Social media posts showing the use of red light therapy devices at home are intriguing to treat this trendy skin, but is it based on that promise?
Some studies have shown that this practice has health benefits, but experts agree that more research is needed.
Dermatologists shared expert perspectives on red light therapy on Fox News Digital.
What is Red Light Therapy?
Red Light Therapy is a home-based photobio modulation system that uses visible and/or near-infrared light to address skin concerns. Chris G. Addigun, board certified dermatologist at the Dermatology and Laser Center at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, told Fox News Digital.
In most cases, light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are used, with built-in combinations of wavelengths.
“What this means on a daily basis is that these wavelengths stimulate an increase in both ingredients that maintain and improve skin quality, reducing skin agents that reduce skin quality,” says Adigun.
“It is useful for treating acne and rejuvenating the skin, and is popular with both young and older patients.”
Red light therapy is an anti-inflammatory agent and can have calming effects on the skin, according to board certified dermatologist Lauren Fine, MD, medical director of FINE Dermatology in Chicago, Illinois.
“It is useful for treating acne and rejuvenating the skin, and is popular with both young and older patients.”
In addition to its anti-inflammatory effects, red light therapy offers a variety of “pro-aging” benefits.
“It helps in collagen stimulation and can be used regularly to minimize the appearance of thin lines and wrinkles and improve the quality of your skin,” Fox News Digital said.
Another bonus: There is no downtime associated with use, doctors said.
Home-based skincare devices are currently particularly popular on social media, Fine noted.
“Social media has had a major impact on the skincare market,” she said.
Things you need to know before trying it out
Red Light Therapy is available in several spas, gyms and clinics, but home units are becoming more popular.
For those considering purchasing a device to try out Red Light Therapy, FINE said there is “very little risk” overall.
However, certain medications can make the skin light sensitive. This means that according to the skin cancer basics, it can become more sensitive or have an abnormal reaction to light sources.
According to the US Food and Drug Administration, these drugs include certain antibiotics, antifungal, antihistamines, and diuretics.
He warned carefully that people who are sensitive to heat-related skin changes may not be a good candidate for red light therapy.
How to get started
It is important for experts to read and track the instructions of the red light therapy unit they are using.
Proper use will help ensure the best results.
“The main factor in effectiveness is related to the distance of the device from the skin – closer and better – the duration of exposure takes at least 10 minutes,” Adigun told Fox News Digital.
“Everyday time may not be realistic for most people.”
Experts recommend consulting with a dermatologist before starting red light therapy at home.
