NEWS 
TOP SALES
Phototherapy for acne and wrinkles with blue and red light, used to treat various skin concerns, is all the rage 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 done with a device at home. In either case, if you are patient and don't expect miracles, the research is promising!
Blue Light Acne Phototherapy
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 harming healthy skin.
Why should we consider it?
It has proven efficacy in destroying a good percentage of acne-causing bacteria; it is best for mild to moderate cases of inflammatory acne; there are devices you can use at home; it potentially reduces side effects (such as dryness or flaking) 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 performed during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Why should we not consider it: If performed by a physician, it requires several treatments per week; it is expensive (average €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 skin's protective barrier function, enhancing its ability to retain the key elements it needs to heal and generate new collagen after its production has slowed due to age or cumulative damage.
The red light LED is also believed to act on the skin's sebaceous glands to reduce cytokines, a class of pro-inflammatory substances that are thought to play a role in chronic acne.
Why we should consider it: it can help reduce the signs of aging, including wrinkles around the eyes; it is a good option for those struggling with acne and wrinkles; minimal risk of side effects, especially when used without activating chemicals (this is common when performed by a physician); no recovery time.
Why we should not consider it: Whether performed by a medical professional or with a device at home, it requires multiple treatments; it 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; their power is much lower than that of LED machines used by a dermatologist.
In a sense, this is good news as we avoid damaging the skin by performing too many non-recommended treatments. Read the instructions for use and the 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 eyewear before using these devices around the eyes and never look directly into the device. Don't be fooled because many of these devices for home use say "FDA approved", this means that they are approved for safety, not for efficacy.
Conclusion
Phototherapy for acne and wrinkles should be considered if other topical treatments have not worked. We must keep in mind that if we do not have a good daily treatment routine at home, all the treatments we can perform will not be of much use.
Acne-prone skin produces 4 to 5 times more dead cells than normal skin and more sebum with denser characteristics that clog the follicle generating acne bacteria and acne outbreaks. So it is always essential to use a good cleanser without irritating surfactants, a good scrub without scrub to not irritate or spread the acne bacteria to adjacent follicles, with salicylic acid(our Exfoliants BHA 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 as in the treatment of acne, light therapy will never replace a good daily skin care routine. We should also not forget to use a daily treatment cream with sun protection.
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 possibly better to go to a specialist to receive other more powerful treatment options such as non-ablative lasers or fractional therapy.
