Unlock the Power of Light: How LED Light Therapy Devices Can Benefit Your Skin

Previously only available in dermatologist clinics, LED light therapy has made its way to our regular skincare rituals in the form of high-tech tools and devices. Read on to learn about LED light therapy for skin, the benefits of different colors, and our recommended devices for at-home LED light therapy.

Table of Contents:

• What is LED light therapy?
• What is the difference between at-home and in-salon treatments?
• Benefits of the different LED light colors
• How long do at-home LED light therapy results last for?
• How often should I use LED Light Therapy at home?
• How do you use an at-home LED light therapy device?
• How to care for your skin after using an LED light therapy device
• What are the risks to using LED light therapy on your skin?
• SkinStore’s top picks for at-home LED light therapy devices

What is LED light therapy?

LED (light emitting diode) light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses different wavelengths of colored light to target specific skin concerns such as breakouts, fine lines and a loss of firmness. The two most common forms of color light therapy are red and blue. However, there is also yellow, green and white light that each lend a different skincare benefit. Now available as at-home treatments, LED Light Therapy Devices can arrive in the form of masks, patches, wands and free-standing panels.

What is the difference between at-home and in-salon treatments?

Typically, in-salon LED light therapy treatments are considered stronger than their at-home counterparts. However, this doesn’t mean that at-home devices are ineffective. LED light therapy requires regular maintenance for visible and long-lasting results. Visiting a salon or clinic can be costly, especially if spreading treatments out across multiple sessions. With an at-home device, you can incorporate led light therapy into your regular skin care routine to continue maintenance and top-ups – saving you both time and money in the long run. It is important to follow the proper precautions with at-home treatments, such as thoroughly cleansing the skin or wearing eye protection.

Benefits of the different LED light colors

Red LED Light

Red LED light therapy is best for skin tightening by emitting wavelengths to encourage the production of collagen and elastin – proteins that support the skin’s structure to make it appear fuller and plumper. Red and blue light are most commonly used, even offering specialized treatments when paired together.

Blue LED Light

Blue LED light therapy is used to target the sebaceous glands, helping to manage oil production and minimize the formation of breakouts. Combined with red light, this wavelength helps to reduce the overall look of blemishes by reducing redness and inflammation.

Yellow LED Light

Yellow LED light therapy helps to counteract visible redness, age spots and pigmentation. Working by improving circulation, this wavelength is often used for inflammatory skin concerns.

Green LED Light

Green LED light therapy helps to visibly unify the skin tone by reducing the look of redness, pigmentation, broken capillaries, sunspots and dark circles.

White LED Light

A combination of all the colors of light, white LED light therapy offers the benefits of all wavelengths, targeting the deepest layers of the skin to improve its overall appearance.

How long do at-home LED light therapy results last for?

When first using at-home LED light therapy devices, it is common for a treatment to be done weekly, with most people noticing visible results after four to six weeks (although every person and skin type is different). After this, top-up sessions are recommended every month or two to maintain results.

Related article: An At-Home Face Lift: The Best Skincare and Devices to Tighten Skin

How often should I use LED Light Therapy at home?

Every LED light therapy device is different, requiring a certain amount of time and sessions per week. Many require daily use with sessions varying from 5 to 30 minutes. On the other hand, some devices may only require 1-2 sessions per week for results to show after regular use. It is common for the time of your sessions to increase as your skin becomes accustomed to the chosen light therapy. Always follow the instruction manual for your chosen device to achieve optimal results.

How do you use an at-home LED light therapy device?

Before using an LED light therapy device at home, it is important to prepare your skin for treatment. Make sure to thoroughly cleanse to remove all traces of makeup, sunscreen and daily impurities to allow optimal absorption of light. LED light therapy devices arrive in many forms – from masks to wands – meaning instructions vary as per your chosen device. Some devices are worn over the entire face, while others require you to hold the tool towards your face and body.

How to care for your skin after using an LED light therapy device

LED light therapy is a non-invasive treatment meaning you can get back to your daily activities straight away. Always remember to apply an SPF and limit your sun exposure as skin can be more sensitive.

What are the risks to using LED light therapy on your skin?

There is minimal risk when it comes to using an LED light therapy device on your skin. Like all light therapies, the most important thing to remember is eye protection. Eyes should be covered with goggles or patches and if using a handheld device, it should be faced away from the eyes. When buying an at-home device, opt for one that is marked ‘FDA approved’, select the correct type of device for your specific skin concern, and follow the instructions accordingly.

SkinStore’s top picks for at-home LED light therapy devices

Read on to find SkinStore’s top picks and discover the best LED light therapy device for you.

Dr Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro