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Q & A

What does LED light therapy do?

LED light therapy can help with all sorts of skin problems, including eczema, hair loss, mild to moderate acne, psoriasis, rough and scaly spots on the skin, rosacea, sun damage, wounds, and wrinkles. In some cases, it might even treat a type of skin cancer called basal cell carcinoma, which is the most common cancer and affects around 3.6 million Americans a year.

What are the benefits of LED light therapy?

LED light therapy can treat acne, reduce fine lines, and aid wound healing. People with any skin type and color can use LED light therapy, as it doesn't utilize ultraviolet light and thus doesn't cause skin damage or burns.

LED light therapy is a safe and relatively risk-free treatment. Be sure to wear eye protection like sunglasses or goggles, and carefully follow instructions to use the device correctly.

Side effects from LED light therapy are uncommon, but may include increased inflammation, rash, redness, and pain. While LED light therapy appears safe in the short term, experts caution that long-term safety data is limited.

What are some different kinds of LED light therapy?

LED light therapy utilizes a range of wavelengths corresponding to distinct visible colors. These colors penetrate the skin at varying depths - blue light affects the superficial layers, yellow light reaches deeper, red light travels further into the skin, and near-infrared light penetrates the deepest. The different LED colors have distinct physiological effects. For instance, experts suggest that red LED light therapy may reduce inflammation and stimulate collagen production, a crucial protein that diminishes with age and contributes to youthful-looking skin. Conversely, blue LED light therapy has been shown to potentially destroy acne-causing bacteria.
During clinical treatment, dermatologists may employ a combination of light wavelengths to address the patient's specific skin concerns. Similarly, at-home LED light therapy devices may also incorporate multiple color spectra.

How do I know if LED light therapy is right for me?

Consulting a dermatologist is highly recommended before pursuing LED light therapy, either at a spa or with an at-home device. A professional can provide the appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan for your specific skin concerns. What may appear as typical aging or blemished skin could potentially be a more serious condition like skin cancer. Additionally, a dermatologist can confirm whether in-office or at-home LED light therapy is the most suitable option to address your individual needs.

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Sources

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