Understanding Light Mask Colors and How They Work
Light therapy masks have become increasingly popular over the last few years as an at-home beauty treatment. These masks use different colored LED lights to target various skin concerns like acne, wrinkles, and dullness. But do these masks really work? And what do the different light colors mean?
LED stands for light-emitting diode. These lights emit wavelengths of visible light color. Different wavelengths have different benefits for the skin. Let's take a look at what each color means and what skin issues they target.
Blue and Violet Light
Blue light and violet light ranges from 415 nm to 445 nm wavelength. This wavelength is beneficial for treating and preventing acne. The light works to kill acne-causing bacteria on the skin called Propionibacterium acnes. Blue light reduces inflammation and redness from acne breakouts. It can prevent future breakouts when used regularly.
Numerous studies have found blue light therapy to be an effective acne treatment. A clinical trial published in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy showed blue light therapy killed acne bacteria in over 90% of study participants. Acne lesions and inflammation also decreased after regular blue light treatment.
Blue light penetrates deep into the skin. This makes it an optimal treatment for severe, cystic acne. Mild to moderate acne also improves with blue light masks. Consistent use is important for ongoing acne prevention.
Red Light
Red light ranges from 630 nm to 700 nm wavelength. Red light is used in light therapy masks to boost collagen production and reduce signs of aging. As we get older, natural collagen breaks down leading to wrinkles and fine lines. Red light penetrates the skin to increase collagen and elastin levels for a more youthful complexion.
A 2014 study in Photomedicine and Laser Surgery found red light therapy effectively reduced wrinkles around the eyes (crow's feet) and forehead (frown lines). Participants used an at-home red light device for 30 minutes daily for 4 weeks. After completing the treatment, they saw improvements in skin elasticity and skin texture. Red light also helps smooth small lines and gives skin a healthy glow.
Red light also has anti-inflammatory properties to calm irritation, redness, and inflammation. This makes it helpful for conditions like rosacea. Overall, red light rejuvenates dull, tired skin for a brighter, youthful complexion.
Green Light
Green light is in the 500 nm to 515 nm wavelength range. It balances sebum oil production to prevent pores from becoming clogged. Green light helps with mild redness, swelling, and inflammation. It also helps give skin an even tone. Some masks use green light to target dark spots and age spots as well. The light works to fade hyperpigmentation and sun damage. Consistent use helps minimize the appearance of spots and evens out complexion. Green light masks are also very soothing for sensitive or irritated skin. The calming light helps heal inflammation from acne, eczema, sunburns, and more.
Yellow Light
Yellow light uses a 570 nm to 590 nm wavelength. It works to reduce redness, fine lines, wrinkles, and generalized pigmentation. Yellow light boosts healing and cellular activity. This helps rejuvenate dull, mature skin for a brighter, smoother complexion. Yellow light also helps build collagen and elasticity in the skin. A 2009 study in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy found yellow light effective at improving wrinkles, skin roughness, and skin tone. With regular use, you may see minimized pores, less pronounced wrinkles, and clearer skin.
Purple Light
Purple or violet light ranges from 400 nm to 450 nm wavelength. Similar to blue light, studies have found the purple light spectrum effective at killing p. acnes bacteria to treat acne. This study in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology showed purple light worked as well as blue light for acne reduction.
Purple light is also anti-inflammatory and can help red, inflamed acne lesions. For severe acne, combining blue and violet light often provides the best results. Purple light helps get rid of whiteheads and blackheads as well as inflammatory acne like cysts and nodules.
Amber Light
Amber light uses wavelengths between 580 nm and 600 nm, similar to yellow and red light. It helps build collagen and elastin and reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and enlarged pores. Amber light improves uneven skin tone for a brighter complexion.
One unique effect amber light has is targeting hyperpigmentation like age spots, freckles, and melasma. It works to fade these darkened areas to create a more even skintone. Amber light also reduces redness and inflammation.
In a 2018 double-blind, randomized study, amber light treatment resulted in significant improvements in melasma pigmentation and skin erythema (redness). Regular use of amber light masks can fade age spots, treat melasma, and rejuvenate the overall complexion.
Infrared Light
Infrared light uses longer wavelengths, typically between 780 nm to 1200 nm. Infrared penetrates deeply into the dermis layer of the skin to boost collagen production. This results in smoother, firmer skin with a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. Infrared light also improves skin elasticity for a more youthful plumpness.
Infrared light increases blood flow and circulation. This nourishes the skin with vital nutrients and oxygen. Infrared also helps treat redness, inflammation, and irritation
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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