When it comes to light therapy, the family tree is extensive. From the lowest form – LED light, which is safe for all skin types, to lasers that are specifically targeting to individual needs such as pigments, visible redness. Your aesthetician can perform treatments in-office using medical-grade devices for effective results and will also recommend the best at-home products to support your treatment plan. 

LED is safe for all skin types and can be done both in office and at home. Let’s break it down by color category to better understand which is best for you. 

RED LIGHT The most recognizable LED is red light. Red light therapy reaches soft tissue and improves skin plumpness, radiance and reduces the appearance of lines, wrinkles, and inflammation.  

BLUE LIGHT Blue light reaches surface tissue and is famous for targeting p. Acne bacteria, soothing the skin, and controlling sebum production.  

YELLOW LIGHT Yellow light reaches soft tissue and is one of the lesser-known LED treatments, yet it targets one of the largest skin concerns: redness. Yellow light reduces redness and flushing and is helpful for those with Rosacea. It is also be used to treat sunburn. 

GREEN LIGHT Green light affects surface tissue and helps control hyper pigmentation and sunspots. 

Measuring LED therapies. Light therapies are measured in nanometers (nm) which is a unit of length equal to one billionth of a meter. It is used to measure small distances at an atomic and molecular scale, such as wavelengths of visible light. The specific range reflects the light’s penetration depth as well as its therapeutic value. The following are ranges to look for in relation to specific colors.  

RED- 625-660nm. This wavelength penetrates deeper into the skin to stimulate collagen and improve elasticity resulting in firmer skin and refined texture (pores). 

BLUE- 415-460nm. Targeting the top layer of the skin to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation associated with active acne. 

YELLOW 580nm. At this measure, red blood cells are stimulated, and circulation is improved. In addition, yellow light aids in detoxification and lymphatic function. 

GREEN 530 nm. Helps to inhibit excess melanin production that leads to the appearance of dark spots and pigmentation. 

Being with a clean, dry face as topicals create barriers that inhibit light penetration. Always wear protective goggles when undergoing LED therapy. Duration of treatments vary from as short as three minutes to thirty, with ten to twenty being the average. 

Consider that consistency is the key to seeing results. Regular treatments done biweekly and used in conjunction with a well thought out skin care program can bring about visible improvement in just a few short months.