- Blue Light: This is “often used for acne treatment, as it has antibacterial properties and can help reduce inflammation and breakouts,” says Shokeen. “It can also improve skin texture and reduce oil production. Blue light therapy over time helps to actually minimize oil and shrink glands.”
- Green and Yellow Light: “These colors are used to reduce redness, soothe the skin, and improve pigmentation issues,” she says. “They can help even out skin tone and promote a more youthful appearance.”
- Red Light: According to Shokeen, red light therapy is known for its anti-aging benefits. “Red light therapy stimulates collagen production, reduces wrinkles, and improves skin elasticity,” she says. “It can also help in wound healing and reduce inflammation.”
- Near Infrared Light: Near-infrared light penetrates deeper than red light. “ promotes healing, reduces pain and inflammation, and enhances circulation,” she explains. “It is often used for muscle recovery and joint pain relief.”
- Orange/Amber Light: Shokeen notes that orange and amber light can “help in collagen production, skin rejuvenation, and reducing fine lines and wrinkles” but it’s ideally better to use red light therapy instead.
- Purple Light: She continues that purple light combines the benefits of red and blue light which “makes it useful for both acne treatment and anti-aging purposes. It can help fight acne while also promoting collagen production.”
How does red light therapy work?
According to MacGregor, light therapy truly does work for the skin. “How it works and how much it works is related to the target indication, the wavelength of light used (affects depth of penetration and action), how much power the light source has, and how long the light is used on the skin.” She says that you will find most beneficial effects with short pulses of higher-powered light sources, like those used in a doctor’s office, though at-home treatments can still be effective.
What are the benefits of LED light therapy?
LED light therapy is an oft-recommended treatment because it offers loads of skin benefits. “In clinical studies, it has been shown to stimulate collagen production, helping reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” dermatologist Dr. Lauren Penzi tells Vogue. Furthermore, she details that it can improve circulation, enhance the body’s detoxification, and calm inflammation. “Over time it can help to soften scars, stretch marks, inflamed skin and assist in wound healing. It can also stimulate hair growth by improving energy production at a cellular level as well as increasing blood supply to the area.”
Does LED light therapy work for hair growth?
“Data suggests that LED light therapy does work to promote hair growth,” says Murphy-Rose. “The mechanism is believed to be light induced increase of blood flow supporting nutrient delivery, increased ATP generation to stimulate hair follicle cells, and decreased inflammation, which promotes growth and deters loss.” (ATP stands for adenosine triphosphate, a source of energy that powers the cells.) Shokeen agrees, adding that it’s a great non-invasive and safe treatment option for hair loss. “Again, make sure to follow instructions on the device for how long you use the device for,” she instructs.
What are the potential risks of using LED light therapy?
Willis explains that there is minimal risk when using an LED device on the skin. “With all light therapies, the most important thing is eye protection. When using LED light therapy, the device should be used away from the eyes using a handheld device or the eyes should be covered with protective goggles or patches.” Though the devices are suitable for all skin types, she advises those with melasma to be cautious “because thermal heat can make the condition worse.”