Benefits of At-Home LED Light Therapy for Skin - Do Handheld Devices Work?

An Overview of Handheld LED Light Therapy

Handheld LED light devices are gaining popularity for their many purported skin benefits. These wand-like devices emit therapeutic wavelengths that may improve common skin concerns like acne, wrinkles, and dullness. Read on to learn all about how LED light therapy works and its effectiveness for at-home use.

What is LED Light Therapy?

LED stands for light emitting diode. LED light therapy involves exposing the skin to specific wavelengths of light that interact with cells to stimulate beneficial reactions.

Some key advantages of LED light include:

• Emits negligible heat unlike lasers or intense pulsed light
• Doesn't use UV rays which can damage skin
• Can select specific light colors/wavelengths for different effects
• Considered very safe for most skin types

Handheld LED devices allow you to perform professional-quality light therapy at home. Many are FDA-cleared for safety and effectiveness.

How Does LED Light Therapy Work?

LED light works by directing wavelengths of visible light onto the skin's surface where it penetrates to various depths.

The light wavelengths excite skin cells and stimulate biological reactions associated with benefits like:

• Increasing ATP production for cellular energy
• Boosting collagen and elastin synthesis
• Reducing inflammation
• Improving circulation

Different colors target different skin concerns. Blue and red light tend to be most common in handheld devices.

Benefits of At-Home LED Light Therapy

Handheld LED light wands offer a convenient way to achieve many professional-level light therapy results. Potential benefits include:

Wrinkle Reduction

Red and infrared light penetrates deep into the dermis to regenerate elastin and collagen production. This helps plump skin and smooth fine lines and wrinkles.

Fading Age Spots and Scars

LED light breaks up excess pigment that causes discoloration and dark spots. It also speeds cell turnover to fade scars and reveal clearer skin.

Improving Skin Texture

Blue light kills acne bacteria while red light reduces inflammation. This helps clear up breakouts and calm irritation for smoother, more even skin texture.

Minimizing Pores

The collagen-boosting effects of LED therapy help shrink enlarged pores for a more refined appearance.

Reduced Acne Breakouts

Blue light targets acne-causing bacteria sitting deep in the pores while red light heals existing breakouts and reduces further flare-ups.

Types of LED Light and Their Benefits

LED skin devices typically use blue, red, and infrared wavelengths. Here's an overview of what each color targets:

Blue Light

Blue light kills acne bacteria like Propionibacterium acnes that colonize pores and cause breakouts. It safely disinfects without antibiotics.

Red Light

Red light boosts collagen, elastin, and healthy cell turnover to reduce wrinkles, scars, inflammation, and other signs of aging.

Infrared Light

Infrared penetrates deeper than other wavelengths to stimulate collagen in the dermis layer for plumper, more youthful skin.

How to Use an LED Light Device

Handheld LED light therapy devices are very easy to use at home. Follow these tips for best results:

Cleanse Skin First

Remove any makeup, oils, or dirt so the light can penetrate optimally. Gently wash face and pat dry beforehand.

Follow Usage Guidelines

Read device instructions for treatment times and frequency. Don't overdo light sessions to avoid irritation.

Adjust Settings as Needed

Some devices have multiple wavelength or intensity settings. Adjust as needed for your skin goals.

Move Device Slowly

Glide the LED light wand slowly over treatment areas to ensure even coverage and absorption.

Use Consistently

Schedule regular light therapy sessions such as every other day to see optimal results over time.

Apply Moisturizer After

Hydrate skin with gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer to support skin renewal.

Shopping for an At-Home LED Device

Consider the following when choosing an LED light therapy wand:

Wavelengths

Look for a device offering red, blue, and/or infrared LEDs for different light benefits.

Power Density

Higher power density means more light energy absorbed. But too high can burn skin, so follow guidelines.

Coverage Area

Larger wand heads allow broader coverage for full face/neck/décolleté treatment.

Safety Certifications

See if the device meets standards like FDA, CE, or ETL for quality and safety assurance.

Cost

Prices range widely from $20 for basic coverage to $200+ for advanced multi-wavelength options.

Are LED Devices Safe?

LED light therapy is generally very safe with minimal risks when following usage guidelines. However, be aware of a few precautions:

Avoid Eyes

Don't aim light directly into eyes or near eyelids as it could cause damage.

Spot Test

Try device on a small area first to check for any discomfort or reactions before broader use.

Sunburn Risks

May increase sun sensitivity, so limit UV exposure after treatment and always wear sunscreen.

Medication Interactions

LED light could potentially interact with topical or oral medications. Check with doctor first.

Talk to your dermatologist if you have any concerns about using LED therapy with your skin type or health status.

Are Handheld LED Devices Effective?

While clinical evidence is still emerging, many studies indicate promising results for at-home LED light therapy:

Wrinkle Reduction

A review of 20 studies found significant improvements in wrinkles and skin texture with red and infrared light therapy after 12 weeks.

Acne Treatment

Blue light reduced inflammatory acne lesions by 71% compared to 14% with no treatment in an 8 week study.

Healing Wounds

Red light accelerated would closure by 30% at one week compared to control treatment in a clinical trial.

Psoriasis Relief

Blue light improved psoriasis severity by 75% after 4 weeks of treatment in a study of mild to moderate cases.

More extensive research is still needed but early results are promising. Be sure to manage expectations realistically when self-treating.

At-Home Light Therapy Risks and Limitations

While generally safe, recognize that at-home LED devices have some downsides:

Results May Vary

Effectiveness depends on correct use, skin condition, consistency, and device quality.

Not Replacements for Procedures

Cannot duplicate the power and precision of in-office laser treatments and procedures.

Maintenance Required

Daily or regular use needed to maintain results. They are gradual and temporary without consistency.

Patience is Key

Professional-level results require 4-12 weeks of proper use rather than overnight success.

Should You Try Handheld LED Light Therapy?

LED light wands provide a relatively affordable, convenient option to treat common skin concerns without visiting an aesthetician's office. The technology shows significant promise in early clinical studies.

This makes handheld devices worth considering, especially if you already use topical skincare products. Just have realistic expectations on results and timeline. Be diligent about using light therapy daily and incorporating other skin-enhancing habits like proper cleansing, hydration, and sun protection.

Talk to your dermatologist to decide if LED treatment could benefit your specific skin goals and type.

The Bottom Line on Handheld Light Therapy

Handheld LED light devices allow safe, convenient treatment of wrinkles, acne, dullness, and other undesirable skin issues. The non-UV light gently stimulates collagen, fades spots and scars, reduces inflammation, and fights acne bacteria when used correctly.

While more extensive clinical data is still needed, current evidence and reviews suggest handheld LED light therapy substantially improves skin. When expectations are managed well, these devices can be a worthwhile investment for boosting your daily skincare routine.

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.