Red light therapy for the face is a treatment that uses light to improve the appearance of the skin. It has become popular in recent years. But what are the pros and cons of red light therapy for the face? Is it right for you?
You should also know that phototherapy uses not only the red light spectrum for skin treatment. Blue, green, yellow, and even purple LEDs benefit several conditions. Heliotherapy Institute has many years of experience in researching phototherapy for general health. You can find many reviews, tips, and scientific evidence about the benefits of light therapy for our well-being.
We will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this treatment so that you can make an informed decision about whether it is right for you.
Red light therapy technology
The basis of red light therapy is the science of photobiomodulation (PBM), which is a process by which light energy (specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light) triggers positive changes at the cellular level.
PBM can promote collagen production, increase blood circulation and reduce inflammation. These benefits make red light therapy an attractive option for those who want to improve the appearance of their skin.
However, there are also some potential downsides, such as the risk of eye damage and skin irritation. Furthermore, it is important to note that red light therapy is not FDA approved for use on the face.
Red light therapy is an alternative to traditional medical treatments. In some cases, you may use it in addition to other remedies.
The pros of red light therapy for your face
Red light therapy can help improve the appearance of the skin in several ways. It can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin texture and elasticity. Red light therapy can also help reduce the appearance of dark spots, blemishes, and even your skin tone. Below you can learn about all advantages of RLT and its influence on the skin.
Cure several skin issues
LLLT is known worldwide as an alternative treatment for some skin diseases due to its deep penetration into tissues and promotes recovery and healing. What skin diseases does light therapy affect? Let’s describe them below:
Aging of the skin: Red light therapy treatments improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, roughness, and laxity of the skin. It can decrease the signs of sun damage and other aging spots.
Acne: It is the most common skin problem for many people around the world. RLT can be effective in reducing inflammation. As a result, it reduces the number of breakouts and destroys the bacteria that cause acne. In addition, it can help even out skin tone, improve skin texture and reduce acne spots.
Red light therapy effectively treated psoriasis Vulgaris, a chronic skin condition characterized by itchy, scaly patches. It can significantly reduce itching and flaking as well as other annoying symptoms. Besides, it has fewer side effects in comparison with topical benzoyl peroxide.
And finally, red light therapy is effective in treating rosacea and eczema, chronic conditions that cause redness and inflammation of the skin.
Relatively safe procedure
Facial red light therapy is considered a relatively safe procedure with few side effects. It is generally well-tolerated, and you should feel comfortable. The risks are minimal, and the side effects are usually mild. Besides, if you use the light device correctly, there will be no side effects.
RLT is non-invasive
Facial red light therapy is a non-invasive, painless treatment that uses LED lights to boost collagen production and improve the appearance of your skin. No needles or surgery are involved, making it a popular choice for those who want to avoid more invasive procedures. The only thing that will touch your skin is the light itself.
It makes facial red light therapy much less risky than other cosmetic procedures, such as Botox injections or facelifts. There’s no risk of infection or scarring with this procedure.
You can do it at home
One of the pros of facial red light therapy is that you can do it at home. You don’t need to go to a salon or spa for this treatment. All you need is a device that emits red light.
- You can find these devices online or in some stores.
- They are not very expensive, and you can use them whenever possible.
- You can find devices of all different sizes, so if you only want to treat your face, there are options. Or, you can get a full-body device and treat your whole body at once.
- But it still requires commitment. You’ll need to use it regularly for several weeks or months to see results.
If you have sensitive skin, you may want to start with a lower setting on the device and work your way up. You should consult a dermatologist before using any new skincare product or treatment.
Several disadvantages of facial red light therapy
It is a relatively safe procedure. However, there are several drawbacks you should know about before using it as a skin treatment. It’s essential to consult with a doctor before starting facial red light therapy to make sure it’s right for you and to discuss any potential risks.
You need several sessions
Facial red light therapy requires several sessions before you see any results. It can be expensive and time-consuming, especially if you have to go to a professional.
On the plus side, each session is relatively short (usually around 20 minutes), so it’s not a huge time commitment. And once you start seeing results, you’ll only need maintenance treatments every few weeks or months.
It’s not appropriate for everyone
Facial red light therapy isn’t suitable for everyone. There are several contraindications not to using it:
- If you have lupus or other autoimmune diseases.
- If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s best to steer clear of red light therapy.
- People with light sensitivity issues may want to avoid this treatment.
- If you have a history of migraines or seizures, you may be more susceptible to experiencing these side effects from facial red light therapy.
- If you have skin cancer.
No guarantee for positive results
Facial red light therapy may have some risks, but there are no guarantees regarding its efficacy. Though the treatment is often touted as a panacea for various skin concerns, from wrinkles to acne, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. More researches need to prove its effectiveness. Besides, positive results depend on the complexity of your skin condition.
Several side effects
One of the main risks of red light therapy for the face is eye damage. Since the treatment involves exposure to bright light, there is the potential for retinal damage. It will be better to protect your eyes during the procedure.
The most common side effect is a feeling of warmth or heat in the treated area. Other potential side effects include:
- Redness;
- Swelling;
- Blisters;
- Formation of crusts.
However, these side effects are typically mild and should go away within a few days or weeks. But if you experience any severe side effects, stop using red light therapy and see your doctor immediately.
Some people may also be allergic to the light source used in red light therapy. It is typically diagnosed through a skin test before treatment begins.
Summary
Red light therapy for the face is a popular skincare treatment that uses LED lamps to improve skin health. It has many benefits, including improving skin texture and reducing wrinkles. However, some potential side effects are also, such as dryness or irritation. Before trying red light therapy for the face, it is essential to understand the potential benefits and risks. We hope this article has been helpful as we outline all the information about RLT and its pros and cons.
