Red light therapy, also known as: RLT is a popular treatment that incorporates low levels of red light to reduce the appearance of aging, scars, redness, acne, and dark spots, it’s no wonder then that it’s all the rage with companies such as Omnilux offering medical-grade LED light therapy devices that can be used from the comfort of your own home. The red light therapy guide by Dr Hany is a must-have for beauty.
What is LED Therapy?
Light Emitting Diodes are also known as LEDs. They work by a process called Phototherapy, where LEDs emit specific wavelengths of sunlight into your skin. This stimulates biochemical reactions such as reactivating cells and stimulating the production of collagen. It’s a non-invasive and completely natural process for treating a variety of skin concerns and conditions.
Different wavelengths
Red (633nm), and near-infrared light (830nm+) are the wavelengths of light most effective for skin rejuvenation and anti-aging. Near-infrared light penetrates deeper into the skin and targets fibroblasts to stimulate collagen production. The red wavelength reduces inflammation and redness. If your concerns are anti-aging focused, you’ll absolutely want to use a device that has both red and near-infrared at the optimized wavelengths (like the Omnilux Contour masks). The best wavelength for treating acne-prone skin is blue light (415nm) as it can neutralize and kill p.acnes bacteria in the skin – if you combine this with red (633nm) light to reduce inflammation and redness it’s a wonderful way to naturally treat breakouts. Omnilux CLEAR Mask uses both red and blue simultaneously. This allows you to get the benefits of each light at the same treatment. Brilliant.
What skin conditions can LED masks treat and how?
Red and near-infrared LED masks can reduce the signs of aging such as wrinkles, fine lines, and pigmentation, especially from sun damage. They also improve skin texture and tone. LED red light has also soothing & calming properties. By killing acne-causing bacteria, a mask with blue lights can be used to treat skin conditions.
How long before you see results?
You can expect to see results in 4 weeks if you use a mask of high quality consistently. I usually recommend to my patients that they use their masks, (my favourite brand is Omnilux), 3-5 sessions per week and for 10 minutes.
What are the associated risks?
LED light therapy can be a safe and non-invasive treatment. As long as the FDA/TGA has cleared them for safety and/or they are CE certified, LED masks can be used at home. Many masks are available that don’t have the necessary clearances.