How Does Facial Light Therapy Work & What Are The Benefits?

Facial light therapy might sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, but it’s actually an incredibly accessible treatment with a lot of benefits.

This therapy treatment actually originated in space, where scientists tested the technology on plants, and then connected with researchers on earth to implement the science to be used in humans. Previously, light therapy had the potential to burn the skin, but with LEDs, the longer wavelengths penetrate the skin deeper and allow for skin cell regeneration.

At first, the treatment was used to help those who were injured in accidents or had severe scarring or burns. But soon, it began being used in the cosmetics industry as a way to combat aging, treat acne and rejuvenate the skin.

Today, facial light therapy is a common procedure that can either be done on its own or used as a complement to microneedling or microdermabrasion.

Facial light therapy is commonly used to diminish the appearance of scarring, acne, and sun damage, as well as increase collagen and improve circulation to combat signs of aging.

These treatments are available in your local spa or dermatologist office, where you’ll get the most effective treatment. At-home light-emitting devices are available, but like most at-home treatments, you won’t get the same results that you would if you went to a professional.

Let’s dive into how exactly facial light therapy works, as well as some of the benefits that the treatment provides.

facial light therapy

How does facial light therapy work?

Facial light therapy works by emitting different colored wavelengths of light onto the skin. Depending on the light used, it can kill bacteria or repair damaged skin, which is why it’s often used to help combat acne.

It is perfectly safe for your skin, as facial light therapy contains no harmful UV rays, which are the rays from the sun that can cause wrinkles, discoloration, and skin cancer. The professional who is administering the treatment will also give you protective goggles to cover up and protect your eyes, so you just have to sit back and relax.

All you have to do during the procedure is lie down underneath the light-emitting device, which usually looks kind of like a big plastic mask or panel. It’s completely pain-free, and the only thing you’ll likely notice is a slight warming sensation from the lights. Many people think the treatment is very relaxing and therapeutic.

Facial light therapy often uses a combination of wavelengths, such as blue and red light, although individual colors can be used as well to target certain issues.

facial light therapy

Blue light therapy

This form of facial light therapy is commonly used to help treat acne, as it kills the specific bacteria that often causes acne. This method is preferred by many people because it doesn’t involve the use of harsh chemicals that could dry out your skin, unlike some prescription medications or more invasive treatments.

Red light therapy

Red light therapy boosts your skin in general. It increases circulation, minimizes the appearance of pores, and just generally helps your skin repair itself faster, which is helpful if you have post-acne scars or hyperpigmentation. Because of these benefits, it is common to treat the neck and decollete areas as well. Some people even use red light to help stimulate hair growth on receding or thinning hair lines.

What are the benefits of facial light therapy?

As we’ve briefly stated throughout, facial light therapy has a lot of benefits for your skin:

Treats acne by killing bacteria
Reduces early signs of aging
Increases collagen production and circulation
Helps skin repair itself faster
Contains no harmful chemicals or UV rays
Can easily be added onto treatments you’re already receiving and help speed up the recovery time associated with treatments like microneedling.