What’s The Story With Red Light Therapy?

From TikTok beauty routines to celebrity facials, Red Light Therapy is the new product on every skincare must have list. Every time we open our socials, we see an influencer or celeb with this mask gushing about the amazing benefits for your skin.

But the question is what the science behind Red Light Therapy is and is it actually good for your skin? With so many skin care products on the market nowadays, it’s important to know if these products work… or if they’re just another trend.

As Red Light Therapy becomes more popular, here’s everything you need to know about the treatment, if it’s safe for your skin, and the benefits – the ensure you’re not spending hundreds of euros on another skin care fad.

What is Red Light Therapy (RLT)?

Red Light Therapy, or the technical term, photobiomulation, is a non-invasion skin treatment. The therapy uses specific wave lengths of red and near-infrared light to simulate cellular processes in the skin.

This stimulation can help reduce inflammation, improve the production of collagen and elastin in the skin, while also improving the repair of skin tissue and increase the energy in the cells. Many dermatologists use RLT to treat different conditions that affect the skin such as wrinkles, the healing of wounds and pain, along with the improvement of hair growth.

 

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How does it work?

Well, these wave lengths of red and near-frared light penetrate the skin and are then absorbed by the cells. From this, the light is then converted to cellular energy in the cell powerhouse – the mitochondria (lots of science jargon, we understand!). Once it has created this energy, it begins to stimulate cell activity. This is when all the goodness happens.

By boosting the creation of protein this leads to the production of collagen and elastin, while lowering the inflammatory markers in the body to help reduce inflammation. The treatment also increases blood flow around the skin and widens bloods vessels to ensure more oxygen and nutrients can get to the skin cells and tissues. This process supports the repair of tissue damage and speeds up the natural healing process and the regeneration of any damaged cells that you may have.

What are the benefits?

Now that all the science background is understood, we can now look at some of the other, more interesting and relevant benefits RLT can have for your skin. The wave lengths and cell activity created can:

• Reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and age spots
• Help improve facial texture
• Improve skin conditions like rosacea and eczema
• Improve sun damage
• Help improve acne across the skin

Is it safe?

While RLT can have some incredible benefits, like all new tech skin care products it’s important to know if it’s safe for your skin, and who should be cautious before using it.

Experts say that RLT is skin safe, as the treatment is non thermal and avoids the use UV rays. However, it is advised that those with certain skin conditions like lupus or other photosensitive conditions (and people who take certain medications) should avoid RLT, or contact a doctor or dermatologist before using the treatment.

It has also been advised that those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid RLT as there has been little research on the safety and impact the treatment can have during this stage in your life.

 

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While this treatment is approved by experts, it is always advised that anyone using RLT should contact a dermatologist to ensure they can help pick the right therapy and plan for them.

How to use RLT 

If you have decided to give RLT a go but are not sure where to start, here is everything to know before jumping straight into this skin care journey.

RLT used to be something that you could only have done in skin clinics, but now there is a whole range of at home masks and devices that save time and money.

If you are wanting to slot this mask into your at home routine, here are some things you should know. Firstly, it should be noted that this at-home treatment isn’t going to give you instant results and should be used on a weekly and continuous basis.

It’s recommended that you should use the device after cleansing for 10-20 minutes each session, and 3-5 times a week. You can also take pictures along your journey to monitor results.

@mabelsabina Red light therapy from a licensed esthetician, product recs first! Great for fine lines and wrinkles, skin texture, skin tone, redness, wound healing! #redlighttherapy #skincaredevice #antiaging ♬ original sound – Mabel Sabina

When buying an at home RLT mask, it’s important to know what to look out for, and which ones are expert approved. You want a mask that has clinically approved red light wave lengths of 630-660nm range. While these masks can be expensive, they are an investment and clinically approved for use.

Some of the most popular masks include the Current body LED Light Therapy Mask: Series 2. This model will set you back around €450.

Current Body LED Red Light Therapy Face Mask: Series 2

If a full mask isn’t your vibe, the Solawave Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand might be a better choice for you. This wand has all the same treatment effects as a face mask but can target specific areas of the skin. It is also perfect for those who are on the go. This wand retails for around €215.

Solowave 4-in-1 Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand with Red Light Therapy

However, the Beauty Pro LED wand promises the same effects, is easily compatible, and at a cost of €68 it’s the perfect device if you are looking for something more budget friendly.

BeautyPro LED Wand Device

While RLT masks may not be part of everyone’s skincare routine just yet, it could a nice addition should you be looking ro add that extra glow – but don’t give up on the basics of moisturisers and serums just yet!