A Beginner's Guide to Light Therapy
If you've been exploring the latest trends in wellness and skincare, you've likely seen people using glowing LED masks. But exactly what is light therapy, and how can it benefit your daily routine? Our Experts break down everything you need to know about light therapy treatments, how they work, and how to get the most out of your glowing skincare routine.
What Is Light Therapy?
Light therapy uses non-thermal light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to deliver specific wavelengths of light to the skin. Different wavelengths are designed to reach different layers of the skin and are commonly used to support a variety of skincare and wellness goals.
Types of Light Therapy
There are several different types of light therapy, each utilizing a specific color (or wavelength) of light to target different skin and wellness concerns. Here is the breakdown of the most popular options:
| Light Type | The Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Red | Anti-Aging | A non-invasive "workout" for your skin to support smoother, more youthful-looking skin |
| Blue | Sanitization | Used to target acne-causing bacteria and support clearer-looking skin |
| Yellow | Detoxifier | Used to help reduce the appearance of redness and puffiness |
| Infrared | Deep Healing | Invisible light commonly used in wellness devices for deeper treatment applications |
Expert Tip | Our Experts recommend using a "power combo" of different lights. For example, use blue light to help support clearer-looking skin and red light to support skin rejuvenation.
All about Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy is commonly used to support smoother, firmer-looking skin and reduce the appearance of visible signs of aging. When used consistently, red light therapy may help improve the appearance of fine lines and support a more youthful-looking complexion.
Red Light Therapy Benefits
Red light therapy is one of the most popular options when it comes to light therapy because of the overall benefits, including:
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Diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
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Firming and tightening loose skin for a more lifted, healthier-looking appearance
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Improving the appearance of uneven skin tone, including the look of dark spots and sun-related discoloration
The Power of Red + Infrared Light
Many light therapy devices combine red light with infrared light for a deeper treatment. While red light works on the surface, infrared light reaches deeper than visible red light. This combination may help support firmer-looking skin and a more even-looking complexion.
All about Blue Light Therapy
Blue light therapy operates at a different wavelength than red and is commonly used to support clearer-looking skin.
Blue Light Therapy Benefits
Blue light therapy is a second popular option when it comes to light therapy because of the overall benefits, including:
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Supporting clearer-looking skin
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Helping target acne-causing bacteria on the skin
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Helping reduce the appearance of redness associated with blemishes
Choosing a Light Therapy Product
When used consistently, quality light therapy products, such as those from Therabody, can yield noticeable results in as little as 8 weeks, but they are an investment. When choosing a product, our Experts recommend considering the following features:
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Medical-grade LEDs: Look for a product with a high number of medical-grade LEDs to ensure even, full coverage. A premium light therapy mask features between 504 and 648 lights.
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Multiple light modes: For more versatility, look for devices that let you switch between different light modes, such as Red, Blue, and Red + Infrared.Â
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Comfort: Look for devices that are cordless and hands-free with adjustable straps so you can relax comfortably.Â
Expert Tips When Starting Light Therapy
If you're new to light therapy, be sure to follow these tips from our Experts for the best results:
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Consistency: Light therapy is most effective when used regularly over time rather than in occasional long sessions. Completing 10-20 minute sessions, 3-5 times per week, helps you maintain a consistent treatment routine and avoid overuse.
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Clean Face: Make sure your face is clean and dry. Avoid using skincare products before treatment.
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Hydration: Be sure to drink plenty of water before your session because hydration is an important part of maintaining overall skin health.
Frequently Asked Questions about Light Therapy
Light therapy may be a valuable addition to your skincare routine if you're looking to support smoother-looking skin and a clearer-looking complexion. With the right device and guidance from your health care provider, you'll be on your way to feeling more confident. For additional questions about light therapy products, stop into your local SCHEELS to speak with an Expert.Â
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and consult your healthcare provider with questions about whether light therapy is right for you.