How LED Light Therapy Works

What’s Up With LED Lights?

One trend that’s gained a lot of momentum in the skincare world: LED Light Therapy. For the uninitiated, LED Light Therapy is a pain-free treatment that can be done at a professional level in an office or at home. And LED lights even make an appearance in some Hydrafacials (like those from LaserAway as the last step in the process) via LightStim Elipsa treatment. But before you make an appointment to give this therapy a try, allow us to explain the ins and outs of how it all works.

What are LED lights?

LED is an acronym that stands for “light-emitting diode,” which is a semiconductor device that gives off light when an electrical current passes through it. LED lights were first developed by NASA to help with plant growth experiments in space. Today, their usage has expanded into new territories. Most commonly, you’ll hear about LED light bulbs being used as energy-savers in the home—but these lights also offer incredible skin care benefits.

How do they work?

LED light therapy can be performed at home—with a futuristic-looking plastic face mask—or in a medical office. Either way, you’ll want to be sure that your skin is clean and your eyes are protected. It’s not painful or uncomfortable, but it does emit a strong light. In fact, some patients say that they like the way the warm light feels on their skin. Best of all, you can be sure that it won’t cause any damage. LED light therapy works by emitting infrared lights in different wavelengths and across multiple spectrums. The two types of wavelengths featured are blue and red lights. Red lights focus on collagen production, helping address scarring and wrinkles, while blue lights go after oil-producing glands (aka sebaceous glands) to help reduce the amount of oil your skin is producing. Better yet, blue light zaps the bacteria that causes skin inflammation. Together, they work some major skincare magic.

Who should use LED therapy?

Most people interested in LED light therapy are seeking treatment for issues such as acne scars, psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, rosacea and other conditions that relate to skin inflammation. LED light therapy—unlike some other laser treatments—is ideal across all skin tones, genders and ages. Keep in mind, however, if you’re taking any medication for your skin, such as an acne treatment, it’s important to talk to your doctor first. This is because light therapy can cause temporary redness and inflammation. Because this type of therapy doesn’t utilize ultraviolet (UV) light, it also doesn’t cause damage to your skin. Big win!

What are the benefits?

There are so many benefits to LED light therapy. Fed up with aging and wrinkled skin? This treatment stimulates collagen production as it smooths out fine lines and wrinkles. It even brightens your skin for an overall more youthful-looking effect. Those with acne-prone skin will find many benefits to improve skin inflammation and scarring. It even helps prevent breakouts by killing off the bacteria that causes acne in the first place.

Blair Smith is a lifestyle and beauty writer who currently resides (and will likely stay forever) in Brooklyn, New York.