LED Light Therapy: Science and Skin Benefits
What is LED light therapy?
LED (Light Emitting Diode) phototherapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths to promote skin healing and rejuvenation. It works by manipulating or regulating cell activity through a light source without causing thermal damage. This is achieved using portions of the light spectrum that do not contain ultraviolet light.
LED Light Therapy: Science and Skin Benefits–– The scientific process behind LED therapy is similar to plant photosynthesis, where plants use chlorophyll to convert sunlight into cellular building blocks. In LED therapy, skin cells absorb the emitted light, which triggers a series of events depending on the wavelength (color) used. NASA originally discovered LED therapy and developed it to promote wound healing by supporting cellular and tissue growth, as well as to assist astronauts in growing plants.
Longterm effects and benefits for the lymphatic system
The best results from LED therapy are achieved after a series of treatments every two weeks over the recommended duration of several months. After completing a series of treatments, fibroblasts in the skin may continue producing extra collagen for up to six months, significantly more than usual. Additionally, LED therapy stimulates the lymphatic system, helping to reduce fluid buildup.
Increased lymphatic activity can accelerate the healing process, as the lymphatic system is responsible for eliminating waste and bacteria. This brings me to my next point: macrophages, which play a crucial role in the lymphatic system.
Macrophages
Macrophages help attack bacteria and viruses, clean up dead cells, and repair damaged tissue. They have two phases: the first phase, M1, causes inflammation to fight harmful germs, while the second phase, M2, works to repair tissue and reduce inflammation. Light-emitting diodes signal macrophages to shift from the M1 phase to the M2 phase, promoting a more calming and healing effect.
A study done on Near-Infared light and macrophages: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33676947/
The different LED wavelengths
Light therapy is more than just using the colors ‘red’ or ‘blue’; it’s about utilizing very specific wavelengths. Each wavelength penetrates the skin at different depths, triggering distinct cascades of cellular activity. Let’s go over the LED light therapy science and skin benefits of each wavelength:
Green wavelength–– The purpose of green light therapy is to regulate melanin production by targeting overactive melanocytes. This, in turn, helps fade discoloration and improve overall skin tone. In addition to evening out skin color, green light reduces inflammation and soothes redness and irritation.
Blue wavelength–– The blue wavelength is best known for its anti-acne and antibacterial effects on the skin. This wavelength penetrates the upper layers of the skin and destroys P. acnes bacteria. In addition to fighting acne, it regulates sebaceous gland activity, preventing the overproduction of oil that contributes to breakouts. It also calms inflammation, reducing swelling and redness associated with acne.
Red wavelength–– The red wavelength is designed to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, promote elasticity, and provide anti-aging benefits. In addition to its anti-inflammatory effects, it stimulates the production of collagen and elastin and supports the lymphatic system. Red LED therapy activates fibroblasts in the skin, encouraging the production of collagen and elastin. It also promotes wound healing and increases blood flow in the dermis, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the cells for improved repair and rejuvenation.
Infrared wavelength–– The infrared wavelength penetrates the deepest into the skin and is highly anti-inflammatory. Its primary purpose is to reduce chronic inflammation, promote wound healing, relieve joint and muscle pain, and support skin rejuvenation in deeper layers. While all wavelengths regulate immune cells like macrophages to some degree, infrared has the most substantial impact. It also enhances blood and lymph circulation, as well as the production of collagen and elastin, exceeding the effects of red LED therapy. Additionally, it provides pain relief for joints, muscles, and nerves.
