LED Therapy : The How and Why of Low-Level Light Therapy

LED (light-emitting diode) therapy is based on the principle that different wavelengths of light will penetrate the skin to different depths, resulting in the possible improvement of a wide range of skin conditions.

LED light therapy is a versatile, non-invasive treatment that can be used on all skin types, all ages and unlike so many other skin treatments, LED therapy requires zero down time. LED light exposes the skin to levels of light that are not harmful—unlike UV light coming from the sun. Because of this, there are virtually no side effects from undergoing LED light therapy. Eye protection should be used, as well as sun protection following treatment—and everyday, even grey, rainy days!

The most common wavelengths used in LED light therapy are red, blue, and near-infrared. Each wavelength has its own unique benefits for the skin.

Red Light: Stimulates collagen production, which helps maintaining skin’s firmness and elasticity

Blue Light: Used to kill the p.acnes bacteria (responsible for causing some forms of acne). It can also ease how much oil your sebaceous glands secrete. This can reduce clogging of both hair follicles and pores to support healthy hair and skin.

Near-infrared light: Improves circulation, reduces inflammation, decreases redness, swelling and bruising, and can speed up the healing process.

In addition to treating specific skin conditions, LED therapy can also be used as a single session in combination with other cosmetic treatments, such as facials, microneedling, and facial rejuvenation acupuncture treatments, to enhance their effects.

To see significant benefits, a series of treatments is typically recommended, the number of sessions can range from weekly for a month to three times per week for a month, and will be determined in tandem with your healthcare provider. Typically for Facial Rejuvenation treatments, it is recommended to do a series of 10-12 weekly treatments over the span of 3 months. After that, maintenance treatments are recommended once a month, or every few months.

We are now offering LED light therapy at Tandem Clinic! Both the Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture and the Complete Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture treatments will now include LED therapy as part of the treatment. Both these treatments are covered under most extended health plans either as acupuncture or a naturopathic treatment, depending on the provider you select (R.Ac or ND).

If you are interested in learning more or booking a visit with one of our naturopathic doctors to create an LED treatment schedule, please call the front desk team at 604-670-0590 to and they would be happy to assist you!

Resources:

● “What is LED light therapy for the skin?” by Healthline, https://www.webmd.com/beauty/what-is-led-light-therapy-for-skin

● Ablon G. Phototherapy with light emitting diodes: Treating a broad range of medical and aesthetic conditions in dermatology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5843358 J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2018;11(2):21-27.

● LED light therapy for skin: Does it work? By Medical News Today, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/led-light-therapy