:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/leah-primarysf-all-days-progression-3be48fa0f87c433d9a2b17a9c0a0ab19.jpg "What is red light therapy? Dermatologists explain the potential skin benefits")
You've probably seen or heard the term "red light therapy" in your dermatologist's office or on the shelves of your favorite beauty store, or maybe you've even noticed celebrities like Kate Hudson, Victoria Beckham and Chrissy Teigan advertise skin care products. put shiny masks that emit red light or wave red sticks in your face on social media. But what is red light therapy and how does it work?
According to Jody LoGerfo, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, DCNP, Board Certified Dermatologist at Orentreich Medical Group in New York , red light therapy (RLT) involves the use of light-emitting diode (LED) devices that "emit different wavelengths of light that treat a variety of skin conditions, including acne, psoriasis, fine lines and wrinkles. Also known as low-level laser light therapy (LLLT), low-power laser therapy (LPLT) or photobiomodulation (PBM), this non-invasive treatment is a growing option due to its health benefits .
If you're wondering whether you should incorporate red light therapy into your skincare routine, here's what dermatologists say you need to know, including its benefits, safety and risks, and whether home treatments are really worth it. .
How does red light therapy work and what is it used for?
Red light therapy usually takes the form of a face mask, glow stick, or stick equipped with LED lights that you place next to your skin so that your cells "absorb" the light. "Theoretically, red light therapy works on the mitochondria of our cells: the engine," says LoGerfo. “It gives cells in the body more energy, which enables other cells to function at their best. For the skin, this includes repairing and repairing the skin, which can help increase the growth of new cells and stimulate the repair process.”
In particular, red light therapy can improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation and stimulate collagen production for skin rejuvenation and the treatment of skin conditions such as acne, hyperpigmentation and psoriasis, and can also help with hair loss. to increase hair growth and density. LoGerfo said. "LEDs can stimulate collagen production, which helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles," says Diane Madfes, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. . "They can also reduce redness and speed up the disappearance of acne scars."
LED light therapy is not limited to red light; Different wavelengths can affect your body in different ways, says Dr Madefes. "Blue light is antimicrobial, red light reduces inflammation and promotes collagen remodeling, orange/amber and green light [are] good for calming and soothing," she notes.
Is red light therapy safe? Are there any risks?
Red light therapy is considered completely safe as long as you wear safety glasses. "Eye damage can occur from prolonged exposure to blue or red light," warns LoGerfo.
Side effects of red light therapy are minimal and, if present, usually minor, but there are some conditions for which treatment is best avoided. Especially not recommended by Dr. Neil Polvin, DO, Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine If you have seizures or eye disease. "Flashing (changing the frequency of light) at high speed can cause headaches, dizziness and, in the worst case, seizures," he notes.
Likewise , Dr. Madfes does not prescribe red light therapy for people with photosensitivity conditions such as lupus or those taking photosensitizing medications (including tetracycline, doxycycline, hydrochlorothiazide, naproxen). You should also avoid it if you have open wounds or cracks in the skin.
Does red light therapy work?
A number of studies are emerging that show the potential of red light therapy to improve skin health and treat certain skin conditions, including a small 2014 study that showed that light therapy improves skin tone and feel , skin, rough skin and reduces wrinkles. and an increase in collagen density. However, further research is needed. "Although there is research on their benefits, they are rare and we don't know exactly how they work," says LoGerfo.
An important thing to note about the effectiveness of red light therapy, says Dr. Polvin, is that it may take persistence and time to see results. However, says Dr. LoGerfo you need to have realistic expectations. "People need to be aware that the results typically seen with these procedures are not good," she says. “They're not game changers when it comes to fine lines, wrinkles, hair loss, etc.
However, red light therapy certainly holds promise in the field of dermatology, especially due to its safe, non-invasive nature and minimal side effects.
Can I use red light therapy at home?
While red light therapy used to be a treatment you could only get at a dermatologist or doctor's office, now there are red light LED masks and portable devices you can buy and use at home. However, keep in mind that "masks designed for home use are less effective than those available at a dermatologist," says LoGerfo, which means you may not see the results you can with masks. injections. office processing.