Infrared light waves penetrate deep into the skin and stimulate the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) energy for your body tissues. This energy boosts healing on a cellular level, which results in decreased inflammation and accelerated tissue repair.
Naeser is currently recruiting Veterans with PTSD and TBI to take part in a study that will assign half of them to real LED therapy, and the other half will receive a placebo.
Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles
The outer layer of the skin (the epidermis) absorbs red light and stimulates collagen proteins. This makes your skin look smoother and reduces fine lines. You can also buy LED light masks or wands for at-home use.
You’ve probably heard of microneedling as a trendy new way to rejuvenate the skin and get rid of wrinkles, but there’s another non-invasive treatment that’s even more effective. It’s called LED light therapy. It was developed by NASA years ago as a method for growing plants in space, and it’s now used to boost collagen production, kill acne-causing bacteria, and improve the appearance of scars.
The participants will receive photobiomodulation on their periocular wrinkles using red and amber LEDs, with one colour being applied to each hemiface during each treatment session. The primary outcome measure will be the volume of periocular wrinkles (crow’s feet). Self-assessment and quality of life questionnaires will also be collected. This study will be conducted in a double-blind design to reduce errors due to the subconscious influence of participants on data acquisition.
Reduces Acne
While some research has shown that light therapy helps with acne, it’s more of an adjunct treatment than a stand-alone solution. Several devices that emit red LED lights are available for purchase online and can be used in the comfort of your own home. However, you’ll get the best results from an in-office treatment guided by a dermatologist or esthetician.
Blue LED light works to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria. When exposed to blue light, acne-forming bacteria called P. acnes release porphyrins, which absorb the light and cause a chemical reaction that kills them. The light also decreases oil gland size and reduces sebum production, which can clog pores.
A study that involved 21 people with mild to moderate facial acne found that self-administered blue LED treatments twice a week over 5 weeks reduced the number of acne lesions by 64%. It’s important to avoid touching or picking at your blemishes between sessions to maintain results.
Reduces Stretch Marks and Scars
Stretch marks occur when the middle layer of skin stretches or shrinks too quickly, rupturing collagen and elastin. They show up as streaks or bands that are lighter or darker than the surrounding skin tissue. They can be caused by pregnancy, rapid weight gain or loss, extreme muscle building and more.
Several treatments help fade stretch marks. Pulsed dye laser therapy is a painless blast of light that targets new stretch marks, and may help smooth texture and even out skin tone. Fractional CO2 laser treatment is another option that can smooth white stretch marks and fade discoloration. It usually takes a few sessions to see results.
Microdermabrasion also works to reduce the appearance of stretch marks by exfoliating the outer layer of skin, and promoting cell turnover. A chemical peel is another option, but it isn’t as effective for older stretch marks. For the best results, combine your treatments with a skin care regimen that includes daily moisturizing with rich body creams.
Reduces Pain
Red light therapy stimulates the fibroblasts that make collagen, a key part of skin recovery and healing. This helps tighten skin and reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging. It also helps heal wounds and improve circulation. It eases acne by killing the bacteria that cause it and helping control oil gland activity by reducing cytokines that lead to breakouts.
Infra-red (IR) wavelengths penetrate deeper into tissue than blue and red light. They warm tissues, increase blood flow, and energize the body’s cells with a boost of ATP energy.
This is why a device that delivers both red and near infra-red waves has become a popular treatment for pain, including muscle soreness after exercise. A study is underway to see if red and IR LEDs can help ease the effects of traumatic brain injury in Veterans, who also often have PTSD. The results could be life changing. The VA hopes to begin a larger study this year.