LED Light Therapy is a non-invasive skin treatment that targets the signs of ageing, acne problems and overall skin rejuvenation. While this has been around since the 1960s, it’s been getting more popular as of late.
In this article, you’ll learn more about what LED Light Therapy is all about, including its benefits and possible side effects, as well as other information if this skin treatment is right for you.
How did LED Light Therapy come about?
Way back when, NASA - yes, the US government agency responsible for the science and technology of space exploration - developed LED lights for plant growth outside planet Earth. However, healthcare professionals also saw the benefits of these products in healing wounds and tissue growth. Scientists further developed this into what we know as LED Light Therapy today.
What are the benefits of LED Light Therapy?
There are three kinds of LED light: red, blue and yellow. Red LED light reduces the signs of ageing as it targets skin cells that promote collagen production.
On the other hand, blue LED light targets oil glands on the skin to reduce the overproduction of sebum and improve acne problems.
Yellow LED light targets overall healing, so it’s perfect for after treatment for laser and injectables procedures as it speeds up recovery time.
So in this case, LED Light Therapy treats several skin concerns and conditions, including dermatitis, eczema and rosacea.
It’s also one of the safest skin treatments on the market, as it does not cause burns, and can be used regularly.
Are there any side effects?
Like any skin treatment, LED Light Therapy has a few side effects to take note of. They can cause mild reactions to the skin, so you might see a bit of swelling and redness, and experience some itching for a few days. Always discuss your plans with your GP so that you can prepare early.
When should you use LED Light Therapy?
LED Light Therapy is best for people experiencing acne problems, who want to address visible signs of ageing on their face, and who want to heal their wounds faster.
Patients also living with psoriasis and rosacea can turn to LED Light Therapy to manage their symptoms.
Can I do LED Light Therapy every day?
So you’re hooked on the glow that LED Light Therapy gives, but can you use it every single day?
The good news is that it’s generally safe for daily use as it’s a gentle, non-invasive treatment that doesn’t damage your skin even with frequent sessions.
But using it daily doesn’t necessarily speed up your results. We recommend using LED Light Therapy 3-5 times a week, but hey if you want to indulge in a daily session, go for it.
Remember to listen to your skin and adjust the frequency if you start feeling irritation.
How long does LED Light Therapy take to work?
All good things take time and the same goes for LED Light Therapy. A dramatic transformation overnight may be unrealistic, but gradual improvements are definitely in the cards.
Most people start noticing a subtle glow after just a few sessions. But to really see the effects, you’ll typically need a course of treatments over several weeks.
The exact timeline depends on the specific skin concern you’re targeting:
- Acne: Inflammation and breakouts can be reduced within a few weeks with more significant improvements after a full course of treatments.
- Fine lines and wrinkles: Noticeable smoothing and plumping can take several weeks or even months of regular sessions.
- Skin healing: If you’re using LED Light Therapy to help with wound healing or post-treatment recovery, you might see faster results, with improvements noticeable within days or weeks.
Everyone’s skin is different, so the timeline for visible results varies. Our LED Light Therapists at Laser Clinics Canada can give you a better idea of what to expect based on your individual needs and goals. So hang in there and keep up with your sessions!
How can you tell if it’s working?
For acne, expect less redness and breakouts within weeks. Fine lines and wrinkles may soften over several months, while skin healing can show faster results, sometimes within days.
Does LED Light Therapy cause purging?
The treatment itself doesn’t directly cause purging, which is when your skin breaks out temporarily as it adjusts to new products or treatments.
However, the blue light used in LED Light Therapy can sometimes speed up the skin’s natural shedding process. This may lead to existing pimples surfacing more quickly, giving the illusion of a breakout.
In most cases, this is temporary and shouldn’t last longer than a few weeks. In fact, it’s a good sign your skin is responding well to the treatment and clearing out congestion.
If you’re worried about acne breakouts during your LED Light Therapy sessions, our Therapists can offer advice and skincare product recommendations for managing your skin during the adjustment phase.
We tailor-fit our treatments that stimulate dermal blood flow and faster healing, giving you a fresh and rejuvenated look.
At Laser Clinics Canada, you will be in the care of our highly-skilled and well-trained team of Therapists who use the latest in LED Light Therapy technology to deliver the best results based on your skin goals. So if you’re thinking of trying out this treatment, book an appointment today.
