You may have heard of LED light masks and other products that use LED light in skincare. It is also used in some more prominent skin treatments at professional clinics, which give more effective results. It has been wildly popular on social media, with many influencers promoting such products on their pages. They rave about how much it has improved their skin and what an effect it has had on their complexions. These items and treatments can be expensive, so that leaves the question how do they work and are they worth the money? They are said to boost collagen production and improve fine lines. Through their antibacterial properties, they even improve acne. Below we will investigate how they work and all the benefits of using this mask. It is important to know that it will address your skin issues before you commit to such a purchase.
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How LED light works on skin
LED light masks and other skin care products work by emitting wavelengths of red to blue light. This wavelength of light is between 400 to 700 nanometres on the electromagnetic spectrum. The blue light is on the lower end of the spectrum and aims to target bacteria, This makes it the best wavelength for treating acne. At the higher end of the spectrum, the red light is used to penetrate deeper into the skin and is best for collagen production. It does so by improving blood circulation.
Any higher wavelengths are near-infrared or infrared. This light gives off warmth and is generally used to treat ailments such as joint pain rather than skin problems. If a product advertises near-infrared light then it goes beyond what is needed for skin treatment.
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How effective is LED light on the skin?
LED light products for use at home give mild results as opposed to those used in clinics. They still have some effect on the skin and use over a long period can provide some relief of such ailments in skincare. But if you want the best results then it is recommended that you visit a certified clinic. LED masks are only a fraction of the intensity that you would receive in a clinic.
To have any effect, at home masks need to be used three times a week for half an hour each time. This does not give the same results as treatments at a clinic but will provide some benefit. The other bonus of attending a clinic for treatment is that they will target the exact issue that you face when it comes to skincare.
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The risks of LED light
There is a significantly low chance of any risks when using LED light products and treatments. The one known risk is to the eyes. One of the at-home products was recently recalled as it posed a significant risk to the eyes due to a fault. This is a problem that can occur with the at-home LED light procedures. The difference when attending a clinic is that usually, the light is around 30cm away from the face, which allows for sufficient eye protection. The products that you can buy do not allow for the use of goggles so this can be an issue. If they are faulty they do pose a risk, but otherwise, they are generally quite safe. This risk can be eliminated when going to a professional.
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The options for LED light in skincare
The best option for LED light for use on the skin is of course the professional clinics. They are trained to administer LED light to patients in a way that is safe and effective. These LED lights are far more penetrative and provide better results than any of them at home products that are on the market. Through these procedures, certain areas and skin issues can be targeted effectively so that you leave with the best results. Professional LED light sessions are overall more effective on the complexion than at-home products.
This is not to say that at-home products do not work, but they do not achieve the same results as a clinic would. It takes a lot more time as the LED lights are not as strong in these products. As they do not require any kind of professional training, you are not able to have the same quality of light as it can be dangerous without the right protection. Not all companies make these products to the same standard and prices vary greatly, between $40 and $1200. research into these products is still ongoing, however many positive reviews have emerged for the top brands, so they are effective for many people who have already made the purchase.
All in all, LED light products are far less effective than professional treatments. Blue light in these products and procedures give an antibacterial effect which will target acne with a less penetrative light source. The red light is a higher frequency wavelength and is more effective in increasing blood circulation and boosting collagen production. It is best to get to a clinic, with trained professionals, however, there are products on the market which are significantly cheaper that do partially what the clinics can achieve. In this case, you do get what you pay for and these at-home alternatives require a lot more time for lesser results.