When you think of skincare, what typically comes to mind are topical products such as moisturizers, serums, face masks, spot treatments, and more. However, skincare encompasses more than just these items; it extends to devices that go the extra mile in delivering next-level results. Among these devices, LED light therapy devices stand out for their ability to work overtime and provide long-lasting results. LED therapy, also known as light-emitting diode therapy, is becoming an increasingly popular treatment in Nairobi. It’s a non-invasive and non-surgical skincare treatment that utilizes specific wavelengths of light to promote skin rejuvenation and address various skin concerns such as acne, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and even psoriasis.
How LED light therapy works
LED light therapy works by emitting specific wavelengths of light energy that penetrate the skin at various depths. Different colors of light target different skin concerns:
- Blue light affects the uppermost layer of your skin. This light is often used to treat acne by reducing inflammation, controlling excess oil production, and killing bacteria to prevent future breakouts.
- Yellow light penetrates deeper and is said to help with redness and pigmentation. Yellow light can also soothe irritation and enhance lymphatic circulation making it suitable for people with sensitive skin and conditions such as rosacea.
- Red light travels further into your skin and is most commonly used to treat wrinkles and fine lines. Red light stimulates collagen production, reduces inflammation, and improves blood circulation. It’s ideal for anti-aging, and promoting overall skin rejuvenation.
- Green light helps to balance skin tone, reduce hyperpigmentation, and fade dark spots. It’s beneficial for improving skin texture and promoting an even complexion.
Although blue and red are the most common treatment hues, some LED treatments will even offer multiple lights including purple and orange. During treatment, a dermatologist or esthetician may use a combination of lights to treat various issues.
Benefits of LED light therapy
LED Light therapy is an easy, pain-free way to bring a little extra glow to your skin. With LED lights strategically positioned to penetrate the skin effectively, it delivers quick results, making it an ideal complement to other facial treatments. There are several benefits associated with the treatment, they include:
Skin Rejuvenation: Stimulates collagen and elastin production, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles leaving you with firm skin and a more youthful complexion.
Acne Treatment: Kills acne-causing bacteria, diminishes acne breakouts, and reduces inflammation, leading to clearer skin. However, it’s important to note that LED treatment doesn’t help with acne cysts.
Hyperpigmentation Reduction: Helps to repair sun-damaged skin, targets and fades dark spots, evens out skin tone, and promotes a brighter complexion.
Promotes Circulation: LED light therapy enhances blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells for a healthy glow. This in turn reduces inflammation and calms the skin, making it a gentle and non-invasive treatment for rosacea.
People with any skin type and color can use LED light therapy. LED light therapy doesn’t use ultraviolet (UV) light, so it doesn’t cause damage or burns to your skin. However, to achieve optimal results, multiple sessions are recommended. This is because this treatment works gradually to stimulate cellular activity and promote skin renewal and is therefore not a one-time fix
At-home vs. in-clinic LED light therapy
LED light therapy can be administered both at home and in a professional skincare clinic. However, before seeking LED light therapy at a spa or purchasing an at-home device, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist. This step ensures proper diagnosis and treatment tailored to your specific skin concerns. Consulting a dermatologist also helps determine whether in-clinic or at-home LED light therapy is the most suitable option for addressing your needs.
There are various at-home LED masks available for purchase. If you are ready to try out this treatment at home, check out our Wireless LED light therapy beauty mask from our shop.
These masks are typically lightweight, easy to wear, and offer the convenience of treatment in the comfort of your own home but may have limitations in terms of intensity and efficacy compared to professional-grade devices. In Nairobi, several skincare clinics offer LED light therapy treatments, you can expect to pay anywhere between KSH 2,500 for a 30-minute session to KSH 5,000. The exact cost of LED therapy in Nairobi may vary depending on factors such as the reputation of the esthetician and the location of the clinic. LED light therapy sessions typically last 30–40 minutes, depending on the treated area and desired results.
It’s a painless and comfortable experience, often described as relaxing and warm. While you may not experience immediate results, improvements in skin clarity typically appear after several sessions, with optimal results achieved within 4–6 weeks of regular treatments. Some reputable clinics in Nairobi offering LED skin treatments include Este Medical Kenya located in Westlands, Brookside Drive- The Piano. As well as Thrive Aesthetics located in South B, Trance Towers. These clinics provide customized treatments tailored to individual skin concerns, ensuring optimal results under the supervision of trained professionals.
Is LED light therapy safe?
LED light therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated, with minimal side effects. However, there are still a few safety precautions to consider.
- It’s imperative to have LED light therapy treatments administered by a professional skin therapist. They can collaborate with you to evaluate your skin goals comprehensively and select appropriate therapeutics tailored to your skin type and specific concerns.
- After LED light therapy, it’s essential to apply SPF and anti-aging products, but not before. Certain ingredients may react negatively to light exposure, and SPF can block specific light waves, diminishing the treatment’s effectiveness. Remember to reapply these products after your session and limit sun exposure for the next 48 hours to optimize results.
Although it’s rare to experience side effects from LED light therapy, it’s important to note that some people may experience temporary mild dryness and redness which typically subsides within a few hours. It is therefore essential to hydrate the skin adequately after treatment. Individuals with sensitive skin may experience increased sensitivity to light or heat. It’s advisable to start with shorter treatment durations and lower intensity levels.
LED light therapy offers a versatile and effective solution for various skin concerns. Whether administered at home or in a professional clinic, this non-invasive treatment can help improve skin texture and overall appearance with consistent use. Consider incorporating LED light therapy into your skincare routine for radiant and youthful-looking skin.
