Ever heard of using red light to improve your skin but not sure how it works? I was curious too about this therapy celebrities and doctors swear by. Read on and I’ll dive deeper into how this light therapy magic works its magic.
Simply put, red light therapy involves targeting your skin with specific wavelengths of red or infrared light. But how exactly does it work its wonders? The light penetrates deeply into your skin without generating any heat. This allows it to interact directly with tiny energy producers in your skin cells called mitochondria.
Mitochondria are like the power generators for your cells. When red light is absorbed by mitochondria, it stimulates them to boost collagen production and increases cellular metabolism and activity. The light therapy also helps decrease redness, swelling, and inflammation in the skin. Typical treatments only last a few minutes and employ handheld devices or panels that safely emit controlled beams of red or infrared light onto your skin’s surface.
Over time with consistent use, supporters claim regular red light therapy sessions can transform your complexion from the inside out for a more youthful, radiant appearance. Some say it gives you a natural “facelift effect” comparable to cosmetic procedures but achieved non-invasively from home. Your skin takes care of the lifting and tightening on its own with a little light assistance.
You may be wondering why these specific colors of light are so effective for skin rejuvenation compared to other wavelengths. John Strasswimmer, president of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, explains that red and infrared “target properties of our skin relevant to aging and restoration of youthful appearance.”
Dermatologists agree that the penetrating capability of these longer wavelengths and their absorption by key chromophores, or light-sensitive molecules, within our skin make red and infrared highly effective at stimulating collagen production, improving elasticity, hydration and more for naturally younger-looking skin. The light interacts optimally with our cells’ microscopic energy engines (mitochondria) to shift skin health into an anti-aging mode.
One of the leading claims supporting red light therapy is its ability to jumpstart collagen production in the skin. Collagen as we know keeps skin firm, plump and youthful. But as we age through our 20s and beyond, natural collagen synthesis slows down significantly which leads to wrinkles, crepey skin, and sagging over time.
Research published in peer-reviewed journals however shows that red and infrared light wavelengths interact with cytochrome c oxidase, a mitochondrial chromophore, when delivered to the skin. This interaction stimulates new collagen generation and deposition. Studies have found collagen density increases anywhere from 10-30% with regular red light therapy use for anti-aging effects. The results are not just theoretical either – clinical trials prove its power to diminish wrinkles and other signs of skin aging after just a few weeks.
Redness, blotchiness, and uneven skin tone are another struggle area for many aging complexions. Good news – research indicates red light therapy helps eliminate these pesky pigmentation issues too by reducing excess melanin in skin cells. Multiple clinical studies show it significantly fades age spots, sun damage and other hyperpigmentation over 6-12 weeks.
The therapy also measurably improves skin texture, elasticity and firmness. How? By encouraging collagen and elastin fiber remodeling for that coveted “baby soft” feel and appearance. Early evidence hints it may even help reduce the look of old scar tissues. All of these anti-aging effects combine to naturally “lift” sagging facial contours and erase years from your face.
While great for fighting signs of maturing skin, red light therapy offers improvement to other complexion issues too. Its anti-inflammatory properties are proven to reduce acne-causing bacteria, combat inflammation, and relieve swollen breakouts according to clinical trial results. Studies reveal noticeable reduction and clearing of spots within just 4 weeks of regular home use.
Wound Healing and Pain Relief Advantages
Beyond beauty benefits, research highlights how red and infrared wavelengths improve wound repair and recovery. One way it achieves this is by stimulating fibroblasts, the cells key to regenerating new skin tissue, to multiply faster for more rapid healing of cuts, burns and post-procedure sites. The light is even thought to relieve minor muscle and joint soreness via stimulating skin opioid receptors that release endorphins for natural pain relief.
Now that you understand the fascinating science behind how red light therapy beautifies skin, how can you benefit? Speak to your dermatologist first about any medical factors. Then choose an FDA-cleared home device emitting the ideal red/infrared light spectrum of 600-1000nm. Treat each area of skin 2-5 minutes 2-3 times weekly as you enjoy TV. Most notice changes after 8-12 weeks of consistent use supported by daily SPF protection. With patience and red light nutrients, you’ll glow from the inside out!
Transform dull, aging skin to youthful and radiant with affordable red light therapy devices. Reveal your best complexion ever without drugs or needles