Therapeutic LED

In the late 80’s the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center embarked on a series of light studies that continued through the last decade.  The focus was the use of LED (light emitting diodes) to create a photosynthesis reaction in plants in space, with this quickly evolving to studies involving human reaction to different variations of nanometers (colours of light).

There is no shortage of studies regarding the effectiveness of LEDs for a wide variety of applications ranging from wound healing, deep muscle regeneration, acne, fine lines and wrinkles, etc.

Here at Skinlogic, we love incorporating LEDs into an array of our treatments in order to enhance healing, stimulate collagen formation, kill bacteria and calm the skin. Bt-LED is also available as a treatment on its own or as a package of 6 treatments.

How does LED work?

Certain nanometers (colours) of LED; delivered in specific pulse structures and power density levels have the ability to increase the body’s natural form of cellular energy known as ATP (adenosine triphosphate).  Very similar to microcurrent, the right combination of LEDs can be used as an outside source of energy, creating a proton gradient across the mitochondria, allowing for a significant upregulation of ATP. With more cellular energy, the body has the ability to function better, faster, and more effectively which in turn results in faster healing time, faster recovery from surgical procedures, and healthier, younger looking skin.

Which nanometers or colours are used and why?

Although there is a broad spectrum of colours within the visible spectrum of light, red yellow and blue have been studied the most extensively.  This is not to say that the other colours are not effective, only that we have a limited amount of knowledge about them.

• Red light, at 640 nm – 700 nm, most consistently shows efficacy with wound healing, deep tissue healing, reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, and the improvement of skin texture. It is thought to have the most profound impact on ATP production.
• Yellow light, at 590 nm, has less studies than those performed with red light, however, the few studies that exist are impressive and give great credibility to the yellow or amber light. Used well in conjunction with the red light.
• Green light, at 570 nm, has anecdotally been known to stimulate circulatory benefits, specifically lymphatic.  It has also been said to decrease the level of melanocyte excitement lending it to a possible tool to use with hyperpigmented skin.
• Blue light, at 425 nm – 470 nm, most consistently shows efficacy with regards to acneic skin.  However, its efficacy has nothing to do with ATP.  Blue light has an effect on the bacteria that is the root cause of acne – P.acnes.  P.acnes produce tiny molecules known as porphyrins.  When porphyrins are exposed to blue light, they produce free radicals that in turn kill the bacteria P.acnes, thus stopping the cycle at its base.

Is the treatment painful?

Not at all!  Physically, you won’t feel anything.  During the treatment, you will lie on the bed while your practitioner applies skin-specific serums and/or masks.  After protecting your eyes with special goggles, the LED lights will be placed over your face and the treatment will begin.  You may notice a flickering of lights.  Most people use this time to relax and some even fall asleep. Depending on your needs, the treatment may last 5-20 minutes.

What are the contraindications for LED?

• Epilepsy
• Severe claustrophobia
• Anxiety disorders
• Light sensitivity

Pre-treatment Consultation

• On arrival, you will be asked to complete a confidential patient intake form.
• A VISIA Skin Analysis may be conducted.
• Your practitioner will then discuss your concerns and requirements with you in order to get a clear understanding of your expectations.
• After a thorough examination, the most suitable treatment options and their alternatives will be proposed to you.  Treatment procedures will be clearly outlined and discussed, together with the benefits and possible risks of each.
• To ensure a good result, it is of utmost importance to carefully select our patients for this treatment.
• Your practitioner may also provide you with a quotation.
• Any questions you have about the process or treatment will be answered honestly.
• Together, you and the practitioner will then decide on the treatment that is most appropriate and safe for you.
• Any pre- and post-treatment care will be explained in detail. Written instructions may be handed to you.

You are under no obligation to book the treatment with us after your consultation, however, should you wish to book a treatment this can be done for you after your consultation or at a later date via phone or email.

At Skinlogic we can assure you that we value your health and wellbeing. You will only be seen and treated by qualified and experienced professionals.

During the Treatment

Before your treatment you will be provided with a detailed consent form. You will be asked to read and sign this prior to having your treatment.

You will have plenty of opportunity to ask any questions you may still have regarding the treatment.

Your practitioner will cleanse the area to be treated.  Your skin will be exfoliated and treated, whereafter your practitioner will apply skin-specific serums and/or masks.  After protecting your eyes with special goggles, the LED lights will be placed over your face and the treatment will begin.  You may notice a flickering of lights.  Most people use this time to relax and some even fall asleep. Depending on your needs, the treatment may last 5-20 minutes.

After the procedure, the skin is calmed with the application of specialized products to provide comfort, enhance your treatment and aid recovery.