You've probably been seeing those science fiction-like masks on social media lately, emitting red lights and covering the entire face. While these masks may seem like cutting-edge technology, they offer a painless, harmless, yet highly effective therapy that has been used in medicine since the 1960s: red light therapy. Known in English as red light therapy, this treatment seems poised to solve numerous skin problems with its countless benefits. So how does it work? Who can use this therapy and in what way? We've compiled everything you need to know about red light therapy for you!
What is red light therapy?
Red light therapy is a treatment that exposes the skin to very low doses of red and near-infrared light. Typically, devices emit light in the 630 nm to 700 nm wavelength range. Unlike the sun's harmful and invisible UV rays, LED light, often perceived as red, does not harm the skin; on the contrary, it offers many benefits. The higher the wavelength of a light ray, the higher its penetration rate into the skin. The rays that penetrate the deeper layers of the skin initiate a process called photobiomodulation in the cells . During this process, the skin does not suffer any damage or trauma. On the contrary, cellular functions begin to improve.
How does it work and what are its benefits for skin health?
Essentially, it reduces high inflammation in the skin and stimulates fibroblasts, or connective tissue cells, to increase collagen synthesis. This makes it effective in reducing and preventing fine lines, as well as improving skin texture. Individuals who regularly practice this treatment have shown increased collagen production and volume , reduced inflammation, and improved skin health, as well as a decrease in hair loss.
At the heart of the therapy lies the skin's healing, repairing, and regenerative response to infrared rays. The rays activate mitochondria , the energy production centers of cells , providing them with a whole new energy boost. Cells begin to perform their functions better. As a result, the skin undergoes a deep renewal from the cellular level. This is particularly evident in the following benefits:
- Noticeable reduction in fine lines and wrinkles , and protection for the future.
- Improvement in mild to moderate acne problems.
- Reduced facial redness.
- Noticeable improvement in scars and blemishes .
- A reduction in androgenetic alopecia , the most common type of hair loss .
The benefits of light therapy on signs of aging and skin firmness begin to be seen 1-2 months after regular application. Its effects on redness and skin inflammation can be seen even after just one application.
Red light therapy appears to have miraculous benefits, but scientific studies on humans are limited. While initial findings are very promising, more research is definitely needed to determine its effectiveness.
Who should use red light therapy and how should it be used?
Red light therapy is a non-invasive procedure that does not emit any heat and is painless. In many medical beauty clinics, it is performed in conjunction with cosmetic procedures such as microneedling, chemical peels, and laser treatments to accelerate healing.
Red light therapies can be applied at home with the right LED facial devices, in addition to beauty clinics. However, home versions are less powerful than clinic devices, so they may take longer to show the same effect. Therefore, experts recommend using red light therapy at home with your own device regularly, 3-4 times a week. The first visible results appear after 6 weeks.
What precautions should be taken when using it?
Although the light emitted by the device benefits the skin, direct exposure to the eyes can cause sensitivity or even damage. Therefore, it is recommended that eyes be kept closed during light therapy . Furthermore, red light therapy should never feel hot. If any heat is emitted from the device, the treatment should be stopped.
Consulting a doctor before starting this therapy and ascertaining that any medication being used or genetic predisposition will not cause photosensitivity are important steps to take before proceeding.