The Science of Glow: Light or LED Therapy:

Written By Candice Baker

Light Emitting Diode or LED therapy was researched and used by NASA for wound healing in space. It works by improving cellular growth and repair as well as reducing pain and inflammation. The usage of LED has made its way into health clinics for its benefits in skin rejuvenation, pain management, inflammation and even fertility. 

What it is and How it works: 

LED light penetrates the skin at different depths depending on the wavelength (color), where the light energy is absorbed by the cells. This is called photobiomodulation and triggers various cellular responses including: 

  • Boosting energy production within the cells (mitochondria).

  • Stimulating the production of collagen and elastin proteins.

  • Increasing blood flow and circulation to the skin.

  • Reducing inflammation and accelerating the repair process.

  • Stimulating the lymphatic system.

  • Increases the production of melatonin in the body.

Each wavelength (colour) has a specific therapeutic effect. 

Red - the most penetrating power, skin cell regeneration, increases oxygen in the blood, stimulation circulation, improves aches and wound healing, eases pain, enhances energy, promotes collagen, improves wrinkles

Green - targets dark circles, pigmentation, broken capillaries, sunspots and calms irritated or over-stimulated skin

Yellow - improves cells oxygen utilisation, promotes circulation, red spots, red face, helps remove pigments

Blue - kills bacteria, skin sterilisation, prevention of wounds 

LED for Skin Rejuvenation: 

LED offers a totally natural, non-ablative method of treating anti-aging signs by toning, tightening the skin and improving elasticity. It can also treat dermatological conditions like rosacea, acne and hair loss. 

  • No risk of burning

  • No need for special care afterwards

  • Safe for all skin types

  • Comfortable, painless, non-invasive, no downtime

  • Treatment time is short 10-20 min and effective 

  • Can be used in conjunction with facial acupuncture treatment 

How is LED different from Laser and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy? 

Other light based therapies penetrate  deeper and rely on thermal injury to the skin’s collagen or blood vessels to create change in the skin’s appearance. LED Skin Rejuvenation does not rely on thermal energy and the related tissue trauma to affect change. Therefore, patients are not subject to the variables associated with wound healing, risk scars and do not require downtime after treatments.

LED for Pain: 

LED therapy works on a cellular level to promote healing and reduce pain by reducing inflammation, increasing circulation, stimulation,  cellular repair and helping with nerve regeneration. Low levels of red LED offer a non-invasive, drug-free, and side-effect-free alternative for relieving both acute and chronic musculoskeletal pain. This can be incorporated into an acupuncture session adding to the healing benefits of the treatment. 

LED for Fertility: 

There is research that supports the use of red LED therapy to improve both female and male fertility. Studies show that using red light on the lower abdomen can improve the quality of egg cells. Declining mitochondrial function is associated with cellular causes of infertility in women. LED therapy can enhance the egg mobility and implantation by creating a healthy environment through blood circulation and free from inflammation.

When it comes to male fertility, the number and motility of sperm is crucial. Studies show that even after just a single session of red light therapy, sperm motility (swim speed) and concentrations are improved. For more information about LED and fertility, check out this excellent article by Red Light Man.

Candice Baker