
LED Light Therapy FAQ
What is LED Light Therapy?
LED stands for: Light Emitting Diode. LED lights are miniature bulbs that are inserted into fixtures that provide the light therapy. LED bulbs contain semiconducting diodes that interact with electrons to produce light in specific colors or wavelengths of the light spectrum, without emitting heat. The light penetrates into the skin and subcutaneous tissues and converts into energy that causes a number of beneficial biological effects. The different colors of light are specific to particular wavelengths of the light spectrum; the most commonly used are red, yellow, and blue lights.
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What is the origin of LED light therapy?
NASA scientists were the first to uncover the therapeutic properties of LED light. Experiments showed that plants placed under certain light colors (wavelengths) were able to achieve photosynthesis faster, which impacted growth and health. LED lights also proved useful for quickening the healing of wounds that astronauts might suffer while in space. Due to the findings published by NASA, other scientists performed studies of LED light therapy and found similar results. The lights have since become part of medical and aesthetic treatments.
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What are the benefits of the different light wavelengths?​
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Red LED bulbs emit light at between 620 and 700 nm and penetrates to 3mm. Red light therapy also increases blood and lymph circulation in the region where the light is directed. In this way, the lights are used to speed healing as the therapy reduces inflammation and relieves pain.
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Yellow LED bulbs emit light in the 570 to the 600 nm range and penetrates to 2mm. Amber light is used to minimize redness and soothe skin. The frequency is also helpful in decreasing the appearance of spider veins.
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Blue LED bulbs emit light at frequencies of between 400 and 495 nm and penetrate to 1mm. The wavelength is especially useful for killing the bacteria that leads to acne. The frequency also reduces inflammation.
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Purple or ultraviolet light is found below the 380 nm frequency. The wavelength is widely reputed for having antimicrobial properties. Purple light also encourages new cell formation.
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Green LED bulbs illuminate at frequencies of between 515 and 520 nm. They are designed to even out skin tones in areas exhibiting hyper-pigmentation. Green light therapy is also recommended for fading other types of discolorations or spots.
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Near-infrared light is not visible to the eye and emits energy at a range of between 810 and 830 nanometers or nm and penetrates to 10mm. Near-infrared light penetrates the skin and converts into energy to improve blood circulation and cellular replication in specific areas. Cellular mitochondria are better able to produce energy for necessary cell functions and repair. The wavelength is often used to relieve muscle and connective tissue pain; it also quickens the healing of ligament and muscle sprains, strains and wound healing.
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How deep does the light penetrate?
The penetration ability of each wavelength is as follows:
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Near-infrared-10 mm or 0.39 of an inch
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Red-3 mm or one-tenth of an inch
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Yellow or amber-2 mm or 0.07 of an inch
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Blue-1 mm or 0.03 of an inch
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Where on the body can LED light therapy be used?
LED light therapy at any wavelength is safe for use on any topical region of the body. Depending on the specific issue, a certain color or wavelength is chosen. Protective eye wear is recommended to prevent direct eye exposure.
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What’s the best wavelength for Anti-Aging?
Red LED light therapy is highly recommended for rejuvenating the skin. At these wavelengths, the light encourages collagen and elastin production which brightens and tightens the skin, which helps to alleviate fine lines and wrinkles. Red light is also beneficial to minimizing scarring.
What is the recommended frequency of LED treatments?
Treatments are generally recommended two or three times per week. The number of weeks needed to achieve the desired effect depends on individual circumstances. However, the majority of people see results in four to six weeks. To maintain the effects, treatments are recommended once every one or two weeks thereafter.
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How long are LED light therapy sessions?
When first starting treatment, the skin should not be exposed to the light for more than five minutes. In time, treatment sessions are gradually increased for a length of up to 15 minutes.
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What are the contraindications of LED Light Therapy?
Does LED light therapy have side effects?
LED light therapy is painless. However, initially, the skin may become slightly reddened until accustomed to treatment. The side effect typically subsides within one hour after treatment. The skin might also seem drier, which necessitates using a moisturizer. The best part of getting LED light therapy treatments includes the fact that you can resume daily activities without having to endure recovery times.