Advancements in skin care include both invasive and noninvasive procedures to improve skin quality, texture, and tone. Due to the long downtime and possible adverse effects of invasive options, including microneedling, laser resurfacing, and cosmetic surgeries, there has been a movement toward productive, yet less invasive modalities. Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT), also known as photobiomodulation, has been known to improve skin for several decades, however recently more attention has been drawn to its proven benefits. 

Many different wavelengths in the electromagnetic spectrum outside of visible light have therapeutic qualities for the body. Specifically, red light in the 620 to 750 nm wavelength, which is known for its use on skin improvement and rejuvenation, has been used most recently in cosmetic and dermatologic procedures. By use of low-level lasers or light-emitting diodes (LED), studies have shown improvements in fine wrinkles, UV damage, scars, inflammation, acne, and eczema.

Red light therapy uses LEDs for treatments on the face and body by pushing light energy past the skin’s surface and into the epidermis and dermis, adding energy to the cells and their mitochondria, known as little power houses. By improving the function of the cells, the cells are able to rebuild the structure and appearance of the skin. Red light therapy has been proven to stimulate fibroblast activity and collagen production. As a result, wrinkles and fine lines are corrected, skin becomes tighter, and pores become smaller, in turn smoothing out the skin. This also assists in remodeling scar tissue and stretch marks, creating a healthier skin surface.

Red light therapy also interacts with melanin and works to brighten skin by lightening hyperpigmentation such as sun spots caused by UV damage. Among brightening, it also leads to improvement in acne and inflammation. As the tissue continues to repair itself and inflammation is resolved, the body can heal quicker from acne breakouts and eczema.

Another very advantageous quality of red light therapy is its ability to restore the skin’s lipid barrier. The skin barrier is very important in maintaining hydration and protecting from external threats, such as allergens and toxins. But most importantly among these is that red light therapy improves the skin’s moisture and hydration! This is how red light therapy and spray tanning are a great combination together! 

Since spray tanning addresses skin on the surface, using red light therapy to address the skin at the cellular level results in a better sunless tanning experience. A healthy skin barrier that is pH balanced with ample hydration leads to a better quality tan with slow and even fading. Adding red light therapy to the spray tan is highly advised after knowing all of the benefits it provides.  The old saying was, “If you can’t tan it, tone it!”  Well, both can be done in the same sitting!

The amazing results of red light therapy are best seen after eight weeks, with two to three visits weekly. Although skin improvements have been shown to be noticeable after a couple weeks, it’s imperative to know that full results aren’t seen until after 90 days. It takes at minimum three months for new collagen to grow. This may seem too time consuming, but in actuality the appointment times are very short and the results take the same amount of time to see as some invasive procedures, but red light therapy has no pain and no downtime. Afterwards, having weekly appointments, even alongside the spray tan sessions, will maintain the skin function and appearance. Now that red light therapy is more accessible to the general public, it’s time to take advantage of this non-invasive and medically proven method to anti-aging and preventative self-care.

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