Have you seen celebrities posting videos of their spa visit, and they have a lit-up mask on their faces? LED treatments such as LED facials have taken Instagram by storm, mainly because of celebrity influence. One big celebrity fan of these facials is Kim Kardashian, who swears to be “big on laser facials.”
LED Facials in a nutshell
Different kinds of LED facials are available in the industry today. Also, the technology in these treatments is evolving day by day.
LED facials are mainly characterized by different colors of light that will trigger reactions on the layers of your skin. Some facials use red light, while some use blue light— it really depends on many factors, such as the skin condition that it is going to treat.
For example, blue light kills acne-causing bacteria, making it an effective treatment for whiteheads, blackheads, and other acne spots.
On the other hand, red light speeds up the skin’s healing process and stimulates collagen production. At the same time, red light penetrates deep layers of the skin, allowing it to tighten the treatment area and shrink enlarged pores.
The LED facial is also a client favorite since it is non-invasive, painless, and has no downtime. Sometimes, it is a better alternative for other treatments that only consider the outer layers of the skin because LED allows deeper penetration.
Moreover, LED facials are also known to reduce the appearance of wrinkles while bringing out a youthful plump.
The truth about it’s capabilities
While it may be challenging to visualize light as a treatment for skin problems, experts still look forward to this technology. Dr. R. Glen Calderhead, a renowned worldwide expert in photo surgery and phototherapy, believes in LED facials’ mechanisms.
In reference to Dr. Calderhead’s published study in 2016, he states that light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and low-level light therapy (LLLT) are not mere magic but legitimate science. He continues to say that the claims on the efficiency of these technologies in terms of treating skin problems are backed up with solid evidence.
For example, he explained in his study that plastic surgeons have been using LED-LLLT in anti-aging treatments because it has the ability to enhance blood flow. Moreover, LED-LLLT alone can also be used for such purposes, given that the patients are willing to wait for complete results.
How it is done
The treatment itself will not take much of your time. Depending on the technology used, LED facials can last for only a few minutes. So, you can do it even during your break.
As mentioned earlier, LED facials are for patients who can undergo multiple sessions before seeing the results. Investing in LED facials can be a long wait as effects do not happen overnight.
Usually, you will need at least four sessions to see changes finally. These changes include an improved skin texture, a rejuvenated skin appearance, and reduced visibility of wrinkles.
Although you will need more sessions compared to other treatments, the benefits of LED facials build up. In fact, a year’s worth of treatment is usually enough to maintain the results thereupon.
At home
According to a respected New york-based aesthetic medicine expert Dr. Z. Paul Lorenc, pharmacy-bought LED devices are an excellent alternative to clinical-grade LED treatments.
According to him, these devices actually work in combating signs of aging and acne. The only catch is having to use it every day because it has lower concentrations of light. If you do not have time to use these devices every day, then going to a trusted medical spa every few weeks may be the ideal setup for you.
Are LED facials another fad treatment?
LED light has constantly proved its remarkable efficacy in treating different kinds of skin pathologies. The light emitted by LEDs has the ability to stimulate certain cell lines and improve certain skin characteristics, such as texture, tone, and appearance. So, no. LED Facials are not a fad.
Although LED facials already provide effects even by themselves, this technology can further be improved when combined with light-absorbing chromophore gel. This substance allows the LED light to penetrate deeper into the layers of the skin.
Clinical devices for LED Facials
In a clinical setting, different devices are used to do the treatment. One example of this device is the Lumibel lamp used to reduce the appearance of marionette lines, crow’s feet, forehead lines, and pore size. This device is also used for patients who have acne-prone skin.
The procedure using this device is simple: the patient will have their picture taken and will be asked to lie down on an examination table. While they are lying down, the aesthetician removes impurities or makeup using a mild cleanser before applying the light-absorbing gel onto their face.
The aesthetician will then use the Libel light system to activate the gel’s light-absorbing properties, converting the light emitted from the lamp into different colors and wavelengths.
When using this specific device, the patient should wear protective eyewear so the eyes will not be affected by the light. When treating areas near the eyes, stickers are sometimes placed on top of the client’s eyes.
This procedure lasts only 9 minutes. In contrast, other LED treatments are already done in less than twenty minutes. Clients also report a warm sensation in the treatment area and feeling relaxed, especially when there is soothing background music.
Once the gel is carefully removed, a moisturizer is then applied along with an SPF cream for sun protection. If you are concerned about possible side effects of LED facials, do not worry because redness rarely occurs in the treatment area.
Wrapping it up
With the scientific evidence backing up the LED technology’s efficiency in skin improvement, there is no doubt that these facials really work. Whether it be acne or signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles, LED facials are a treatment worth considering because they are specialized in these skin conditions.
Should you want to know more about LED facials, you may consult with Revive – SkinFX. They are a medical spa that houses experienced professionals and staff that will help you with your concerns.
