Struggling with acne is a real issue for many. Having pimples on your face can be a bothersome ordeal, whether you’re experiencing an unexpected breakout or have been suffering from it for years.
There have been numerous products and procedures that claim to treat acne effectively. However, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution since each person is unique when it comes to skin type and bodily reactions. A product that works for one may not work for someone else. Among the latest trends in skincare is blue light therapy, which may help reduce current breakouts and prevent pimples from developing. If you’re interested in what light-emitting diode (LED) light therapy can provide, especially the blue type, you can find out here if it’s worth a try.
If you’ve heard or read about LED light therapy, but want to learn more about the specifics, below are the essentials you should know.
What Is LED Light Therapy?
Light therapy generally works by impacting the function of the skin cells. Once the skin soaks up the light wavelengths, they generate energy more efficiently. The different wavelengths of light, such as red, blue, green, and yellow, have different effects on the cells.
Blue light therapy mainly reduces inflammation and can eliminate bacteria and other microbes present under the skin. It can also reduce activity in the oil glands on your skin.
Blue light therapy has several advantages, including treating and preventing acne, reducing skin discoloration, and providing relief for skin conditions like psoriasis.
Is Blue Light Therapy Effective For Acne-Prone Skin?
Among various studies and clinical trials, blue light therapy may help minimize acne among different individuals. The treatment has the potential to improve overall skin health by reducing the appearance of pores, and improving both tone and texture.
Generally, acne develops in the skin pores. There’s an oil-producing gland for every pore that keeps your skin healthy. Unfortunately, dirt, oil, and dead skin cell buildup can clog pores.
Bacteria on your skin, specifically Propionibacterium, can clog pores, causing them to swell and turn into unsightly bumps known as acne.
Blue light therapy may be an effective form of treatment for acne since it eliminates the bacteria responsible for acne. The blue light also affects the sebaceous glands, lowering oil production and reducing the inflammation and redness that acne causes.
In most cases, light therapy is likely to work best on the usual acne breakouts. It’s now suitable for spot treatment or long-term management of larger areas of the back, face, and body.
What Happens During LED Light Therapy?
Today, you can undergo light therapy in a dermatologist’s office or home. To find a provider near you, try searching for a city near you such as “dermatology offices in Gilbert.” If you choose in-office therapy, you’ll be able to learn more about the procedure from a professional who’ll also advise you on the best treatments for your skin.
If you go for an at-home device, you can use the therapy regularly, depending on the skin condition. Spot treatment devices, such as lamps, masks, and wands, are now available.
How Do I Use A Light Therapy Device At Home?
Using an at-home device only takes a short time, usually up to three minutes for each area you’re treating. If you’re going to treat an area close to your eyes, you need to wear proper eye protection.
You can use a home device up to three times per day, ideally part of your skincare routine. With this method, you can use your device twice a day, in the morning and before bed.
Make sure you have a clean face if you want optimum results. Cleanse your face thoroughly before using the device.
While using the device, you can use various skincare products. Since acne is your main issue of concern, you can use products containing beta hydroxy acid (BHA), but some individuals prefer not to use these products due to sensitivity.
What Is The Cost Of Blue Light Therapy?
If you want to try blue light therapy for acne, the cost would depend on whether you buy an at-home device or schedule an appointment with a reputable dermatologist. You’ll know the price of the procedure during your initial appointment with your dermatologist.
How Long Will I See The Results?
The results of the therapy would be different for each person. It’s usually determined by the type of acne you have and how well you adhere to the treatment regimen.
Fortunately, most cases see results quickly, with some cases seeing results after just one treatment. Over time, you may experience fewer acne breakouts, redness, and irritation.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an option to help manage acne, you might consider blue light therapy. As one of the options gaining popularity nowadays, you may never know unless you give it a try. With better knowledge of what the therapy entails, you can now decide whether or not to try it out.
