31 Mar What Is Light Therapy & What It Can Do For You
Are you struggling with fine lines, wrinkles or uneven skin tone? Worry no more!
Light therapy treatment offers a safe, non-invasive solution to reduce the signs of skin ageing. This revolutionary technology offers many benefits, from enhanced mood to increased collagen production.
This article will cover everything you need to know about light therapy treatment and how it can transform your skin.
What Is Light Therapy?
Using different wavelengths of light, light therapy, a non-invasive treatment, stimulates your skin’s natural repair processes.
As the light penetrates your skin, it triggers various cellular responses, including increased blood flow, faster cell regeneration, and collagen production.
The result is rejuvenated, youthful-looking skin that will leave you feeling confident and glowing.
How Does Light Therapy Work?
How exactly does light therapy work? Let’s explore the science behind this fast-growing treatment and how it can improve your overall health and wellness.
Firstly, it is important to understand that light therapy uses wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin and reach the cells underneath. This process, known as photobiomodulation, enhances cellular function by promoting the creation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which plays a key role in cellular energy production. This energy boost can help stimulate healing and rejuvenation, leading to a range of therapeutic benefits.
Additionally, different light wavelengths have different effects on the body. Red light therapy, for example, is known to promote collagen production in the skin, which can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It has also been shown to improve blood circulation, boosting cell metabolism and aiding tissue regeneration. Blue light therapy, on the other hand, is commonly used to treat acne, as it can help kill the bacteria that cause breakouts and reduce inflammation in the skin.
Another type of light therapy gaining popularity is infrared therapy, which uses longer wavelengths of light to penetrate deeper into the body. This therapy often alleviates pain and inflammation in joints and muscles and promotes relaxation and stress relief. Some studies have even suggested that infrared therapy may positively affect heart health by improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure.
Despite its many benefits, light therapy is not a panacea and may not be suitable for everyone. People with certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy or skin cancer, should avoid this therapy, as it can trigger seizures or damage cancerous cells. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any light therapy treatment.
What Are the Benefits of Light Therapy?
In contrast to traditional treatment methods, light therapy is a non-invasive and effective way to treat various skin conditions. Let’s review some of the benefits you should know.
Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Light therapy can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production. As we age, the production of collagen decreases, which causes the skin to sag and lose elasticity. Red LED light therapy helps stimulate collagen production, making the skin look firmer and younger.
Heals Acne and Reduces Scars
Blue LED light therapy is an excellent option for those with acne-prone skin. It works by killing bacteria that cause acne and reducing inflammation.
Additionally, it can help reduce the appearance of acne scars by promoting healthy tissue growth.
Minimizes Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation occurs when certain areas of the skin become darker than surrounding areas.
Light therapy can help minimise hyperpigmentation by reducing the production of melanin (the pigment that gives colour to the skin). Yellow LED light therapy is particularly effective in this regard.
Soothes Inflammation
Infrared LED light therapy is an excellent option for those with sensitive skin. It works by reducing inflammation in the skin caused by several factors, including environmental stressors, allergies, and certain conditions like rosacea.
Boosts Circulation
Light therapy increases blood flow and oxygen supply to the skin, which promotes overall skin health. When the skin receives more oxygen and nutrients, it looks healthier and naturally radiant.
Who Light Therapy is Not For
While light therapy has shown to be safe and effective for most people, it may not be suitable for everyone.
People with Light-Sensitive Skin Conditions
While light therapy can benefit acne-prone skin or psoriasis, people with light-sensitive skin conditions such as lupus, eczema or rosacea may experience an adverse reaction. Light sensitivity can be caused by UV radiation, so it’s always best to check with a dermatologist or a healthcare professional, as they may recommend alternative treatments that may be more suitable.
Pregnant Women
There has been limited research on the effects of light therapy on pregnant women. As a result, avoiding it during pregnancy is always recommended unless advised by a healthcare professional. It is also not advisable for breastfeeding mothers as certain light wavelengths may affect breast milk quality and quantity.
People with Eye Conditions
Light therapy involves exposure to bright light, which can cause discomfort or damage to the eyes in those who are sensitive or have certain eye conditions, such as glaucoma, cataracts or retinal problems. It is essential to consult with your eye doctor before beginning light therapy. They may recommend protective eyewear to avoid any potential damage.
People with Seizure Disorders
People with epilepsy or seizure disorders should avoid light therapy, as it can trigger seizures.
Light therapy involves flashing lights of varying intensity at rapid rates, which can also introduce challenges for patients with photosensitive epilepsy. If you have a seizure disorder, it is best to avoid this treatment altogether.
People with Certain Medical Conditions
People with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, skin cancer or lupus, should avoid light therapy. It is because it may affect insulin sensitivity in those with diabetes, damage cancerous cells and exacerbate the symptoms of skin conditions such as lupus. If you have any medical conditions, checking with a healthcare professional before starting light therapy is always best.
What to Expect During Treatment
If you’re considering a light therapy treatment, you may wonder what to expect during your session.
Light therapy is a non-invasive and painless procedure that uses LED lights that emit different colours or wavelengths that penetrate the skin, triggering biological processes. The device will be placed close to your skin, and you’ll be asked to lie comfortably during the session.
Depending on your condition and the severity of your symptoms, your treatment can vary in length, from a few minutes to an hour or more. Typically, people start to feel the benefits of light therapy after four or five treatments, but this can also depend on the individual.
One thing to keep in mind is that you may experience a mild warming sensation during treatment. It’s normal to feel a slight warmth on your skin, but it shouldn’t be painful or uncomfortable. Many people also report feeling a sense of relaxation or calmness during their session, which can benefit those seeking relief from anxiety or depression.
After your session, your skin may appear slightly red or flushed, but this is temporary and should subside quickly. You may also feel energised or experience heightened mood or cognitive function. The benefits of light therapy can last for several hours or even days afterwards.
Following your doctor’s instructions when undergoing light therapy treatment is essential. Depending on your condition and the severity of your symptoms, they may recommend a specific type of light therapy, duration, and frequency of treatments. Skipping sessions or not following your doctor’s recommendations can affect the efficacy of your treatment.
Final Thoughts
Overall, light therapy treatment offers a safe, effective and non-invasive solution to combat the signs of ageing.
It is a popular choice among men and women due to its numerous benefits, including enhanced mood, increased collagen production, reduced redness and improved skin tone. So, if you’re looking for a revolutionary way to improve your skin, light therapy treatment is worth considering.
Consult your dermatologist to find out if this treatment is right for you.
About Zecca
You will feel the Zecca difference through Australia’s most technologically advanced and innovative non-surgical cosmetic technology and treatments.
Every technique is fully approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration and is administered by university-educated, medically trained and fully accredited experts.
Zecca combines artistry, science and care that deliver the ultimate aesthetic and sensory experience.
Schedule a light therapy session with Zecca today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Different Types of Light Therapy?
The main types of light therapy are bright light therapy, red light therapy, and blue light therapy. Bright light therapy involves using a special light therapy lamp, also known as a light box or light therapy box, to simulate exposure to natural sunlight. Red light therapy, on the other hand, uses a low-level laser or LED light to treat skin conditions, pain, and other medical problems. Blue light therapy is commonly used to treat acne and other skin conditions.
What Are the Side Effects of Bright Light Therapy?
Bright light treatment is considered safe and has few side effects when used properly. However, some people may experience headaches, nausea, eye strain, or irritability during or after light therapy sessions. It’s important only to use light therapy lamps that emit the appropriate light intensity, as using light boxes that are too bright can increase the risk of eye damage or other side effects.