Red LED light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that has gained popularity in recent years. It involves exposing the skin to low-wavelength red light to stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation, and increase blood circulation. The treatment is promoted as a remedy for various skin conditions and more. This article will explore the science behind red LED light therapy and its potential benefits in skin treatments and anti-aging
How Did It All Begin?
In 1903, a Danish physician named Niels Ryberg Finsen was awarded the Nobel Prize for discovering that exposure to concentrated red light can accelerate the healing of sores. However, despite receiving the award, Finsen remained reluctant to put his discovery into practice without understanding why it worked. Fast forward to the present day, and red LED light therapy has become a popular non-invasive treatment for various skin conditions, including wrinkles, redness, acne, scars, and other signs of aging.
The treatment involves exposing the skin to low-wavelength red light to stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation, and increase blood circulation. Researchers have also found that it can be used to treat pain, insomnia, eyesight, and even weight loss. So, while Finsen may have hesitated to put his discovery into practice over a century ago, today, red LED light therapy is a widely accepted and effective treatment for various health issues.
What Is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy, also commonly called photobiomodulation or low-level light therapy (LLLT), is a therapeutic treatment that may help improve acne, fine lines, wrinkles, alopecia, and other skin and health conditions. Over the years, studies have suggested that specific LED colors, particularly red and near-infrared lights, have shown promise in aiding skin healing. Here are a few studies that have explored the effects of LED therapy on skin health:
Red Light (620-700 Nm)A study published in the "Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy" in 2006 demonstrated that red LED light promoted collagen production and increased fibroblast activity. This resulted in improved skin healing and reduction of wrinkles. According to an extensive study by NASA, high-intensity red and near-infrared LEDs can accelerate the healing of oxygen-deprived wounds in rats and speed up the growth and proliferation of skin, bone, and muscle cell cultures from mice and rats. Another study in the "Journal of Drugs in Dermatology" in 2014 revealed that red LED light helped improve skin complexion, texture, and tone while reducing the signs of aging.
One of the most common questions about red light therapy is whether to keep eyes open or closed. This study, published in the Journal of Physics in 2018, examined the long-term effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in patients with age-related macular degeneration and showed that LLLT may be a novel long-lasting therapeutic option for an effective treatment that results in a long-term improvement of the visual acuity. This study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that red LED light therapy can improve sleep quality and reduce insomnia symptoms.
Near-Infrared Light (700-1200 Nm)
A study in "Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery" in 2008 highlighted the benefits of near-infrared light therapy in wound healing, skin rejuvenation, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Another research published in "Lasers in Surgery and Medicine" in 2009 reported that near-infrared LED therapy enhanced skin tissue repair and improved ulcer healing. These studies comprehensively review the existing literature on light therapy for dermatologic conditions and offer evidence-based recommendations for its use.
What Are Red Light Therapy Benefits?
Red LED light therapy has been shown to have numerous benefits for skin health, pain relief, sleep quality, and weight loss. Here are some of the benefits of red LED light therapy:
Skin rejuvenation: Red LED light therapy can help improve skin texture, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and increase collagen production.
Pain relief: Red LED light therapy has been shown to help reduce pain and inflammation in various conditions, including arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and fibromyalgia.
Improved sleep quality: Red LED light therapy can help regulate circadian rhythms and improve sleep quality, leading to better overall health.
Weight loss: Red LED light therapy has been shown to help reduce body fat and promote weight loss.
Are There Any Negative Effects of Red Light Therapy?
While modern red light therapy has many positive benefits and is virtually free of side effects when used properly, some potential risks include mild or prolonged redness, dry, itchy skin, blistering, or hyperpigmentation. When red light therapy is used at the correct dosage (wavelength) for a particular treatment, skin-related side effects are extremely rare.
How to Use Red Light Therapy?
Although red light therapy is considered safe, it is important to consult your healthcare provider or a board-certified dermatologist before starting the treatment. The frequency and wavelength of red light therapy treatments vary depending on the treatment area. Red light therapy is also available via at-home devices that can be used for a small amount of time daily. It’s almost unbelievable how far technology has come in recent years. Today, we have access to a wide range of innovative products that can help us care for our skin from the comfort of our homes.
convenient for everyone to enjoy the benefits of red light therapy at home without having to visit a dermatologist. This cutting-edge device is made of ultra-lightweight, wireless, and flexible silicone that fits perfectly on your face. It uses seven wavelengths of LED light, plus near-infrared, to stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation, and improve blood circulation. The mask is designed to target various skin concerns, including wrinkles, age spots, dullness, you can experience spa-level LED facial treatments at the push of a button, all from the comfort of your home. It’s a game-changer for anyone looking to rejuvenate their skin.
