Light Therapy (LED) - More Than Skin Deep

In the world of Skincare, topical ointments are always been frontline treatment for concerns and conditions like, Acne, Rosacea, Hyperpigmentation, Signs of ageing (fine lines and creases to the skin) and Wound healing. However, for persisting conditions and longer term treatment, light therapy (photobiomodulation), specifically LED light therapy has been recommended by Dermatologists and Dermal Clinicians for decades for improved healing potential, increased collagen production and improved wound healing.

One of the many benefits is that light therapy is generally considered safe and well tolerated by most people. But there are many kinds of light therapy that require specific wavelengths to achieve clinical results than any old bulb you screw into your lamp. 

 

*Before embarking on any kind of light therapy, it should always be under the instruction of a qualified professional. There are many medications and conditions that can worsen and is not indicated for use.* 

 

So why and how does it work? Let's break down the different types: 

 

Red light 

Infrared and near infrared light therapy targets fibroblasts in the skin that are crucial for producing collagen. Therefore it is beneficial for supporting the skin’s elasticity, firmness, dermal density and wrinkle depth. Results show that even low level red and infrared light therapy can increase the expression of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid in the skin. 

 

Blue light 

Targets the reduction in skin sebum and transepidermal water loss. The bacteria causing acne (P.acnes) absorbs the light and is destroyed. Therefore, this type of light therapy is antibacterial. 

A 2022 systematic review and meta analysis found a decrease in acne lesions by 35% after 2 weeks, and a decrease in inflammation by 87.7% after 12 weeks. 

 

Yellow light 

Often used in cases of inflammation like Rosacea to minimise redness and inflammation. Much like Red light therapy, Yellow is far deeper penetrating to the dermis unlike blue that remains on the epidermis. Therefore red and yellow light are further reaching for inflammation and skin repair. 

 

Undergoing any treatment requires more attention to protecting the skin. If you’re about to embark on, or already are on your light therapy adventure, here are the protectors we can't live without: 

 

SPF: always and forever

Odacite SPF 50 Mineral Drops 

​​https://thelaborganics.com.au/products/mineral-drops-spf-50-sheer-sunscreen?variant=41580887998670 

 

Gentle cleansing for inflamed skin 

Osea Ocean Cleansing Milk 

https://thelaborganics.com.au/products/ocean-cleansing-milk?variant=41580696207566 

Removes makeup and SPF while calming the skin 

 

Soothing 

Olivarrier Comfort Barrier Cream 

https://thelaborganics.com.au/products/comfort-barrier-cream?variant=41580705939662 

Vitamin B5 and Shea butter soothe irritation protect the skin from environmental stressors 

 

With the ability to reduce inflammation, support collagen production and exhibit antibacterial effects, light therapy provides clinically proven, non invasive treatment for conditions where you might need some extra support. As research advances, light therapy is solidifying its place in modern skincare by addressing concerns at a cellular level. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

References 

 

Virginie Couturaud, Marie Le Fur, Pelletier, M., & Granotier, F. (2023). Reverse skin aging signs by red light photobiomodulation. Skin Research and Technology, 29(7). https://doi.org/10.1111/srt.13391

 

Thi, L., Moon, J.-Y., & Lee, Y.-C. (2022). Utilization of light‐emitting diodes for skin therapy: Systematic review and meta‐analysis. Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine, 39(4). https://doi.org/10.1111/phpp.12841

 

He, X., Jin, S., Dai, X., Chen, L., Xiang, L., & Zhang, C. (2023). The Emerging Role of Visible Light in Melanocyte Biology and Skin Pigmentary Disorders: Friend or Foe? Journal of Clinical Medicine, 12(23), 7488–7488. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12237488