LED therapy (Light Emitting Diode therapy) is a treatment that uses light energy to penetrate the skin. This enhances cellular metabolism, accelerates repair, stimulates collagen production, and revitalize damaged cells. It is considered one of the most effective treatments for acne, wrinkles, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and improvement of elasticity and texture of the skin.
Light treatment(LED therapy) has been around for over 100 years. In 1896, a Danish physician, Niels Ryberg Finsen, studied light and its effect on living organisms. He came up with a treatment for Lupus Vulgaris, a form of tuberculosis (TB) that attacks the skin, especially on the face and neck. His treatments lasted for two hours, succeeding in clearing the lesions caused by the disease. Niels Ryberg Finsen treated over 800 patients and in 1903 was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology.
In 1967, a Hungarian physician, Endre Mester, developed a low-level laser therapy that boosted the healing process on the skin. The FDA finally approved this device in 2002. There are now groups like NASA that have been experimenting for decades to increase crop growth and to improve astronauts’ health and vigor, while Navy SEALS have been using this type of treatment for wounds. The possibilities are endless. However, how exactly does LED therapy work?
There are different wavelengths of light in LED and they penetrate the skin at different depths. Plants convert sunlight into chemical energy, while the skin absorbs therapeutic light to stimulate the cells. Different colors of lights will yield differing results. The three most popular colors would be blue, red, and near-infrared.
One of the most common skincare concerns is t affects nearly 20% of the Canadian population, with 80% being between the ages 12-24 years old. There are many oral and topical treatments that will help control acne, LED therapy in Vancouver has been proven to help reduce and control this skin condition. The blue LED reduces activity in the sebaceous glands, which reduces oil production. This helps in the reduction of plugged hair follicles, which causes acne. Blue LED also has an antimicrobial effect. This kills several types of bacteria that cause breakouts and is anti-inflammatory. It also helps reduce inflammation and redness. While outcomes can vary, a reduction in lesions and an overall improvement in the skin’s appearance are seen within weeks of the LED therapy treatment.
Red LED is used for anti-aging. As people get older various factors such as sunlight, smoking and sugar play a part in lowering collagen levels. The body’s natural ability to create collagen also decreases as we age which contributes to the wrinkling and sagging of the skin. There are many beauty products that help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, LED works by stimulating and accelerating cells. Fibroblasts produce collagen and elastin makes the skin look smoother, firmer, and plumper. Skin cells also absorb the light and convert this into energy which helps cellular repair and circulation. With the production of more ATP (adenosine triphosphate) the energy for cells, the skin recovers quicker. This may help with the appearance of hyperpigmentation as well as sun and age spots. Red LED has a soothing effect on the external layer of the skin and improves the overall tone.
Infrared is used for healing and pain relief. It helps with the increased circulation of blood flow and detoxification. Infrared is ideal for post-surgery since it reduces the healing time needed for the growth and repair of new muscles and tissues. Since it is antibacterial, this helps reduce the presence of bacteria and fights off infection. Infrared also penetrates deep into the muscles and bones, helping improve circulation which brings more oxygen and nutrients to injured tissues. This helps ease pain and relieves inflammation, speeding up the healing process. Dermal wound healing is promoted so there may be a reduction of hypertrophic scars and keloids. There are many great benefits for pain management and wound healing with infrared light.
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LED therapy can help with so many ailments. This process is safe for any age and any skin type and contains no ultraviolet rays. It is a low-risk, non-invasive and painless treatment (when administered by a professional and is used as intended) that can be used on a regular basis. However, just like any other procedure, this is best used in a series of 8-10 LED skin treatments and may need periodic maintenance sessions. Above all, if there are any concerns always check with your health care professional before proceeding especially if on any medication.