LED light therapy is one of the lesser-known stars of the skin therapy business, but make no mistake it is a superpower and shouldn’t be taken lightly, says Louise Gray.
What is led light?
LED stands for high intensity ‘light emitting diodes’. NASA scientists discovered the skin cherishing aspect of them about 40 years ago during plant growth experiments. Unlike other light treatments (such as laser) LED doesn’t use heat so there is no risk of burning or injury to the skin. LED has proven to be extremely effective in repairing damaged skin cells and speeding up the healing process, making it not just effective for complexion maintenance but also post procedures like injectables and surgery.
How does led light therapy work?
As we age our metabolism slows down, resulting in a loss of cellular energy. LED light works in a similar way to photosynthesis in plants. The visible spectrum of light triggers the body to take the light’s energy and convert it to energy for the cells of the body, re-energising them. When we expose the skin to the light the cells get an instant boost. As a result, it will look more youthful and be more hydrated, plus skin care will penetrate more effectively.
How many treatments do I need?
We recommend a series of nine 20-minute treatments 48 hours apart followed by a monthly maintenance boost. You’ll see immediate results, which will get even better over the following two months. Studies have shown exceptionally positive results for the perioral areas including marionette lines, fine lines around the lips, and nasolabial folds.
Red for Wrinkles
Red light therapy uses visible wavelengths from 630-660 nanometres and infrared light wavelengths at around 880nm. The layers of the skin have a high content of blood and water, so the light is easily absorbed. Red light therapy increases the battery life of skin cells, revs up blood circulation which delivers oxygen and nutrients to the skin, and gradually restores the elastic function of elastin. Its cell repairing capabilities make it an excellent treatment for rosacea and eczema too.
Blue for Blemishes
Blue light has a wavelength of 400–490nm. When it reaches the sebaceous glands in the skin, it activates porphyrins, which are compounds inside acne bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes). The light releases reactive oxygen molecules which effectively kills the bacteria.
Light therapy has systemic effects so if you have chronic pain or body inflammation LED treatment can also be beneficial diminishing discomfort and improving mobility.
Benefits of LED Therapy
- Anti-ageing
- Skin rejuvenation
- Diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Encourages cell rejuvenation
- Improves skin texture and colour
- Improves sun damaged skin and reduces pore size
- Promotes circulation to the skin
- Helps to reduce redness (rosacea) and irritation
- Helps to reduce inflammation by blemishes
- Helps to reduce pigmentation, scarring
- Kills the acne causing bacteria associated with congested and problematic skin
- Accelerates tissue healing
Louise Gray Skin Care,
Shop 2/224 Kepa Rd, Mission Bay
09 528 9010
louisegray.co.nz
