The Effects of LED Light Therapy: A Comprehensive Overview

LED light therapy has established itself in recent years as a promising treatment method for various skin problems and health complaints. From fighting acne to skin rejuvenation - the areas of application are diverse and scientific research is steadily growing. This article illuminates the basics, mechanisms of action, and scientific findings on LED light therapy.

The History and Fundamentals of LED Light Therapy

The discovery of the positive effects of light therapy on numerous diseases dates back to the 19th century. Natural light has long been used to treat dermatological, pediatric, and ophthalmological problems. However, it was NASA research in the 1980s that revolutionized the use of LEDs for skin repair. The American space agency originally developed this technology to promote skin repair in astronauts in space.

LED stands for "Light Emitting Diode" and refers to a technology that produces light at various wavelengths. Unlike conventional light therapies, LED therapy does not use UV radiation and is therefore considered painless and non-invasive. The different light wavelengths penetrate the skin layers to different depths and can have different effects depending on the color.

How Does LED Light Therapy Work?

Just as plants use chlorophyll to convert sunlight into energy, high-intensity light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with specific wavelengths can trigger a natural biostimulating effect in human tissue. LED light therapy is the interaction of light through light-emitting diodes, creating bio-stimulation on cell receptors.

During treatment, the LEDs are brought close to the skin to ensure optimal energy absorption. The light penetrates the skin without damaging or irritating it, making the treatment pleasant and well-tolerated for many people, regardless of their skin type or sensitivity.

The Different Light Colors and Their Effects

Depending on the wavelength (color) of the light, different effects are achieved:

Red Light (550-660 nm)

Red LED light penetrates deepest into the skin with a wavelength of about 630 nanometers. It stimulates collagen production and improves skin elasticity. Red light is a classic in light therapy and its positive effect is clinically confirmed. It boosts collagen production, which can plump up fine lines and slow the formation of new wrinkles. Additionally, treatment with red light stimulates blood circulation and can provide a fresher complexion.

Blue Light (400-450 nm)

Blue LED light has an antibacterial effect and inhibits the growth of propionic acid bacteria in the sebaceous glands. It is mainly used for acne, redness, and swelling. Studies have shown that blue LED light (415 nm) can reduce inflammatory acne lesions by up to 60% after 12 weeks. It can help reduce blackheads, pimples, and oily skin. Even stubborn acne and psoriasis can subside with blue LEDs.

Green Light (approx. 525 nm)

Green LED light reduces sebum production and is suitable for oily skin. It has a calming and wound-healing effect. Dark pigment spots can be broken up by treatment with green light, making the complexion look more even and youthfully fresh over time. Green LEDs can help in the treatment of hyperpigmentation.

Yellow Light (approx. 590 nm)

Yellow LED light is used to optimize skin metabolism, stimulate lymphatic drainage, and improve cellular oxygen content. It supports skin rejuvenation and regeneration.

Scientific Studies on LED Light Therapy

The effectiveness of LED light therapy is supported by numerous scientific studies. Here are some of the most important findings:

Study on Skin Rejuvenation with Red LED Light

A split-face study with 24 people with sun-aged skin examined the effect of an LED device with wavelengths of 637 and 854 nm. Participants applied the device twice a week for 8 weeks on one half of the face. The results showed:

• Improved skin elasticity after 6 and 8 weeks

• Better skin texture after 8 weeks

• Positive self-assessment in 37.5% to 62.5% of participants

• No side effects or pain

Comprehensive Study on Various Skin Problems

A review paper in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology examined the effect of LED light therapy on various medical and aesthetic skin problems. The study evaluated LEDs with wavelengths of 415 nm (blue), 633 nm (red), and 830 nm (infrared) and came to the following conclusions:

• Acne: Blue LED light (415 nm) reduced inflammatory acne lesions by up to 60% after 12 weeks

• Wound healing: Infrared light (830 nm) accelerated healing after aesthetic procedures by about 50%

• Skin rejuvenation: Combination of red (633 nm) and infrared light (830 nm) led to a visible improvement in wrinkles and skin texture

• Psoriasis: A combination of red and infrared light showed up to 100% reduction in treated psoriasis sites in some participants

Studies with the Fraunhofer Institute

In various studies with the Fraunhofer Institute, the effect of LED light therapy was demonstrated. A laboratory study showed that intracellular ATP production (energy generation in cells) is significantly increased. LED light also impressed with its influence on the cell cycle, especially on cell regeneration, cell division, and cell vitality.

