LED Technology
What is LED Phototherapy?LED (light emitting diodes) are a type of semiconductor that emit light when a current flows through it. Electrons which are present within the semiconductor will recombined with what’s referred to as electron holes; this in turn releases energy in the form of photons which then travels in a wave like pattern. LED diodes come in an array of colours and will vary depending on the materials used. Therefore, making it possible to customise the colour to meet certain wavelength specifications. LED technology was originally developed by NASA in the late 1980’s, for plant growth experiments on space shuttle missions. However, LED's appeared to display an efficacious effect within human tissue. Clinical trials were eventually held at NASA Marshall Space Flight Centre to investigate the use of light therapy to combat the health issues astronauts face, as exposure to microgravity during space flights can pose a health risk. It was later concluded NASA LED’s displayed promising results for wound healing.
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| Since then, LED’s have widely been established for their efficacy in treating and or managing various skin conditions. This is supported by hundreds of published clinical research papers from reputable institutions. Unlike other light based treatments, LED phototherapy is non-invasive and painless, and requires no recovery time post treatment. The use of specific wavelengths of light are used to trigger a natural biostimulatory effect within the tissue. Therefore, resulting in the treatment and or management of various skin conditions. Other terms used interchangeable to describe light therapy are photobiomodulation, photobiostimulation, photomedicine, low-level light therapy (LLLT), LED light therapy and red light therapy. However, It’s important to recognise that LED phototherapy should not be confused for Photodynamic therapy. As, Photodynamic therapy requires the use and pre-treatment of Aminolevulinic acid (ALA), which results in the light reacting to the skin and the use of the photosensitiser. |
How it works?LED’s mechanism of action, can be likened to the response of chlorophyll within plants and how it converts sunlight into energy. Therefore, by using high intensity light emitting diodes at specific proven wavelengths of light, LED’s can achieve a similar process by inducing a biostimulatory effect within the skin. According to research, this process is achieved by absorbing the energy of light (photons) which leads to the mitochondria in the cells being energised; this in turn produces more ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate). The increased elevation of ATP is then used to power cellular metabolism to increase cell function, repair and replication. |  |
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Blue Light: (420nm-Depth 0.5mm)Blue light therapy is designed to benefit individuals who suffer from problematic skin, such as acne vulgaris and or blemish prone skin types. The light emitted excites a chromophore called Coproporphyrin which is produced by Propionibacterium (P.acne bacterium). This then stimulates a chemical reaction to occur resulting in the destruction of Propionibacterium (P.acne bacterium). This process will provide a clearer complexion by reducing congestion and controlling bacteria present on the skin. |
Green Light: (570nm-Depth 0.5-1mm)Green light therapy is designed to benefit individuals who suffer from hyperpigmentation. The green light targets melanocytes, therefore, affecting their production, movement and the separation of existing melanin clusters. Additionally, green light therapy also creates a calming effect on the skin through anti-inflammatory properties, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. |
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Yellow Light: (590nm-Depth1-2mm)Yellow light therapy is designed to benefit individuals who suffer from erythema (redness), such as rosacea and or telangiectasia (spider veins). As the light induces vasoconstriction (reduction in blood vessels size), therefore, making vessels less visible. Aiding in the improvement of erythema, flushing and post procedural erythema. Additionally, yellow light therapy removes waste from the skin via improving lymphatic flow, thus reducing the appearance of puffiness. |
Red light: (650nm-Depth 2-3mm)Red light therapy is considered the primary choice for skin rejuvenation and anti-ageing, given it promotes vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), oxygenation, nutrient delivery and angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation), which are all crucial components for health functioning cells. In addition to this, the stimulation of fibroblast cells (synthesis of collagen and elastin) and the increased production of proteoglycans (proteins attached to GAG’s) is achieved with red light therapy. Thus, providing hydration and firmness to the skin, resulting in the reduction of scarring, fine lines and wrinkles. |
