If you’re new to the world of LED light therapy, you may have some questions about LED light therapy color meanings. LED lights used in therapy come in different colours, which all mean different things. But what is the difference between the colours of light? What are their benefits for the skin? And why is LED used in skincare to begin with? Here with all the answers, co-founder of The Light Salon Laura Ferguson breaks down LED light colours, from their meanings and functions to their long-term results for the skin and body.
Why is LED light therapy used in skincare?
LED – which stands for Light Emitting Diode – is clinically proven to rejuvenate the skin, reduce inflammation and improve the overall health of the skin’s natural barrier. It has the added benefit of being safe for all skin types, ages and concerns, and can therefore be used alongside any other skin treatment or procedure.
“LED tricks the skin into thinking repair is needed, producing collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid,” explains Laura. “This process enables the skin to work more efficiently. Inflammation is reduced, allowing the skin to heal more effectively.”
In addition, LED stimulates the blood flow, bringing fresh oxygen to the skin, along with the lymphatic system, encouraging the effective removal of toxins. Light treatments can help with everything from fine lines and enlarged pores, to acne scarring and sun spots.
Laura explains that LED also helps to “regulate” our skin’s functions. “For example, our melanocytes are in charge of pigment release in the skin,” she says. “LED will regulate pigment production to prevent large blocks of pigmentation from forming, giving a more uniform skin tone.”
What are the different colours and their benefits?
Different colours of LED light have different effects on our skin. So the colour of LED light we need for our treatment depends on what we want to achieve.
Here are the LED light therapy color meanings to help you understand which LED colour you need:
Blue (415nm)
Targets and destroys p.acne bacteria found in the sebaceous glands, which reduces bacteria and the forming of blemishes or pustules. It also regulates oil production, balancing an oily skin or t-zone, and increases blood circulation, which helps to eliminate toxins and provide nutrients to the skin. Blue (415nm) light has an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin, which reduces healing time and also prevents post inflammatory scarring.
Red (633nm)
Stimulates collagen and elastin within the dermis, increases blood flow and oxygenation to the skin, all while delivering nutrients and antioxidants to repair. Increases regeneration so that skin looks and feels plumper, brighter, with improved density in the dermis to support the ageing process.
Near-Infrared (830nm)
Penetrates deep into the skin and can reach the bone, increasing cellular activity so that our cells behave in a more responsive manner. Increases the production collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid to maintain the skin’s structure for a more youthful appearance.
Near-Infrared (830nm) also reduces inflammation and pain by increasing blood flow and tissue oxygenation, supports cellular health and repairs damage. In terms of skin tone, it regulates the production of melanin and increases antioxidants and nutrients within the skin. It also balances hormones such as cortisol (the stress hormone), serotonin (the feel-good hormone) and melatonin (our sleep hormone).
Which colour does The Light Salon use and why?
Laura explains: “We use the three most clinically proven wavelengths in our salon treatments – Red 633nm, Near-Infared 830nm and Blue 415nm – which are proven to assist in skin health, regeneration and overall wellness.
“At-home treatments, we work with Red 633nm and Near-Infrared 830nm, as there are some precautions to consider when treating with Blue 415nm - over use can cause darkening of pigmentation. In addition, when applying Blue 415m to the face, unlike red and near-infrared light, eye protection is an absolute must.”