Phototherapy for acne and wrinkles with blue and red light, used to treat various skin concerns, is fashionable, but are they really effective? Find out what the latest research says about laser devices:
You've probably heard that some laser treatments provide the most effective technology for treating acne and wrinkles: LED (light-emitting diode) light therapy, also known as photo-dynamic therapy or PDT. These light-emitting treatments for acne and signs of aging complement and do not replace a well-formulated skin care routine.
As with any light-emitting phototherapy treatment, there are pros and cons to consider, even if it is done by a doctor or you do it with a device at home. In any case, if you are patient and don't expect miracles, the research is promising!
Phototherapy for Acne with Blue Light
How does it work? The specific wavelengths of blue light kill acne bacteria. The light develops oxygen radicals that kill the acne bacteria called Propioni or P.acne without damaging healthy skin.
Why should we consider it?:
It has proven effectiveness in destroying a good percentage of bacteria that cause acne; It is best for mild to moderate cases of inflammatory acne; There are devices that you can use at home; Potentially reduce side effects (such as dryness or peeling) that can occur with topical use of benzoyl peroxide or prescription products; It is an option worth considering, for those whose skin cannot tolerate topical disinfectants; no pain, no recovery time; It can be done during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Why should we not consider it?: If performed by a doctor, it requires several treatments a week; It is expensive (an average of €40 per treatment). LED treatment is not effective for cystic acne, blackheads or white internal sebum balls (millium); long-term results are unknown (but the treatment has a good safety record).
Different device names: Clear Light Acne System PhotoClearing; Blu-U; Omnilux Blue.
Phototherapy for Wrinkles with Red Light
How it works: Red light wavelengths can help improve the function of the skin's protective barrier, improving its ability to retain the key elements it needs to heal and generate new collagen, after its production stops. has slowed due to age or cumulative damage.
Red LED light is also thought to act on the skin's sebaceous glands to reduce cytokines, a class of pro-inflammatory substances thought to play a role in chronic acne.
Why we should consider it: It can help reduce signs of aging, including wrinkles around the eyes; It is a good option for those who struggle with acne and wrinkles; minimal risk of side effects, especially when used without activating chemicals (this is common when performed by a doctor); no recovery time.
Why we should not consider it?: Whether it is done by a medical professional or we do it with a device at home, it requires multiple treatments; does not act on acne-causing bacteria; long-term results are unknown (but so far these treatments appear to be safe); When performed by a medical professional, the cost can vary between €50 – €200 or more per treatment, depending on the device and protocol that the dermatologist recommends.
Device names: Acnelamp, Omnilux Revive, Omnilux Red.
Home Devices
If you are considering a device for home use, we recommend that you buy carefully and only reputable products.
Most manufacturers of these devices are forced to limit their intensity; Its power is much lower than the LED machines used by a dermatologist
In a sense, it is good news since we avoid damaging the skin by carrying out too many non-recommended treatments. Read the instructions for use and recommended number of sessions per week carefully.
All LED devices require eye protection. The wavelengths they emit can damage the eyes if we do not use protection. Be sure to invest in protective glasses before using these types of devices around your eyes and never look directly at the device. Let's not fool ourselves because on many of these devices for use at home it says that it is “approved by the FDA”, this means that it is approved in terms of its safety, not in terms of its effectiveness.
Conclusion
Phototherapy for acne and wrinkles should be considered if other topical treatments have not worked for us. We must keep in mind that if we do not have a good daily treatment routine at home, all the treatments that we can perform will not be of much use to us.
Acne-prone skin produces 4 to 5 times more dead cells than normal skin and more dense sebum that clogs the follicle, generating acne bacteria and acne breakouts. Therefore, it is always essential to use a good cleanser without irritating surfactants, a good exfoliant without a scrub so as not to irritate or spread the acne bacteria to adjacent follicles, with salicylic acid ( our BHA exfoliants are number 1 in sales), a good treatment to kill acne bacteria and eliminate marks such as azelaic acid and a good moisturizer without dyes or perfumes or comedogenic ingredients.
As for anti-aging treatment, LED therapy is a good option, but just like acne treatment, light therapy will never replace a good daily skin care routine. We must also not forget that we must use a treatment cream with sun protection daily.
Finally, with any of these treatments, especially if we choose to use the device at home, consistency and patience are the keys to success. These treatments require commitment and time, otherwise it is better not to invest money or it is possibly better to go to a specialist to receive other more powerful treatment options such as non-ablative lasers or fractional therapy.
