First used as a medical treatment, light therapy is now popular in cosmetics for its many benefits. LED therapy, or phototherapy, consists of targeting a skin need (anti-aging, blemishes treatment, skin lightening, etc.) using light waves of different colors. And among them, red light therapy stands out: presented as the new anti-spot technique, red light therapy promotes cell regeneration and helps reduce wrinkles. Discover how to rejuvenate your skin with LED light with Nooance.
What is red light therapy?
Here's how a simple discovery revealed the power of light energy, and red and infrared heat, on the skin.
The origins of photobiomodulation
Light therapy was first used by NASA in the 1990s to grow plants in space. Scientists realized that exposing hands to LED lights led to faster wound healing. They then used light therapy to speed up the healing of astronauts' wounds, and their research was eventually extended to the medical field.
Red and Near Infrared LED: Differences
Although both popular in skin treatments, red light and infrared light do not have the same mode of operation or the same benefits.
- Infrared LEDs penetrate deep into the epidermis, thanks to a longer wavelength. This light energy is very effective in stimulating cellular repair from the inside.
- Red LEDs: they have a healing and anti-inflammatory action.
How does red light therapy work to treat skin problems?
The unique mechanism of action of red light triggers a natural process of tissue repair and skin rejuvenation.
Mechanisms of action on the skin
LED therapy, or photobiomodulation, uses low-intensity light to target mitochondria, which are essential for the proper functioning of the skin barrier. They are activated by light and promote the production of ATP, a molecule associated with skin regeneration. This is what stimulates the production of collagen, elastin and cell renewal.
Effects on skin cells and collagen production
Red light has the ability to penetrate the superficial layers of the skin and act in depth to provide the energy and oxygen necessary for skin cells. Under the effect of heat, the activity of fibroblasts increases: these are the cells responsible for the production of collagen.
What are the benefits of red light?
Wrinkle reduction and anti-aging effect
Red light prevents and reduces wrinkles, and promotes skin rejuvenation.
Accelerated healing and skin repair
By accelerating cell renewal, LED light reduces the appearance of scars and improves the appearance of the skin.
Treatment of blemishes and skin blemishes
The anti-inflammatory action of red LED therapy helps limit the proliferation of bacteria, reduce sebum production and visibly reduce traces of blemishes.
Improved skin texture and radiance
Red light helps repair sun damage, smooth skin texture and restore radiance.
Is red light therapy effective?
Scientific studies and opinions on photomodulation are unanimous: they confirm the effectiveness of red light on wound healing and tissue repair. It is an ideal solution to reduce wrinkles, fine lines and other effects of skin aging .
The use of LEDs has proven its effectiveness in treating many skin problems and diseases: eczema, blemishes, psoriasis, rosacea and even seborrheic dermatitis.
Is red light safe for skin?
Red light therapy is a painless, safe and side-effect-free aesthetic treatment. The wavelengths used are not harmful and are generally well tolerated by all skin types. However, it is essential to follow the recommended exposure time and to consult a specialist in the event of a skin condition. If using at home, check that your LED mask complies with safety standards and bears the CE mark.
How to use red light therapy at home?
It is entirely possible to integrate beauty tech into your beauty routine, right at home, thanks to a light therapy device suitable for daily use. The duration of application varies according to the needs of your skin, but 10 to 20 minutes per day is generally enough to obtain rapid results.
Overview of available LED treatments
Which LED color for which skin problem?
- Blue light at 415 nm, which allows it to act on the surface to regulate sebum production and treat blemishes pimples. It destroys the bacteria responsible for blemishes while reducing skin inflammation.
- Red light at 633 nm is very effective against the signs of aging, to accelerate collagen production and improve skin firmness, but also blood circulation. Red lights are those that penetrate the epidermis best, which is why red light therapy brings more benefits than other LED treatments.
Red and near-infrared light: the winning duo
For optimal effectiveness, red LED light can be combined with near-infrared light. The synergistic effect of the two wavelengths allows for deep action on the effects of skin aging. The Nooance Paris LED facial mask combines the two LED lights to perfectly target the different signs of aging.