Another study showed that blue LED light triggers the body's own biochemical processes that can be used in pain therapy. Blue LED light demonstrably caused the production of nitric oxide (NO) to the deeper skin regions, which improves blood circulation and promotes the removal of pain-causing substances.

Benefits and Applications of LED Light Therapy

LED light therapy offers numerous benefits and can be used for various skin problems and health complaints:

Skin Improvement and Anti-Aging

• Reduction of wrinkles and fine lines by stimulating collagen production

• Improvement of skin appearance by lightening pigment spots and reducing redness

• Increase in skin blood circulation, leading to better supply of nutrients and oxygen to the skin

• Tightening and rejuvenation of the skin

Acne and Impurities

• Fighting acne and impurities through antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects

• Reduction of pimples and blackheads

• Regulation of sebum production

Inflammation and Wound Healing

• Relief of inflammation through anti-inflammatory effects

• Support of wound healing

• Reduction of redness and swelling

Other Applications

• Treatment of psoriasis and eczema

• Relief of muscle and joint pain

• Support for seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and sleep disorders

Practical Application of LED Light Therapy

LED light therapy can be performed both in professional facilities and at home. For home use, there are various devices such as LED masks, panels, or handheld devices.

Professional Treatment

In a professional treatment, therapy begins with a thorough cleansing of the skin. While the patient relaxes in the LED tunnel, the skin is irradiated with LED light. Depending on the skin problem, different light colors and treatment protocols are used.

Home Use with LED Masks

LED masks for home use are equipped with over 100 small LED lamps and offer different light colors for different skin problems. The application is generally simple and painless. The mask is placed on the face for a certain time (usually 10-20 minutes) while the LEDs take effect.

Treatment Frequency and Results

The first positive effects of LED therapy can usually be noticed after a few weeks, with the exact time depending on skin type, light color, and regularity of application. For optimal results, it is recommended to perform the treatment regularly (2-3 times per week) over a longer period (8-12 weeks).

Safety and Possible Side Effects

LED light therapy is considered safe and well-tolerated. Unlike other light therapies, it does not use UV radiation, which minimizes the risk of skin damage. The Medical Device Directive (RL 93/42/EEC) requires medical device manufacturers to test and evaluate their devices accordingly. Medical devices that have a light source must be tested and evaluated according to EN 60601-2-57 (assessment of photobiological safety).

Studies have shown that LED light therapy generally does not cause side effects. In the split-face study mentioned above, none of the participants reported pain or adverse reactions.

Nevertheless, certain precautions should be observed:

• People with light-sensitive diseases should consult a doctor before use

• When using blue light, the eyes should be protected

• The recommended treatment duration should not be exceeded

Conclusion and Outlook

LED light therapy has established itself as a promising method for treating various skin problems and health complaints. Scientific studies confirm its effectiveness in fighting acne, skin rejuvenation, relieving inflammation, and supporting wound healing.

The advantages of LED light therapy lie in its non-invasive nature, painlessness, low downtime, and versatility. Depending on the light color used, different skin problems can be targeted.

With the increasing availability of LED devices for home use, this form of therapy is becoming more accessible. Nevertheless, it is important to use high-quality devices and consult a dermatologist for existing skin problems.

Research on LED light therapy is constantly evolving, and it is expected that even more areas of application and improvements will be discovered in the future. As we learn more about this fascinating form of therapy, its applications and benefits are likely to continue to increase in the future.

Studies and Research Links

Split-Face Study on Skin Rejuvenation

<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5756569/">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5756569/</a>

Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology Review

<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4126803/">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4126803/</a>

Fraunhofer Institute Research on LED Light Therapy

<a href="https://www.fraunhofer.de/en/press/research-news/2019/research-news-march-2019/led-light-therapy-a-new-approach-to-pain-management.html">https://www.fraunhofer.de/en/press/research-news/2019/research-news-march-2019/led-light-therapy-a-new-approach-to-pain-management.html</a>

Study on Blue Light for Acne Treatment

<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15048997/">https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15048997/</a>

Research on Red Light for Skin Rejuvenation

<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3926176/">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3926176/</a>

Comprehensive Review of LED Phototherapy

<a href="https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/photob.2018.4509">https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/photob.2018.4509</a>

NASA Research on LED Light Therapy

<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/topics/technology/features/led_treatment.html">https://www.nasa.gov/topics/technology/features/led_treatment.html</a>