Last time you ventured to your local skin clinic was there a fancy new machine sitting proud? Chances are this new machine was a Light Therapy device. The questions is, have you tried it?
Light Therapy is a targeted, non-invasive treatment that stimulates the skin’s natural regeneration process. It harnesses the power of light to heal and rejuvenate the skin.
In more technical terms, it involves using an LED (Light Emitting Diode) light source which works by emitting infrared lights in different wave lengths/spectrums into the skins cells in the deeper layers of the skin causing them to “energize” and therefore triggering our skins natural renewal process. This renewal process stimulates collagen and elastin production which are two fundamental components for healthy and plump skin.
Kate Michelmore from Skinography says, “To explain it in detail, the light excites the mitochondrion in our skin cells (I know you will recognize that from bio class!) , causing them to produce more cellular fuel, thus, speeding up the process of collagen and elastin production, which, over time, can push up wrinkles and fine lines.
So what is the difference between the commonly found red light and blue light?
Image: @skinography_
Red light
Red light helps fight the signs of ageing and repair sun damage. Kate goes onto explain that, “It helps your skin form new capillaries, which speed up the healing process by bringing increased oxygen to the area. At the same time, it stimulates the collagen and elastin production we mentioned above that helps with the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In the short term, it gives an awesome, plumping glow and over multiple treatments, you can actually see a longer-term lift”..
Blue light
Blue light is more commonly used to help treat acne. The blue light activates the natural chemicals found in the bacteria which cause redness in acne and when stimulated, these chemicals help to fight off the bacteria. This ultimately helps to reduce breakouts over time.
An average light therapy session takes 20 minutes and can be done as a stand-alone treatment or incorporated into your next facial. The treatment is painless and all you will experience is some slight heat similar to the sensation of having sun shining on your face in the midst of summer. It is extremely relaxing and chances are you might doze off!
Light therapy is safe for all skin types as well as woman who are pregnant or breastfeeding
Words: Amanda Basher Images: Pinterest, Instagram