “Our skin cells have receptors for LEDs, which means that light will enter the skin cell, bind to a unique LED receptor, and trigger the body to convert the light energy into cellular energy. With red light devices, the red LED enters the fibroblast cell and stimulates collagen production—the key to healthy, youthful skin—and reduces fine lines and wrinkles. Gross adds that the red LED also increases circulation and reduces redness, reducing inflammation and hyperpigmentation with continued use.
Is there a difference between infrared and red light therapy?
“The main differences between infrared and red LED light are visibility, wavelength and penetration depth,” explains Gross. “Infrared light is invisible and has a longer wavelength than red light. This allows it to penetrate deeper into the body and facilitate wound healing and cellular repair.” Red light, on the other hand, is visible and — because it has a shorter wavelength — is aimed at the surface of the skin. “The red LED increases cellular energy to stimulate fibroblast growth factors to enhance collagen synthesis,” continues Dr. Gross. “It also reduces the activity of matrix metalloproteinases, which is what breaks down collagen.” In general, red light therapy uses a wavelength of light from 630 to 700 nm, while near infrared uses 800 to 1200 nm of light.
Which skin types benefit most from red light therapy?
“Almost any skin type can benefit from red light therapy,” Hartman says. “Even patients with skin conditions such as eczema and rosacea can find relief from symptoms, as red light can help reduce skin inflammation. Acne-prone skin also greatly benefits from red light therapy, as the light can reduce sebum production, which is one of the causes of acne, as well as reduce the appearance of current inflammatory breakouts.” Those with mild to moderate fine lines and wrinkles will also find red light therapy beneficial, Hartman says, as red light promotes collagen and elastin production.
