When the light is applied to the skin, the epidermis absorbs it and then stimulates collagen proteins.
LED light therapy (Light Emitting Diode) has a long tradition in skin use. The Navy SEALs began healing wounds quickly and regenerating damaged muscle tissue in the 1990s.
There are different frequencies or wavelengths that are used in LED light treatment.
LED therapy (mainly red light therapy) has been studied for various aesthetic situations. It is primarily known for increasing collagen and tissue, which can help smooth the skin and reduce the appearance of damage from age spots, acne, fine lines, and wrinkles. The LED therapy is also safe for all skin colors and does not cause burns.
Overall, the American Academy of Dermatology considers this procedure safe. Since LEDs do not contain UV rays, it is considered a safer form of light therapy that does not cause long-term damage to your skin. The procedure is also non-invasive and involves few risks.
Light therapy is enjoying growing popularity both in therapy offices with licensed aestheticians and at home. While LED light therapy can technically be applied to any part of the body, its most popular application is the face. Skin damage usually occurs on the face as it is more exposed to the elements than other parts of the body.
LED therapy can also be used on the neck and chest. These are other areas that tend to show signs of aging.
A licensed beautician or dermatologist performs LED light therapy in professional offices. FDA approved devices are available for home use.
Red light therapy
In the early 1990s, scientists discovered that light from red light emitting diodes (LEDs) promoted the growth and photosynthesis (the process of converting sunlight into oxygen) of plant cells. The red light was then examined for its possible use in medicine; more specifically, to find out if RLT could increase energy in human cells.
Today, new scientific advances have shown that the use of low red wavelengths of light can be used to treat skin problems such as wrinkles, scars and persistent wounds, among others.
RLT is used to treat diseases affecting the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin. The light emitted by RLT penetrates about five millimeters below the surface of the skin and directly stimulates the regeneration of the skin.
When the light is applied to the skin, the epidermis absorbs it and then stimulates collagen proteins. In theory, more collagen means smoother, fuller skin, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. RLT is also believed to reduce inflammation while improving blood flow, which can result in a healthier glow.
Blue light therapy
The blue LED light therapy, on the other hand, targets the oil glands on the skin, which are located under the tiny hair follicles. These tiny glands are necessary to lubricate skin and hair so they don’t dry out. These glands can become overactive, leading to oily skin and acne.
The theory is that blue LED light therapy can target these oil glands and make them less active. In return, you may see fewer acne breakouts. Blue light can also kill acne-causing bacteria under the skin that can help treat severe acne breakouts and cysts. Often times, blue LED light is used in conjunction with red LED light to treat acne and reduce scarring and inflammation.
LED therapy session
LED light therapy is non-invasive, so no recovery time is required. You should be able to resume your daily activities once treatment is over. Most office treatments take about 20 minutes, and many people need up to 10 or more sessions about a week apart.
When used as directed, LED light therapy can improve your skin over time. Keep in mind that if you turn the skin cells over, they may lose some collagen or some acne breakouts may return. For this reason, maintenance treatments may be required every few months or as recommended by your provider.
Home devices use lower frequencies and have not proven effective. While LED devices can be more convenient at home, the downside is that the results may not be as dramatic.
Massage Envy offers LightStim red light therapy
Good skin requires dedication and perseverance. Think of your beautician like your skin care trainer and guide you across the finish line to your best skin yet. When working with a beautician in your Massage Envy location, you will want to improve or maintain the health of your skin. Go beyond a bespoke facial and talk to your Massage Envy esthetician about using LightStim red light therapy. FBN
By Mark Love
Mark Love is the franchisee of the Massage Envy Spa Flagstaff at 1235 S. Plaza Way in the University Plaza Shopping Center next to Safeway. For more information on the benefits of massage and to schedule an appointment with a massage therapist, visit MassageEnvy.com or call 928-526-ENVY (3689) and follow us on Facebook at Facebook.com/MEFlag. Make an appointment online – your time, your convenience, your massage.
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