Article Overview
- LED light therapy is a non-invasive clinical skin procedure that utilizes infrared lights in different colors including blue light and red light therapy to trigger natural processes in the skin for visible benefits. This skin procedure has grown in popularity in recent years thanks to its high-profile adoptees, minimal downtime and benefits for multiple skin concerns. The different types of LED light therapy for skin can target fine lines and wrinkles, acne-prone skin, acne scarring and more. This therapy can also promote collagen and elastin synthesis for firmer looking skin.
- LED light therapy has minimal potential side effects and is suitable for most skin types, but it’s still important to understand the details of any procedure to make an informed choice about whether it’s right for you. Read on for an overview of the benefits and side effects of LED light therapy, alongside aftercare tips and skincare recommendations for post-procedure sensitive skin.
WHAT IS LIGHT THERAPY?
A LED light therapy facial session begins with facial cleansing, before safety goggles are placed over the eyes. A device with light emitting diodes (LED) will then be placed close to your face, delivering one or several colours of light for approximately 15-20 minutes. There shouldn’t be any pain with this procedure and many people experience a warm feeling.
This procedure works by exposing your skin to warming infrared lights in different spectrums and wavelengths. Each colour penetrates the skin at a different depth, triggering a different response. There are no UV rays involved in this type of light therapy and therefore no damage to the skin’s surface.
How often should you get LED light therapy? While this procedure can be booked on its own, LED light therapy is often combined as one step in a facial package or while getting a massage. The skin benefits of this procedure are not permanent, and the recommended frequency of appointments is monthly, or fortnightly if you’re preparing for a special occasion.
LED LIGHT THERAPY BENEFITS
The list of LED light therapy for skin benefits is extensive and varies depending on which colour light is used. You can book light therapy for acne-prone skin, anti-ageing benefits like minimising sagging skin and wrinkles, or to target acne scars. This versatile procedure can also help with skin brightening and inflammation.
BLUE LIGHT
What does blue LED light do for skin? This light colour can target and kill bacteria by stimulating oxygen radical production.
RED LIGHT
What is red light therapy? This LED colour can help strengthen the skin, reduce inflammation and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
What does red light therapy do to create these benefits? This light colour stimulates blood circulation and can reduce cytokines (molecules associated with acne-prone skin and chronic inflammation). Red light also targets oil glands to help reduce excessive production.
YELLOW LIGHT
What does yellow LED light do for skin? This light colour can stimulate synthesis of collagen and elastin, helping your skin look more plumped and tightened.
WHAT TO DO BEFORE AND AFTER LED LIGHT THERAPY?
Knowing what to do as part of LED light therapy before and after care will help you achieve optimal results from your procedure and minimize potential side effects.
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser before your appointment and skip your usual skincare and makeup routines to arrive bare faced. If you take medications for acne-prone skin such as isotretinoin, we recommend consulting with a healthcare professional before booking to determine if this procedure is suitable for you.
LED light therapy often doesn’t usually produce any side effects, but there is a possibility of temporary redness or inflammation during the minimal recovery period. You may begin to see a difference immediately after your first appointment, however enhanced benefits will be visible after multiple procedures.
USE AN ICE PACK
If you do happen to experience inflammation or swelling as an uncommon side effect, using an ice pack covered with a clean cloth on the procedure area will help soothe symptoms.
AVOID SUN FOR 48 HOURS
Your skin will already be going through a heat response after LED light therapy, so exposing your complexion to further heat will hinder the benefits of your procedure. We recommend seeking shade and wearing protective clothing for two days after your appointment.
HYDRATE INSIDE AND OUT
Maintaining optimal hydration levels internally and externally is always essential for your skin health, however it’s extra important as your skin goes through a healing response after LED light therapy.
IMPLEMENT A SKINCARE ROUTINE WITH SKINCEUTICALS PRODUCTS
It’s advisable to adjust your regular skincare routine after LED light therapy to aid the recovery process. Replacing your regular products with mild alternatives can help minimize side effects.
Use a mild facial cleanser like our Gentle Cream Facial Cleanser with comforting allantoin each morning. Keep your skin hydrated with a facial serum like our Hydrating B5 Gel Hyaluronic Acid Serum. Next, seal in moisture with our Daily Moisture Cream, a lightweight, pore-minimising facial moisturiser to hydrate skin with a non-greasy finish. To finish, be sure to apply a sunscreen such as our Ultra Facial Defense Sunscreen SPF50+ frequently to help achieve optimal skin benefits from your procedure.
Apply 20 minutes before sun exposure. Sunscreen is only one part of sun protection so wear protective clothing and seek shade. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming, toweling and perspiring in accordance with directions.
If you’re questioning whether an LED light therapy procedure is well suited to your skin concerns, consult with your dermatologist. For post-procedure skincare recommendations, you can also speak with a SkinCeuticals skincare professional. Find a skincare professional near your location.
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