- Blue light: This “is often used to treat acne, as it has antibacterial properties and can help reduce inflammation and breakouts,” Shokeen says. “It can also improve skin texture and reduce oil production. Blue light therapy over time helps minimize oiliness and shrinking of the glands.”
- Green and yellow light: “These colors are used to reduce redness, soothe the skin and improve pigmentation issues,” she says. “They can help even out skin tone and promote a more youthful appearance.”
- Red light: According to Shokeen, red light therapy is known for its antiaging benefits. “Red light therapy stimulates collagen production, reduces wrinkles and improves skin elasticity,” she says. “It can also help heal wounds and reduce inflammation.”
- Near infrared light: Near infrared light penetrates deeper than red light. “[It] it promotes healing, reduces pain and inflammation and boosts circulation,” he explains. “It is often used for muscle recovery and joint pain relief.”
- Orange/orange light: Shokeen notes that orange and orange light can “help with collagen production, skin rejuvenation and the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles,” but it’s ideally best to use red light therapy.
- Purple light: He continues that purple light combines the benefits of red and blue light which “makes it useful for both acne treatment and anti-aging purposes. It can help fight acne while promoting collagen production.”
How does red light therapy work?
According to MacGregor, phototherapy really works for the skin. “How it works and how much it works is related to the target indication, the wavelength of light used (affects penetration depth and action), how powerful the light source is, and how long the light is used on the skin.” He says you’ll find the most beneficial results with short pulses of higher-powered light sources like those used in the doctor’s office, though home treatments can still be effective.
What are the benefits of LED light therapy?
LED light therapy is a treatment that is often recommended because it offers many benefits for the skin. “In clinical studies, it has been shown to stimulate collagen production, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” dermatologist Dr. Lauren Penzi says Fashion. In addition, it states that it can improve circulation, boost the body’s detoxification and calm inflammation. “Over time it can help soothe scars, stretch marks, inflamed skin and help heal wounds. It can also stimulate hair growth by improving energy production at the cellular level as well as increasing blood supply to the area.”
Does LED light therapy work for hair growth?
“The data suggests that LED light therapy works to promote hair growth,” says Murphy-Rose. “The mechanism is thought to be increased blood flow from the light that supports nutrient delivery, increased ATP production to stimulate hair follicles, and decreased inflammation, which promotes growth and prevents loss.” (ATP means adenosine triphosphate, a source of energy that fuels cells.) Shokeen agrees, adding that it’s an excellent non-invasive and safe treatment option for hair loss. “Again, be sure to follow the instructions on the device for how long you use the device,” he instructs.
What are the possible risks of using LED light therapy?
Willis explains that there is minimal risk when using an LED device on the skin. “With all light treatments, the most important thing is eye protection. When using LED light therapy, the device must be used away from the eyes using a hand-held device or the eyes must be covered with protective glasses or pads.” Although the devices are suitable for all skin types, she advises those with melasma to be careful “because thermal heat can make the condition worse.”
