Lets talk LED
LED is something I get lots of questions about- You have probably seen your favorite influencer sporting one of those crazy futuristic looking face masks, and if you have seen me for a facial than you have most likely experienced it for yourself as I use the medical grade Lightstim red LED panel in almost every treatment I perform.
LED stands for light emitting diode, and when used in skincare, these lights penetrate deep into the skin’s dermis. NASA studied the effects of LED in the 90’s on astronauts, noticing the wound healing effects and how it helped cells and tissues grow.
Here is what the American Society of Plastic Surgeons has to say about LED-
*What are the different kinds of LED light therapy?
There are different wavelengths of the visible light spectrum, each corresponding to different colors and penetrating the skin to different depths. It is thought that LED light produces different effects depending on the level of skin it penetrates.
The most common frequencies used in LED light therapy are the red and blue wavelengths, which are readily absorbed into the skin and do not contain harmful ultraviolet light. Red light is used to treat the outermost layer of skin, otherwise known as the epidermis. It is thought that when this layer of skin absorbs infrared light, the fibroblast cells that are responsible for the production of collagen proteins are then stimulated. The increase in collagen production can make the skin look smoother, which can mitigate the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Blue light, on the other hand, targets the oil glands located in the deeper layers of skin. By reducing the amount of oil that these glands produce, the skin can become drier which in turn could lead to fewer acne breakouts. The blue light is also known to kill the bacteria that causes acne.
I personally love LED and notice a huge difference in my skin when I am consistently using my mask at home- If you have rosacea or are prone to redness, LED is for you as the anti-inflammatory effects are truly remarkable- this also counts for the anti-aging benefits as chronic, low grade inflammation which naturally occurs as we age, contributes to dullness, dryness and fine lines and wrinkles. Here are some of my favorite at home devices-
DRx SpectraLite™ FaceWare Pro
I like that this mask utilizes both red and blue lights, which can be used individually or in combination. Great for those prone to acne or breakouts as the blue light kills bacteria and the red light targets inflammation.
Omnilux Contour Face
This one is just red light and is great for anti-aging- it also fits the face a little better and gives more coverage- it’s good for traveling as it is flat and can roll up. You can also use this on the chest and neck without having to buy a separate neck piece.
