LED light therapy has taken off in popularity in recent years—both as an in-office treatment and for use at home. Blame that in part on celebrities, who regularly post selfies with their LED light masks that claim to target acne and help them get that red-carpet glow.
“LED therapy has gained popularity because it has been mentioned more and more in the media and on social media, especially by celebrities,” says Dr. Sejal Shah, board-certified dermatologist and RealSelf contributor in New York City. “But I believe people like LED therapy because it is non-invasive, painless and can actually be effective,” she notes.
But what exactly are LED lights and how do they work? Read on.
What Is LED Light Therapy
It seems too good to be true: You shine an LED light over your face and the problem areas go away. While that really is how it works, there’s a lot more going on under the surface that only science can explain. It turns out, there’s a powerful source of energy in that tiny light.
“LED (light emitting diode) therapy is a form of low-level light energy that penetrates the skin to cause different reactions and target different issues,” explains Dr. Robin Evans, board-certified dermatologist at Southern Connecticut Dermatology. “This type of energy in the wavelength spectrum of 600–1300 nanometers can penetrate deep into the skin and be absorbed. This can result in skin rejuvenation, repair of tissue and promotion of wound healing. The energy can also target bacteria, inflammation and stimulate collagen.”
The Benefits of LED Light Therapy
No matter what problem your skin has—including breakouts or signs of aging, LED light therapy might be able to help. “The light energy can destroy bacteria, which can be beneficial for acne,” Evans says. “It can also target inflammation, which is beneficial for rosacea and acne-prone skin. It also stimulates collagen, which acts as an anti-aging treatment against fine lines and wrinkles” she adds.
Another benefit, unlike other skin treatments (extractions, we’re looking at you!), is that LED light therapy is for the most part pain-free. An LED light doesn’t heat the skin like a tanning bed would, so there won’t be any thermal damage (the exception is an infrared light.) “Generally, you’ll have minimal to no downtime with very little discomfort,” Evans adds.
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