USA TODAY published an article in June of 2023 – “TikTokers are zapping their skin with red light; dermatologists say they’re onto something” – and we had to share!
As fans and providers of LightStim LED Therapy for its skincare and healing powers, we’re very happy that light therapy is getting its “time in the sun.”
The article featured an interview with Dr. Danilo Del Campo, a dermatologist in Chicago. He said “red light − a spectrum of visible light around 600 nanometers in wave length − shows promise as a safe way of healing the skin of many issues”. He includes some history on red-light therapy that dates back to the 1960s, which found it helpful in healing wounds. He cites that red light stimulates the growth of ATP, an energy compound he describes as “the gasoline of our body,” helps to repair wounds and stimulate hair growth.
Other studies have showed potential for red light therapy’s ability to address skin concerns, such as oil production, which leads to acne, and collagen production, which contributes to signs of aging.
We love this…but it might not be the best idea to jump on the trend by Googling “red light devices for skin,” credit card in hand!
There’s a big difference between a clinically effective light therapy device and a flashlight that glows red.
And even among professional-grade equipment, not all light therapy devices are created equal.
Is It the Right Light?
At-home devices often don’t emit the precise wavelength of light that’s required; putting a red plastic lens over a grid of white LEDs doesn’t make the light 600 nanometers!
Beyond that, a device that works has to meet a long list of other specifications. As in the case of all skincare products, product design and quality are everything! Meeting the specs that have shown results in dermatological testing requires precision in the number and strength of LEDs, how they’re laid out, the amperage of the power supply, etc. etc….and few manufacturers are qualified to do it right.
It Might Not Work…But You Will!
Convenience is another issue. Most light devices on the consumer market are hand-held. A handheld light device requires you to hold it to your face for a long time, one small area at a time…which sounds like the opposite of relaxing.
Safety First
Even worse than not helping your skin, they can hurt you…or your budget. There are dangers to using a device with the wrong wavelength of light; some emit UV radiation, which we’ve spent our skin-conscious years trying to avoid! Also, some don’t provide sufficient eye protection.
One thing about a trend…it guarantees factories in China will crank out millions of units they can sell for $20 a pop. Light devices built to high standards of quality and efficacy – using the right LEDs, power supplies, and electrical components – are going to be expensive! Unfortunately, if an at-home light device and its price looks too good to be true, it probably is.
LightStim is Your Best Bet
Consider coming in for a consultation to learn about LightStim LED therapy in our Healing Center, which is clinically tested and proven to work. Besides…it’s always a good idea to treat yourself in the relaxing, luxe (reluxing??) environment of The IO Clinic!
