LED Therapy: Science and Benefits
What is LED light therapy?
Let’s explore LED light therapy: its science and skin benefits. LED (Light Emitting Diode) phototherapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to promote skin healing and rejuvenation. It works by regulating cell activity through light exposure without causing thermal damage. Portions of the light spectrum that do not contain ultraviolet light achieve this.
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 energy for growth. In LED therapy, skin cells absorb specific wavelengths of light, triggering a series of biological responses depending on the color used. Originally developed by NASA to promote wound healing and support cellular and tissue growth, LED therapy was also later used to help astronauts grow plants in space.
Longterm effects and benefits for the lymphatic system
A series of treatments performed every two weeks over several months achieves the best results from LED therapy. Following the completion of a treatment series, fibroblasts in the skin may continue producing increased collagen for up to six months—significantly more than usual. Additionally, LED therapy stimulates the lymphatic system, helping to reduce fluid buildup.
Enhanced lymphatic activity accelerates 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 immune response and lymphatic function.
Macrophages
Macrophages help defend against bacteria and viruses, clear away dead cells, and repair damaged tissue. They operate in two phases: M1, which triggers inflammation to combat harmful pathogens, and M2, which focuses on tissue repair and reducing inflammation. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) signal macrophages to transition from the M1 phase to the M2 phase, promoting a more soothing and regenerative effect.
The different LED wavelengths
Light therapy involves more than just using red or blue light—it relies on precise wavelengths. Each wavelength penetrates the skin at different depths, activating unique cascades of cellular activity. Let’s explore the science behind LED light therapy and the skin benefits of each wavelength:
Green wavelength
Green light therapy works by regulating melanin production, targeting overactive melanocytes to help fade discoloration and improve overall skin tone. Beyond evening out skin color, green light also reduces inflammation and soothes redness and irritation.
Blue wavelength
The blue wavelength is best known for fighting acne and bacteria. It penetrates the upper layers of the skin, targeting and destroying P. acnes bacteria. Beyond fighting acne, blue light therapy helps regulate sebaceous gland activity, preventing excess oil production that contributes to breakouts. It also calms inflammation, reducing swelling and redness associated with acne.
Red wavelength
The red wavelength helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles, enhance skin elasticity, and provide anti-aging benefits. In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, it stimulates collagen and elastin production while supporting the lymphatic system. Red LED therapy activates fibroblasts, encouraging the synthesis of these essential proteins. It also promotes wound healing and increases blood flow in the dermis, delivering oxygen and nutrients to skin cells for enhanced repair and rejuvenation.
Infrared wavelength–– The infrared wavelength penetrates the deepest into the skin and is highly anti-inflammatory. Its primary functions include reducing chronic inflammation, promoting wound healing, alleviating joint and muscle pain, and supporting deep-layer skin rejuvenation. While all wavelengths help regulate immune cells like macrophages, infrared has the most significant impact. It also enhances blood and lymph circulation and boosts collagen and elastin production, surpassing the effects of red LED therapy. Additionally, infrared light provides effective pain relief for joints, muscles, and nerves.
